About Stroud and the Five Valleys
The Stroud area has a complicated history and geography, set amongst the valleys of the River Frome and its tributaries, which cut deeply into the Cotswold escarpment south of Gloucester.
The Five Valleys have many settlements along their steep sides, and alongside the streams at their centres. In former times the area was famous for its wool and woollen textile production, pre-dating the better-known textiles centres of the north of England.
As a result, this area now has a unique mixture of market and industrial towns, alongside picturesque Cotswold villages and hamlets, all interweaved and linked by numerous former mills, built of both stone and brick. Historic transport links within the valleys include Brunel’s Great Western Railway and the earlier Stroudwater Navigation and Thames & Severn Canals.
What does Stroud Civic Society do?
We are a group of friendly people united by a love for the Stroud area and an interest in its evolving development
We monitor planning applications and make representations as necessary. In some cases, our views on proposals are formally sought by parish councils, Stroud Town Council, Stroud District Council, Gloucestershire County Council and other statutory bodies.
On contentious issues, the Society makes its views known to the relevant planning authorities and through the media. We participate at public enquiries and make representations to the planning inspectorate when applications are appealed.
Members Activities
As a society we organise visits, talks and walks as a key part of our activities for members – with a programme of visits to historic buildings and modern developments and a programme of talks throughout the year and a special Christmas event, usually a visit, with meal, to an unusual house or venue.
For membership information click here.