Call to build homes near railways by Stroud campaigners

Building homes near railway stations could be a better way to meet future housing need in a Gloucestershire valley, a campaign group has said.

Stroud Futures said a longer-term strategy was needed on housing growth and protecting the Stroud Valley.

Group member Nicholas Falk said there was potential for Stonehouse to develop if services between Gloucester to Swindon and Bristol improved.

Stroud District Council is consulting residents on housing growth until 2031.

"What we're hoping to do is find there is enough agreement of the value of developing significant extensions - it's the principle of developing the public transport routes and corridors," added Dr Falk.

The group is made up of local residents and planners and was set up after concern over growing opposition to developers' proposals.

The group hopes by starting a debate it will help influence future housing strategy.

Dr Falk said: "It's very important that people think of the longer term rather than the immediate needs and it takes times for travel patterns to change.

"We believe there are much better sites than building on the hills to allow Stroud to reach its full potential."

Stroud District Council previously outlined plans for 9,350 new homes to be built in the area before 2026.

Campaign group Don't Strangle Stroud claimed housing targets were too high and based on outdated figures.

Stroud Future's workshop and debate will take place at the Old Town Hall later.