Cheapside site bought for development by Stroud District Council

Stroud District Council has today (Tuesday, December 13) completed the purchase of land at Bath Place, Cheapside in the town centre from Newland Homes. 

The 0.9 acre brownfield canal side plot, which has stood empty for decades, also includes the fire-damaged Grade II Listed former canal warehouse.

Breathing new life into the site would help connect the two gateways of Wallbridge and the town’s railway station.

Although the land already has consent for development, SDC will be looking to prepare new plans, to improve connections between the canal and the town centre, and to rebalance the size and types of housing. 

A photo of Bath Place, Cheapside from the canal side

Council Leader Catherine Braun says she is delighted that this milestone has been reached. 

“Today’s completion of sale follows extensive legal work by both sides and we are grateful to Newland Homes for agreeing to sell the site to us,” she said. 

"Breathing new life into Bath Place will help connect the two gateways of the town’s railway station and Wallbridge.” 

Representatives from SDC and Newland Homes at the Cheapside site - (L to R) Leonie Lockwood, and Alison Fisk from SDC, Cllr Natalie Bennett, Cllr Catherine Braun, Charles Hawkeswood a property consultant, Tilly Brush and Andrew Billings from Newland Homes (Image: SDC)

Deputy Council Leader Natalie Bennett says it is a big step forward. 

She said: “We are committed to delivering our Council Plan which aims to both regenerate our town and our economy. 

“This scheme does just that as it will create jobs and revitalise this historic part of the town, attracting more visitors to the area. 

“There is a lot of work that now needs to be done to understand how Bath Place fits in with our long-term vision for this part of the town and that of our partners, and how it links with and helps unlock other schemes. 

“We look forward to working with Stroud Town Council and our other partners on our ideas and plans for this important site.” 

Andrew Billings, land director at Newland Homes said: “We have been fully committed to seeing this challenging site come to fruition and we are delighted that the Council recognises its potential and is investing in its future.” 

The plans also align with the council’s Levelling Up Fund bid which would rejuvenate and transform key spaces into attractive destinations for residents, businesses, visitors and shoppers.

For more information about this project you can find out more on Stroud District Council’s website.