New Stroud stakeholder group unites to boost town centre
19 August 2025
A new stakeholder group has been launched in Stroud, bringing together representatives from across the community to share ideas, coordinate plans for events, and promote the town centre.
The group, which first met earlier this year, includes representatives from Stroud Town Council as well as Stroud District Council and Gloucestershire County Council, as well as the town’s markets, tourism professionals and venues including the Sub Rooms. The team from Five Valleys shopping centre are also part of the group as well as the centre’s landlords Dransfield Properties.
By working collaboratively, members aim to develop a joined-up approach to supporting the town centre’s vitality. The group has already taken action — launching a questionnaire and postcoding exercise to help target marketing efforts as well as working together on promoting Sunday opening and events across the town.
At the latest meeting issues including the resurfacing of key routes in the town as well as plans for a new town centre placemaking and way finding project were discussed. The meetings are also an opportunity to update information on key developments in the town.
Tony Davey, Interim Chairman, Stroud & District Chamber of Trade & Commerce: "The success of the town is in collaborative working and planning, so these meetings help both bring essential stakeholders together, and enable us to update each other on core progress that can impact us all."
Jodie Grundy, Operations Director at Dransfield Properties, which owns the Five Valleys Shopping Centre, said: “Stroud has a unique character and a vibrant community. This new group means we can bring together all the key voices, share our ideas and expertise, and make sure our plans for the town centre complement each other.
“We’re already seeing the benefits of closer collaboration and we’re excited about the positive impact this could have for residents, businesses and visitors.”
Councillor Chloe Turner, Leader of Stroud District Council, said: “Working together across different organisations means we can make the most of our shared resources and passion for Stroud. This group is already helping us align our plans, promote our events more effectively, and ensure the town centre remains a thriving place for people to live, work and visit.”
The group will meet regularly throughout the year to share key information, coordinate events, plan marketing campaigns, and discuss improvement projects. Their shared aim is to celebrate Stroud’s individuality while ensuring the town centre continues to grow as a welcoming and prosperous destination.
For further information, contact:
Public Relations Department, Dransfield Properties Ltd
Tel: 01226 360644
Email: admin@dransfield.co.uk
