PRELIMINARY discussions about Dursley and Wotton-under-Edge becoming gateways to the Cotswolds are taking place.

Earlier this year, the Cotswolds Conservation Board wrote to councils in and around the Cotswolds to create a number of main entry points for tourists.

Dursley and Wotton-under-Edge town councils, together with Tetbury Town Council, were among the first to respond and have met with representatives of the board to discuss the idea.

Speaking at Tuesday’s meeting of Dursley Town Council, mayor Cllr Neil Grecian said that both Dursley and Wotton were seen as having potential for being amongst ten gateways.

The idea behind the scheme is to encourage more walkers and cyclists to visit the area, with some funds available to the town.

“Dursley is seen as having potential to be one of these entry points,” Cllr Grecian said. “Money would be provided to purchase signs.”

“They would also like the town to work on a new walk with funds available to properly signpost its route.”

The idea was supported by the council although Cllr Loraine Patrick asked that encouraging horse riders be considered as well as walkers and cyclists.

Councillors also agreed to write a letter of support to the conservation board’s bid to introduce the gateways project.