Stroud plans homes and station upgrades on old industrial land near the train station, aiming for energy-efficient, affordable housing.
The project partners want new homes and better access to the station, canal, and town. Investment should improve public spaces nearby, enhancing the experience for arriving people.
Catherine Braun sees regeneration happening soon and commented on the area’s potential. Energy-efficient affordable homes are possible near the station, canal, and town center. Residents can easily enjoy events and shops.
The town plan includes the station area and Cheapside’s redevelopment. A prior plan had 47 apartments at Coal Yard, and the Local Plan Review included car park changes.
A 1928 photo from the Historic England Archive shows Cheapside’s history when homes and a coal yard occupied the site.
Stroud bought Coal Yard in 2022. The land was derelict for years near Wallbridge and the canal. The Council also owns half the Cheapside car park; Network Rail owns the other half and may sell land for development to improve the train station.
The council has over 1,200 parking spaces in and near the town center. Cheapside car park has less than 200 spaces. GWR and Five Valleys also provide spaces.
Braun knows people worry about parking. They commissioned a parking study to inform project decisions and determine the redevelopment scope. Brunel Mall car park may open for easier access, and The Goods Shed is key to future plans.
Stroud is working with many partners, including Network Rail, GWR, and Stroud Town Council. Collaboration ensures project success.
The committee considers the Output Specification on April 3rd, which details developer building requirements on council land. Approval leads to developer selection, and afterwards, consultations begin on proposals as the council seeks input on land usage.
Network Rail owns lots of brownfield land and wants to build houses nationwide to fund station upgrades.
Robin Dobson says they work with partners to deliver much-needed housing in sustainable locations. Housing unlocks investment for rail upgrades, promoting sustainable growth.