WE WENT for a walk around the Stroud town centre to see just how many shops were empty. 

Whilst we have recently covered the openings of establishments such as Brody's and Valley Fryer, the high street has had a tough time of late, not least due to the pandemic. 

Although Stroud’s potential Levelling Up bid could transform the town, some shops/businesses in the town centre have been forced to shut down. 

Others have relocated to new premises. 

Here are 10 of the empty shops to be found in Stroud town centre. 

1. The Socialight

The property at 62 High Street is one of several units which real estate agency Hawkins Watton have in their portfolio. 

It was last used as a cafe - the kitchen and counter remain in-situ. 

It is currently for let. 

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2. Ladbrokes

In the SNJ we recently reported that the Ladbrokes in Gloucester Street had closed down. 

The nearest Ladbrokes can be found in Russell Street.

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3. Barclays

Again, last Friday we reported that the Barclays in King Street had shut down

Barclays customers can visit any Post Office to withdraw or pay in cash.

The nearest Barclays branches are in Cirencester and Gloucester. 

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4. Cake Cafe 

Prior to the pandemic, this establishment - also located in the High Street - operated as a cafe. 

It is also part of Hawkins Watton's portfolio. 

The landlord is reportedly prepared to offer an incentive to a new tennant. 

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5. Peter James Lighting 

Located in Russell Street, the previous incumbents said that they were 'sad to close this shop' in a sign left in the window. 

However, they are now in UK nails and beauty, Unit 30 in the Five Vallys Shopping Centre. 

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6. Former TSB branch 

The former TSB branch in the High Street is part of Hooton's portfolio, a commercial property agents based in Bristol. 

The landlord is seeking a full repairing and insuring lease for a term of years to be agreed.

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7. B and T's Bargains

Next to the former TSB branch is the B and T's bargains shop. 

Recently it had a sign in the door saying 'closing soon'. 

This sign has since been taken down and all of the items inside the shop are no longer there. 

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8. World Foods

In Russell Street, this property - formely World Foods - is up for sale. 

It is another of the units featured which are part of Hawkins Watton's portfolio. 

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9. Turkuaz Turkish Barbers

The former Turkish barbers in the High Street is for let from Stroud-based Independent Estate Agents, Frowens. 

It also used to be home to El Gato's Cat Cafe. 

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10. Former Age UK shop in corner of High Street

Finally, there is the former Age UK shop in the corner of the High Street. 

It is on the corner of both the High Street and Kendrick Street.

Hawkins Watton has it for let.  

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