THE WEEK IN East Bristol & North East Somerset
10th May 2023
Issue 780
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Conservatives lose control of South Glos Council The Conservatives have lost overall control of South
month that he would not be seeking re-election.
South
Gloucestershire.
High-profile Tory losses at Thursday’s elections included
Greens said that while they
They had enjoyed an outright majority since 2015. Last
cabinet member Steve Reade, who was ousted from his Boyd
had not picked up any
Thursday they lost 10 councillors, ending up with 23 of the
Valley seat by the Lib Dems.
seats at district level , they
61 seats.
Veteran councillor Colin Hunt lost his Emersons Green seat
were encouraged by the
The Lib Dems now have 20 councillors, Labour have 17 and
to Labour. The Conservatives also lost another of the three
level of support. Sian
there is one Independent.
seats in that ward to Labour.
Harris, who stood for the
With no one party in
Labour retained all six seats in the three Kingswood wards,
Greens in the Emersons
overall control, talks are
while in Staple Hill & Mangotsfield the three Labour
Green ward, said that her
getting under way to try
councillors were returned.
party had attracted 4% of
to work out a way
The Conservatives held on to the Bitton & Oldland Common
all the South Glos votes,
forward.
ward and to the Parkwall & Warmley ward. Longwell Green
compared with 2% at the 2019 local elections.
South Gloucestershire’s
stayed blue with two new candidates.
The party fielded candidates in 16 of the 61 seats this time –
Conservative
group
Labour’s April Begley gained one of the three previous Tory
more than double the number in 2019. The party did secure
leader Toby Savage, who
seats in Hanham. And in the Frenchay & Downend ward, one
six parish and town council seats in the district.
had represented Longwell
of the three Tory councillors, James Griffiths, lost out to the
The voter turnout in South Gloucestershire was 33.57%. For
Green, announced last
Lib Dems.
the full results go to https://tinyurl.com/w6kpwkvp.
Steve Reade
Gloucestershire
Colin Hunt
Lib Dems secure historic second term in B&NES The Lib Dems have become the first party to ever win two
had represented Chew Valley for 36 years. Labour are now
Brian Simmons lost his seat and fellow Tory Allan Sinclair
terms in office at Bath and North East Somerset Council.
the official opposition with five seats. The Greens won
failed to hold on to the seat left vacant by Vic Clarke who
They gained four seats and now have 41 councillors out of
three seats and there are also five Independents.
was not standing again.
59 seats.
In the North East Somerset part of the district the Lib Dems
In Keynsham South Daniel Condick failed to keep the Tory
The Conservatives lost eight seats – including the two in
won 17 out of 31 seats, becoming the largest party in the
seat that had been Lisa O’Brien’s, losing out to Labour’s
Keynsham North. There are now just three Tories left on
current Parliamentary constituency where Conservative
Dave Biddleston. Conservative Alan Hale held the other
the council which four years ago they were running with
Jacob Rees-Mogg is MP.
seat in that ward.
more than 10 times that number.
The Keynsham North ward was taken by Lib Dems Alex
The Lib Dems held Saltford with Duncan Hounsell being
Among the casualties was their leader Vic Pritchard who
Beaumont and George Leach. Veteran Tory councillor
Continued on page 2
Also in this week’s issue
Keynsham High Street cycle lane debate rages on . . . pages 2, 8 & 9
Round-up of local Coronation events . . . pages 3 - 6
Death of well-known Keynsham man . . . page 7
Kingswood policeman’s run raises over £5k . . . page 10
Lib Dems secure historic second term in B&NES Contrinued from page 1
was returned to the council, winning in the Midsomer Norton
The election in the Paulton ward is being rescheduled
re-elected along with new councillor Alison Streatfeild-
Redfield seat. He had lost his Mendip ward seat to the Lib
following the sad death last week of the Green candidate Tim
James, replacing Alistair Singleton who had stepped down.
Dems in 2019.
Morgan.
There had previously been one Green councillor on B&NES
The third Tory councillor is Sarah Evans who won the other
For all results visit https://tinyurl.com/49v4bejm
Council – Joanna Wright who defected from the Lib Dems.
Midsomer Norton Redfield seat. The Publow with
Now there are three as she was re-elected in Lambridge ward
Whitchurch seat was retained by Paul May for the Lib Dems.
along with Saskia Heijtjes who unseated the Mayor of Bath
He had previously won the seat as a Tory but defected last
Rob Appleyard (Lib Dem).
year.
The other Green seat is the Clutton & Farmborough ward
Lib Dem leader Kevin Guy said: “We’re incredibly grateful
won by Sam Ross. He beat the Conservative Rosemary Naish
to residents across Bath and North East Somerset for putting
into second place. The seat had previously been held by Tory
their trust in the Lib Dems to continue running the council.
Sally Davis.
We look forward to continuing to deliver our ambitious and
The previous Conservative leader for B&NES, Tim Warren,
positive vision for B&NES over the next four years.”
Pic credit: Clive Dellard
2
Controversial cycle lane remains in the spotlight Bath MP Wera Hobhouse, who is the Lib Dems’ transport spokesperson, reportedly looks set to take up the case of Keynsham High Street’s controversial cycle lane in an attempt to change national guidelines. The contractors who built the cycle lane apparently followed national guidelines but nevertheless 59 people have reported to Bath & North East Somerset Council that they have fallen and injured themselves since its introduction in March 2022, with 21 claims submitted for compensation. Meanwhile a German TV station - ProSieben - picked up on the story this week, interviewing Ric Davison of Keynsham radio station KTCRfm. The cycle lane dominates our Letters to the editor section this week - see pages 8 & 9.
The Week in • Wednesday 10th May 2023
Celebrating the Coronation
An aerial shot of the stunning Coronation tribute by 600 children at Beacon Rise Primary in Kingswood
Replica crown was a labour of love To commemorate the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953, a talented Bristol man spent six months creating a replica of the Imperial State Crown, complete with more than 3,000 paste jewels. Tony Lewis, from Redland, was a huge fan of the Royal Family and his stunning creation went on show at a shop in Cotham Hill, as this newspaper cutting from 22nd May of that year shows. His sister Betty, with whom he is pictured, passed away last year, and Tony, who used to work as a stores manager at
Rolls-Royce in Bristol, died recently at the age of 94. His funeral took place at Westerleigh Crematorium the day before the King’s Coronation. Tony’s nephew Rob Skuse, from Bitton, says the crown was always a big talking point in the family. Pictured with the crown is Tony’s great-great-niece Evelyn Skuse, aged two, from Barrs Court.
Metro Mayor attends the Coronation The people of the West of England were represented at the Coronation of King Charles III on Saturday by the region’s Metro Mayor Dan Norris who accepted an invitation to attend. The West of England Combined Authority secured £45,000 from the Government which Bristol City Council and South Gloucestershire Council used to fund giant screenings of the Coronation at the Bristol and Bath Science Park at Emersons Green and at Bristol Cathedral. The Week in • Wednesday 10th May 2023
3
Communities come together Crowds enjoying Wick's Coronation party held in Brockwell Park on Sunday
Boston and Emily were the bestdressed royals at the party in Wick
Members of the Friends of Kingswood Park, from left, Rafick Ackbar, Ross Gammon & Pat Rooney at Sunday's Big Lunch event
THE WEEK IN Barrs Court, Bitton, Brislington, Cadbury Heath, Compton Dando, Corston, Downend, Emersons Green, Fishponds, Hanham, Hillfields, Keynsham, Kingswood, Longwell Green, Mangotsfield, Marksbury, North Common, Oldland Common, Pucklechurch, Saltford, Staple Hill, Stockwood, St George, Warmley, Whitchurch, Wick, Willsbridge. 16,000 copies are distributed through retail outlets, libraries, pubs, community centres each week. Verified pick-up rate of 97%.
The Week In Community Ltd, 8 Temple Court, Keynsham. BS31 1HA 0117 986 0381. www.theweekin.co.uk ISSN: 2052-9767 Publisher Editor Contributors
Stephen Rodgers admin@theweekin.co.uk Becky Feather 07403 273967 Christine Rogers
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Tracy Broderick 0117 986 0381 sales.theweekin@gmail.com @theweekineditor the_week_in_news
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4
The Week in • Wednesday 10th May 2023
to celebrate the Coronation There were performances at the bandtstand as part of Sunday's Picnic in the Park in Keynsham
Floral displays in St John's in Keynsham
At Keynsham MakeSpace there was a pop-up art gallery in celebration of the Coronation. Pictured from left with some of their works are Wendy Malah, Joe Tymkow & Robin Cole
Jill Bundy, Anna House & Sam Fisher at the party held at Cadbury Heath Hall on Saturday with support from Oldland Parish Council. It raised money for the local Guys & Dolls group for isolated, older people
A royal postbox topper at Longmeadow Road in Keynsham
Posing with the King at Saturday's party at Cadbury Heath Hall
Youngsters giving a display of Indian dancing at the Coronation event held at Emersons Green Hall on Saturday
Phoebe and Ella with balloon models at Emersons Green Village Hall
The Week in • Wednesday 10th May 2023
Bertie and Amber have their photo taken in the royal selfie frame at Monday’s event in the Community Garden by Warmley Signal Box
The street party held in Beechwood Avenue in Hanham on Sunday
5
More Coronation festivities Freya and her parents Lisa and Martin enjoying the Big Lunch event held at the Pound Ground in Bitton on Sunday which was attended by around 500 people
Iron Overload performing at the Big Lunch event held in Bitton
Right royal fun with Longwell Green WI We have had a very busy month at Longwell Green WI.
the post box outside Tesco.
The knitting group produced a cheerful postbox topper for
We have lots of groups for members to participate in and
Easter.
Longwell Green WI’s regular meetings are on the third
At our April meeting we welcomed Dorothy Cook who
Friday of the month at 7.30pm at The Centre in Longwell
talked about being a midwife. Having worked as one for
Green. If you are interested in visiting us email at
more than 40 years and delivering about 3,000 babies, she
longwellwi@gmail.com, call 0117 9864782 or come along.
had plenty of stories. Not only has she worked in this country
Linda Muller
but also in Singapore, Brazil and Oman amongst other places. A very interesting and entertaining talk. We also had our craft day for members and friends. With bottle painting, macramé, beadwork, diamond painting and embroidery available, there was plenty of choice. We also enjoyed a demonstration at Fonthill Garden Centre in Bitton showing us ideas for patio pots and hanging baskets. Our birthday/Coronation celebration was a great success where we had a buffet meal and entertainment from Andy Tee. The room was decorated in red, white and blue. Another topper was knitted by Longwell Green WI knitting group for King Charles III Coronation and has been adorning
6
The WI's celebratory meal
The postbox topper outside Tesco
The Week in • Wednesday 10th May 2023
Former Post Office worker dies A well-known Keynsham resident and former Post Office
Gary Cooper with his wife Carolyn
worker has sadly died.
Police seize bikes The Kingswood neighbourhood policing team say they have seized bikes that have been causing anti-social
Gary Cooper passed away peacefully at home on Saturday
behaviour in the area.
22nd April after a long battle with a brain tumour.
They recently took three bikes off the streets. People
A former pupil of Broadlands School, Gary came back to the
with any information about such bikes are encouraged
town in the 1990s to work at the Post Office in Keynsham
to report it via the Avon & Somerset Police website or
High Street. He met his wife Carolyn there and was a smiling
on the 101 number.
face to the many customers he served up until his retirement in 2017. His funeral takes place at Haycombe Crematorium on Thursday 18th May at 10.45am. The family have asked for any donations to be sent to Dorothy House Hospice Care or Brain Tumour Research.
Two of the bikes that were seized
Friends’ AGM
Volunteers needed
The Friends of Kingswood Park are holding their 2023 Annual General Meeting on Tuesday 16th May from 6pm to 8pm at The Park Centre in Kingswood. If you are interested in attending or would like to find out more contact friendsofkingswoodpark@gmail.com There will be free refreshments.
The North Bristol & South Glos Foodbank, whose locations include the one at Resound Church in Mangotsfield, is looking for people to join the team of volunteers and drive the foodbank van. For more information email volunteering@nbsg.foodbank.org.uk
Advertising feature
Savour the delights of new shop A new shop launches in Temple Street in Keynsham this weekend. Cat Midgley is opening Savour Refill Deli Farmshop next to her existing business, Temple Street Canteen. Cat took over the Canteen shortly before lockdown, having worked there for previous owner Stefan Edwards. Her latest venture will have the same local community and friendly ethos that customers of the café love so much. Cat, who has a background in retail management and tourism, and loves cooking and hosting, says that when she learned that the bike shop next door was relocating, the chance to expand her business was too good to turn
more established.
down.
Local branding designer Lucie Gray helped come up
Sourcing supplies from Somerset via Hunt’s, Savour will
with the name of the new store. Cat explains that
have a deli counter selling meats and cheeses, as well as
‘Savour’ encapsulates enjoying food and drink to the full
the salads that are so popular in the Canteen.
as well as time spent together.
The shop will stock fruit and veg and there will be a zero
A new shopfront is due to be installed soon for both the
waste refill hub for both pantry foods and liquids, such as
Canteen and the new business with grant support from
dish soap and shampoo. There will also be an eco-
the Keynsham High Street Heritage Action Zone
homeware section.
programme which aims to enhance the conservation area
Cat and her team have a good relationship with
to create a more attractive and vibrant shopping area.
stallholders at Keynsham’s monthly farmers’ market and
• Savour opens on 13th May. Opening hours are 9am to
will be looking to use more local suppliers as they become
4pm, Monday to Saturday.
The Week in • Wednesday 10th May 2023
7
LETTERS muddy and waterlogged. I remember when this
Some ideas to improve Keynsham
area had beautiful hedges and trees, kingfishers flying over the water and fish coming to the
Dear Editor
surface: over the last 50 years it has become
So the major work on replacing pavements, etc,
neglected, with many of the hedges and water
in Temple Street in Keynsham has been
bank trees removed. A bold vision is needed to
completed. Does anyone notice a difference? Yes,
secure it for the benefit of the town, and it need
the pavement is marginally more attractive but is An image of the new footbridge
there really a noticeable improvement? Was it a
not cost the earth. Its value is that of agricultural land, the work needed to improve it relatively low.
good way to spend well over a million pounds in
assume, cost many tens of thousands of pounds
The cost of the ‘improvements’ to the High Street
times of tightened public spending? I think not.
to commission. Much of it unnecessary claptrap.
and Temple Street would easily have purchased
There is no clear benefit, and what is more, the
Anyone who witnessed the farcical amount of
the land and restored it. We need more open ‘park’
pavement on the eastern side of Temple Street
scaffolding, etc, and the time taken to remove the
land in case of another pandemic, or just for
now looks tired, with no attempt having been
old bridge, will understand why emerging
people’s mental health - let’s do this at this time
made to repair damaged sections.
economies are gaining ground. The repairs to the
of commemoration of our late Queen and the
Despite spending several million pounds the
abutments were necessary due to the neglect by
Coronation of King Charles III!
council has produced two roads that look
the council for many years, including allowing
John Blanning, Keynsham
marginally different, with a dangerous cycle route
large trees to grow in the masonry.
that trips up pedestrians. The money would have
The simple fact is that a slightly longer bridge
been better spent giving grants to improve
would have solved many of the issues. The new
shopfronts and increasing the amount of flowers
bridge is to be made of a plastic polymer - let's
Spotlight on road safety audit of High Street
and other vegetation. Why not offer £10k to the
The social conscience of our communities Dear Becky How happy I’ve been to discover that the council responded to my challenge in The Week In (Issue 763) in January to make a New Year’s resolution to bring back life into Keynsham High Street. Their response has been to offer reduced rent/rates to new independent businesses. I’m aware that the High Street is still haemorrhaging – TSB closed last week and Shoe Zone and the large LloydsPharmacy are the most recent to announce they are closing. Now with a newly-elected council, I renew my challenge to continue the good work already started; I now suggest that some of our councillors could visit some of the many buzzing independent retail communities in the Bristol area, incognito, to work out what makes their
hope it lasts better than the plastic seats installed
Dear Editor
hearts beat. Then a meeting could be arranged
staff of the shop with the best flower display? I’m
by Keynsham Town Council, which still disfigure
Re your story headlined ‘UK’s worst cycle lane’
where the council could invite some of these
sure this would stimulate a lot of interest, create
the town with their bent and twisted forms. As for
in Issue 779, thank you for your coverage of the
successful councillors to give talks about how to
competition, increase the number of shoppers and
the bridge design, the council describe it as
national tabloids’ reports on the 59 falls in
create
visitors to the town (so increasing spending) and
'elegant'. I would describe it, from the limited
Keynsham High Street.
independent community, followed by a residents’
create a sense of civic pride. There's no point in
pictures available, as utilitarian and not dissimilar
In your article you made reference to ‘a Stage 4
question-and-answer session.
offering a £50 garden centre gift voucher, one
to what it is replacing - not exactly architecturally
Road Safety Audit’ being conducted. To be of any
I represent no political party, I’m just a resident
needs to think ‘big’ and entice people to invest
‘inspiring’, and, for some reason, costing
value the audit needs to be carried out
certain that our High Street is going to be revived.
and make an effort to produce a stunning display
and
maintain
a
successful
retail
£750,000.
independently of the council.
The transfusions are ready! Be patient! Have
- £10k being a drop of the millions spent so far,
Covid taught us the value of parks. Isn’t it time
On behalf of the Keynsham community, can you
faith! Meanwhile I’m so thankful that The Week
and likely to have a far greater impact (and maybe
we increased their size. Now is the ideal time to
please find out for us how independent this audit
In is the social conscience of our communities. I
make small amounts available for the cost of
create an extension to the park to commemorate
is? Who are the people carrying it out? What
encourage people to write into The Week In
'materials' to those taking part).
the death of Queen Elizabeth II and the
involvement have they had with the council in the
because people take notice and you may have
And now we turn to the park and the bridge by
Coronation of King Charles III. I’m talking about
project to date, either as council employees, or
your concerns answered!
the mill wheel. The number of reports and
the land to the south of Steel Mills, between the
contractors to the council, or consultants
Winifred Rickard
investigations required for the replacement of this
old mill and the bridge on the way to Chewton
employed by the council?
bridge is mind-boggling. It is all available and, I
Keynsham, on both sides of the river. The
In other words, do they have any vested interest
Another fall injury
purchase of this land would safeguard it from
in justifying the status quo? Is there anyone
Dear Editor
development, stop the incremental ‘horsiculture’
representing the Keynsham community involved
I too fell in Keynsham High Street, last October.
and provide a great resource for the public as a
in the audit? If not, why not?
The pavement seemed to go off at an angle and I
natural extension to the park.
The Keynsham community needs assurance that
fell into the cyclepath. I scraped my hand and hurt
I'm not suggesting it be ‘parkified’ but kept and
this audit is truly independent, or it will not be
my shoulder and knee.
restored as agricultural land but as a nature
worth publishing.
I think the cycle lane should be flush all the way
reserve, with park elements, such as sensitive
Michael Lowe
along.
seating, installed. It is already used by walkers
Editor’s note: Challenge accepted. We are
I go very carefully in the High Street now.
along the various footpaths, which, sadly, become
investigating.
Name supplied
New parkland?
8
The Week in • Wednesday 10th May 2023
LETTERS Time to enforce safety? Dear Editor When the work was going on in Keynsham High Street, we had quite a long taste of being trafficfree and got used to wandering as we pleased. Maybe now we need to be forced to use the three safe crossing points by having chains (or something else?) slung between the bollards? At the ‘consultation’ phase it was a stated
In my thinking, I cannot see Bath & North East Somerset Council changing the layout of the High Street after spending all the money that they did, and the amount of time that the road was in fact closed, with a diversion via Ashton Way. If these people just crossed where they should be crossing then maybe the accidents wouldn't happen. Have they thought about that. Name & address supplied
objective from B&NES Council to “rationalise
Skidmore has no workable policy to deliver that
Trip hazards
many homes without using Green Belt. His party
Dear Editor With reference to the cycle lane on Keynsham High Street, I feel the problem is an optical illusion caused by the white line and the secondary kerb which should have not been installed; a main drop kerb is all that is required with a single line to designate the cycle
the street furniture, signs, benches, planters, etc.”.
A poem by my late brother
trip hazards in the High Street caused by loose
We end up with bollards all along the High Street
Dear Editor
paving and broken slabs everywhere, notably
and an optical illusion of a killer kerb, so job
In regard to your Issue 778 and the story
alongside Iceland and the wine bar.
done?!
headlined Scarecrow trail is just the job, my late
R Earle
Sheila Crocombe
brother Michael wrote this poem below, called
Is it fair to blame the council? Dear Editor I am writing in response to last week’s letter headlined ‘Safe crossings are provided’. I have not witnessed anyone falling but have witnessed tripping. I agree with the writer of the letter, there are specific crossings along Keynsham High Street designated for crossing safely, and the unfortunate people who have fallen probably have not used these. I wonder what happens when they go to visit different towns with different crossing facilities if they trip or fall and blame the other councils for their mishaps. I walk with a walking stick and have to concentrate to pick my feet up whilst walking and I have never tripped, slipped or fallen down, and I always cross at the designated areas. I am not saying people are too lazy to walk to these areas, but it does make me think if they had, would they have tripped and fallen over.
Richard Comley ‘Scare crow Scare crow You don’t scare me,’ said the crow ‘Scare crow You’re just a pile of old rags and bones You don’t scare me,’ said the crow
significant factor behind the growth in housing demand. Therefore, blocking the millions of new homes we require, by restricting development on green fields, is irrefutably an anti-immigration Skidmore for blocking those homes, whilst simultaneously ‘claiming’ to be pro-migration. Mr Sims might wish to consider the contradiction of his own position, in that he calls my progressive pro-migrant home-building advocacy “racism”, whilst he defends a Tory MP who
Ongoing debate over Green Belt development
blocks new homes for migrants. John Woodruff Editor’s note: Case now closed
Dear Editor On the ongoing hot topic of Green Belt development, Mr Sims (Letters, Issue 779) appears to be confused about the origins of the argument. The UK population has grown by 14 cities the
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‘Scare crow You look a mess with straw sticking through your vest And in your chest A robin’s nest with ragged overcoat nailed to a piece of wood
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Because you don’t scare me’
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SUNDAY CHEMISTS
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The census shows that migration is the most
policy. I merely pointed out the hypocrisy of Mr
lane. My other concerns are that there are a lot more
Scare Crow.
have had over a decade to build them and failed.
Sunday 14th May
2 -Hard
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The Week in • Wednesday 10th May 2023
9
Policeman’s plod raises more than £5,000 for children’s hospital Kingswood policeman Jamie Evans has raised more than £5,000 for Bristol Children’s Hospital by running the Manchester Marathon. In Issue 775 we featured how super-fit Jamie had been struck down by a viral infection that left him unable to walk, but had rebuilt his fitness and was preparing to run the marathon in aid of the hospital where his 15-year-old step-daughter
Jamie Evans
Crossword
Sophie receives treatment for a debilitating and as yet undiagnosed condition. Jamie, who is the sergeant for the Kingswood Neighbourhood Policing Team, ran the marathon in full unform. He said: “Quite quickly the kit began to have a major factor. I had seriously underestimated the boots. My feel and legs began to hurt more and more where I had to adjust my expectations on time. I walked the aid stations and hills and ran the rest. “The support all the way round helped so much. In the last six miles or so my legs were cramping so badly I had to do a run-walk plan to get round and crossed the line in five hours, 21 minutes. “I had lots of other runners say to me, fair play for running in the kit, and that I was mad when they saw I was wearing boots! However, the plan was to suffer, just like Sophie has. My feet look like a horror film. My back and shoulders were in agony from wearing the body armour. “Having done lots of runs/triathlons for myself previously it was a lovely feeling and achievement to have done something for someone else. “When we started this, we discussed how much we wanted to raise. Sophie and I decided on £1,000 but secretly I wanted £2,000. On the morning of the event, we hit the £4,000 mark and now at the time of writing we have gone over £5,000. “I am totally blown away by the generosity of people, many of whom I have never met. A massive thank you to everyone who has donated. It is clear that Sophie’s story has reached out to many people. “Hopefully, we can get a diagnosis soon and get her fixed
ACROSS
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1. Gleams (8)
2. Come to earth (4)
6. Location (4)
3. Coin money (6)
8. Haunch (3)
4. Mass flight (6)
9. Cover for a letter (8) 10. Hire (4) 12. Nasal cavity (5) 14. Caper (5) 17. Competition (4) 18. Torpid (8) 20. Perfume spray (8)
6. Leap (6) 7. Ball game (6) 11. Wild rose (5) 12. Exclusive report (5) 13. Slumber (5) 14. Mature (3) 15. Periods (5)
completely and permanently. “I would like to say thank you to the Bristol Children’s Hospital and Wallace & Gromit's Grand Appeal charity for everything they have done for Sophie and all the other kids who go there every day.” To sponsor ‘Jamie’s Plod for Sophie’ visit https://tinyurl.com/2p94my6c
People power People can learn about more Bristol Energy Cooperative (BEC) and the chance to invest in community-owned renewable energy at an online event being held later this month. BEC is a not-for-profit, community-owned enterprise which since 2011 has developed 17 clean energy generation projects around Bristol. The energy produced is crowdfunded and sold cheaply to community buildings, with profits funnelled into carefully chosen community benefit projects.
24. Fasten securely (4) 16. Calcium carbonate (5) 25. More mature (5) 19. Coniferous tree (3)
BEC says it has set itself a challenge, developing a
26. Low-cut shoes (5)
21. Violent outburst (6)
more than double its rooftop solar capacity. It aims to
29. Statutes (4)
22. Paltry (6)
be producing enough energy to power more than 3,600
30. Glandular disease (8)
23. Flexible rhythm (mus.) (6)
average homes every year.
31. Caustic solution (3) 24. Orb (6) 27. ---- of March (4) 32. Gainsay (4)
£200,000 has been raised.
33. EU country (8)
10
5. Son of Noah (4)
Jamie with Sophie after his run
28. Abominable snowman (4)
pipeline of projects over the next two years that will
The target is to reach £1m by 17th July. So far almost A webinar is taking place on Wednesday 24th May from
7pm.
To
find
out
more
visit
https://bristolenergy.coop/about/
The Week in • Wednesday 10th May 2023
Five homes in Village loses shop conservation area are approved Outline plans to build five homes on the old nursery site behind Tower Road North in the Warmley Conservation Area have been approved by South Gloucestershire Council. There had been previous applications to develop the site, the most recent being in 2016 when the council refused outline permission for four homes. Ecology and access concerns were given as the reasons for refusal. Access had previously been proposed using the single side lane of No 114 but the latest application, which has now been approved, involves the driveways of numbers 112 and 114. Whilst approval had previously been granted on the land for one house, the developer argued that it was not an effective use of land in line with national planning policy. “Planners’ blight” was said to have led to the site’s deterioration but the applicant said the new plans would enhance the conservation
area and provide much-needed family housing. The conservation designation is in recognition of Warmley’s important history and architectural connections with William Champion, the prominent Quaker, industrialist and entrepreneur. To the south of the former nursery is Warmley House, which is Grade II* listed. The area includes nine listed buildings, a Registered Historic Garden and a Scheduled Ancient Monument. The planning application was revised after being originally submitted, increasing the meadow, proposing two semi-detached properties in place of two detached properties, and making layout changes. The council’s planning officer said that the public benefits of the proposal outweigh the harm to the setting of the heritage assets. One of the conditions before work starts is that a programme of archaeological investigation and recording for the site takes place.
Plans to turn a vacant shop in Whitchurch
The council planning officer agreed with
Village into a flat have been given the go-
the applicant that the site is located in a
ahead, even though it is against the policy
sustainable location with regular bus
of the local neighbourhood plan.
services to Bristol and Bath.
Bath & North East Somerset Council has
The unit is bordered by an estate agency
granted prior approval to Parkstone Estates
and workwear shop. Whitchurch Village
(Chippenham) Ltd’s request to change the
Council had objected to the application,
use of use of the shop at 89 Bristol Road –
saying it goes against the Whitchurch
formerly Bargain Tile Centre - into a one-
Village Neighbourhood Plan policy to
bedroom flat.
retain local employment.
The Neptune statue in Warmley Conservation Area
The Week in • Wednesday 10th May 2023
11
Pupil power as regional summit brings together young voices More than 150 young people from 60-plus secondary schools gathered at Aerospace Bristol for the first West of England Schools Summit hosted by Metro Mayor Dan Norris and organised in conjunction with Kingswoodbased Creative Youth Network. Nathan Hardie went along to see how future generations see life in the West of England. There was a hub of activity below the wings of Concorde on Wednesday 26th April, with teachers and students taking part in the first West of England Schools Summit. Presenter (and proud Filton College alumni) Junior Saunders kicked things off at the Aerospace Bristol museum, motivating the students into carving a path out for the future. Much like those who built the supersonic plane, he encouraged them to follow their visions. Metro Mayor Dan Norris heartily agreed with the motivational speech. Having lived in many of the suburbs across North East Somerset and Bristol, he said he recognised the many pressing challenges affecting the West of England and wanted to hear directly from the students on what they need in order to create a better quality of life. No time was spared on his request either, with the Metro Mayor spearheading a panel as part of a Dragon’s Den-esque pitching session. Pupils were allocated a three-minute slot to convey improvements on how they
12
would suggest tackling several crucial issues. There were zero disagreements when one passionate student advocated planting more trees within the city, nor how important managing mental health has been during the recent turbulent years. Mental health and wellbeing linked in with another articulate speech from a student championing free sanitary products, alongside a teaching assistant promoting the value of supporting a diverse workforce’s needs. In addition, Aerospace Bristol Chief Executive Sally Cordwell pledged to find a way of making museums more inclusive after trialling ‘Quiet Mornings’, opening channels of communication with autistic and neurodiverse community members. One of the biggest talking points was transport. I spoke with 18-year-old Roan, a representative of Creative Youth Network, and he detailed how difficult travelling around the area was. With no driving licence and supported by a cane, Roan relies on public transport daily, which becomes very
Dan Norris tries his hand at operating a robotic dog
expensive. Furthermore, being based in Sea Mills, he’s often left waiting due to infrequent schedules and cancellations. Thankfully, this has not prevented him from hanging out with his friends across the city. Amongst all of these important discussions, activities were dotted throughout the museum showcasing how these pupils could make an impact in the future. Sponsors Deloitte let Mr Norris commandeer a robotic dog, whilst Atkins displayed flooding concerns via an interactive Lego city. Expert advice from Air Giants, Airbus and Avon Wildlife Trust provided engaged learners with the numerous career paths available. Overall, this engagement from the students is
what the Metro Mayor was most impressed by. Speaking with me before bringing the day to a close, he said: “What’s been noticeable today is how all of the young people have been genuinely interested in the issues and what’s going on.” He said that the Schools Summit showed that young people’s voices matter: “I need to know about them, after all they are the future, and I’ve got to be planning for that future.” Mr Norris is already considering how the event can be improved for next time: “Some things have gone better than expected, some things have been tougher, and we’ll learn from that and I’m hoping to make it a regular event, maybe yearly.”
The Week in • Wednesday 10th May 2023
Unsung heroes recognised with Lord Mayor’s Medals A couple who serve meals at a church
Meanwhile Pat Morgan is a keep fit teacher,
lunch club in Stockwood and a keep fit
teaching three groups of older women, some
instructor still running classes in the local
with specific mobility or health issues. She
community in her 90th year were among
runs two classes in Stockwood on a Monday
unsung heroes in Bristol recognised
evening and a Thursday morning plus one at
recently with Lord Mayor’s Medals.
St Peter's Church Hall in Henleaze on
Residents from across the city were honoured
Tuesdays. Pat, who celebrates her 90th
at the annual awards ceremony. The Lord
birthday this year, trained to be a dance
Mayor’s Medal awards celebrate the
therapist and worked for many years at
achievements and charitable efforts of those
Dance Voice in Bedminster.
who have gone above and beyond for their
An award was also given to Sue Farrance,
communities.
regional
Among them were Ken and Joyce Wooster
Christmas Child which organises shoeboxes
who since 2010 have been serving the older
full of goodies and essentials to be delivered
residents of Stockwood two-course meals
to disadvantaged children across the world.
weekly at the Triangle Lunch Club at
From the base in Stockwood, Sue was
Stockwood Free Church. The pandemic
responsible in 2022 for the organising and
meant a short break but when restrictions
onward transmission of more than 4,500
lifted,
immediately
shoeboxes. The donations were sent to
resurrected the service to support those in
Ukraine but previous years they have been
need of company, reducing social isolation.
sent to Africa, elsewhere in Europe and Asia.
The couple source local minibuses and
Other medal recipients included Sarah
drivers to transport guests who have mobility
Rogers in recognition of her outstanding
issues. They also keep in touch with those
contribution to the Hillfields community.
who haven’t been around for a few weeks,
Sarah began the Hillfields Community
just to check that they are keeping well. They
Garden during lockdown and today it
go to town over the annual Christmas lunch
supports
which consists of numerous courses of food,
community together to get to know one
gifts for all and musical entertainment. Ken,
another, learn new skills, to create, grow and
now in his 90s, serves those who are often
share. A list of all medal recipients is
considerably younger than him.
available on the city council’s website.
Ken
and
Joyce
co-ordinator
four
Magic at the Mill There was magic afoot at Willsbridge Mill when The Haunts Curiosity Shoppe hosted
a
gathering
of
creative small businesses to celebrate the folklore of May Day. Hundreds of visitors came to
groups,
for
Operation
bringing
the
Situations Vacant Finance, Building and Lettings Officer (Part Time, 6 hours/week) Church Road, Redfield Flexible hours, must be able to work independently Contact Dave Phillips, 07860833786 dphillipsbristol@gmail.com Bethesda Methodist Church
support the event and enjoy learning about the wonder of wildflowers, flower crown weaving, free seed swaps and delicious treats from the café. The
Haunts
Curiosity
Shoppe are set to host their next event, at the Mill, an Eclipse the Moon Solstice Fayre, on 29th July. The Week in • Wednesday 10th May 2023
13
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