£1.8 million upgrades begin at Stroud housing blocks
Improved safety, energy efficiency and community spaces planned
A £1.8 million upgrade aimed at improving safety, energy efficiency, and community spaces has started at Nouncells Cross, Stroud’s largest housing block.
The work is being carried out by Stroud District Council and will affect 57 flats across two blocks at Nouncells Cross, along with 14 properties on Bisley Old Road. Starting in September, the renovations are expected to take up to 12 months to complete.
Residents will see a range of improvements such as new roofs, windows, extractor fans, and door entry systems at the housing blocks. Additional upgrades include better lighting, safer steps, new flooring, resurfaced footpaths and car parks, and CCTV installation.
Outdoor spaces will also see enhancements with new fencing added to the community garden, along with resurfaced communal drying areas and updated bin storage facilities, partly as a response to feedback from residents.
Architect Quattro has designed the project, and it is being delivered by MD Group, who previously worked on improvements to other housing blocks in Stonehouse.
Stroud District Council owns 58 of the properties being upgraded, with 13 privately owned by leaseholders. Councillors have highlighted the importance of these changes both from a safety perspective and as part of ongoing efforts to increase energy efficiency.
“This project represents a significant investment in our housing. Our Council Plan commits to providing good quality, safe and fit-for-purpose council homes, ensuring tenants can live well,” Cllr Gary Luff, Chair of the Housing Committee, said.
“These upgrades will also boost energy efficiency, helping to cut carbon emissions and reduce energy bills.”
Cllr Natalie Rothwell-Warn, district councillor for Stroud Slade, added:
“Listening to residents has been, and continues to be, key to shaping this project. These upgrades will make a real difference to everyday life, creating safer, more welcoming spaces and helping people save on energy costs.”
The council is also aiming to align the project with its commitment to tackling the climate emergency by reducing the carbon footprint of the upgraded properties.