SDC Leader's blog - w/c 24 February 2025

"Local elections have been cancelled in nine areas across England this year as part of the Government’s policy to reorganise district and county councils into new unitary authorities. 

Fortunately, in Gloucestershire our elections are still on track, and on 1st May voters will choose who runs the county council for the next four years. Stroud District Council will be setting up 105 polling stations for the day, and as usual we are looking for some help! 

Working in a polling station is a great way to support the democratic process and earn some money, and there is training and support available: https://www.stroud.gov.uk/council-and-democracy/elections/elections-job-opportunities 

Local democracy will also be the theme of our next council meeting, which is scheduled for 20th March to note the emerging options for local government reorganisation in Gloucestershire.  

In our new Council Plan, walking and cycling continues to be a priority, so I was delighted to see the recent launch of ‘Pedal Power’, a new electric bike hire scheme delivered by Transition Stroud in partnership with The Bike Drop and the Horsley Walking & Cycling Project, and supported with some Council funding. 

E-bikes and the bigger cargo e-bikes are ideal for our local terrain, as they can effortlessly climb hills, making it easier to exercise while getting around, as well as reducing fuel consumption and congestion.

The largest cargo e-bike model is practically a car replacement, as it’s able to carry over three times the load of a typical bike as well as two children, so it’s perfect for transporting heavy shopping, work equipment or the school run.  To find out more about hiring an e-bike visit www.pedal-power.bike "

Cllr Catherine Braun, Leader of Stroud District Council