Stroud local elections: Everything you need to know

There are several ways to vote in the upcoming local elections

Stroud residents will have the opportunity to vote for their next local councillor in May.

On Thursday 2 May, elections are being held for all 51 district councillor seats and all 53 parish/town councils across the Stroud district.

There are a number of ways residents can vote, with candidates announced by the council last week.

Here's everything you need to know about the upcoming local election.

What are some of the big issues that could come up?

Before heading to the polls, some of the issues Stroud District residents may consider when voting include:

• The future of Brimscombe Mill

• The Local Plan

• The Stroudwater Navigation

Why is the Local Plan causing controversy?

Stroud District Council was recently given a ten-month pause to address concerns over the viability of its Local Plan, which gives it more control over where in the district development happens.

The Local Plan maps out where the council intends to develop over the next 20 years, including two settlements in Sharpness and Wisloe.

It comes after inspectors raised serious concerns regarding the sustainable transport proposed for Sharpness's new garden village, the cost of installing new pedestrian and cycle bridges over the M5 for the development in Wisloe, and said that junctions 12 and 14 of the M5 needed upgrading to accommodate the increase in residents.

The council has ten months to address these concerns.

Why is Brimscombe Mill in the spotlight?

There was a public outcry last month when it was announced that Brimscombe Mill had been given months to find a new home.

Home to "beacon of community spirit". The Long Table, Brimscombe Mill is being sold to a new landlord, who has "no interest" in keeping the current use of the building.

53 jobs are at risk, with the businesses based at the building desperate to find somewhere else to set up shop before August.

Stroud District Council said it is supporting the overarching Grace Network in "securing a permanent home in the local area".

The counts will take place shortly after voting closes

How do I vote?

Voting will take place on 2 May, with residents having until 16 April to register to vote.

Those voting at a polling station must present an acceptable form of ID, such as a passport or a photo driving licence.

Other options include by post and by proxy.

When will the counts happen?

The counts for the local election, including the Police and Crime Commissioner elections, will take place on Friday 3 May and Saturday 4 May.

Who is standing?

Stroud District Council released its list of who is standing in the district and parish elections on 5 April. More information can be found on the council's website.