THE WEEK IN East Bristol & North East Somerset
24th May 2023
Issue 782
FREE
Read by more than 40,000 people each week
Lib Dem-Labour pact to run South Glos Council There is new political leadership at the helm of South Gloucestershire Council with the Liberal Democrat and Labour groups agreeing to work in partnership. Cllr Claire Young, the leader of the Lib Dem councillors, becomes leader of the council, with Labour leader Ian Boulton becoming co-leader. The first meeting of the new council was due to take place this evening (Wednesday) at 7pm at Kingswood Civic Centre. Once formally elected at tonight’s meeting, the new leader will appoint members to a new Cabinet. After the local elections on 4th May the Lib Dems returned 20 councillors, gaining three, while Labour returned 17, gaining six. Together, the two groups have 37 of the 61 councillors elected, more than the 31 needed for a majority and much more than the 23-strong Conservative group. The Conservatives lost 10 councillors while an Independent was also elected. Aspects of the administration will include: • A shared focus on the climate emergency and helping residents with the cost of living crisis. • A review of how the council forms and passes policy, including local area decision-making and greater public
Also in this week’s issue
involvement. • Sharing the South Gloucestershire seat at the West of England Combined Authority, working to improve local buses and the travel network. After signing the written agreement to form an administration, Claire Young said on Friday: “Local people voted for change in May, following eight years of Conservative rule. “In discussions with the Labour group it was apparent we had many shared goals to improve the lives of local people. We Cllr Ian Boulton & Cllr Claire Young want to take the council in a different direction, working with local people to make Perry said that while the leadership talks had been taking place, the role of officers had been to ensure that South Gloucestershire a better place for everyone.” Ian Boulton added: “This is a brilliant opportunity to the council continued to operate as it should, while put forward a new vision for South Gloucestershire. supporting councillors in their conversations and We’re aware of the budgetary challenges at the moment, providing legal and constitutional advice as required. with the Conservative Government failing to fund local He said: “Council officers are ready to brief a new administration once it is agreed by members at the authorities properly. meeting on 24th May and when a new Cabinet takes up “That can change at next year’s General Election.” South Gloucestershire Council chief executive Dave their roles.” Tories’ warning over new coalition, page 4
Plans to build 149 homes on Hanham Green Belt are formally submitted . . . page 3
20-minute train frequency begins at Keynsham . . . page 5
Campaigners lose last-ditch fight against Bristol Airport expansion . . . page 6
Taxi driver stabbed in Brislington . . . page 12
2
The Week in • Wednesday 24th May 2023
Plans lodged with council for up to 149 homes on the Green Belt After months of anticipation, plans to
traffic on local roads is also highlighted.
routes is proposed within the
build up to 149 homes on 20 acres of Green
The developers have reiterated what they said
masterplan to connect with the
Belt land known as The Batch in Hanham
in their pre-application consultation with the
Avon Valley recreation network
have
local community – that “the site does not
and the amenities the site will
Gloucestershire Council.
particularly contribute to the purposes of the
offer.”
Up to 60 of the homes would be “affordable”
Green Belt and the land selected within it.
Close to nine acres would be given
and up to 15 units would be self-
Combined with this is the critical need for
over to open space, to include a
build/custom-build homes.
housing in this location and the LPA’s (Local
picnic
Access to the proposed new estate would be
Planning Authority’s) failure to bring forward
attenuation
via Hencliffe Way, where No 64 would be
a Local Plan that adequately addresses this
features, new woodland, walking
This area would become a “strategic
knocked down to create an entrance. We have
issue. As such, it is our view that this land
routes, a community orchard and a children’s
landscape and ecological corridor”.
previously reported that the developers
should be brought forward now to deliver the
play area.
The applicants say that existing on-site
bought the house for £1.3m.
homes desperately needed.”
The development would be set back from the
woodland and trees would be retained where
There would be an emergency vehicle access
The design and access statement submitted
edge of Hencliff Wood by at least 15 metres.
possible and new tree planting considered
from Castle Farm Road which would also be
as part of the planning application says that
where appropriate.
a pedestrian access.
the development would provide 40% of
They
Opposition to the idea of building on the four
homes as affordable - above the 35%
Biodiversity Net Gain could be
fields has been mounting since Grass Roots
requirement set out within the council’s
achieved in terms of both habitat and
Planning wrote to local residents earlier this
Local Plan. A mix of detached, semi-
hedgerows, which is in line with
year outlining the intention of landowner
detached, terraced and apartment buildings,
forthcoming
Ashfield Land, in partnership with Redrow
ranging from one-bedroom to four-bed
requirements. The planning reference is
Homes, to build up to 149 homes.
properties, is proposed.
P23/01330/O. People have until 16th
There was shock and anger in March when
The applicants say there is a “good variety”
June to comment.
the developers’ planning consultants were
of facilities and services available to residents
told by the council that an environmental
within the local area and that a Road Safety
impact assessment would not be necessary.
Audit has been undertaken which confirms
The outline plans by Ashfield Land and
there are no safety concerns with the
Redrow Homes for the site were uploaded on
proposed access. Assessment has estimated
to the council’s planning portal last week and
the development could generate up to 69
already people have been lodging their
vehicular trips at peak periods – equivalent
objections. They include that Green Belt land
to a little more than one new vehicle per
should be protected, concerns about the
minute on average at the busiest times –
threat to the ecology and wildlife of the area,
which would not have an adverse effect on
that local services - especially medical and
local roads.
schools - are already stretched and that
The application also says that the footpaths
Homes England have a large development
that cross the site would be retained, with one
planned for the old Kleeneze factory site just
diverted “to create a more attractive route”
over a mile away. The impact of the extra
and that “A network of additional pedestrian
been
lodged
with
South
The Week in • Wednesday 24th May 2023
area,
surface and
water
An illustrative sketch of what the proposals could look like. Picture credit UDB
biodiversity
claim
that
over
a
Environment
10%
Act
3
Warning of ‘unstable coalition’ Following the announcement of the new political alliance
“And with their failure to commit to managing public
running South Gloucestershire Council, the Conservative
finances in a responsible way, the Conservatives fear the
group warned it is “an unstable coalition”.
Labour-Lib Dem coalition will see residents left with ever-
They said in a statement: “A backroom deal has been struck
increasing costs while council finances and vital public
between Labour and the Lib Dems to run South
services will be mismanaged.”
Gloucestershire Council following May’s local elections.
Cllr Sam Bromiley, the new leader of the Conservative group,
This is despite the South Gloucestershire Conservative group
who represents Parkwall & Warmley, said they were
emerging from the elections as the largest party on the
disappointed that Labour and the Lib Dems had chosen to
council.
exclude the largest party from all discussions on how to run
“While the results of the elections were announced during
the council.
the night on Thursday 4th May, it has taken two full weeks
He said: “This agreement represents the worst of all worlds
for Labour and the Lib Dems to agree to work together, which
for South Glos.
has further fuelled fears that the coalition administration is
“It is an unstable coalition between two parties, neither of
set to be a disaster for South Glos.
which has the best interests of residents in mind and both of which have a track record of
Keep in touch, let us know what you think, send us your news www.facebook.com/theweekin
poor decision-making.” New Kingswood Town Council meets, see page 10
Sam Bromiley
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
Advertising
Tracy Broderick 0117 986 0381 sales.theweekin@gmail.com @theweekineditor the_week_in_news
No material in this publication, nor its associated website (www.theweekin.co.uk) may be reproduced without the written permission of The Week In. All rights reserved. The Week In is regulated by IMPRESS: The Independent Monitor for the Press CIC. As such, we adhere to the IMPRESS complaints procedure. A copy of this procedure can be found on our website or can be sent upon written request to the address above.
4
The Week in • Wednesday 24th May 2023
Good news for rail and bus users Two announcements last week provided a
Abbey Wood, Bristol Parkway and Yate.
England Mayoral Combined Authority which
England Net-Zero-by-2030 target."
boost for rail and bus passengers in the
The service upgrade follows an injection of
means residents in Yate, Keynsham, Oldfield
There is good news too for bus passengers in
area.
more than £7m from the regional authority
Park and other brilliant West of England
the area. Last week the Government also
The first is a 20-minute train frequency at
and rail infrastructure improvements carried
communities will benefit from more frequent
confirmed its commitment to extending the
Keynsham Station following investment
out by Network Rail around Bristol Temple
rail journeys.
£2 cap on single fares. The scheme, which
from the West of England Combined
Meads which have been completed recently.
“Delivering for local people is what this is all
was introduced to help bus companies
Authority.
Further improvements to the network are
about – improving public transport is so, so
recover passenger numbers to pre-Covid
The new GWR timetable, which came into
planned with new stations at Portbury, North
important to help people get from A to B in
levels, was due to end next month. It has
effect on Monday, includes up to three trains
Filton, Ashley Down in Henbury, as well as
the West of England, and to better connect
been carried forward until the end of October
an hour running between Bristol Temple
the reopening of the Portishead line.
our amazing region. And it's vitally important
when it will rise to £2.50 for a further 12
Meads and Westbury as well as a half-hourly
Metro Mayor Dan Norris said “I’m proud of
if we're going to meet our ambitious West of
months.
service to Gloucester, stopping at Filton
this sizeable investment from my West of
Opening of QE II Peace Garden Over the last year church members and community volunteers have been creating a special garden on the field next to Church of the Ascension in Hanham. Hanham Parish Council awarded £1,000 towards the cost of materials and plants for the Queen Elizabeth II Peace Garden which is on the corner with Greenbank Road. The whole garden has been designed to be wildlife friendly and is made from 100% reclaimed or recycled materials. The grand opening is tomorrow (Thursday) when youngsters from
nearby
Beacon
Rise
Primary School will be planting a tree in the afternoon.
The Week in • Wednesday 24th May 2023
Dan Norris at Keynsham Station
5
Campaigners lose last-ditch fight against airport expansion Campaigners have lost their last-ditch
then brought a High Court challenge against
“The decision means our immediate legal
clear that the Government and aviation
fight against the major expansion of
the Planning Inspectorate’s decision, which
opposition has come to an end. Of course we
industry is ignoring the climate crisis.
Bristol Airport.
they claimed was unlawful, but that
are hugely disappointed but after over four
Promising to achieve Net Zero by 2050 with
The High Court had ruled in January that the
challenge was rejected by Lord Justice Lane
years of campaigning we take comfort by
costly and unproven tech, as well as
plans could go ahead following a lengthy
in January when he said that although
many positives including the delay we have
increasing passenger numbers by 70%, is
legal battle, but Bristol Airport Action
expanding the airport would impact the
caused to millions of tonnes of CO2 and non-
plain crazy.
Network (BAAN) appealed against the
environment, the decision was for central
CO2 emissions.
“We know Bristol Airport has insane plans
decision.
government, not local.
“We have exposed the fact that the legal and
for further expansion to cater for up to 20
Now a Court of Appeal judge has ruled that
At the inquiry BAAN’s legal team and
planning process is simply not fit for purpose
million passengers a year. We will be vigilant
none of the grounds of appeal had “a real
experts had made the argument about the
- providing a springboard for a national
for their next planning application with a
prospect of success”.
need to look at all the airports with expansion
campaign. By not updating the planning
view to be ready to resist their ambitions to
Bristol Airport has welcomed the decision.
plans together and for that cumulative carbon
system concerning airport expansion it is
expand further.”
Its plans to expand its maximum capacity
emission assessment to be published.
from 10 million to 12 million passengers a
Last week BAAN said that the Court of
year had initially been refused planning
Appeal decision now gives Bristol Airport
permission by North Somerset Council in
the opportunity to go ahead with its
January 2020. The airport appealed and after
expansion plans, “thus ignoring the views of
a public inquiry, the planning inspectors gave
local
the airport the go-ahead to expand. BAAN
institutions”.
communities
and
democratic
Primary school rated as Outstanding Saltford
Church
of
England
Primary School has been judged by Ofsted to be Outstanding in all areas of its provision. In a report published last week, inspectors said that pupils and staff were rightly proud of their inclusive school, where all children are encouraged to be the best versions of themselves. They said headteacher Dawn Sage and her team pursued excellence at all times and constructed a curriculum that was exceptional. “Staff share this continuous drive for improvement across all aspects
6
of the school. Together, they are
be high, with leaders, including governors,
aspirational for what pupils can achieve,”
placing importance on wellbeing.
the report said.
The support provided by Futura Learning
A team of three inspectors visited the 438-
Partnership, the multi-academy trust of
pupil school in early spring. They
which Saltford C of E Primary School is
described the pupils as welcoming,
part, was also highlighted in the report.
extremely
to
Mrs Sage said that the inspection outcome
participate in all aspects of school life and
well-behaved,
was thanks to the efforts of the whole
passionate about their learning.
school community: “We are so proud of
Parents were said to be overwhelmingly
our school, where children are challenged
positive about the education and care their
in their learning and are nurtured to
children receive.
develop personally and academically.
The school was rated Outstanding for
Saltford C of E Primary is a place where
quality of education, behaviour and
children value their strong friendships and
attitudes,
personal
eager
development,
feel safe and happy in school. We all strive
leadership and management and early
every day to make sure the school is a
years provision. Staff morale was said to
place where everyone can thrive.”
The Week in • Wednesday 24th May 2023
Planters and parklets coming next month The planned planters and parklets are due
programme of the new pavement on the
to be installed on the east side of Temple
other side which finished ahead of
Street in Keynsham (the town council
schedule.
office side) next month.
The parking suspension and temporary
This will conclude the public realm works
lights for traffic management were
for the Keynsham High Street Heritage
removed at the end of April. The project
Action Zone.
team says that there are “a few small
Residents, businesses and landowners
remaining tasks” to complete including re-
have been thanked for their patience and
oiling the recycled benches outside
support
Simply Carpets and the completion of the
during
the
construction
Will new bridge be open in time for music festival? Keynsham Memorial Park’s new footbridge looks set to open in July.
The replacement bridge will be installed in June
But whether that will be in time for the music festival events being held in the park during the first weekend of July remains to be seen. The new bridge will reinstate an important link that has been closed since October 2019. The old structure was declared unsafe because its timber beams had decayed. It was removed at the end of March.
weir began last week.
The estimated installation time for the
The council says that the opening of the
new bridge was in mid-May but Bath &
new polymer bridge is July is dependent
North East Somerset Council said last
on favourable weather conditions.
week that the new bridge is now due to be
The children’s play park at Bath Hill and
lifted into place in mid-June. Preparatory
the entrance at Avon Mill Lane is closed
works ahead of the installation over the
during the works.
Temple Street
Eyesore repair is ‘temporary’ Concerns about the Tarmac that has been used to patch up the new paving outside Victoria Methodist Church in Keynsham High Street following recent National Grid works have been allayed by a spray-painted ‘TEMP’ sign. Watch this space!
Summer fete at Hanham Hall The Hanham Hall Summer Fete is taking
hosting will feature market stalls from
place on Saturday 10th June.
talented Bristol-based makers, family-
It follows a very successful Christmas market
friendly games, and refreshments including
hosted at Hanham Hall last December by
an ice cream van and micro-brewery.
locals Holly and Sarah who brought together
The fete runs from 11am to 5pm and will be
Bristol-based independent businesses for the
held on the beautiful formal lawns in front of
event. Holly and Sarah say they are
the Grade II* listed building which is now
enthusiastic about making connections
part of the vibrant eco-village - the perfect
within the community and bringing value to
venue for an eco-friendly event.
the local area. The summer fete they are
No booking or tickets are required.
The Week in • Wednesday 24th May 2023
7
LETTERS We need a fairer, proportional system Dear Stephen Your article ‘Time to replace lopsided voting system?’ in last week’s edition set out clearly the problem of a first-past-the-post voting system
proportional, outcome while still retaining local
Finally, the designation of the zones is strange.
UK.
connections to known candidates.
For example, as a resident of Keynsham, I can
Volunteers Week (1st – 7th June) is a fantastic
A change would lead to parties finding common
travel to Clevedon but I can’t get a ride to the
opportunity to celebrate the amazing impact our
ground, working together post-elections, and a
Gallagher Retail Park at Longwell Green. I
volunteers have. Last year, they gave more than
better future for all of us.
appreciate that any zoning system has to be a
7,740 hours of their time to support people in their
Duncan Hounsell, B&NES ward councillor
compromise but the current arrangement should
communities with practical information and
(Lib Dem, Saltford ward)
in my view be reviewed if the intention of
support with hearing aids. This year, we need you
reducing car use is the primary objective.
to help us reach our goals and ensure that
A copy of this has been sent to West of England
everyone in the UK can benefit from support.
Mayor Dan Norris so I look forward to his
Volunteering for RNID could involve providing
response.
information to local organisations and community
Cynthia Withyman
groups, helping people get the most out of their
when there are multiple parties and independents contesting for election. Alliance received almost eight million votes, 25%
Mixed review of new WESTlink service
of the votes cast, but only 11 seats in Parliament
Dear Editor
whereas Labour received only a few more votes,
It has been some weeks since the introduction of
28% of the votes cast, and 209 seats.
the WESTlink service and I have waited until now
This led to an all-party “campaign for fair votes”
before making some observations thus allowing
i.e. proportional representation. Leaders of that
In the 1983 General Election the Liberal/SDP
hearing aids, or giving a friendly welcome to everyone who passes through the door at one of
for “teething problems” to be addressed.
Have Brits forgotten how to walk?
campaign included national politicians such as
I have used the service a number of times. The
Dear Editor
themselves or in their family, and volunteering
Roy Jenkins (Alliance) and Ian Gilmour
initial problem was a total absence of information
I have just returned from a holiday to Italy where
with us is a great way to meet new people, gain
(Conservative). I took the petition signatures for
about the system, meaning many potential users
the pavements and infrastructure is a far cry
new skills and experience, try something new and
the Wansdyke area to a reception in London and
did not use it or understand how it works.
compared to the UK. There are broken
help people in your community. For more
met Roy Jenkins. The petition was signed by two
The online or app system for booking rides is
pavements, holes in the walkways and cycle lanes
information, visit www.rnid.org.uk/volunteering
million people nationwide but had no effect. Our
poorly designed with no user prompts to help
with kerbs of varying heights everywhere. Yet
or contact us at 0808 808 0123. You can also text
voting system has not changed.
people book their ride. For example. the system
there weren’t people falling over all over the
us at 07360 268 988.
Our MP, Jacob Rees-Mogg, argues that first-past-
defaults to the current day and it is not obvious
place!
Jackie White, Director at RNID
the-post system leads to a clear outcome and
how to navigate and book a ride for the next day.
The kind of infrastructure that has been installed
stability. The weakness of that argument has been
For those using the telephone booking option, the
in Keynsham is the norm all over the world and
shown by the volatility of the Government in
wait for a reply can be very long.
in particular Europe and runs harmoniously
recent years which has often resembled chaos
Once I mastered the online system, after trial and
alongside one another, including electric scooters.
Help foodbanks get items most needed
with factions and groups in-fighting within the
error, I have been able to book many rides and in
After continuous, national damning media, such
Dear Editor
Conservative governing party.
the main they have been punctual and the drivers
as ‘Is this the worst cycle lane ever?', it made me
With food prices rising and foodbanks struggling
The first-past-the-post system can be devastating
are helpful. However, of late, the standard of
contemplate: if this was a small kerb onto the road
to meet demand, I wanted to share an app that
for parties whose support is spread out and not
service has declined with booked rides being
as opposed to a cycle lane, would it have had the
could make a difference. BanktheFood connects
enough to win in particular wards and
unavailable, cancelled and pick-up points
bad press that has been published?
you with your local foodbank. Whenever the
constituencies. This has happened to the
changed at relatively short notice. Also I have
After all, falling into a road doesn’t quite have the
foodbank runs low on essentials, the app sends
Conservative Party in Bath and North East
heard that some drivers have resigned and it’s
same media appeal in the UK as a cycle lane, does
you a list of their most-needed items.
Somerset which now has a paltry three seats out
possible that demand has also increased, thus
it? Maybe if people got out of their cars more we
But that's not all - the app also sends you an
of 59 on Bath and North East Somerset Council.
putting the system under more pressure.
would all remember how to walk again!
urgent list of needed items when you arrive at the
This should trouble Jacob Rees-Mogg because,
If this service is to stand any chance of getting
Daniel Cotter
local supermarket, so you can easily pick up a few
with tactical voting, the Conservatives could be
support in the long term, these problems need to
Hanham
extra items to donate before you even reach the
wiped out at the next General Election with our
be addressed; make the online system more user-
current voting system. Although I wanted to focus
friendly, more publicity in the press about what is
on local issues in my recent local election
on offer (telephone users don’t see the zone maps
campaign, the most common parting comment to
so don’t know the extent of the service), address
Could you be a volunteer for RNID?
me on doorsteps was “How do we get Jacob Rees-
the recent reliability/availability problems and
Dear Editor
difference, please consider giving BanktheFood a
Mogg out?”
publish simple-to-understand information on how
RNID, the charity supporting people who are
try. It's a great way to help your community.
I hope that a consensus can build for a change to
to book a ride (the leaflets available on the
deaf, have hearing loss or tinnitus, is looking for
Emma
our voting system that achieves a fairer,
vehicles fall short in this regard).
volunteers to support our vital work across the
https://www.bankthefood.org/
8
our support sessions. Many of our volunteers have hearing loss
checkout. Over 34,000 people are already using BanktheFood,
helping
350
foodbanks
in
communities across the UK. If you're looking for an easy way to make a
The Week in • Wednesday 24th May 2023
Consultation launched on improvements to community woodland People are being invited to have their say on a range of
woodland, so the council plans to fund improvements to
possible improvements for a valuable green space in
ensure the space benefits the community and protects resident
Keynsham.
wildlife for the future.
Manor Road Community Woodland to the east of the town,
The improvement works will be funded by Section 106
near Saltford, is a popular and well-used haven between the
payments which councils receive from developers to improve
two communities and is designated as a local nature reserve
local amenities for new and existing residents. The proposals
on Green Belt land.
include:
Bath & North East Somerset Council manages the woodland
• Improvements to gates and entrances and resurfaced
with support from the Friends of Manor Road Community
pathways to improve safety and increase accessibility.
Woodland to conserve its woodland, meadow and water
• Footpath signage and boundary marking to make
environments, which are home to diverse wildlife and plant
wayfinding easier.
species.
• New seating to provide more places to rest and relax in the
New housing developments in and around Keynsham are
woodland.
likely to increase the number of people who use the
• A small car park for visitors with mobility needs and to encourage visitors from further away. • New natural play facilities such as wobble beams, denbuilding and rope swings. • A new pond and improvements to the existing pond, with features to encourage wildlife such as log piles, bug hotels and bird and bat nesting boxes. Residents are asked to have their say in the consultation to help determine how the funding will be spent. Feedback received will also help inform a new management plan for the woodland. The consultation opened this week and runs until Friday 14th July. John Aldridge, from the Friends of Manor Road Community
Missed collections
Woodland, said: “The Friends are delighted that money has
Thousands of homes across Bristol have been affected
its prime purpose will be to maintain and enhance the nature
by missed refuse and recycling collections in the last two
reserve and are aware of the problem of muddy footpaths
weeks.
particularly during the winter. Thoughts and ideas from other
Bristol Waste Company has been playing catch-up and
users of the woodland will be very useful in taking this
has blamed staff shortages and higher than usual volumes
project forward.”
of recycling following the Coronation for collections
More than 19,000 trees and shrubs have been planted at the
happening later than scheduled in many areas.
21-hectare site since 1993, with grant aid from the Forestry
On Friday they said: “Crews will be working hard over
Commission. A wildflower meadow was planted in 2005 and
the weekend to help catch up with collections.”
a pond provides feeding and breeding sites for local wildlife.
become available to spend on the woodland. We expect that
Sudoku
SUNDAY CHEMISTS
1-Easy
Boots, Gallagher Retail Park, Longwell Green
Sunday 28th May
2 -Hard
(10.30am-4pm) Asda, Longwell Green (10am-4pm) Boots, Emersons Green Retail Park (10.30am-4.30pm) Sainsbury’s, Emersons Green Retail Park (9.30am-4.30pm) Keynsham Pharmacy, 15 Station Road, BS31 2BH (10am-4pm) Tesco, Callington Road, Brislington (10am to 4pm) Morrisons, 688-718 Fishponds Road, Fishponds (10am-4pm) Boots, Avonmeads Retail Park, St Philips Causeway (11am-5pm)
The Week in • Wednesday 24th May 2023
9
Biggest town council in South Glos meets for the first time Kingswood Town Council, which met for the first time last Thursday evening, is still three members short. The Conservatives who previously ran South Gloucestershire Council had pushed for the creation of the new town council, saying it was “part and parcel” of the regeneration of Kingswood, even though consultations with local residents failed to give a clear mandate
for it. There was surprise when the Conservatives did not field any candidates for the new town council. The election was uncontested, with fewer than the number of places available being filled by Labour, a Lib Dem and Independent candidates. At the inaugural meeting held at Kingswood Civic Centre, the new councillors met interim
99.9% of South Glos voters had acceptable ID Data collected at polling stations during
Initially, 216 electors were unable to vote
the
South
as they did not have the required ID,
Gloucestershire Council and to town and
however 158 of these returned with it and
parish councils in the district showed that
were able to cast their ballot.
99.9% of electors brought photo ID that
Overall, turnout in the elections to South
met the newly introduced legislation.
Gloucestershire Council was 33.57%, up
At the end of polling day only 58 electors
from 32% in the 2019 elections.
who attended a polling station were not
Last week we reported that figures
given a ballot paper because they did not
released by Bath & North East Somerset
meet the new voter ID requirements, with
Council showed 56 people did not vote in
43,798 electors placing their papers in a
this month’s local elections because they
ballot box.
did not have the correct identification.
recent
elections
to
town clerk Donna Ford, who has been brought in to help the council get up and running. She outlined the potential of the new authority which is now the biggest town council in South Gloucestershire. Previously it was Yate. She said that as the new council gets established and councillors are appointed to committees, members may choose to take over the running of assets from South Gloucestershire Council. Yate Town Council provides a range of sporting facilities and owns several properties including a youth venue, the heritage centre and parish hall. It is also actively involved with Yate’s twin town in Germany and arranges annual events including a music festival. Cllr Alison Evans agreed to be interim chair of Kingswood Town Council which will be looking to appoint a permanent clerk as soon as possible and as yet has no bank account, website or even an email address. The town council’s precept for 2023/24 is £125,100 and the annual cost for the standard measure Band D property is £1.25 a month. The precept is on top of the other components of the council tax bill. Next year
Cllr Alison Evans
the town council will run its own budgetsetting processes and submit these to South Gloucestershire for billing. With three spaces on the town council still available, anyone wishing to be co-opted on has until the end of today (Wednesday) to put their name forward. Email electoral.services@southglos.gov.uk or call 01454 863030. Town councillors meet again next Wednesday (31st May) at 7pm at Kingswood Civic Centre.
Crossword ACROSS
DOWN
1. Mollusc (7)
1. Disorder (8)
8. Mythical creature (7) 2. Change (5) 9. Performer (7)
3. Lariat (5)
10. Refuse to deal with (7)
4. Mexican village (6)
11. Nocturnal bird (4,3)
6. Temporary stay (7)
14. Decompose (3)
7. Biting insect (4)
16. Worry (4)
12. Naked (4)
18. Limit (4)
13. Small bird (4)
19. Augury (4)
15. Urban area (4)
20. Certain (4)
16. Hill (4)
21. Unused (3)
17. Loft access (8)
23. Release (7)
18. Hermit (7)
26. Gourd plant (7)
22. Castrated male (6)
28. Experience (7)
24. Apple drink (5)
29. Fiendish (7)
25. Of the ear (5)
30. Athlete (7)
26. Nosegay (4)
5. Cunning (4)
27. Monarch (4)
10
The Week in • Wednesday 24th May 2023
B&NES Council ‘fairly powerless’ to deal with hen party concerns The use of a house in a Saltford for weekend hen parties has sparked complaints from people living nearby. Several local residents attended the parish council’s meeting last Tuesday night at which concerns were highlighted about the use of the property in Justice Avenue, which can sleep up to 14 people. Those concerns include noise, commotion and disruption from guests and the traffic they generate since the house in the cul-desac started to be let out to large groups last year. It was stated by a resident that the detached house had been booked for 13 out of the previous 14 weekends. The property has been marketed as the “FAB house”, in a good location between Bath and Bristol, with a gym and hot tub in the garden. After hearing residents’ concerns, parish councillors agreed to report the use of the house to Bath & North East Somerset Council's planning enforcement team as a possible planning contravention. One resident told the meeting: “It is clear that the intention of the owners is to run the property as a commercial short-term letting business, primarily for hen parties. We believe the use of Number 10 in this way is not appropriate for the close or the wider community. The constant cycle of hen parties has resulted in a pattern of use and behaviours that because of their persistence are anti-social, causing distress and harm to us and other residents.” The resident said that guests are often dropped off and picked up by “party buses, stretch limousines, minibuses or multiple taxis that block the end of the close”. They added: “It has divided a once harmonious
street.” Another resident told the meeting that Saltford shouldn’t turn away tourists but welcome them in locations according to their purpose for visit: “In our neighbourhoods, where our children play and we enjoy a quiet weekend after a long work week, we shouldn’t have party venues next door. Sense needs to prevail.” Cllr Duncan Hounsell, who represents the Saltford ward on B&NES Council, said that short-term holiday accommodation is currently an unlicensed industry and a change in national legislation is needed. He said that one of the few possible remedies would be to establish a change of use: “Records have to be kept of the disturbance and loss of amenity to neighbours, and B&NES, once convinced that there is a change of use, probably would invite the owner to apply for planning permission,” he explained. But even if an application was to be turned down by B&NES Council, the applicant would have six months to appeal, he warned. “So the point I am making is that we are fairly powerless as a B&NES Council to deal with this. There are a number of these situations in villages all around North East Somerset. It is deeply to be regretted.” Cllr Hounsell said there may be a “suitable outcome” in this case but warned: “It is a long haul.” He said there would be tighter policies in the new B&NES Local Plan “but they are useless if people ignore the planning system”. “There cannot be control until the Government gives B&NES and other local authorities the powers to control.”
The Government is currently consulting on a registration scheme for short-term lets in England and Saltford Parish Council also discussed that at Tuesday’s meeting. Councillors would like to see a mandatory scheme. As part of their response they say: “A ‘three strikes and you’re out’ within a given period and/or other restrictions for noise/anti-social behaviour as a repercussion for short-term lets that have an adverse effect on the local community might be a registration/enforcement approach, as used overseas, that could work.” Cllr Hounsell said that B&NES Council would be “lobbying hard” for a registration scheme too. • We understand that the Justice Avenue property’s listings have recently been removed from the Airbnb and HiChee websites. We have invited the owner to respond to the concerns raised.
Previous ‘party house’ concerns The issues being reported by residents in Justice Avenue are similar to the ones previously raised about a short-term holiday let business on Bath Road in Saltford, said the parish council’s planning committee chair Cllr Phil Harding. The Week In reported back in 2020 that people living near a house on Bath Road that slept at least 16 guests had lodged complaints about noise and anti-social behaviour from house parties. The owners put in a retrospective planning application to Bath & North East Somerset Council for a mixed use of house and commercial holiday let, but it was refused on the grounds that it would create noise and disturbance to a level that would cause “significant harm” to people living nearby. The owners appealed but a planning inspector upheld B&NES Council’s decision.
The Week in • Wednesday 24th May 2023
11
Suspected arson attack Avon Fire & Rescue Service were called out to deal with a blaze in an outhouse near California Road in Oldland Common shortly before 6pm on Monday 15th May. Crews from Bedminster and Kingswood attended and two firefighters in breathing apparatus with two hose reels extinguished the fire. A thermal imaging camera was also used. Firefighters found a cylinder in the property which was removed and cooled down. The cause of the fire is thought to be deliberate.
Lunchtime opera treat Trio Paradis will perform well-known opera melodies including the Duet from The Pearl Fishers at their informal monthly lunchtime Café Concert at St John’s Church Hall in Keynsham on Friday (26th May). Trio Paradis are pianist Jacquelyn Bevan, violinist Lisa Betteridge and cellist Linda Stocks. Everyone is welcome and there is parking in Station Road Car Park. A café serving home-made cakes is available from 12.15pm and the music starts at 1pm. Entrance is by donation. See @trioparadisbath on Facebook or http://www.trioparadis.com for details.
Teenager arrested after taxi driver is stabbed One person was arrested following an incident in Brislington on Sunday night in which a taxi driver was wounded. An Avon & Somerset Police spokesperson said: “The victim, who is in his 50s, dropped a number of youths off near Choke Walk. “An altercation is then believed to have occurred at a residential property involving the group and a male, with a car and the building sustaining damage. “Subsequently the male is reported to have pursued the group back towards the taxi while in possession of a bladed article. In the process of the incident, an injury was caused to the driver. “Officers on patrol found the injured man at about 9.15pm and paramedics were called. The driver was taken to hospital with injuries not believed to be life-
threatening. “The youths involved left the scene, reportedly in possession of weapons, including baseball bats. “A search of the surrounding area was conducted by officers, with support of the National Police Air Service helicopter. “A 17-year-old male was arrested on suspicion of wounding with intent causing grievous bodily harm at about 11.50pm.” He remained in custody on Monday. Enquiries to identify all those involved have been taking place and a baseball bat was recovered by officers in the Callington Road area on Sunday night. Anyone with information about the incident can call 101 and quote reference number 5223118527. Alternatively call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
How you can support The Week In For the last 15 years The Week In has been
genuinely local publication.
The Week In will always be free but the size
readers and members of the community.
the voice of the community. Whether
Much has changed over the last 15 years.
and number of copies printed will continue
Other initiatives will be unveiled during the
informing, celebrating or holding decision
Technology has changed the way people get
to be dictated by its advertisers. The world
course of this year aimed at making The
makers to account, the newspaper is still
their news and The Week In has also
is changing and The Week In has to change
Week In a relevant asset to the community
eagerly anticipated each Wednesday by
adapted its output for a digital audience.
with it. You will already be aware of some
for the coming 15 years and more.
many in the community. What’s more, The
Retail business has also undergone a
of those changes. The most significant has
Independent local journalism is vital to a
Week In is free, thanks to the support of
significant change in the time since the first
been the conversion from a private
local community’s wellbeing and there are
businesses which also see the benefit of a
edition of The Week In appeared.
company to a cooperative, owned jointly by
now two ways in which you can help.
Become a member shareholder of the society The Week In Community Ltd. This costs £36 a year and as a member you have a say in the way the newspaper is run. Visit www.theweekin.co.uk or complete this form
12
Become a supporter A lot of people tell us they support and are grateful for what we do at The Week In but they do not want to become member shareholders of the society. They do however want to contribute to our aims and this is possible through a simple donation. If you have a smart phone, you scan the QR code and simply pay what you like online. Alternatively, you can send a cheque to The Week In Community at 8 Temple Court, Keynsham, BS31 1HA. We would like to express our sincere thanks to those readers who have already done so. The Week in • Wednesday 24th May 2023
Annual celebration of vintage bikes The annual Douglas Cavalcade is a regular
open from 11am to 5pm this coming
feature at Kingswood Heritage Museum
Saturday, Sunday and Monday.
during the Spring Bank Holiday at the end
The rare surviving 18th century garden of the
of May.
industrialist William Champion is hidden
This year’s Cavalcade takes place on Sunday
behind his brass mill (now Kingswood
(28th May), when dozens of vintage
Heritage Museum).
motorcycles will move off at noon to ride the
The garden includes the giant statue of
old factory test route. The photo shows the
Neptune, the grotto, the ‘snail’ viewing
start of a previous Cavalcade.
mound and the Echo Pond.
Permanent exhibitions at the museum in
The grotto will be open this Sunday and
Warmley include a gallery dedicated to
Monday and again on Saturday 26th and
Douglas motorcycles. The museum will be
Sunday 27th August from 11am to 4pm.
Learn to ride an e-scooter Do you want to learn how to safely ride an
you can not only use your e-scooter for the
e-scooter on South Gloucestershire’s
training session, but also for the rest of the
roads? Provider Voi is hosting a free skills
day. Book your place in advance at
training course in Car Park 21 at the
https://orlo.uk/Voi_safety_course_1tgx7
University of the West of England on
You need to be at least 18 years old with a
Saturday (27th May) from 9.30am.
valid photocard driving or provisional
You’ll get a free helmet, plus a day pass so
licence.
Talks over anti-social behaviour Councillors in Stockwood have held a
an age range of 12 to 18 and some live
meeting at the BS14 Youth Club with local
locally but others are from further afield.
police officers and the charity Young
The neighbourhood police team have plans
Bristol to discuss recent issues around
to open a regular beat surgery at the youth
anti-social behaviour (ASB).
club.
The police have indicated that they do not
Meanwhile local councillors Graham
think the recent spike in ASB activity is
Morris and Jon Hucker urge residents to
the start of a trend or that incidents are
report all incidents to the police so that
linked. They say the groups involved have
they can build up information.
Situations Vacant
Tackling knife crime in South Glos Anyone illegally carrying a knife was
bin, South Gloucestershire Violence
urged to anonymously put it in a South
Reduction Unit (VRU) has been assisting
Gloucestershire amnesty bin during Knife
with community knife sweeps in parks and
Crime Awareness Week last week.
public places. For more information and
Knife amnesty bins are located at Broad
what to do if you are worried about a child
Street in Staple Hill, at the One Stop Shop
or
at Kingswood Civic Centre, and at
https://beta.southglos.gov.uk/violence-
Patchway Custody Centre on Gloucester
reduction-unit
Road. As well as encouraging anyone who
In an emergency or to report a crime call
carries a knife to place it in an amnesty
999.
need
support
visit
Keep in touch, let us know what you think, send us your news www.facebook.com/theweekin
The Week in • Wednesday 24th May 2023
13
Crossword Solution
Sudoku Solutions 1-Easy
2-Hard
Service Directory Aerials
Appliances
Car Spares
Electrical
Computers / IT
Footcare
Blinds
Garden Services
Home Maintenance
Home Help
Electrical
Garden Services An advert like this costs
£22.50 + VAT per insert Discounts are available for multiple bookings starting at 2 weeks
14
DEADLINE FOR PLACING DIRECTORY ADVERTS IS FRIDAY 4.30PM
The Week in • Wednesday 24th May 2023
Service Directory Locksmiths
Plumbing
Plumbing
Sewing Lessons
Venue Hire
Book a series of adverts and save even more Our Directory is the perfect place to find a local tradesperson.
An advert like this costs Oven Cleaning
Tree Services
£22.50 Waste Disposal
+ VAT per insert Discounts are available for multiple bookings starting at 2 weeks
Roofing
Adverts cost £4.50 per centimetre (min 5cm) The more weeks you book the cheaper each insertion becomes
Book a series of adverts and save even more
1 week - £22.50 2 weeks - £20.50 4 wk - £19.12
Scaffolding
6 wk - £18.00
Adverts cost £4.50 per centimetre (min 5cm) The more weeks you book the cheaper each insertion becomes
8 wk - £116.88 12 wk - £15.75 26 wk - £14.62 52 wk - £13.50
1 week - £22.50
All prices per week exc VAT
2 weeks - £20.50
Venue Hire Wigs
4 wk - £19.12 6 wk - £18.00 8 wk - £116.88 12 wk - £15.75 26 wk - £14.62 52 wk - £13.50 All prices per week exc VAT
An advert like this costs
£22.50 + VAT per insert Discounts are available for multiple bookings starting at 2 weeks
Similar percentage discounts apply equally to larger sized adverts.
Call us now on
0117986 0381 The Week in • Wednesday 24th May 2023
DEADLINE FOR PLACING DIRECTORY ADVERTS IS FRIDAY 4.30PM
THE WEEK IN adverts call 0117 986 0381
You don't have to book successive weeks. You can choose fortnightly, monthly or specific insertion dates as long as the total number of insertions booked corresponds to the discount rate. Similar percentage discounts apply equally to larger sized adverts.
DEADLINE FOR PLACING DIRECTORY ADVERTS IS FRIDAY 4.30PM
Call us now on
0117 986 0381 15
16
The Week in • Wednesday 24th May 2023