Stroud District Council is seeking residents’ opinions on monuments, statues, memorials, plaques and place names as part of a review.
Residents are being asked what they think and feel about the clock at Blackboy House, Castle Street, Stroud.
This review is to ensure statues and commemorations, as well as the names of streets and buildings, are representative of residents’ values and those of a modern, inclusive council.
In 2020, the Black Lives Matter movement brought to the world’s attention important issues relating to ongoing racism in society. An important issue that was raised related to ensuring that commemorations of history are appropriate to the current time and the council committed to consult with the community on any street names, buildings and statues within the district that may be considered offensive.
As part of this review, the council is asking for nominations of other names, particularly of under-represented groups, who have done something memorable and who they should celebrate.
This consultation also invites the consideration for future recognition of individuals or events that celebrate diversity and important events in recent history.
A review panel made up of community representatives, councillors and historians will review the findings to determine the action that should be taken.
“We want to ensure that statues and commemorations, as well as the names of streets and buildings, are representative of local people’s values and those of a modern, inclusive Council,” said Cllr Natalie Bennett who chairs the Review Panel.
“We have an opportunity to celebrate the diverse communities which make up the Stroud District and to recognise the achievements of people from black, Asian and ethnically diverse communities and from other under-represented groups that may have been overlooked in the past. Hearing from people through this consultation about what’s important to them will help us achieve this.”
The consultation is open for comments until September 1st, 2021.
View the draft Equality, Diversity and Inclusion policy
To take part in the consultation, please respond to the survey links below
Review of street or building names and monuments in the district
If you are unable to complete a response online, you can complete a paper copy of the consultation or complete the consultation by telephone.
Email your consultation response to policy@stroud.gov.uk
