THE WEEK IN East Bristol & North East Somerset Issue 797
FREE
6th September 2023
Read by more than 40,000 people each week
Councillors suggest solution to fix dangerous cycle lane Keynsham councillors have launched a campaign to
- have started a petition and will present a motion
address the hazardous High Street cycle lane, warning
to the council’s meeting on 21st September.
that any further “cosmetic changes” won’t stop falls and
The cycle lane opened in March 2022 and people
injuries.
began falling, some sustaining serious injuries.
The six councillors who represent Keynsham on Bath &
Last August, to try to stop the falls, the council
North East Somerset Council have carried out their own
painted the cycle lane red, the width of the solid
investigation to find out why so many people are falling and
white line marking the edge of the lane was
hurting themselves.
reduced, and the number of cycle symbol
As a result they are calling for the cycle lane kerb and islands
markings was increased. However, people have
to go, and for the pavement kerb to be raised.
continued to fall.
The cross-party group - Hal MacFie, Alan Hale, David
In April, a Freedom of Information request
Biddleston, Alex Beaumont, Andrew Wait and George Leach
revealed that 59 people had fallen and injured
Anne Britton from Longwell Green signing the petition pictured left is Cllr Hal MacFie with Cllr Alex Beaumont, right
themselves, including breaking bones, since the cycle lane
Records are not published by the council so Cllr MacFie has
opened as part of the High Street redesign. With that tally
belatedly distributed letters to High Street shops to give to
now even higher, the councillors fear that one day someone
fallers, requesting that they complete a questionnaire
will fall in front of a vehicle. And with road safety and design
detailing where they tripped, their injuries and contact details.
reviews currently under way, the councillors say: “We must
So far 17 falls have been recorded, with prevalent injuries to
ensure that the root cause is removed now, not more cosmetic
the face and wrist, ankles and knees. Falls happened on the
changes.”
stretch from outside the old Buss’s greengrocer to the
Despite the “abundant evidence of falls”, the councillors say
Coventry Building Society and kerb levels vary.
that B&NES has not set up an active recording scheme:
The survey found that eight people fell coming off the
“Fallers are expected to log their fall on to the FixMyStreet
pavement on to the cycle lane. They reported that they did
website (which is not an easy task) but no further details of
not see the change in level and fell forward.
the fall are taken.”
Also in this week’s issue
Gang of bikers tear around Bristol & Kingswood area . . . page 3
Over 100 objections to phone mast in Longwell Green . . . page 5
Continued on page 3
Stockwood nursery rated Inadequate again . . . page 9
Explore local heritage for free . . . pages 10 & 11
2
The Week in • Wednesday 6th September 2023
Councillors suggest solution Up to 40 bikers seen tearing along roads, pavements to fix dangerous cycle lane and green spaces
Continued from page 1
the risk of falling entirely from one kerb
Six fallers fell going from the cycle lane to
and for the other make it the same as in
Police
the road: They did not expect a step at this
thousands of other high streets. We realise
Saturday about a group of between 30 and
the
point and did not perceive a difference in
that we are not road engineers, and it may
40 people riding motorbikes and quad
https://tinyurl.com/2f6ekybc
level.
seem arrogant for us to make these
bikes anti-socially on roads, pavements
You
A further three people said they fell going
proposals, and we will have to get the
and green spaces across the Bristol and
anonymously on 0800 555 111.
from the road to the cycle lane and did not
approval of B&NES officers for these
Kingswood area.
Police said they would review footage
see the step.
actions. However, we do know the
Several of the riders were reportedly in their
submitted by the public as well as that
The six councillors say the challenge is to
difference between a permanent solution
mid-teens and not wearing helmets. Officers
recorded by the drone and helicopter units in
find a prompt solution that will solve the
and a sticking plaster job. B&NES made
on the ground were supported by the drone
order to identify and take action against those
problem and persuade people that an
some cosmetic changes and have waited
unit and the National Police Air Service
involved in the anti-social behaviour.
effective change has been made. Their two
almost a year in the face of mounting
helicopter to safely monitor the group.
One Lyde Green resident contacted The
proposals are to:
evidence and frustration, and we fear
On Saturday night police said they had made
Week In to say they had seen the police
1. Remove the cycle lane/road kerb and the
another sticking plaster job with another 30
an arrest and seized a suspected stolen
helicopter hovering and a group of more than
associated islands so that, apart from the
cracked heads and broken wrists.”
motorbike. “A man in his 20s was arrested in
20 off-road bikes come charging down
crossings, the whole cycle lane is the same
Lib Dem councillors Hal MacFie and Alex
Eastville at about 3.40pm for driving
Howsmoor Lane and onto Lyde Green
height as the road. The bollards will define
Beaumont were in the High Street on
offences and remains in police custody.”
Common on Saturday afternoon: “They
the edge of the cycle lane.
Saturday morning with a paper petition.
Anyone with information about those
circled and then left via the pedestrian path
2. Rebuild the pavement/cycle lane kerb so
Councillors will also be there this Saturday
responsible is asked to call 101 and give the
onto the eastern part of the estate.”
it is the same height all the way up, apart
(9th September) to collect more signatures.
from the crossings. Raise the height to be
The
equal to the standard high street height.
https://chng.it/HfLVnj8g6r
They say: “These two actions will reduce
See Letters, page 8
petition
is
also
online
received
numerous
calls
on
reference 5223212767 or upload footage on police can
also
website contact
at
Crimestoppers
at
Keep in touch, let us know what you think, send us your news www.facebook.com/theweekin
Pub closes to make big changes The Griffin pub at Bridgeyate closed last
Monday to make efficiencies across the whole
week in order to make “efficiencies” and
business to make it sustainable to trade for
other changes.
years to come. In this time, we will take the
In a message to customers, the London Road
opportunity to redecorate, replace some
pub said: “As everyone knows the rising cost
furniture, change our drinks range and
of suppliers, electricity, gas amongst many
introduce a new food offering to improve the
other things have made it a difficult trading
Griffin for our loyal customers.”
year. Being such a large building, our
The post on the pub’s Facebook page also said
operating costs are large all year around.
that the team would be retrained and new
“We will be closing for a period of time from
members would be joining.
The Week in • Wednesday 6th September 2023
3
Police seize two dogs Two dogs were seized from an address in Hengrove on Thursday 31st August as part of an investigation into reports of them being dangerously out of control. The seized dogs are believed to be a Cane Corso and an XL American Bully. The householders told officers that a third dog had been put down since the complaints were made in June and July. Sergeant 4522 Chris Downham said: “This action has been taken after members of the public reported issues to us, including being bitten while making deliveries.” The dogs will be assessed while in kennels and, should the owners be prosecuted and convicted, it will be for a court to decide whether they are suitable to be rehomed.
THE WEEK IN adverts call 0117 986 0381 Keep in touch, let us know what you think, send us your news www.facebook.com/theweekin
New Travis Perkins store planned With demolition work starting on the old Kingswood Industrial Estate in Longwell Green, Travis Perkins builders’ merchant has become the first company to announce its intention to open on the regenerated site at Aldermoor Way. Earlier this year South Gloucestershire Council granted outline planning permission for a mixed development of 161,866sq ft of development in four zones. The scheme will provide employment, leisure and community opportunities and create some 440 new jobs. Now a detailed planning application by Travis Perkins is being considered by the council for the old Saville’s Freights site where the bulldozers recently moved in.
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.
Demolition work
Digital drop-in Age UK South Gloucestershire, in conjunction with Leidos Technology, is holding a digital drop-in workshop tomorrow (Thursday) from 10am to noon at The Park Centre in High Street, Kingswood. It is for anyone aged over 50. For more information call 01454 411707.
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
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 6th September 2023
Proposed phone mast is in the wrong location, say 100+ objectors More than 100 people have objected to Three’s proposal to put up a 16-metre high phone mast and three cabinets on a grass verge at Long Beach Road in Longwell Green. The Week In highlighted the proposed location of the 5G mast – close to the Willsbridge Mill car park - in Issue 792 which was the first that some people living nearby had heard about it.
Fundraising auction Keynsham Scouts’ annual auction and book sale takes place this year on Saturday 30th September. All items are donated from the community. It’s a chance to clear out a loft, garage, or cupboards and help the group raise substantial funds, while at the same time giving local people a chance to purchase items at great prices. There
are
details
on
the
group’s
website
-
https://www.1stkeynshamscouts.org.uk/scout-auction/
-
about how you can donate items. The event takes place at the Scout HQ at the rear of Ashton Way car park. Doors open at 9am and the main auction starts at 10am. • If you have time and would like to learn more about
volunteering
with
the
Scouts,
scouts@1stkeynshamscouts.org.uk
The Week in • Wednesday 6th September 2023
South Gloucestershire Council planning officers are expected to make a decision by 17th September on whether prior approval can be granted. Concerned local residents attended the recent meeting of Oldland Parish Council’s planning and highways committee to share their concerns about the proposed mast. They said there had been limited consultation with local The mast would go on the verge near Willsbridge Mill's car park residents, the mast would be higher than nearby trees and that the installation would affect drivers’ visibility. Council, to ‘call in’ the application to be considered by the Objectors also said that local homes already have sufficient planning committee. However, the parish council has since wi-fi and that the nearby Willsbridge Mill car park would be learned that under the terms of South Gloucestershire a more suitable location for a mast as it wouldn’t be so Council’s constitution, it cannot be called in as it is a prior approval application which must be determined within a prominent. Parish councillors agreed to object, questioning the necessity fixed period and if no decision is made in that time, the mast of a 5G mast which they felt would be better suited to semi- will be deemed to have approval. industrial and retail areas. They said the location would cause Both Cllr Strange and the other South Gloucestershire ward an obstruction to drivers turning right out of Burney Way and councillor Kris Murphy have acknowledged the importance would hinder drivers from seeing pedestrians crossing the of 5G for local residents and businesses but say they don’t road. They felt a more suitable and acceptable location would support the planned location of the mast. Both have suggested be the nearby car park and that other locations such as the that the nearby car park is considered. This week South Gloucestershire Council’s planning portal community centre in Shellards Road should be considered. The parish councillors also asked Cllr Carol Strange, who was showing 109 comments against and 18 in favour of the represents Longwell Green on South Gloucestershire mast.
5
Street artists commissioned to brighten up shopping area Street artists Andy Council and Luke Palmer - aka Acerone - have been commissioned to create two murals at Two Mile Hill on the Bristol side of Kingswood town centre. The aim is to help renew a sense of pride and
identity in the community and follows engagement sessions in which both residents and businesses commented that the A420 Two Mile Hill Road needed a boost of colour and vibrancy to help attract more people to the shopping area.
Plans for phone mast in town centre are withdrawn Cignal Infrastructure UK Ltd, better known as mobile network provider Three, has dropped plans for a 15-metre 5G phone mast in Regent Street in Kingswood. The
company
had
asked
South
Gloucestershire
Council
whether
prior
The public art programme is being delivered under the City Centre and High Streets Recovery and Renewal programme, funded by Bristol City Council and the West of England Combined Authority’s Love our High Streets project. Two gable end walls have been identified but the exact locations have not been revealed. The Bristol artists are welcoming any thoughts and ideas from the community that might help to inspire their artwork. In a survey people are asked what buildings or landmarks in the area are most important to them and whether they know of any famous, important or interesting people
connected with Two Mile Hill. The artists also want to find out what kind of wildlife lives in Two Mile Hill, whether there is a particular animal associated with the area, and what colours would help to improve the look of the area. People are also asked to share any interesting facts, trivia or stories about the area. Take part in the survey at https://tinyurl.com/2rjze3y7 Meanwhile over the border in South Gloucestershire the council is working on plans for a major regeneration of Kingswood town centre including pedestrianising part of Regent Street.
approval would be required to erect the mast and three cabinets near Iceland. The company had said that the site was the only viable one in the “densely packed residential area” and
6
would not impact on pedestrians or affect the
negative impact upon the Kingswood
safety of passing motorists.
Masterplan’s objectives, which include
However, the council’s transport team said it
creating a more attractive location for
would have a “significant impact” on
shopping and leisure activities, a more
pedestrians and objected.
attractive, accessible place for the whole
Kingswood councillor Sean Rhodes also
community, and strengthening the town's
objected, saying it would have a clearly
cultural and historical heart.
Two Mile Hill Road
The Week in • Wednesday 6th September 2023
Police return pensioner’s stolen mobility scooter The Staple Hill Neighbourhood Policing Team were delighted to return some property stolen – including a mobility scooter - to its rightful owner. Hugh, 83, had his mobility scooter stolen from the High Street on Saturday 12th August. A short while later a resident reported that it had been abandoned in nearby Upper Station Road. Officers returned the scooter the same day, and thanks to CCTV were able to identify and interview a suspect - and recover more of Hugh's property - a few days later. Enquiries into the theft continue. Pictured from the left are PCSO Lawrence Early, PC Joshua Millward, PC Michael Brown, PC Gary Lippiatt, Hugh, PCSO Samantha Norster and PCSO Hannah Young.
The Week in • Wednesday 6th September 2023
New mural planned for public loos As part of its work to improve Hanham High Street, South Gloucestershire Council is commissioning a mural for the public toilets on Laburnum Road. The council wants local people to provide the inspiration for the design and says that the artwork will be highly visible making it a real opportunity to give a “vibrant welcome” to the area. The council says: “We believe the style which would be most in keeping with this environment would incorporate local nature and heritage and will have an uplifting design which uses fresh colours.” In an online survey people are asked to say what they most enjoy about Hanham and to share any stories or memories of Hanham and its High Street, such as local buildings and facilities that may no longer exist, community groups and events, or anything that they associate with the community. People are also encouraged to suggest any species of plants, trees and wildlife they associate with the Hanham area, and if there are any colours they would specifically like to see included.
The consultation closes on Wednesday 13th September. As an incentive the council will be selecting one respondent at random to receive £30 of local shopping or restaurant vouchers. Copies of the survey can also be downloaded from the council’s website and submitted in paper form. Ideas for the mural that have been expressed on The Week In’s Facebook page include coal mining, the Hanham-born comedian, writer, director, actor and presenter Stephen Merchant, local business Kleeneze and the birthplace of Methodism.
7
LETTERS Save the BBC
example of media probity. ‘Auntie’s’ fate now lies
to the roundabout at St John’s Church. There are
the cycle lane, it's unnecessary. It is one-way, as
Dear Editor
in the hands of a review by the Culture Secretary.
often tailbacks throughout Avon Mill Lane and
the arrow clearly shows, which throws up the
A contentious campaign is under way, supported
Let’s hope they decide to keep the current funding
right along Keynsham Road. These will now
anomaly that cyclists going in the opposite
by
commercial
model in place. The Government would be wise
increase (note: McGill’s articulated lorries use
direction have to fend for themselves. No lane for
opportunists, the right-wing media and radical
to ponder the reliable maxim – If it ain’t broke,
Station Road).
them. It just highlights the lunacy and act of sheer
politicians. Their aim is to bring pressure to bear
why fix it?
Why waste money on a 1.6 mile bus lane? Better
folly of the whole scheme.
on the Government to scrap the BBC licence fee.
Philip Gannaway
are a few hundred metres of camera-monitored
But will common sense prevail? I very much
bus/Park & Ride/Keynsham priority lanes on the
doubt it.
approaches to Hicks Gate and Broadmead
John Howlett, Keynsham
prove a huge mistake. The lobbyists’ beguiling
Concern over major changes to the A4
strategy is to present themselves as being on a
Dear Editor
A4174 Ring Road). A bypass cyclepath might be
A thank you letter
mission to free “telly taxpayers” from having to
The West of England Combined Authority
possible. A parkway station east of Saltford will
Dear Editor
pay the annual mandatory TV licence fee.
(WECA) are consulting on major changes to the
take traffic off the whole A4.
On Wednesday 30th August, my wife fell as she
Their dubious rationale is that by supporting the
A4 between Bath and Bristol, based on opinions
These are just a few of the major concerns I have
began to cross at the light-controlled crossing in
prospect of the BBC’s transition to a commercial
in a small survey in 2021.
about one part of the A4. WECA are trying to rush
front of Sainsbury’s at Temple Street in
enterprise, like Netflix, Amazon and other
Let’s just look at the bit about the Keynsham
through major changes on the whole route with
Keynsham.
streaming sites, customers would not only be
bypass. The whole presentation looks like a
minimal consultation, when many people are on
The ambulance crew who attended were very
developer’s publicity - blue skies, idealised
holiday. The online information is not the simplest
helpful and she is now recovering well at home. I
service. However, in reality, this illusive
people, flowers, space, etc. It enthusiastically
to interrogate, the questions are rigged. There
would just like to say a very big thank you to all
undertaking masks a self-serving monopolist
trumpets seven changes to improve cycling, bus
should be permanent, well-advertised, displays
the members of the public who came to our
desire to satisfy their addictive craving to control
journeys
for public scrutiny (e.g. at Keynsham Library).
assistance last week.
the airwaves. They have mounted a campaign that
consequences. In my opinion, the questionnaire is
Make no mistake, current global climate change
Mr R Batt, Keynsham
will benefit themselves more than the cause. If
highly biased with questions leading the
is real and is man-made. Poor air quality damages
these privileged few succeed, they would have
respondent into giving the desired responses.
health. The science and data leave little doubt.
Have your say
helped cause the decimation of an institution
The bus lane along the bypass will cause major
Similarly, we have to ensure that solutions are
Dear Editor
revered around the globe.
tailbacks and long delays (as evidenced by lane
also based on reliable, verifiable traffic data, not
I am sure most people in our community have
For over a century, the BBC has provided a
closures for grass trimming and litter picking).
simply opinions and dogma. If unsure, you must
heard about the A4 Keynsham bypass
multitude of quality entertainment, documentary
Sat-navs will find quicker alternatives including
vote against degradation of this essential trunk
consultation by the West of England Combined
and news programmes. Many of the superb
Bristol Road, Bath Hill, Avon Mill Lane, Station
road. Don’t let WECA wreck Keynsham!
Authority (WECA).
wildlife
been
Road, Keynsham Road, Ashton Way and the High
Clive Honeychurch, Keynsham
I am urging people to take part in this
commissioned without the backing of public
Street as appropriate. Traffic will crawl and air
subscription. And many local radio stations, the
quality will suffer throughout the town.
World Service and Radio 4’s niche programmes,
Bus stops on the bypass? Yes, a major
Will common sense prevail over cycle lane?
like Great Lives, Bookclub and File on 4
improvement in frequency for Keynsham
Dear Editor
Keynsham (Monday 11th September from 3pm
investigations, would never survive in a
residents living close enough to use them.
Once again the cycle lane on Keynsham High
to 8pm at St John's Parish Hall and on Friday
commercial setting.
Unfortunately, this means the X39 will take
Street claims another victim (Issue 795).
22nd September from noon to 5pm at
But the BBC’s pivotal advantage over its rivals is
passengers from bus routes also serving Charlton
Bath & North East Somerset Council have
Keynsham Library)
the absence of those tedious commercial breaks.
Road and the Chandag estates (where the majority
announced that an “additional enhancement”
Cllr Alex Beaumont
Now in my twilight years, I don’t relish the
of Keynsham residents live and endure the worst
design review will be carried out. A sticking
Councillor for Keynsham North (Lib Dem)
thought of the Beeb having to follow suit and
bus services in the area). People will not commute
plaster exercise! It will do nothing to improve
obliging me to watch more of those health issue,
by bus where sparse services don’t get you there
safety. Paint all white markings whiter perhaps?
What B&NES stands for
will-writing and funeral service adverts. Heaven
when needed. Best to drive (at least to the Park &
It's a joke, only those who have taken a tumble
Dear Editor
forbid!
Ride or station)?
are not laughing as the latest victim will tell you.
The constant moaning about Bath & North East
The BBC suffers regular severe criticism from the
Traffic coming up past Keynsham Station will no
Two dislocated bones in her elbow/suspected
Somerset Council seems to ignore reality. When
media. Some of the vitriol has been warranted.
longer have a separate lane to turn right into
fractured wrist. This is the price people are
a shop in Keynsham breaches planning
But, put into context, the broadcaster has during
Somerdale. So, a car waiting to turn right here
paying.
its long history been soundly managed and an
will now block following traffic from continuing
It is all so avoidable. Remove
a
motley
assortment
of
If their invidious quest towards ending the broadcaster’s public funding succeeds, it will
£159 better off but also benefit from an improved
8
series
would
never
have
and
walking
and
roundabouts (plus extra lanes for traffic using the
minimises
consultation and have your say. You can do this by visiting www.haveyoursaywest.co.uk There will also be two drop-in sessions in
The Week in • Wednesday 6th September 2023
LETTERS regulations, B&NES do nothing, citing as an
Replacing a footbridge took more than three years
excuse the eyesore of the gaudy convenience
while houses are stuffed into every available
store up the rank, itself outside the plans for
cranny in order to fulfil Central Government
Keynsham. B&NES allow the expansion of an
demands without impinging on Bath.
entirely inappropriate concrete works, saying that
Don’t people know what B&NES stands for?
it only violates its permissions for 10% of the time
Bath And Nothing Else Silly.
and thus should be allowed to do more!
Alistair Gilroy
No response from First Bus to reader’s query In Issue 795 we carried a letter from Wendy from Longwell Green who asked why the No 45 bus is using Watsons Road as a ‘cut through’ to Shellards Road. She had not received a response to her question from First Bus so on 21st August we asked the company on her behalf. We did not hear back so last week we contacted them again. We were still awaiting a response as we went to print this week.
Nursery rated as Inadequate for the second time in a row The Stockwood nursery and pre-school
actions raised during the last inspection
rated as Inadequate by Ofsted earlier this
sufficiently, indicating a lack of effective
year has received the same rating following
leadership.
another inspection.
“The manager and staff do not prioritise
In their recently published report, inspectors
children's safety. Their current risk assessment
highlighted a string of failures at Curious
procedures
Hedgehogs in Stockwood Lane, where 147
hazards, such as a blocked fire exit and
children are enrolled.
potential dangers in the outdoor area, to persist.
The previous report, which was published in
Inaccuracies in recording children's daily hours
May, had highlighted “significant breaches”
of attendance and insufficient supervision
meaning children's safety, learning and
during mealtimes leaves children exposed to
development were compromised. That report
potential harm.”
said that staff had demonstrated a poor
The report highlights that leaders are not
knowledge of how to keep children safe and
providing a clear and stimulating curriculum
there was no curriculum in place.
and fail to adequately monitor staff practice,
staff practice.”
safeguarding
After issuing notices requiring the nursery to
therefore limiting learning experiences for
Following the inspection, which was in July,
preventative protocols, confirmed by Ofsted's
carry out safeguarding and welfare actions,
children. Accurate information is not shared
Ofsted has carried out further regulatory visits
follow-up visit. Our comprehensive action plan
Ofsted carried out further regulatory visits and
with parents about their child’s progress.
to ensure that action has been taken to deal with
includes
was satisfied that the necessary actions had
The report continues: “The new manager,
the concerns raised.
enhancements,
been taken.
despite her experience and ambition, does not
Last week Liz Carroll, operations director at
behaviour management and support for
After the first Inadequate report, Just Childcare,
provide adequate coaching, supervision, and
Just Childcare, responded to the report, telling
children with special educational needs and
which runs Curious Hedgehogs, told The Week
support to ensure that staff have the appropriate
us: “We're deeply disappointed by the recent
disabilities.
In that it had made “significant” improvements
skills and knowledge to carry out their roles.
Ofsted rating, which falls far below our
“Our senior leadership team remains committed
and was optimistic about a re-inspection. The
Although the manager intends to carry out
standards. Within the Just Childcare group, 58
to providing consistent support, conducting
company also highlighted the recruitment
supervisions and identify weak practice for all
nurseries - including 10 in the South West -
weekly visits to ensure improvements are
problems facing the childcare sector.
staff, currently this has only been completed for
maintain Good or Outstanding Ofsted grades,
ongoing. We're encouraged by the progress
However, the latest Ofsted inspection has again
staff in the baby room. The manager is aware
setting the benchmark for our expectations.
made so far and are fully dedicated to creating
resulted in the lowest rating. The report says:
of other staff who require support, but she has
“Addressing
this
utmost
a nursery environment that meets the high
“The management team has not addressed the
not yet taken steps to address weaknesses in
seriousness,
we've
rectified
standards we uphold and expect at our settings."
prove
ineffective,
allowing
Sudoku 1-Easy
matter
with
swiftly
staff
concerns
and
training along
instituted
and
with
facility
specialised
SUNDAY CHEMISTS Sunday 10th September
2 -Hard
Boots, Gallagher Retail Park, Longwell Green (10.30am-4pm) Asda, Longwell Green (10am-4pm) 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 6th September 2023
9
Delve into our local heritage for free Local venues are taking part in free Heritage Open Days, the
Community Garden group is
September from 10.30am to
national celebration of history and culture held every
organising hourly guided
3.30pm. See the remains of the
September.
tours
former
surface buildings of a 19th
There’s lots happening in Keynsham. At Keynsham MakeSpace
Fry’s/Cadbury’s chocolate
century coal mine which are in
at Riverside Terrace, there will be an exhibition including
factory on the edge of the
the process of being conserved
displays of artefacts recovered from the medieval abbey and a
town and there is the chance
by Avon Industrial Buildings
scale model of it. There will also be artefacts relating to
to explore the old sports
Trust. The site adjoins Avon
Keynsham’s brass mills.
pavilion which is now used
It will be open today
by the group.
On 16th and 17th September from 11am to 4.30pm you can visit
(Wednesday) and the
On 17th September people are invited to explore the ‘hidden
William Champion's Garden at Warmley, the remarkable
9th, 10th, 15th, 16th and
histories’ of the town’s Durley Hill Cemetery from 10am to 2pm.
surviving Grade II 18th century garden of the brass maker with
17th September from
A Keynsham discovery trail – a free folding map – is also
its giant statue of Neptune and a hidden grotto with a central
10am to 5pm.
available to do at any time. Copies can be picked up from
pool surrounded by six grotesque faces with gaping jaws
The site of the Grade I
Keynsham Town Council’s office, Keynsham Library and
opening into subterranean tunnels. Nearby Kingswood Heritage
listed Keynsham Abbey
Temple
Museum will also be open.
will be open to visitors
https://tinyurl.com/ysmu4wr3.
Meanwhile Frenchay Unitarian
on
16th
As part of the celebrations there is also an exhibition at the
Chapel, one of the oldest
Warrior
Canteen of photographs taken by local people of local scenes.
purpose-built
bishop Heahmund and Jasper Tudor, uncle to Henry VII, were
Another place of interest in Bath & North East Somerset that is
chapels in the country still in
both buried at Keynsham Abbey. The abbey remains in Abbey
taking part in the open days is Saltford Brassmill, an ancient
use, is opening its door on 16th
Park are now laid out as gardens using plants available in
monument and Grade II* listed remnant of the brass industry
September from 1pm to 5pm.
medieval England.
which thrived in the Avon Valley in the 18th and 19th centuries.
Venues taking part in Bristol
The site will be open from 2pm to 5pm on both days, with a talk
It will be open on 9th September from 10am to 4pm, on 10th
include the Grade II* listed
at 2.30pm. People can explore the remains and there will be
September from 1pm to 4pm,
Church
interpretation boards and volunteers on hand to answer
on 16th September from 10am
Evangelist in Brislington. It will be open on 9th September from
questions.
to 4pm and on 17th September
10am to 4pm and 10th September from 11.15am to 4pm. There
Albert Mill at Dapps Hill in Keynsham dates from 1700 and the
from 1pm to 4pm.
will be children’s activities, the chance to visit the tower, see and
mill room is a walk through history with many pieces of original
In
hear the bells, and look at the view.
machinery in place. You can visit on 9th and 10th September
venues taking part in Heritage
Visitors can also wander around the churchyard and look at some
from 10am to 4pm when there will be a display of photographs,
Open Days include Brandy
of the old graves including the one of Thomas Newman, who
a historical timeline, people on hand to answer questions, a quiz
Bottom
was reputed to have been 154 when he died!
Keynsham Abbey
9th
and
September.
for children and refreshments available in the gardens.
of
the
Street
Canteen,
or
Saltford Brass Mill
On 16th September from 11am to 4pm the Somerdale Shed and
download
South
the
trail
at
Gloucestershire,
Colliery
Brandy Bottom Colliery
cycle path 410.
Durley Hill Cemetery
near
of
‘dissident’
St
Luke
Neptune
the
Coxgrove Hill, Pucklechurch.
• Full details of all Heritage Open Days can be found at
It will be open on 9th and 10th
https://www.heritageopendays.org.uk/
Crossword ACROSS
DOWN
1. Exceed (7)
1. Shovel (5)
5. Abyss (5)
2. Lift (5)
8. Downwind (3)
3. Examine (7)
9. Stir up (7)
4. Drowsy (6)
10. Zodiac sign (5)
5. Discontinue (5)
11. Hard mineral (5)
6. Enliven (7)
13. Foreword (7)
7. Advise wrongly (7)
15. Eye infection (4)
12. Cow's sound (3)
17. Beverage (6)
14. Repose (4)
19. Extend, scatter (6) 16. Freshwater duck (4) 22. Tray (anag.) (4)
17. Irritable (7)
24. Heart chamber (7) 18. Portable gun (7) 26. Fruit liquid (5)
20. Sleepwear (7)
29. Caber (anag.) (5)
21. Curve (3)
30. Women (7)
23. Type of jacket (6)
31. Sheep (3)
25. Applaud (5)
32. Raise objection to (5)
27. Eskimo home (5) 28. Follow (5)
33. Make good (7)
10
The Week in • Wednesday 6th September 2023
Spotlight on Victoria Methodist Church Whilst the Methodist Church may not have been part of the
designed to ensure that you did
landscape of this country as long as either the Anglican or
not fall asleep during lengthy
Catholic churches, it nevertheless has a varied and interesting
sermons!
history.
The screen will provide photos of
Why not learn about this by visiting Victoria Methodist Church
the church’s production ‘Down
in Keynsham High Street as it is part of the Heritage Trail in
Memory Lane’ which celebrated the 125th anniversary of the
Keynsham. This wonderful old Wesleyan Church was built in
church and there will be other various archive photographs to
1887 with original features still on show – a beautiful stained
view. We also have some octogenarian and nonagenarian
glass window, and original coloured glass designs on all the
members who will happily talk to you about their years in this
other mullioned windows designed with cathedral glass.
church and their involvement in its journey of vision and dreams
The church will be open between 10am and noon on Monday
through the years.
11th September and Wednesday the 13th and Thursday 14th.
Our Shoppers’ Service at 11am on the Thursday will recall our
The ‘new’ organ was installed a few years after the church was
history with reflections of John Wesley, the founder of
built and each morning at 11am our organist will be playing this
Methodism, and include hymns written by John and his brother
wonderful pipe organ for your pleasure. Visit the church gallery
Charles.
and learn what it is like to sit on the original hard wooden pews
Mike Barrow
Village chapel to close after nearly two centuries After serving the community for 189 years,
more people willing to step forward as elders
Initially the building was known as the
the chapel in Upton Cheyney is to close its
and maintain it, closure has become
Independent Chapel before it joined the
doors this weekend.
inevitable.
Congregational Church and then became the
With a declining congregation, Upton
The chapel opened in 1834, having cost
United Reformed Church.
Cheyney United Reformed Church was
£360 to build. The group of trustees
Last night (Tuesday) Bitton Parish History
scheduled for closure over a decade ago but
and
Bristol
Group was hosting ‘A Night of Reflection
was reprieved largely as a result of the
tobacco importer Wills. A day school was
and Celebration’ at the chapel ahead of the
efforts of elders Muriel Williams and Stuart
added in 1849 which remained until a
last service this weekend.
Turner.
board school opened in the village in the
The final service will be on Sunday (10th
They both passed away last year and without
1890s.
September) at 3pm.
The Week in • Wednesday 6th September 2023
funders
included
the
11
Fete day blessed with crowds and sunshine Bitton’s church fete was blessed with fine weather and hundreds of visitors who helped raise a record amount. The fete is part of year-round activities to maintain Grade I listed St Mary’s Church and organisers say the provisional profit for Saturday’s event is £11,148 which beats last year’s result – itself a record - by £440. The afternoon’s festivities were officially opened by villager Marlene Gallop, who has the longest connection with the fete, having supported it for more than 50 years. The Tatters and Tails Morris group performed on the Glebe Field where there was also a dog show, stalls, a collection of classic cars and a Punch & Judy show. There was music from Oldland Brass, and people could take part in traditional
games and try their hand at the longbow. Cream teas were served at Church Farm where there was music from the Jazzbeanz. Teas were also served in the church, where visitors could relax to music from St Mary’s Minstrels and view a collection of exquisite eggs carved and decorated by Joan Blake from Willsbridge. Tatters & Tails entertaining the crowds at the fete Marlene Gallop opened the fete. She is pictured with fete announcer John Bennetts
St Mary's Minstrels
A fine selection of classic cars
Oldland Brass
Public Notice
Some of Joan Blake's beautiful creations
Professor Hudd performed his Punch & Judy Show
Anyone for tennis? Close to £1,000 has already been pledged in advance of the tennis festival taking place this Sunday (10th September) in support of the young Keynsham doctor living with incurable bowel cancer. With the help of family and friends, Dan Money is supporting Cancer Research UK. Several fundraising events have already been held and the total so far, including Gift Aid, tops £36,000. Dan’s Festival of Tennis is taking place at Bath Tennis Club from 2pm to 6pm and everyone is invited to ‘have a go’ at tennis or just socialise. The event includes a barbecue, bar, cakes, music and a raffle. Find out more and make a donation at https://tinyurl.com/2p9yrjec
12
The Week in • Wednesday 6th September 2023
Plans for nine homes in village There is an outline planning application for nine homes on Green Belt land in Whitchurch Village. The site is the garden at Oaklea in Sleep Lane and the scheme includes access improvements and off-street car parking. Previous bids to develop the site have been refused but the most recent – for three bungalows - was granted on appeal last year. Bath & North East Somerset Council had said it would be inappropriate development within the Green Belt, was outside of the housing development boundary, and had concerns about visibility splays; however, the
planning inspector concluded that the proposals would represent limited infilling and would not harm the Green Belt. The latest planning application says that the village has seen significant growth in recent years, with large developments constructed near the site. “This has vastly changed the context of the area in which the site is located.” It also says that the principle of residential development has already been confirmed by the planning inspector’s decision last year. The planning reference for the latest scheme is 23/02922/OUT. Oaklea in Sleep Lane
How good is your driving? Bristol Advanced Motorists are holding
experience which is aimed at those who
another free Public DriveCheck Assessment
want to be safer and more confident and
Day to give members of the public an
would like a free and independent appraisal
opportunity to compare their driving today
of their driving skills. If you can read a
against when they passed their driving test,
number plate at 20 metres, are a current full
and to pick up tips on safer, more skilful
driving licence holder and your vehicle has
driving.
both insurance and MoT, you're eligible to
It takes place on Saturday 7th October,
apply.
meeting at the Scout HQ at the community
Places are limited to 40. To pre-book call
centre in Shellards Road, Longwell Green.
01454 619289 or email marlenebaker@iam-
DriveCheck is a 'no pass, no fail' driving
bristol.org.uk
Situations Vacant
Attempted theft of motorbikes A group were disturbed as they tried to steal motorbikes from the front garden of a home in Creswicke Avenue in Hanham. The offenders had cut off the security chain, which secured the bikes to a fence, but ran off when challenged at approximately 12.30am on Friday 18th August. If you have any information about this incident, especially CCTV images, call the police on 101, giving reference number 5223199912. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
New parking charges This week sees the start of vehicle emission-based parking charges in council-owned car parks in Bath. More polluting vehicles, like diesel vehicles, will now pay a higher rate. The new charges aim to incentivise motorists to use more sustainable alternatives when visiting the city centre, such as Park & Ride, and encourage a shift to public transport, walking, wheeling and cycling. In a recent public consultation carried out by the council, more than half of the 1,692 responses voiced concerns about air quality and felt the council should do more to tackle air pollution.
Intruders disturbed A home on Chestnut Walk in Saltford was burgled at 3.10am on Saturday 19th August. The intruders entered through a bathroom window and left the same way after one of the
Vacancy to fill? Advertising in The Week In is an effective and low cost option.
residents woke up. If you have any information about this incident, especially CCTV images,
Call: 0117 986 0381
call the police on 101, giving reference number 5223200453. Alternatively call Crimestoppers
Deadline for Situations Vacant advert bookings is 4.00pm on the FRIDAY
anonymously on 0800 555 111.
The Week in • Wednesday 6th September 2023
preceding publication. 13
Crossword Solution
Sudoku Solutions 1-Easy
2-Hard
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Aerials
Appliances
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The Week in • Wednesday 6th September 2023
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16
The Week in • Wednesday 6th September 2023