Bisley Post Office to close on 28th February

In a letter dated 19th February, we have received the following notice:

‘We are writing to inform you that, regrettably, following the resignation of the postmaster and the withdrawal of the premises for Post Office use, the above branch will be closing on Friday 28 February 2025 at 14:00.
The Post Office has undertaken a comprehensive review of the network to ensure that it continues to meet evolving customer needs in a very challenging economic climate. This review examined the network at a very detailed, local level, analysing customer demand and accessibility of Post Office products and services. Consequently, it has informed our plans for the Network as we work to ensure that, our funding and resources are allocated to deliver maximum benefit for all customers. At this time, therefore, we are not looking to replace Bisley Post Office’

Full details can be found here: Bisley Post Office GL6 7BA Information Letter

Other local post offices can be found at Oakridge Lynch (Oakridge Lynch, GL6 7NZ) and Eastcombe (The Green, Eastcombe, GL6 7DP).  Opening hours can be found in the above Information Letter

We’re striving for fairness, inclusivity and equality – let’s talk about how we achieve that

Stroud District Council is asking for peoples’ views on a new policy which will ensure that equality, fairness, inclusion, and good relations are at the heart of everything it does.  The new Equality, Diversity, Inclusion, Equity and Belonging (EDIEB) Policy is key to making the vision of “Leading a community that is making Stroud district a better place to live, work and visit for everyone” a reality.

The draft EDIEB policy outlines the council’s commitment to addressing inequalities and promoting EDIEB in all areas of its work.  It sets out the council’s approach to advancing equality in three priority areas: community, leadership and organisational commitment, and a diverse and engaged workforce.

“Over the past four years, many people in our district have faced many difficulties and challenges in their lives including the Covid pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis, and systemic inequalities have been exacerbated by these events,” said Councillor Cath Moore, Chair of SDC’s Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Equity Working Group.

“These challenges have highlighted the continued need for the council to act to ensure equal access to services, representation, and meaningful community engagement.”

The consultation opens Friday, 31 January and closes on Sunday 16 March at midnight.

Residents can review the full policy and submit their feedback online at www.stroud.gov.uk/council-and-democracy/about-the-council/have-your-say/consultations/ until 16 March. The Council will also be working with community groups across the district to gain a more in-depth understanding of the challenges that residents with protected characteristics face.

“We want as many people as possible from across all our communities to have their say,” said Council Leader Catherine Braun. “Everyone’s views will be taken in to account and inform the final policy which will help to make our district a fairer and more welcoming place.”

Following the consultation period, responses will be thoroughly analysed and considered, and amendments will be made to the policy and action plan as appropriate. The revised policy will then be presented for approval at the Full Council meeting on April 10.

Thomas Keble Farewell

Falcon Motor Club – March Hare Classic Trial – Sunday 2nd March 2025

Starting at Porky’s Diner at Honeybourne near Evesham and finishing at The Amberley Inn on Minchinhampton Common, the 79 mile route will again include many of the historic sections once used by the Colmore & Guy Fawkes Trials, including; Kineton, Postlip, Fry’s Quarry and Saintbury, the intention is again to make it an entry level trial where even beginners will see the top of many of the sections, but there might be something to test class 8 in the quarry.

All are welcome to spectate and there are still some entrant spots left.  For full details of the route, please see: March Hare Classic

Tree Planting in Waterlane Community Orchard

see the details of the first planting party here and find out how you can get involved

Recommendations from the review of the Gloucestershire County Council boundaries

The recommendations of the recent review of County Divisions can be found in the link below; changes come into force at the 1 May 2025 elections.  There is also a pdf showing the changes in map form

https://www.lgbce.org.uk/all-reviews/gloucestershire#43456      Changes To County Divisions Maps

Reporting Bonfires and Pollution – please report any disruptions or pollution to SDC via the following web page:  https://www.stroud.gov.uk/report-it/pollution-eg-bonfire-or-smoke-nuisance/