Building Blocks of Life in Strood: A Community Perspective

Overview of the Report and What It Found

The report reveals a mixed picture of life in Strood. While many residents appreciate local amenities, convenience, and community spirit, concerns about anti-social behaviour, lack of amenities, traffic, and health service access are significant. Most people feel their area positively impacts their social life and convenience, but nearly three-quarters say negatives like safety concerns and poor infrastructure affect them.

What’s Great About Strood

Residents value Strood’s amenities, convenience, and sense of community.

• “The range of shops is good.”
• “I like that I have everything on my doorstep.”
• “The neighbourhood. We all look out for each other.”
• “Public transport means I can get everywhere.”
• “Broom Hill Park is a fabulous facility.”

Strood offers practical benefits and a friendly atmosphere that many residents appreciate.

The Challenges of Strood

Residents are frustrated by declining amenities, anti-social behaviour, and poor infrastructure.

• “All the banks have shut for some bizarre reason.”
• “The drinkers; in the evening there are a lot of people congregating.”
• “Traffic! They drive so fast through the centre.”
• “You can't get a doctors appointment.”
• “Litter is one of the big issues.”

These issues create stress and inconvenience, impacting residents’ quality of life.

Making Strood Better

People want better health services, cleaner streets, and more community spaces.

• “More GPs available. Lower waiting lists for pain clinics.”
• “Greater police presence walking around.”
• “Turn the empty shops into a Community Hub.”
• “Clear up the rubbish! We need to bring road sweepers back!”
• “Better communication, especially for people with a learning disability.”

Residents are calling for practical improvements to health services, safety, and community engagement.