THE WEEK IN East Bristol & North East Somerset Issue 789
FREE
12th July 2023
Read by more than 40,000 people each week
Dismay and anger at railway station ticket office closures News of the threatened closure of railway ticket offices
and save costs, booking office staff are to be redeployed
has been greeted with dismay, as well as anger at the
to duties on station concourses and platforms where they
limited opportunity for passengers to respond.
will be better able to assist travellers. But unions see this
Disability campaigners have also reacted to last week’s
as a euphemism for shedding staff numbers.
announcement by the Department of Transport (DfT)
In our local area there are some significant changes to
which they believe to be in contravention of the Equality
staffing as well as some seemingly bizarre decisions
Act.
included in last week’s proposals. At Bristol Temple
Last Wednesday the DfT announced the prospective
Meads and Bath Spa stations, both the number of ticket
closure of more than 1,000 tickets offices at stations
windows and the hours of operation would reduce from
throughout England, and on the same day opened a three-
October and then close completely in September 2024. At
week public consultation period.
Bristol Parkway, ticket windows are due to close this
In what is described as a move to “modernise” the railway
October. Closer to home, Keynsham has a seemingly unfathomable proposal. Currently the station is staffed on weekday mornings with a ticket booth open on the Bristol-bound side. That booth will close but using a phrase repeated throughout the GWR proposal document, “colleagues (will) move closer to customers in other locations to support and assist with ticket purchases”. Currently there is just one ticket vending machine, located on the Bath side
The ticket booth at Keynsham station
of the station.
assessment before announcing the consultation period, the
Oldfield Park Station has an identical proposal, while
DfT may well be in breach of the 2010 Equality Act and
“colleagues” will similarly “move closer to customers” at
even the Secretary of State’s Ticket and Settlement
Filton Abbey Wood Station which is currently staffed
Agreement ticket office guidance.”
during the evening peak period.
Another organisation that believes this is Transport for All.
Transport campaigner David Redgewell, who is a
The national campaign group points to a recent audit by
wheelchair user and a trustee of the Bristol Disabiity
the Office of Road and Rail that found only 51% of
Equalities Forum, has called the proposals an attack on the
disabled passengers were able to receive assistance using
disabled. He said: “Even if I could use the ticket vending
railway station help points. During an interview on
machines at stations, which I can’t because they are too
national TV news, a spokesperson also asked how having
high, there are many types of ticket which are not available
staff deployed on the station concourse would help a
on them. You can’t buy many of the passes or combined
passenger with restricted visibility. The group has
bus tickets and not even my 50% wheelchair reduction.
produced a template letter of complaint on its website
“I think that in not carrying out an equalities impact
www.transportforall.org.uk.
Continued on page 2
Also in this week’s issue
Superdrug set to open in Longwell Green . . . page 2
More funding still needed for Lyde Green schools . . . page 3
South Glos Council urged to step up its response to bin strike . . . page 5
Popular Keynsham pub goes up for sale . . . page 7
Dismay and anger at station ticket office closures Burnham has written to the Secretary of State for
the consultation.”
Transport Mark Harper, calling on him to suspend the
How to respond to the consultation
consultation until an equalities impact assessment has been
You can read or download the full proposal for this area at
carried out. He also believes the current consultation
www.gwr.com/haveyoursay
process on the closures is illegal.
You need to send your response to Transport Focus at:
Here, the West of England Mayor Dan Norris told The
Ticketoffice.GWR@transportfocus.org.uk
Week In: “Ministers are railroading through these ticket
Alternatively write to:
office closures. The plan in Keynsham seems particularly
Freepost: RTEH-XAGE-BYKZ
pointless. There will still be a railway worker on duty for
Transport Focus
exactly the same hours, but they won’t be allowed to sell
PO Box 5594
tickets? Why? How does that save money? Or improve the
Southend-on-Sea
passenger experience? Surely it would make more sense
SS1 9PZ
for the worker to use their discretion and sell tickets to
You can additionally write to your local MP. You will need
passengers who find it challenging to buy a ticket from a
to act fast as the consultation is due to end on 26th July.
Continued from page 1
machine, or to anyone if there is a queue at the machine
Ticket office staffing has been one of the sticking points
over on the other side of the platform. In a climate
in the long-running dispute between train operating
emergency we should be making it easier, not harder to
companies and the RMT union. Now it looks as if this is
use the train. If you’re running for the train or it’s pouring
going ahead regardless and while the DfT has pledged that
with rain, passengers to Bristol are not going to be happy
no station which is currently staffed will be unstaffed as a
having to cross the bridge twice.
result of these proposals, the union says that some of its
“It is absolutely vital that ministers stop the ducking and
members have already been served Section 188 letters by
diving and make real assurances that residents won't be
their rail operator. This is a legal requirement to consult
adversely affected by these closures. I’ve written to the
with an employee’s union in the event of a redundancy.
Secretary of State for Transport to express my concerns
Elsewhere, Greater Manchester Metro Mayor Andy
and urge passengers to make their views known in
Superdrug to open a store in Longwell Green
on the Lyde Green estate have to travel out to the
into three units were approved by
Winterbourne International Academy.
been taking place there in recent weeks. illuminated fascia signs and three illuminated glazing panels, plus vinyl
graphics
advertising
Superdrug. There is no indication as yet about what other retailers plan to move in. After we put the story on our website and sociao media, it sparked
Council for part of the old Outfit fashion store, which is next to Boots. Outfit was part of Sir Philip Green’s Arcadia Group and one of the anchor stores at the retail park. Arcadia collapsed into administration in late 2020 with Covid-19 said to have severely impacted sales across the group. The store did not reopen after lockdown and officially closed in 2021.
operator Stagecoach, along with the 427 bus which pupils on which youngsters from Coalpit Health and Frampton Cotterell rely. South Gloucestershire Council has been working with the bus operator and the school since the cuts were announced and a solution to keep the services running has now been found. Had the changes been implemented, the children would have had to find alternative transport from September. The council has ensured the services will run for another year
a huge response, with more than
so children entitled to school transport can continue to use
48,000 hits on Facebook. Comments have included:
them. The council has done this by matching the routes to
“Superdrug next to Boots, who thinks of these things?”
Section 106 funding which councils receive from developers
One person said: “I was hoping it would be a Poundland.”
to improve local amenities for residents.
Another observed: “Shame it’s not a B&M. We need one in
Cllr Chris Willmore, the council’s cabinet member with
Longwell Green.”
responsibility for planning, regeneration and infrastructure,
The Week In has asked Superdrug when it plans to open the
said: “We are also looking at solutions with other services
new store and how many jobs it will create but we had not
under pressure, so it is important that we work together to try
had a response as we went to print.
and keep the wheels turning on bus routes that provide a
Superdrug is planning to open a store at the Gallagher
signage has been submitted to South Gloucestershire
However, their bus service, the 459, faced being scrapped by from Frenchay use to get to Winterbourne, and the 460 bus
The latest proposals are for four
An application seeking advertisement consent for Superdrug
With no secondary school on their doorstep, children living
Plans to split the empty premises the council last year and work has
Shopping Park in Longwell Green.
School bus service saved
transport lifeline in our communities. Buses reduce car journeys at busy periods and help to reduce our overall carbon footprint.”
2
The Week in • Wednesday 12th July 2023
More funding still needed for longawaited schools in Lyde Green South Gloucestershire Council says it still
stakeholders to understand how the project is
needs to secure more funding from the
being delivered and provide an easy-to-
Government to build the new co-located
understand indication of the project’s
secondary and primary schools in Lyde
progress.
Green which are woefully behind schedule.
“Currently, work is under way to finalise
The project to open a secondary school to
plans for the new facilities which, once
serve the new estate, and a second primary
approved, will allow us to agree the final
school, has been pushed back time and time
element of Government funding so that work
again from the expected opening date of
can begin on site and we can begin to plan
September 2022.
for the schools to open.
Delays have included a change to location, a
“The updated designs will still deliver
change in the sponsor of the secondary school,
schools designed to Passivhaus standards of
and a change in builder.
outstanding environmental performance, as
The cost of the scheme was £30m in 2021 but
well as ensuring that their layout will suit the
£41m has so far been committed by the
needs of modern teaching and learning
council and the Government.
methods.
The Olympus Academy Trust will run the
“Conditions in the construction industry have
secondary school and the Castle School
impacted many projects, including these.
Education Trust (CSET) is due to run the
Costs have risen significantly, which has
primary school under the Government’s Free
meant that we and the DfE, who are
Schools programme.
providing most of the funding, have had to
In its latest update, the council, which is now
look again at the designs to make sure they that we continue to be able to meet demand
preferred secondary schools and 98%
under a new Lib Dem-Labour administration
provide the schools we need, but that they are for places. This year 96% of families
received an offer at one of their preferred
following May’s local elections, said: “We,
also affordable.
primary schools.”
the
(DfE),
“We are working hard to finalise the designs
Olympus and CSET remain committed to
and secure the remaining funding so that the
building and opening these new schools as
DfE will be able to confirm opening dates for
soon as possible. We recognise and appreciate
the new schools. We want this work to start as
the frustration shared by all that this project
soon as possible, but we do not want to raise
has been delayed.
expectations again, only to have to disappoint
“Our new administration is keen to get this
people later.
project finally delivered. We have asked
“While we are doing everything that we can
project partners to agree a realistic timeline of
to deliver the new schools and school places
key milestones on the journey to the delivery
as soon as possible, our close collaboration
of these new schools. This will allow all
with existing schools in the local area means
Department
for
Education
The site allocated for the new schools
received an offer of a place at one of their
Community sports facilities are also delayed The new schools will have sports facilities and a pavilion which the wider community can use. In July 2022 the council said it hoped they would be ready towards the end of that year. In March of this year it said that opening for community
use
had
been
pushed back to “later this year”.
Some of the sports facilities
They are nearing completion and the council hopes to provide another update “in the autumn”.
The Week in • Wednesday 12th July 2023
3
Mikey’s mum thanks supporters A 15-year-old boy from Dorset and a 16-year-old boy from Wiltshire have been charged with his murder of and possession of an offensive weapon. They are both being held in youth custody. The money raised will pay for Mikey’s funeral, headstone and anything of the family’s choice. Thanking the 200-plus people who have posted messages on Facebook following her son’s death, Mikey’s mum Hayley Ryall said: “I just wanted to post to say I’ve read all your messages on here and am completely blown away by your kindness and generosity, nothing can mend my broken heart but I feel so loved and more importantly, Mikey was so loved. “I just want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart
Mikey Roynon
and love you all. A GoFundMe page set up to support the family of murder
“I promise to give him the biggest celebration of life and
victim Mikey Roynon from Kingswood has so far raised
show him how much we all love him.”
£21,000.
People can donate to the fundraising appeal by searching for
The 16-year-old died from a single knife wound at a party in
‘Towards the tragic death of Mikey’ on the GoFundMe
the Weston area of Bath on Saturday 10th June.
platform.
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.
Police seek CCTV images after break-ins Some time between Saturday 17th June and Monday 26th June someone broke the locks from a side gate to enter the rear garden of a home on Charlton Road in Keynsham. Garden furniture and various tools were stolen. The reference number for this crime is 5223152346. And two sheds at a communal area at Downfield in the town were broken into during the night of Monday 26th June. A pushbike and a number of other items were stolen. The crime reference number is 5223151857. If you have any information regarding either of these incidents, especially CCTV images, contact the police on 101 and give the call handler the relevant reference number. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Tea club at church Older people in the Sandy Park area of Brislington are invited to a tea club at St Cuthbert’s Church on Wednesdays between 2pm and 3pm. It is a chance to meet other people for a drink and a chat.
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 12th July 2023
‘This is an environmental and public health crisis’ Conservative group, called on the council to step up its response. He said: “South Glos Council has created an environmental and public health crisis. The delay in getting these bins installed and the small number of sites mean the backlog of recycling has overwhelmed the system.” There are also locations for recycling and food waste (not garden waste) from 8am to 2pm at Lyde Green Park & Ride, Page Road long-stay car park in Staple Hill, Stoke Gifford Park & Ride and the council’s site at North Way, Filton. Meanwhile there have been very long queues at
The Batch Community Centre
Sort It centres, including Mangotsfield. Last week council leaders penned an open letter to
South Gloucestershire Council was this week being urged to step up its response to the bin strike.
Unite and Suez saying residents are owed a clear explanation
More than 150 Unite union members at waste contractor Suez
of the actions of both parties to date as well as details of how
are striking over pay until 3rd September.
they seeking to resolve the dispute.
Two pedestrians hurt as car hits pub Detectives are investigating an incident in Kingswood town centre on Sunday in which two pedestrians were injured when a car left the road and hit a pub. It is understood those injured were door staff at the Wetherspoon’s pub The Kingswood Colliers. The men attended Southmead Minor Injury Unit following the incident on Regent Street which happened at about 1.20am. The driver of the car, a black Nissan Note, left before police arrived, along with two other people who were in the vehicle. A 32-year-old man was later arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving. He was taken to Bristol Royal Infirmary to be checked over by before being brought back to police custody. The car, which caused damage to the pub, was recovered. Anyone who witnessed any part of the incident is asked to contact the police who are particularly interested in hearing from anyone who saw the car prior to the collision as well as anyone with dashcam, CCTV or mobile phone footage. Call 101 and give crime reference 5223163379.
There are only enough staff left to empty black bins. A huge amount of recycling has been building up in the car parks of
•
Warmley Community Centre and The Batch at Cadbury
were suspended following an improved pay offer. The
Heath which the council has designated as 24/7drop-off
workers, who are members of Unite, were being balloted on
points for cardboard, paper, glass, cans and plastic.
the new offer. If rejected, strikes were due to begin tomorrow
On Sunday Cllr Sam Bromiley, who leads the opposition
(Thursday).
The Week in • Wednesday 12th July 2023
Strikes by more than 300 Bristol Waste workers
Keep in touch, let us know what you think, send us your news www.facebook.com/theweekin
5
Conservation concerns over plans to build up to 149 homes policy designed to protect ancient woodland and should be considered for refusal, unless the applicant is able to demonstrate that deterioration will be avoided.” There have been more than 700 objections to the plans for The Batch by Redrow Homes and Ashfield Land. No 64 Hencliffe Way has been bought by the developers who want to demolish it to create an access for the proposed development. Meanwhile Natural England’s regional lead adviser says the development as currently proposed “would in our view undermine the existing importance of the Avon Corridor as a strategic nature and GI (green infrastructure) corridor that is a key part of wider networks”. She adds: “We share the concerns raised by the Woodland Trust that these proposals could result in the deterioration of the surrounding ancient woodland, part of which is designated as a Site of Nature Conservation Interest (SNCI)
The Batch
and forms part of the Avon Valley Woodlands Local Nature The Woodland Trust has raised concerns about plans to
Nature Reserve.
Reserve. Should the council determine that development of
build up to 149 homes on the Green Belt at Hanham.
The trust says: “Ancient woodland is an irreplaceable habitat,
this site for housing is warranted, we advise that the scale of
The trust, which is the UK's leading woodland conservation
once lost it is gone forever. Any development resulting in loss
the proposals needs to be substantially reduced and/or
charity, has told South Gloucestershire Council it objects to
or deterioration of ancient woodland must consider all
reconfigured to allow sufficient buffering of the ancient
the planning application on the basis of potential deterioration
possible measures to ensure avoidance of adverse impact.
woodland to protect it in the long term.”
to Hencliff Wood, which is an Ancient Semi Natural
“The trust objects to this planning application on the basis of
The council’s own biodiversity assets and commons team has
Woodland designated on Natural England’s Ancient
indirect impacts to ancient woodland. The applicant should
also objected to the plans, saying it may adversely affect
Woodland Inventory.
seek to ensure that suitable buffer zones to the proposal are
nature recovery targets.
The trust also objects as it is a Site of Nature Conservation
provided to protect the adjacent ancient woodland.
The council is due to make a decision on the planning
Interest and forms part of the Avon Valley Woodlands Local
“This application contravenes national and local planning
application by 14th August.
Pub at the heart of the community goes up for sale North East Somerset who went the extra mile to help others during the pandemic. He adapted his services to meet the needs of the local community, offering a delivery-only shop, supplying food and urgent supplies to the
The Crown Inn at Keynsham is up for sale. Under landlord Dave Yeomans, pictured right, the Bristol Road pub, which is also a guesthouse, has served the community well. In 2021, Dave was one of the recipients of a Shining Light award which recognised community heroes in Bath and 6
local community 24-7, including to those who were shielding. He also provided meals for any child in need in the local community during school holidays. The pub has also served free meals for the homeless at Christmas as well as organising gift collections, and has been a collection point for Keynsham Foodbank. Following the pandemic Dave has turned the space where the shop was into The Annex, a private events venue.
An announcement on the pub’s Facebook on Friday said: “After almost 10 amazing years at The Crown, the time has come for us to follow new adventures and hand over the reins to someone new. We will be selling our muchloved business and Dave Yeomans baby! “Whilst the pub is on the market for sale we will be open as normal offering our full service. “All events and private hire events will still be going ahead and we will offer our help to the new owners with the future bookings.” The post adds: “We would like to thank our amazing team, customers and suppliers for their continued support and look forward to seeing you all until we depart.”
The Week in • Wednesday 12th July 2023
MP dodges the showers at summer fair
Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg at Saturday’s fair
Astra from Circus Antics entertaining visitors
Among those enjoying Hanham High Street’s summer fair
Jacob has been selected as the Conservatives’ candidate.
There were various stalls, including food vendors, and
on Saturday was the North East Somerset MP Sir Jacob Rees-
Sir Jacob was seen sheltering under an umbrella, which
entertainers in the High Street, which was closed to traffic
Mogg.
depicted a hunting scene, as he queued with two of his
for the annual event organised by the Hanham Business &
Boundary changes will see a new North East Somerset and
children for a fairground ride. He also chatted to visitors to
Community Partnership.
Hanham constituency at the next General Election and Sir
the fair, where the showers failed to dampen spirits.
See also page 10
Former betting shop now for rent Keynsham betting shop Betfred on Bath Hill closed on Sunday 2nd July. The premises are now up for rent. Last month Betfred told us it had “reluctantly decided it is no longer viable to continue operating at that particular site”. A notice on the door signed by Nick, Kelly, Vanessa and Richard says: “We take this opportunity to thank all customers who have joined us over many years and become part of our lives. We will miss you. Take care.”
ACCESSIBLE COACH TRIPS For details of any of the The listedBatch trips please contact us on 0117 9372364 / 07511 559744 or e-mail purpleviiolet@ yahoo.com.
WED 26th JULY GLOUCESTER QUAYS - 8 a.m. - 3 p.m., £22 (£20 conc), age 17 or under £18 SAT 5th AUG
CHELTENHAM SHOPPING CENTRE - 8 a.m. - 3 p.m., £22 (£20 conc), age 17 or under £18
WED 16th AUG BOURTON ON THE WATER - 8 a.m. - 3 p.m., £22 (£20 conc), age 17 or under £18 FRI 25th AUG
BOURNEMOUTH - 8 a.m. - 3 p.m., £29 (£27 conc), age 17 or under £25
BANK HOLIDAY WESTON, BURNHAM ON SEA or BREAN - 8 a.m. MON 28th AUG 3 p.m., £35 (£32 conc), age 17 or under £28 FRI 8th SEPT
TYNTESFIELD NATIONAL TRUST or NOAH’S ARK ZOO FARM, WRAXALL - 8 a.m. - 4/4.15 p.m., £22 (£20 conc), age 17 or under £18 - transport only
If you cancel once a coach or minibus has been booked your money can only be returned if your seat reservation is resold. Coach may be cancelled if less than half full.
The Week in • Wednesday 12th July 2023
Liz Douglas “Mother Hen”
Love from Helen “Munchie” and
David George Chisnall “Hop”
(12 July 1931 - 14 Aug 2022) Love from Helen “Egg” Claire XX (your loving daughter) “NEVER FORGOTTEN” I think of things you used to say. And all that you would do At some point every single day My thoughts will turn to you. To lose you was a bitter wrench, The pain cut to my core. I cried until my tears ran out and then I cried some more. This wouldn’t be your wish for me, That I’d be ever sad so I try to remind myself of happy times we had. I know you can’t be with me now and you can’t be with me, but safe inside my heart you’ll stay, that’s where you’ll always be”. Copyright. Mrs Moem
F O
7
LETTERS Setting the record straight
I crossed the road and got a ticket from the
Dear Editor
main Ashton Way Car Park but no idea if this
I am writing having received a complaint from
counts as valid parking.
a resident regarding the actions of some men
I neither want nor need a smartphone. An
who verbally abused his wife and her running
ancient mobile does texts and calls and for
club as they passed by and then when she
everything else I’m happy to sit at a desktop
remonstrated with them, they became even
which can’t get lost or stolen and is better
more offensive.
protected against scams.
My complainant wrote to me because this was
I’m sure I’m not alone in beginning to feel like
outside of ‘the Conservative Club’ in
an alien in the town I’ve called home since
Keynsham High Street and he wrote to me as a
1962. Does it have to be like this?
Conservative councillor as he believed the men
Sheila Crocombe
involved were from the club. Locally the building in question is known in
Spotlight on garden waste
some
Dear Editor
quarters,
colloquially,
as
the
Conservative Club. However, the reason for
It's all very well adding extra places to drop off
my letter is to seek to disabuse people of that
recyclable items during the ongoing dispute
understanding. The building is no longer linked
between Suez and South Gloucestershire
to the Conservative Party in any shape or form
Council, but what about the large green garden
and has not been so for a number of years. The
bins?
building is now Club 22 and is owned by the
I pay extra money on top of my council tax for
members of the club and run by a committee;
my green bin service, and it is full up every
both the members and the committee are totally
time in the summer months because I have a
unconnected with the local or national
large garden. My lovely neighbours even let
Conservative Party or association.
me use space in theirs if I have too much to fit
Thank you for the opportunity to clarify this
in.
matter.
In contrast, by the time I have recycled my
Cllr Alan Hale
cardboard, paper, plastics, glass, and metal at the kerbside, and taken my soft plastics to the
I’m feeling like an alien in my home town Dear Editor I still enjoy shopping in Keynsham but these days try to park close to my destination so that I can wobble there with the support of my shopping trolley. This week it was Keynsham Dental Care near the church so I thought I’d try for the space behind the chemist which I haven’t used for ages but thought it would be one less road to cross. I was pleased to find a space but then very annoyed to find it had no coin machine, just digital access.
supermarket to be recycled, there is hardly anything to collect in my black bin. Mine is only a two-person household and every two weeks I usually have only one carrier bag of rubbish in the black bin. Sometimes I only put my black bin out once a month or six weeks and it's still half empty. It is so unfair to be penalised for doing the right thing. South Gloucestershire Council should extend the garden waste subscriptions we have already paid for to make up for the missed collections. Mrs L Vockings, Oldland Common Editor’s note: The council’s website says that garden waste subscriptions will be extended to reflect the missed collections - residents do|
not need to contact the council for this to happen.
Keynsham offers more than you think Dear Editor
Our High Street is not pedestrian friendly
The lady who has written about Retail Revolution in Keynsham (Letters, Issue 788)
Dear Editor
has missed a few points.
Pedestrian friendly? I think not, as another
There are a number of services available that
morning venture down Keynsham High Street
she says are not here. Starzec’s sell leather
saw yet another fall by a pedestrian to add to
goods, some of which can be personalised, and
the ever-growing total.
Trigaci sell handbags, jewellery and the like.
Removing the kerbed island would help
There is an excellent jewellers, Smith of
enormously but most people question the need
Keynsham, who are gold and silversmiths.
for a rarely used cycle lane in the first place.
Men’s and children’s clothes are sold in
Is this problem ever going to be resolved
Peacocks.
before a really serious accident occurs?
Tripps is a picture and frame gallery. I'm sure
Name and address supplied
Keynsham Hardware is an ironmongers too. Pottery and glass products are available at
Economic realities of the High Street Dear Editor Winifred
Rickard’s
call
for
a
‘Retail
Revolution’ in Keynsham last week included some idyllic ideas. Sadly, there are two issues which have led town centre retailers to shut up shop and prevented independent retailers from setting up - rents and rates. Unfortunately, the High Street location is still seen by landlords (often pension funds or investment companies) as a prime location for rent compared to an out-of-town development or warehouse. The same applies to rateable values, which
Polkadot and we recently had the ArtSpace art and glass gallery selling some lovely pieces. Conscience Foods & Lifestyle sell a good range of health and herbal products, organic foods and vegetables. I also believe Savour have launched a deli. Sorry if I've missed anyone. We have lost the newsagent because there was no profit margin, and the butcher and greengrocer too. We should support what we have, not try to force them out by bringing in competition like larger supermarkets. Anne James
although paid to the local council, are set by a
Bin collection irony
government department.
Dear Becky
Despite this, both the newsagent and the
How I agree with the anonymous letter writer
fruit and veg shop which have closed in
in
Keynsham recently owned their properties, I
Gloucestershire Council prioritising black bin
believe.
collections over food waste during the
Reduced demand and/or increased competition
industrial action.
from larger retailers also have a part to play.
It seems ironic that, prior to the strike, the
It is easy to contemplate what we would like to
council had suggested reducing black bin
see, but an entirely different matter to actually
collections to every three weeks, yet now they
operate a business commercially.
say that black bins take priority over food bins
Name & address supplied
which are, in normal situations, collected every
last
week’s
edition
about
South
week.
8
The Week in • Wednesday 12th July 2023
LETTERS Surely arrangements could be put in place to
Display vandalised
collect the nappies, already in their purple
Dear Editor
wrappers, alongside the food bins and leave the
The girls at Keynsham Girls’ Brigade have put
black bins aside.
in a lot of work in preparing the front garden at
Tim Lansdown, Hanham
the Baptist Church for entry into the Keynsham
Victim ‘critical’ after attack
in Bloom competition.
A life-saving warning
On Friday two of the leaders - one of them
Dear Editor
being my wife - worked with Kevin, the Baptist
This could be a life-saving warning, especially
minister, on decorating a child’s bike which was
after the recent fatalities resulting from charging
in a prime position decorated with potted plants.
a bike battery indoors.
Guess what? By Saturday morning it had been
Firstly, I should make it clear that I know almost
vandalised.
nothing about cars or electricity and I was lulled
I really fail to understand what satisfaction
into believing I wasn’t being dangerous. Recently I bought a hybrid car, the sort you can plug in if you want to. As I live in a flat, I also bought a heavy-duty extension cable as there are no plug sockets close enough to where I park to use the charger. Seemed all right to me. Plugged it all in, made sure no one was going to trip over the cable and went to bed. When I got up, not only had the plug melted, but the socket had too! The gooey lump of melting plastic was still getting hotter – if there had been anything flammable nearby, I might
idiots get from undertaking such acts of
have been writing this in a different house (with
destruction
a bit of luck).
Mike Barrow
What shocked me was that the circuit breaker did nothing. Colin the electrician inspected it as
Write to us
an emergency and explained that the reason none of the safety features in the house, car and cable had not cut the power was that there was
Copy can be sent by post or, preferably, email
no electrical fault.
and should arrive at our offices no later than
Everything was still live. Apparently there is no form of extension cable which is safe to use
a “critical” condition at the start of this week. It is understood the incident happened
hours while specialist forensic investigators examined the area. The arrested man was interviewed by detectives on Saturday evening before being released from custody on bail. Enquiries into the incident, including a review of CCTV, have been ongoing. Anyone who has information which could help the police is asked to call 101 and provide the call handler with the reference 5223162515. You can also contact
close to Wetherspoon’s Jolly Sailor pub. The High Street was closed for several
Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
A 33-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm with intent following an incident in Hanham High Street on Friday. A man in his 30s was punched to the ground at approximately 8.30pm. He was taken to Southmead Hospital with a serious head injury, He was said to be in
9am on the Monday of each week.
Keep in touch, let us know what you think, send us your news
Email to:admin@theweekin.co.uk
for charging a car. Don’t do it!
www.facebook.com/theweekin
Alistair Gilroy, Keynsham
Sudoku
SUNDAY CHEMISTS
1-Easy
Boots, Gallagher Retail Park, Longwell Green
Sunday 16th July
2 -Hard
5 4 7 3 4
6 5 4 2 7 8 6 7 1 5 8 9 3 8 1 5 2 9 6 4 3 8 5 7 The Week in • Wednesday 12th July 2023
(10.30am-4pm) Asda, Longwell Green (10am-4pm)
8
9
6 7
4 5
3 9 1
Sainsbury’s, Emersons Green Retail Park (9.30am-4.30pm) Keynsham Pharmacy, 15 Station Road, BS31 2BH
2
4 9 2 7 8 7 5
9 1 3
(10am-4pm)
6 5
9
2 6
5 9
8 4
Boots, Emersons Green Retail Park (10.30am-4.30pm)
Tesco, Callington Road, Brislington (10am to 4pm) Morrisons, 688-718 Fishponds Road, Fishponds (10am-4pm)
7
Boots, Avonmeads Retail Park, St Philips Causeway (11am-5pm)
9
Three houses planned in grounds of historic property
Memorial Cottage
South Gloucestershire Council is considering plans to build a terrace of three houses in the grounds of an historical Hanham property. Grandie Developments Ltd have submitted proposals for land to the rear of 109 Memorial Road. The house is next to the entrance road to the campus shared by Hanham Woods Academy and Christ Church Cof E Primary School. Known as Memorial Cottage, it was built in 1877 for the widow and seven children of local hero John Chiddy from public
boulder from a railway line at Brislington, but it cost him his life as he was struck by a train. The plans involve demolishing the existing garage block and providing a new terrace of three four-bedroom houses, all with private gardens and parking. The developer says the three houses have been designed to be no taller or wider in footprint than a previously approved scheme for two houses. Hanham Abbots Parish Council has objected, saying it amounts to
subscription following his death the year before. He averted a disaster by removing a
overdevelopment and highlighting concerns about parking and the access near the schools.
Crossword 1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9 10
11 12
13
14
15
16
17
Festival-goers polled by Mogg Watch During the eco-festival held as part of the
The poll was carried out by Mogg Watch, a
recent Keynsham Music Festival, people
group of volunteers from North East
were invited to poll their levels of concern on
Somerset who say they have come together
the climate crisis, cost of living crisis and
to put pressure on the local MP for his
how well they are being represented by local
failures on nature and climate.
MP Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg.
They have previously protested outside his
More than 40 people took part by placing a
surgery as he was one of the MPs who voted
sticker on ‘thermometers’ representing the
down a House of Lords’ amendment that
three themes to represent their level of
would have forced water companies to make
concern.
continuous improvements to reduce the
The results showed that all but two
amount of sewage dumped in rivers and
respondents indicated that they are ‘very
seas.
concerned’ about climate change, the cost-of-
Mogg Watch is part of MP Watch, a
living crisis and how well they are being
grassroots network of constituents working
represented by Sir Jacob, particularly on
together to alert MPs to the urgent need for
these issues.
action on the climate crisis.
ACROSS
DOWN
1. Confused muddle
2. Type of farmland (6)
(5-4)
3. Disinter (6)
9. Accusation (6)
4. Stockings (6)
10. Cut (4)
5. Wound mark (4)
11. Rail (anag.) (4)
6. Menaces (7)
12. Rest (6)
7. Jason's ship (4)
13. Allowance for
8. Lay siege to (9)
support (7)
13. Abundant wealth (9)
16. Gala (4)
18
17. Gentle (4) 19 20
18. Sack, pouch (3)
21
22
23
24
20. Thrash (3) 21. Melody (4)
25 26
27
23. Otherwise (4) 25. Former Dutch
28
currency (7) 29
30
26. Receding (6) 29. Plaything (4)
31
14. Separate article (4) 15. Immature (5) 18. Without hair (4) 19. Apart (7) 22. Oesophagus (6) 23. Biblical prophet (6) 24. Religious address (6) 27. Curve (4) 28. Clotted blood (4)
30. Oil reservoir (4) 32
31. Ember (6) 32. Control, check (9)
10
The Week in • Wednesday 12th July 2023
Plans for ‘discreet’ 15-metre phone mast in town centre
Over 30,000 people sign up for free scheme
Cignal Infrastructure UK Ltd, better known as mobile network provider Three, wants to put a 15-metre phone mast in Regent Street in Kingswood. The company has applied to South Gloucestershire Council to see whether prior approval will be required to erect the mast, which will have three cabinets, outside Iceland at Kings Chase Shopping Centre. The company says that Three is in the process of building out the UK’s fastest 5G network and the site chosen is the only viable one in the “densely packed residential area”, adding: “There is no scope to pull the mast outside of this area and give the cell 5G coverage.”
Where the mast would go
It adds that the site selection is in a commercial area and has also been
The phone giant says the height has
application to confirm the proposed
influenced by the surrounding vertical
been kept down to the “absolute
mast meets International Commission
street
street
minimum” capable of providing the
on Non-Ionising Radiation Protection
lamps, traffic lights, bus stops, and road
required essential new 5G coverage,
Certificate
signs.
saying it will not impact on pedestrians
exposure.
The mast is described as being of an
or affect the safety of passing motorists.
The
“extremely discreet, slimline design”.
There is a certificate with the
P23/01990/PN1.
furniture
including
Charterhouse Care Home
guidelines
planning
for
reference
public is
In the last year more than 30,000 people have signed up to enjoy the benefits of Bath & North East Somerset Council’s free Resident’s Discovery Card. The scheme, which was relaunched last June, offers residents free entry to the Roman Baths, Victoria Art Gallery, and Parade Gardens in Bath – as well as access to exclusive discounts at visitor attractions, restaurants, spas and other experiences across the region. The Discovery Card is free to apply for and available to all residents of B&NES, including students at Bath’s universities. Local residents can sign up online at www.bathnes.gov.uk/discoverycard and then pick it up at a variety of locations across the district. Cards can either be provided digitally to be displayed on a mobile device, or as a physical card which is recycled and recyclable. Alongside free entry to heritage sites, Discovery Card holders can enjoy offers and discounts from more than 30 businesses and organisations, including Avon Valley Railway at Bitton.
On to line ur av virt ail ua ab l le
Residential l Nursing l Respite l Dementia Discover the very best care at Charterhouse Located within The Chocolate Quarter, Charterhouse combines the height of luxury with exceptional personalised care. Enjoy elegantly styled rooms, restaurant quality food and on-site amenities that are second to none.
0117 919 4279 www.stmonicatrust.org.uk/charterhouse The Chocolate Quarter, Trajectus Way, Keynsham, Bristol, BS31 2GL
Registered Charity 202151
The Week in • Wednesday 12th July 2023
11
More donations for Ukraine
Record birthday success for Soundwell’s swimmers
Dawn Elmer pictured with young leader Victoria and other members of Keynsham Girls’ Brigade
In 2022 Soundwell Swimming Club
county and regional successes this year
celebrated its 60th birthday with a record
already.
number of its swimmers qualifying for
Club chair Sarah Taylor said: “We are
national championships. In 2023 the club,
incredibly proud of all of our swimmers
which trains at Kingswood Leisure Centre
who have qualified this year for national
and Winterbourne School under head
championships. These young people train
coach Jon Wills, has built on last year’s
seven days a week all year round, and
success, increasing the number of
it is brilliant to see all their hard work pay
qualifiers even further.
off.”
The 15 swimmers are heading to Sheffield
The club takes new swimmers through its
in July and August for the British and
Swim Academy, all the way through to
English
National
national qualifiers, with many of this
Championships, and Rotherham for the
year’s having learnt to swim at the club.
English
For more information about swimming
Age
Group
National
Open
Water
Championships.
lessons or competitive swimming, contact
Dawn Elmer, a trustee for the Keynsham-
the McGill’s warehouse on Sunday (16th
The club has also qualified for all three
headcoach@soundwellswim.org.uk
based charity Hope for Ukraine, has received
July), but if anyone suddenly comes forward
relay events in the 14 to 16-year-old boys
Pictured from left to right, are (back row)
baby and adult toiletries collected by
with a load of medical supplies or food, the
category
Jade, Alice, Roger, Jake, Jack and Harry
Keynsham Girls’ Brigade and Keynsham
team could replace some of the clothes which
Championships.
K; (middle row) Amber, Austin, Rhys,
Methodist Church.
are less urgent.
The club is hoping for medal success this
Harry T, and Josh; (front row) Alfie, India,
Dawn had previously given a talk to the Girls’
Find out more about the work of the
summer, building on its record-breaking
Harriet and Heather.
Brigade about the work of the charity.
charity
Dawn tells us that they have enough supplies
https://hopeforukraine.org.uk/ or call 07933
for the next shipment, which is due to leave
712584.
and
how
you
can
help
at
the
British
National
at
Police make an arrest in assault investigation
12
A man has been arrested in connection with
the ground.
an assault on a woman in the Lidl car park in
A man in his 50s was arrested on suspicion
Kingswood
of common assault. He was later released
and
police
are
seeking
witnesses.
under investigation.
Avon & Somerset Police believe the pair
Police say that as their enquiries progress,
were involved in a verbal altercation
they are keen to hear from any witnesses,
in the Kings Chase Shopping Centre area at
or anyone who has CCTV or dashcam
about 3.50pm on Wednesday 21st June, and
footage of what happened.
then walked to the nearby Lidl car park.
Call 101 and give the call handler crime
There the man is alleged to have
reference number 5223146692, or complete
punched the woman, causing her to fall to
an online appeals form. The Week in • Wednesday 12th July 2023
Hunt is on for Kingswood’s legendary elephant Archaeologists are conducting a survey this month to try
were any anomalies in the ground.
to find the legendary Kingswood elephant.
Alas, nothing to report but I for one
It is said that in 1891 an elephant was buried in Kingswood.
am delighted at the potential of
It belonged to Bostock and Wombwell’s Menagerie and was
discovering the legendary Kingswood
a highlight in their travelling ‘beast show’.
elephant burial.”
Now, as part of South Gloucestershire Council’s Kingswood
Menageries featuring wild and exotic
regeneration
animals were a fashionable form of
project,
archaeologists
from
Wessex
Archaeology have been commissioned to conduct a
entertainment
geophysical survey to see if they can shine a light on the
Victorian era and early 20th century.
legend and finally identify the fabled burial site.
Bostock’s Star Menagerie is known to
Tom Richardson, terrestrial geophysicist at Wessex
have exhibited nearby in 1891. Local
Archaeology, said: “Searching for Victorian elephant burials
newspapers reported that: “Bostock's
isn’t our usual fare but a grave of that size would leave a large
Grand
hole and would certainly be identifiable with the ground
collection) will take up its quarters on
penetrating radar equipment we will be using to survey the
Friday on the open space near
site.”
Lawrence Hill station, where it will
Cllr Chris Willmore, the council’s cabinet member with
remain for 8 days ... Among the larger
There are various
responsibility for planning, regeneration and infrastructure,
animals in the collection is Nancy, a fine nine year old
accounts
of
said: “Our work as part of the Kingswood regeneration
elephant, four camels, ten or a dozen fine lions and lionesses,
elephant
burials
project has presented us with a unique opportunity ahead of
three Bengal tigers, a sacred Indian bull, agnu (sic) or horned
around the country,
the high street pedestrianisation work. We’re excited to see
horse, some leopards, polar and brown bears, a hyena, and a
including at Diss in
what archaeologists may uncover and if we can finally solve
pack of Russian wolves ... The animals are all in splendid
Norfolk, at Coles-
this local mystery or find some new mysteries to solve.”
condition.”
hill in Warwickshire
Purported to have been buried in the area of Whitfield’s
Lorrain Higbee, zooarchaeologist at Wessex Archaeology,
and
at
Tabernacle or Holy Trinity Church, the elephant is said to
said: “This initial archaeological investigation aims to locate
in
Lincolnshire.
have died from yew leaf poisoning.
the elephant burial but should we do so, you may be surprised
Although many of
Although no historical sources reference the death or burial
at what we could learn about the life of this animal from
these are considered
of an elephant in the area, the Kingswood elephant is etched
studying its skeletal remains.
urban
in local memory.
“In the case of a menagerie elephant, as well as understanding
geophysical survey
Alan Bryant, curator at Kingswood Museum, said: “I first
where the animal came from and its age, we may be able to
at Diss did identify
heard about the Kingswood elephant burial in the 1970s when
see the impact of its life as an entertainer; this may include
underground patterns that supported the claim.
I was doing my rounds as a local milkman. Since then, I have
evidence of confinement including trauma from shackling the
The Week In has featured articles about the elephant by our
had countless conversations and debates with local people
animal, or arthritis. It may also be possible to detect injuries
correspondent Christine Rogers including how author Matt
about it. I remember a new mains sewer pipe was installed in
or strains resulting from its performance duties, such
Grinter from Warmley was inspired to write a play called The
the 1980s and I made a point of having a look to see if there
as repetitive movements.”
Dog and the Elephant.
Star
throughout
Menagerie
Free trips on heritage buses
(No.
the
2 Image courtesy of National Fairground & Circus Archive
Public Notice Goods Vehicle Operator’s Licence RJ Scaffolding Ltd of 7 Regent Street, Kingswood, Bristol, BS15 8JX is applying for a licence to use Old station Yard, Avon Mill Lane, Keynsham, Bristol, BS31 2UG as an operators centre for 2 goods vehicles and 1 trailer.
Heritage buses ran a free service between Keynsham and Pensford on Saturday as part of Pensfest, a family day of fun and music. Service 341 linked Keynsham and Pensford and there was also Service 360 which was a circular route of the Chew Valley, starting and ending in Pensford and taking in Chew Magna, Chew Stoke, West Harptree and Bishop Sutton. The Week in • Wednesday 12th July 2023
Owners or occupiers of land (including buildings) near the operating centre(s) who believe that their use or enjoyment of that land would be affected, should make written representations to the Traffic Commissioner at Hillcrest House, 386, Harehills Lane, Leeds, LS9 6NF, stating their reasons, within 21 days of this notice. Representors must, at the same time, send a copy of their representations to the applicant at the address given at the top of this notice. A guide to Making Representations is available from the Traffic Commissioner’s office.
Sleaford
myths,
a Christine Rogers’ article from 2021
Situations Vacant
Vacancy to fill? Advertising in The Week In is an effective and low cost option. Call Tracy or Jodie on 0117 986 0381. Deadline for Situations Vacant advert bookings is 4.00pm on the
Hanham Community Centre
PART TIME CARETAKER VACANCY Opening & closing the Centre, including maintenance of the building, cleaning and preparation of rooms. 16 hours a week plus holiday cover. This is a Keyholder position. Experience not essential as training will be given. Application forms & job descriptions available from the office or email your CV to
admin@hanhamcentre.org
FRIDAY preceding publication.
More details contact:
0117 9674439 admin@hanhamcentre.org www.hanhamcentre.org
13
Sudoku Solutions
Crossword Solution
1-Easy
M A R E S N E S
2 1 3 5 6 4 7 9 8
6 7 4 8 1 9 3 2 5
5 8 9 2 7 3 1 6 4
4 3 2 9 5 8 6 1 7
2-Hard 9 6 7 4 3 1 5 8 2
1 5 8 7 2 6 9 4 3
7 4 6 1 8 5 2 3 9
3 9 5 6 4 2 8 7 1
8 2 1 3 9 7 4 5 6
1 4 7 8 9 2 3 6 5
3 6 5 4 1 7 9 2 8
8 9 2 5 3 6 7 1 4
6 5 4 1 2 9 8 3 7
7 8 9 3 6 4 2 5 1
R
2 3 1 7 5 8 6 4 9
5 1 8 2 7 3 4 9 6
9 7 3 6 4 1 5 8 2
4 2 6 9 8 5 1 7 3
X
Y
G A S H
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A
B
C H A R G E I
O
A R
G
L
R E P O S E
A
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I
M O N Y
A
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F
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T
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S O F
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B A G
U
S
A
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S E
F
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A M
S O N G
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E B B N C E
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L D E R
N G
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S U M P
N D E R
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R O I
N T
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The Week in • Wednesday 12th July 2023
Service Directory Book a series of adverts and save even more
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Hanham Community Centre
a e v a H Party
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You don't have to book successive weeks. You can choose fortnightly, monthly
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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
The Community Page News from Whitchurch Village Council Councillors and volunteers have been working hard over the last few months and I would $ $
like to thank them for their work in making the celebration for the King’s Coronation such a great success. I hope you have noticed the displays of flowers that are adding
News from The Week In Community The Week In publisher Stephen Rodgers has been doing the rounds of clubs and societies recently, giving talks on the history of the newspaper and its future plans. Warmley
colour to the village centre and the planters welcoming visitors to the village.
Ladies’ Group and St Anne’s Mothers’ Union in Oldland
Nick Kirk, Chairman of Whitchurch Village Council
Common are the two most recent. There is a common thread in the reaction to his presentations.
King’s Coronation celebrations
Millennium Garden gets a tidy-up
Villagers gathered to celebrate the coronation of King Charles
Everybody seems to enjoy the talks and those present are always appreciative of what The Week In does and surprised at how small a team actually puts the newspaper together each week. For the last 15 years The Week In has been the voice of the
III and raise a toast to His Majesty. A delicious selection of
community. Whether informing, celebrating or holding
sandwiches and savouries, together with cakes and lollies, was
decision-makers to account, the newspaper is still eagerly
enjoyed by more than 100 residents.
anticipated each Wednesday by many in the community.
Councillors and volunteers, along with representatives from
What’s more, The Week In is free, thanks to the support of
the 107th Whitchurch Scouts, served teas, coffees and food in
businesses which also see the benefit of a genuinely local
a warm and friendly atmosphere with lots of laughter.
publication.
Families enjoyed games and a bouncy castle on the grass.
Much has changed over the last 15 years. Technology has
A memorable afternoon to celebrate this special occasion was
altered the way people get their news and The Week In has
enjoyed by all.
also adapted its output for a digital audience. Retail business has also undergone a significant change in the time since the first edition of The Week In appeared. The Millennium Garden has received a spruce-up, with village
The Week In will always be free but the size and number of
councillors and volunteers tidying, pruning and planting new
copies printed will continue to be dictated by its advertisers.
perennials and annuals. Due to recent extremely hot weather,
The world is changing and The Week In has to change
a water butt has been put there and councillors and staff are
with it. You will already be aware of some of those
regularly watering the plants to keep them looking glorious.
changes.
New trees for the village How to contact your village council Mrs Sue Dyer, Clerk Telephone: 01275 839873 Or email info@whitchurchvillagecouncil.co.uk
The most significant has been the conversion from a private company to a cooperative, owned jointly by readers and
Bath and North East Somerset Council held funding for new trees
members of the community.
to be planted around the village and in liaison with the village
Other initiatives will be unveiled during the course of this
council 15 new trees have been planted, including an English oak
year aimed at making The Week In a relevant asset to the
in the playpark and native trees at the cemetery.
community for the coming 15 years and more.
This initiative will increase the biodiversity, enhance areas of
Independent local journalism is vital to a local community’s
Whitchurch Village and help combat air pollution.
wellbeing and there are now two ways in which you can help.
Become a member shareholder of the society The Week In Community Ltd. Many 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 Ltd. 16
The Week in • Wednesday 12th July 2023