Stroud Town Council has appointed Extended Studio, a Stroud-based architecture practice, to lead the renovation and upgrade of the Locking Hill Surgery building.
The project aims to transform the dated medical facility into a modern, multi-use community space, serving all of Stroud’s residents.
Extended Studio specialises in sustainable design and community-focused projects. “We’re thrilled to be working on this important project for Stroud,” said Tom Sykes, co-founder of Extended Studio. “Our values are centred around creating spaces that bring people together and make a positive impact. The Locking Hill Surgery renovation is a great opportunity, allowing us to breathe new life into an existing building while better meeting the needs of the local community.”
Town Clerk/CEO Helen Bojaniwska highlighted the council’s extensive consultation efforts to understand what Stroud wants from the new space, she added: “We have sent questionnaires to partner organisations, charities, community hubs, schools and more to really listen to the needs of our residents. The overriding message from you was a desire for an accessible, multi-use facility that strengthens connections between residents and their most local tier of government.”
Tom Sykes has begun the preliminary work by meeting with Stroud Town Council staff and councillors: “I want to ensure we capture as much of their vision and the public’s wants for this transformative project as we can,” he explained.
Laura Beattie, Community Development Officer, is keen to promote the new premises as a vibrant community asset: “We hope to co-create the space: hosting workshops, social gatherings, group activities, presentations and all sorts of events put on by local organisations. Extended Studio’s community-focused approach makes them ideally suited to help make this a reality.”
With the experienced Extended Studio team now on board, Stroud Town Council is confident the Locking Hill Surgery renovation will result in a modern, welcoming space that better serves residents for decades to come.
Residents are welcome to send their perspectives about Locking Hill and what should be prioritised there to council@stroudtowncouncil.gov.uk and organisations who would like to make use of the space are encouraged to reach out to describe their requirements.
