This part of our website is currently under development (autumn 09) - when complete it will outline planning and conservation issues and concerns relevant to the Society
The Committee monitors planning applications. We look at large developments, listed building applications and some applications in Conservation Areas. Where appropriate we will comment, sometimes objecting, and sometimes supporting. A particular concern is that the highest standards of design and materials are used when altering or extending listed or historic buildings
We are also concerned in Town planning issues through our membership of Project Stroud.
Tricorn House - action at last?
© Photo copyright David Gruar and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence.
Stroud's 'ugliest building', Tricorn House, has been empty and derelict for many years. Its prominent position at a major road junction ensures everyone, residents and visitors alike, get a regular view of this monstrosity.
There have been occasional campaigns for some time to establish a new use for the building, or to get it demolished and the site redeveloped, but so far none has succeeded. The recent HLF grant to restore the adjoining canal has raised the stakes further - Stroud should be able to be proud of both road and canal frontages.
So it is encouraging to learn that local firm Ecotricity have come up with plans for the site, planning to demolish it and build a new base for the successful green energy company.
In parallel with the Ecotricity proposals the current owners, who have been responsible for the empty derelict bullding for over 10 years without any action, have submitted plans of their own, keeping the building and converting it to residential use.
However Stroud District Council seem to be weary of the current situation and current owner's inaction, and are proposing to make a Compulsory Purchase Order for the property, with the aim of working with Ecotricity afterwards.
A Public Inquiry into the conflicting proposals was held on July 14 2009. The District Council CPO document is available for viewing here. Stroud Civic Society gave evidence to the Inquiry. Our submission is available (in pdf format) here.
More news on this issue is available on our Reports Pages.
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Stroud Planning Information
For up-to-date information on current planning applications, and guidance on how to comment on applications, or to make applications, have a look at Stroud District Council's Planning website:
SDC now have an online planning system where much information can be viewed without visiting SDC's offices. There is much useful information available if you wish to find out about current applications and to make comments, including;
- Local Plan policies affecting a particular area
- Planning permissions in a particular area - using postcode or address searches
- Current planning applications including recent decisions notices and drawings. For applications that go to the Planning Committee will also have an SDC Officer's Report.
- Opportunity to comment on planning applications
- Details of Committee Agendas and Reports. The agenda for the next Planning Committee Meeting will be available, along with all agendas and reports from previous meetings.
- A list of planning appeals
- Access to old Decision Notices including a map search and Adobe Acrobat listing of all planning decision between 1947 and 2005.
If you are preparing a planning application for your property there is additional guidance, including;
- Local Plan policies affecting your immediate area
- Guidance on making a planning application
- Forms for applying and paying online
For planning matters at a County level have a look at Gloucestershire County Council's website.
Planning in Towns and Parishes
Though SDC are the main planning authority in our area the various town and parish councils also have some influence, though this varies considerably, depending on context. Those councils relevant to the Stroud Civic Society area are listed and linked below:
