Stroud Valleys Trail-
A safe, accessible, year round active travel route.
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A recreational resource
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A wildlife corridor
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A heritage trail
Most of the route is currently owned by Gloucestershire County Council (Asset management and property services) with some sections in private ownership. The route was incorporated into the National Cycle network by SUSTRANS (now the Walk, Wheel Cycle Trust ) in 2003, and forms part of National cycle route 45.
There is a permissive right of access for anyone on foot, wheelchair or bicycle. Although most of the trail is level and traffic free, some of the access points include steps or steep ramps, and need to be improved to make it more accessible.
The route links to public footpaths giving access to local towns and villages and to the Cotswold countryside.
The route links to public footpaths giving access to local towns and villages and to the Cotswold countryside.
We are a group of local parish, district and county councillors, people who use the SVT, community activists and volunteers.
Dr Simon Opher, MP and SDC councillor Katy Hofmann visit the Dudbridge Station site to see the work underway.
By working in partnership with the principal local authorities, we have set up a Charity Incorporated Organisation (CIO) to help us apply for funding, organise volunteers, consult with the local community and carry out on the ground improvements.
Thanks to our two helpful PCSOs, Amy and Caroline, for some useful advice on managing anti social behaviour along the cyclepath.
We aim to
- create and improve focal points as “gateways” and link the towns of Stonehouse, Stroud and Nailsworth and the villages along the route.
- secure public access along the entire length of the route, in perpetuity.
- Install better signage to access points and places of interest
- make links to other footpaths and open spaces in the surrounding countryside.
- ensure a smooth and level surface which is accessible for walkers, cyclists, mobility scooters, wheelchairs and buggies
- provide opportunities for children to play and explore the natural environment.
- create places to rest, reflect and learn about the Industrial heritage of the Stroud Valleys.
- enhance a variety of wildlife habitats to contribute to biodiversity.
- maintain the trail as a recreational route which is cool, shaded, well drained and resilient to the effects of extreme weather events and long term climate change.