The first stage of Stroud Town Council’s Better Bus Stops Stroud project has been completed, with new panels and accessible seating installed at several bus shelters across the town.
The upgrades were designed with inclusivity in mind, with new seats featuring handles for additional support. In total, nine bus shelters have been adopted by the council as part of the scheme. So far, five have received new seating, while others have benefitted from replacement panels to address wear and vandalism.
In some locations, space constraints meant seating could not be added without restricting access for wheelchair users and people with pushchairs. To maximise impact, upgraded seating has been prioritised at high-traffic stops such as Tesco and Beeches Green Surgery.
The next stage of the project will see local artists collaborate with Stroud schools to create unique artwork for eight of the shelters, adding colour and character to everyday journeys.
Cllr Adrian Oldman said: “The first stage of the project has been a success, with our shelters looking smarter and offering more comfort for users. We had a fantastic response to our call-out for artists, and we’re really looking forward to their collaboration with local schools. The next phase will bring creativity and a sense of place to our bus shelters.”
Residents are invited to share their views at the upcoming Bus User Forum — an in-person workshop where participants will help shape future improvements. Attendees will receive a £25 voucher for their time.
👉 Register to take part here: www.stroudtown.gov.uk/bus-shelter-user-forum
