The Community Services and Licensing Committee of Stroud Council met on Thursday 10 September 2026 to discuss a range of important issues, including performance monitoring and budget updates. Key topics included consideration of the extension of Public Space Protection Orders in Stroud and Dursley, the Stroud District Youth Action Plan, and the establishment of Task and Finish groups to review the proposed Play Strategy and Health Inequalities Strategy.

Performance Monitoring Q1

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on performance monitoring for the first quarter of the financial year. The report indicated that several Council Plan Actions were on target, with a number already completed. However, some actions were flagged as overdue or having overdue milestones. Specific performance indicators related to the Youth Strategy and Health Inequalities Strategy were noted, with a request to deactivate certain indicators as the relevant data was no longer collected. The report also highlighted that significant officer time had been dedicated to securing funding and preparing for the opening of Stratford Park Lido, which had a knock-on effect on other service areas. Despite these challenges, progress was reported on the delivery of the Youth Action Plan, and the development of the Health Inequalities Strategy and Play Strategy was on track.

Community Services and Licensing Budget Monitoring Report Q1 2026/27

A report was presented detailing the first monitoring position statement for the financial year 2026/27. The committee was informed of any significant variations to budgets and highlighted key issues. As of 30 June 2026, there was a projected net revenue overspend of £19,000 against the latest budget. The capital programme showed a forecast spend of £1.570 million against a revised budget of £2.460 million. Specific areas with notable reserve transfers included Community Health & Wellbeing (£39k), Community Safety (£90k), Grants to Voluntary Organisations (£15k), and Public Spaces (£110k) for play area improvements. Revenues and Benefits services were forecasting an overspend of approximately £43,000 due to staffing pressures and higher operational costs. Sports Centres saw a reserve transfer of £265k, linked to the successful opening of Stratford Park Lido. Youth Services also had a reserve transfer of £65k to support the delivery of the Youth Action Plan. Salary savings were reported across Community Safety and Customer Services. The report also outlined the council's overall savings targets as part of the Medium Term Financial Plan, indicating that difficult decisions would be required to meet these targets, potentially leading to reductions in service delivery.

Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) for Stroud and Dursley Adoption

The committee was asked to consider the Council's position regarding two existing Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs) related to the consumption of alcohol in designated public places in Stroud and Dursley town centres. The report detailed the results of a public consultation, which indicated strong support for the extension of these orders. The PSPOs provide authorised officers with powers to address alcohol-related anti-social behaviour, and their extension for a further three years was recommended to support community safety objectives. The report noted that enforcement would be delivered by existing staffing, with no significant financial implications expected. An Equality Impact Assessment had been completed, concluding that the extension would have an overall positive impact by helping to reduce alcohol-related anti-social behaviour and improve perceptions of safety.

Stroud District Youth Action Plan

The committee was asked to formally consider the Stroud District Youth Action Plan. This plan outlines a district-wide vision, strategic priorities, and outcomes to support children and young people aged 11-25. The development of the plan involved extensive consultation with young people and community stakeholders, utilising a systems thinking approach. The plan is structured around ten common themes identified from national and local strategies, including Youth Voice & Participation, Safe, Inclusive Spaces, Mental Health & Wellbeing, and Workforce Development. A total of £179,000 in external funding, held in reserve, is allocated to support the plan's delivery over two years. Key milestones include establishing a Youth Action Network, undertaking a district-wide training needs analysis, and delivering youth-led consultation activities. The plan aligns with the National Youth Strategy and Gloucestershire County Council's One Plan.

Establishment of a Task and Finish Group to Review the Council's Proposed Play Strategy

Approval was sought to establish a Task and Finish Group to review the findings from the consultation and engagement activities for the proposed Play Strategy. This group would help shape and inform the emerging objectives of the new strategy. The report highlighted a national decline in opportunities for children to play independently and engage in outdoor play, referencing data from Play England. Consultation had been undertaken with children and young people, parents, play providers, schools, community hubs, and Town and Parish Councils. The proposed Task and Finish Group would consist of four cross-party councillors, with two members each from the Community Services & Licensing Committee and the Housing Committee. The group's functions would include reviewing consultation findings, understanding the work of officers and partners, evaluating the strategy's benefit, and proposing objectives and actions.

Request for Task & Finish Group for Health Inequalities Strategy

The committee was asked to approve the establishment of a Task and Finish Group to review the developing Health Inequalities Strategy and Action Plan. This group would review the scope of the strategy, examine data and research, and confirm the strategy's objectives and recommendations before it is presented to the Community Services and Licensing Committee in February 2027. The strategy draws on UK research and local data to identify drivers of health inequalities in Stroud District and outlines how the council can influence these. Public consultation on the strategy and action plan was scheduled for October and November 2026.

Notice of Motions: Kingshill House Grant Funding

A motion was proposed by Councillor Ian Hamilton and seconded by Councillor Steve Robinson, recommending that an additional grant of £25,000 be made to Kingshill House. This funding was requested to cover marketing costs incurred in 2025, loss of income during repairs to the main house, and lost rental income from a cottage on the site. The report detailed the council's historical support for Kingshill House and outlined the financial challenges faced by the Trust, including unexpected repair costs and the inability to re-let the cottage. Without this additional support, the financial sustainability of Kingshill House was considered at risk. The motion recommended this grant to the Strategy and Resources Committee and Full Council.

Member/Officer Reports: Stratford Park Lido Update & Emerging Padel Tennis Opportunity

An update was provided on Stratford Park Lido following its reopening on 15 August 2026. The report detailed the successful completion of repair works, costing £476,000, which allowed for safe operation during the 2026 season. The temporary works were designed to sustain operation through the 2027 season, with further investigations planned. The reopening had generated overwhelmingly positive feedback. The report also noted that the capital budget of £900,000 for the Lido remained in the capital programme but was not fully funded and would require borrowing. The Leisure Team had also reintroduced the exploration of padel tennis provision to its work programme, with initial feasibility work focusing on opportunities within Stroud.

Work Programme

The committee was asked to consider the work programme for the remainder of 2026 and into 2027. This included scheduled items such as performance and budget monitoring, updates on the Play Strategy, Health Inequalities Strategy, and Youth Action Plan, as well as annual reports from various organisations and partnerships.