THE PUBLIC are being invited to give their views on proposed improvements to Merrywalks transport hub which would see it transformed. 

Gloucestershire County Council is inviting residents to give their views on proposed improvements to Merrywalks transport hub in Stroud.

The project aims to transform the hub into a transport interchange that is 'user-friendly, accessible and inviting for people to use'.

The proposed improvements include new bus shelters, improved displays showing ‘real time passenger information’, lighting improvements, CCTV and a better waiting environment.

(Image: Gloucestershire County Council) Other options to improve and expand the hub include secure cycle storage, parcel collection and a bike repair station.

The public are being invited to comment on what they would like to see at the hub and can submit additional ideas.

Stroud District Council leader Cllr Catherine Braun said: “A key objective in our council plan is to encourage the expansion and improvement of public transport, in partnership with Gloucestershire County Council.

"Merrywalks is a very busy and well-used public transport hub, which is why we have committed funds to improving it.

"I would encourage anyone who uses it to take part in the survey, and help shape its future.”

Helen Bojaniwska, CEO/Town Clerk of Stroud Town Council, said: "Stroud Town Council is excited to contribute £14,000 from the Community Infrastructure Levy to transform the outdated Merrywalks transport hub into a modern, multi-modal interchange.

"This investment, alongside Gloucestershire County Council and Stroud District Council, will fund vital upgrades like new bus shelters, real-time passenger information, lighting, CCTV, and an enhanced waiting area.

"This revitalised hub will vastly improve accessibility and the overall experience for our residents, workers, and visitors relying on transit in Stroud.

"We encourage the public to participate in the design consultation to ensure the final project meets local needs."

Cllr Philip Robinson, cabinet member with responsibility for buses at Gloucestershire County Council, said: “These improvements will transform Merrywalks transport hub into a vibrant and well-used centre to help people make their journeys around the county.

"We want to make it accessible and encourage people to use it, with better facilities such as new bus shelters and improved displays.

"We would like to hear residents’ views on what improvements they would like to see, so I would encourage people to take part in the engagement and let us know.”

The project is being funded with £200,000 from Gloucestershire County Council, £98,000 from Stroud District Council through its Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funding for 2024/25, and £14,000 from Stroud Town Council.

The county council is inviting people to give their views by taking part in a survey and adding comments to an interactive map and ideas board.

The engagement runs until Monday, September 9.

For more information on the project and to give your views, visit - tinyurl.com/ymtfyp6e