Stroud District Council has taken a major step towards transforming Canalside in Stonehouse into a thriving community destination after approving proposals to progress a Community Asset Transfer (CAT) of the site.
At its latest Strategy and Resources Committee meeting, councillors endorsed proposals to move forward with transferring the Canalside land to a suitable community organisation, subject to due diligence and the completion of formal legal agreements.
The decision marks a significant milestone in the long-term regeneration of the canalside site, paving the way for local people to shape its future and deliver a vibrant space that reflects the needs and aspirations of the Stonehouse community.
The site has already benefited from the Cotswold Canals Connected programme, which is restoring the canal network while creating new opportunities for recreation, biodiversity and economic growth across the district.
Leader of the Council and Chair of the Strategy and Resources Committee, Chloe Turner, said: “Approving this proposal demonstrates our continued commitment to working in partnership with community organisations to deliver positive outcomes for our residents. Community asset transfers can unlock local innovation and ensure that valued spaces are managed in ways that directly benefit the community.
“I’ve visited the site a number of times to see the fantastic preparatory work the working group have done to make the site a fun and creative hub for canalside and water-based community activity. It’s been exciting to see the group’s plans develop and start to come to life.”
The council will now continue working with stakeholders to progress the next stage of the transfer, including detailed negotiations, governance arrangements and ensuring the receiving organisation has the capacity and resources to successfully manage the asset.
