THE WEEK IN East Bristol & North East Somerset Issue 804
FREE
25th October 2023
Read by more than 40,000 people each week
Fight for urgent treatment centre for East Bristol area gathers pace The campaign for an urgent treatment centre to serve the
injuries treatment service in GPs surgery had been ditched at
East Bristol area, in which Week In readers have played
the end of a two-year trial because it had failed to reduce
a key part, is gathering pace.
attendances at A&E departments, and that funding had
A cross-party group of councillors on South Gloucestershire
instead been put into Yate MIU. However, people heading
Council has now published its report after reviewing urgent
there may find it shut as it closes early at times of significant
care - including minor injuries provision - within the district.
demand.
One of their findings is that the views of the 5,000 people
Nationally, there is now a move away from minor injury
who signed the petition calling for the opening of the long-
units, walk-in centres and urgent care centres to urgent
promised minor injury unit (MIU) at Cossham Hospital in
treatment centres (UTCs) instead. These are GP-led, open at
Kingswood were not properly taken into account by health
least 12 hours every day, offer appointments that can be
chiefs.
booked through 111 or through a GP referral, and are
More than 2,000 of those who signed were our readers who
equipped to diagnose and deal with many of the ailments that
got behind the campaign that was started by local nurse Josh
people attend A&E for.
Ditte. But the governing body of the local Clinical
Last Tuesday, it was agreed to send the report to Shane
Commissioning
Group
Devlin, chief executive of the NHS Bristol, North Somerset
(CCG) rejected the request
& South Gloucestershire Integrated Care Board (ICB). The
in April of last year without
board replaced the CCG as part of a health management
debate, saying it wasn’t part
shake-up last year.
of their urgent care strategy.
Cllr Ian Scott, who chairs the council’s Health Scrutiny
The
South
Committee, told the meeting: “If you are a resident in South
“But if you are in East Bristol or Greater Kingswood, you
Gloucestershire councillors
Bristol, you can access the South Bristol Hospital and the
then have to go much further to access either Yate Minor
was
the
urgent treatment centre over there. If you are a resident in
Injury Unit or Southmead or the BRI.
rejection of that petition
West Bristol, you can access the Bristol Royal Infirmary. If
“Residents over the last 15 years, since the closure of Frenchay Hospital, feel that they are not getting the same
report
by
prompted
by
which had flagged up how
you are a resident in North Bristol, you can access Southmead
Cllr Ian Scott
an
Hospital.
Also in this week’s issue
Two men taken to hospital after gang attack in Keynsham . . . page 3
alternative
minor
Continued on page 2
Kingswood residents say trees are damaging their homes . . . page 5
Halloween trails in Hanham & Staple Hill . . . page 7
Councils criticised over clashing roadworks . . . page 10
Fight for urgent treatment centre for East Bristol area gathers pace Continued from page 1
of where this urgent treatment centre ends up
relevant stakeholders.
In particular the councillors want to know:
level of service. In fact they feel they are
in the future - if we are to get one - it might
It found a lack of data in the evidence that
• Current population needs and the people not
getting a second-class service. And I also
not necessarily be at Cossham. It could be at
was given by the ICB, including that the
able to access urgent care.
think
Frenchay or there might be another site that
views of the 5,000 people who signed the
• Inequalities in access to, and use of,
improvements at Yate, it’s not as good as
can
petition were not properly taken into account.
services, as well as outcomes.
South Bristol.”
Gloucestershire.”
Cllr Scott said that back in 2008, Frenchay
Cossham is already a base for Severnside
Recommendations
was recognised as needing an MIU as well as
Integrated Urgent Care which combines NHS
The report also highlights a history of not
needed for a UTC.
Cossham. He recognised that things had
111 and the out-of-hours GP service.
delivering on earlier plans and that no
• The budget and workforce available for
moved on, saying: “My understanding is that
The report was produced by a sub-committee
detailed consideration had been given to
urgent care provision.
great things are going on at Cossham. There
following evidence taken earlier this year
assessing whether the distance patients may
Another recommendation is that work carried
is further expansion at Cossham so in terms
from the ICB, members of the public and
have to travel to access healthcare - and the
out by the independent Healthwatch group is
associated costs - was a barrier leading to
actively considered and assessed by the ICB.
greater health inequality.
It was highlighted in the report that
that
while
there
have
been
serve
East
Bristol
and
South
• The criteria for determining urgent care
Health inequalities
2
Although
sub-committee
services, including the size of population
members
Healthwatch was delivering valuable work,
understood that remote assessment would
but a “lack of action” followed.
benefit some patients, they voiced concern
Mr Devlin, who was at Tuesday’s meeting,
higher than the South Gloucestershire
about the impact on older and more
said he would respond fully toGarry the report and Stroud
rates of death from preventable diseases are
average.
vulnerable people and those who may be
recommendations within 28 days and gave a
higher than average.
There was anger when the Cossham petition
‘digitally excluded’.
commitment to work with the council to
In Kingswood 19.9% of people are disabled,
was rejected by the Clinical Commissioning
The report’s recommendations, which have
“really understand” what need looks like
higher than the South Gloucestershire average
Group’s governing body last April without
been sent to Shane Devlin, include that an
now.
of 15.6%.
debate and without the competition of a health
assessment of current service provision in
The chief executive said the report refers to
Kingswood has the second highest proportion
inequalities
South Gloucestershire is undertaken and
urgent care and population need, “which is
of people in South Gloucestershire who state
equalities impact assessment.
compared to forecast need, with data to
obviously very important”, but added. “We
their ‘day-to-day activities are limited a lot’
The group said such assessments weren’t
identify both the type and location of future
should look at the population need in the
(10.2%). A significant percentage of the
required when receiving a petition.
healthcare provision.
totality for health and social care.”
The Kingswood area has a lower life
Kingswood population is aged over 65 - and
expectancy
South
the percentage aged over 75 is significantly
Gloucestershire and England averages, and
than
both
the
impact
assessment
or
an
The Week in • Wednesday 25th October 2023
Two men taken to hospital after attack by gang of youths Two men were taken to hospital after being physically assaulted by a group of masked youths in Keynsham town centre on Friday. Avon & Somerset Police released a statement about the incident the following day, saying enquiries were taking place following an incident of “disorder”. “Officers were called the High Street area at just after 5.30pm and found two men who had sustained injuries after being physically assaulted by a number of youths. “Some of the offenders are said to have arrived on foot, others on an e-scooter and a bike. They were said to be wearing face coverings, including helmets or balaclavas. “Both victims went to hospital with injuries
that are not considered to be life-threatening. “CCTV enquiries are being carried out and we'd ask any witnesses, or motorists with dashcam, who have not yet come forward to please call 101 and quote reference number 5223256991.” According to reports on social media the attack happened outside The Card Factory. We have carried several reports of anti-social behaviour in the town centre in recent months and the efforts to get to grips with the issue. Keynsham Town Council announced at the end of September that it was working in close partnership with local community organisations and individuals to try to resolve the issue and the police have pledged more foot patrols.
Council goes down compulsory purchase route to finish path Compulsory purchase proceedings have begun to ensure that the missing link of the new Pucklechurch walking and cycling path can be completed. Once finished, the shared use path will provide a direct route linking Pucklechurch with Emersons Green and beyond. Negotiation between South Gloucestershire Council and different landowners was required to deliver the path along the B4465 Shortwood Road. The council has said that talks have progressed at different rates, so it was decided to begin construction where agreement had already been reached with the relevant landowners. But with one section still to be done because of a legal hold-up, work has been halted since mid-summer. In response to a written question from ward councillor Ben Stokes at last week’s council meeting about when the path will be finished, the Cabinet member responsible for planning, regeneration and infrastructure, Chris Willmore, said
Keynsham High Street
Spate of bin arsons The Longwell Green neighbourhood police
lot of resources and urge people to report such
team have had reports that a number of youths
incidents as well as other incidents of anti-
are setting fire to bins in the area.
social behaviour on either 999 if an
The police say this type of nuisance causes a
emergency or 101.
The path has a missing link
that officers have reached a point where they are unable to complete the final part until negotiations with the landowner are completed, or a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) process is undertaken. She added: “CPO procedures have been commenced. The final phase continues to depend on resolving those land negotiations. It would not be appropriate to comment on those negotiations in public.” A landmark oak tree, believed to be 300 years old, was felled earlier this year as it was in the way of the new path.
The Week in • Wednesday 25th October 2023
3
Town council backs pump track plan for Keynsham The town council has given its backing to the idea of a pump track for Keynsham. Pump tracks offer a safe space for all ages and abilities to enjoy activities including BMX bikes, scooters, skateboards and rollerblades. Last week Matthew Jones, from the group Pump Track for Keynsham, put their outline proposals to the town council to be considered as part of planned improvements to Keynsham Park which includes the areas known as Keynsham Memorial Park, Abbey Park and Chew Park. The group say they are open to looking at any site available in Keynsham but that as a starter the space next to the skatepark in Memorial Park would be an obvious first choice to investigate. The town council agreed to support in principle the idea of a pump track for the town, with various sites to be considered. Councillors will also arrange a visit to the
Temple Cloud Pump Track. There was some debate on social media last week about the proposals, with support being voiced for a pump track for Keynsham but not necessarily in the park. One person commented: “Already enough green space has been lost in and around Keynsham and I feel that with the added loss of space for the new transport hub in the park, to then take more for a pump track when we already have a skatepark would just be too much.” Another commented: “I think a pump track would be brilliant for the kids to have something to do, as can be seen by the existing skatepark which is in constant use.” Matthew Jones said: “We presented at the town council and received unanimous support to take our project forward to understand viability and options and find a potential site in Keynsham.
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.
The current skatepark
“This is great news and we will now make a project plan and work alongside the
councillors who kindly volunteered to work with us.”
Shoplifting crackdown Recent action days by the Kingswood neighbourhood police team saw them catch a number of “prolific” shoplifters.
The police say that in the lead-up to Christmas there will be more days like this to crack down on shop theft.
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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The Week in • Wednesday 25th October 2023
‘Trees are damaging our homes and we live in darkness’ A 160-name petition to South Gloucestershire Council highlights the damage that neglected trees are causing to homes in the Woodstock area of Kingswood. Cllr Alison Evans handed in the petition - signed by residents from Bredon Close, Courtney Road, Brake Close, Langford Way and Somerton Way – to last week’s full council meeting and two residents spoke on behalf of those affected. The petition says: “We wish to inform the council of the poor state of maintenance of the trees in the Woodstock area. We would be grateful if a member of the maintenance team could meet with some of the residents so we can walk the area and understand the reasons why the trees have become so large and in places touching houses and covering street lights. “We would also like to know if the council’s insurance would be valid if properties were damaged by the trees.” One of the residents, Jan, said: “Some of us have lived on this estate since it was first built. It was lovely with the trees round. They were well looked after and pruned back when they had grown too big for the places they were planted. Now it’s like we live in the middle of a forest. The trees have been
Landfill site plant approved
left to grow over years of neglect. Some of us live in darkness, no sunlight in our homes, and needing light and heating on a lot of the time. “The damage some of these trees have done and are continuing to do is immense, breaking up patios and paths, blocking drains and causing subsidence. Telling us to go to our insurance companies is not right or fair. We didn’t plant these trees. We didn’t neglect these trees, so why should we be responsible for them.” Another resident, Vijay, told the meeting he had lived in his home for 25 years and had watched a very beautiful tree become a “nightmare”. He said that when he had contacted the council and mentioned cracking in his property and foundation damage, he was told to contact his insurance company. He said the tree is only 6ft away from his property: “The branches hit our roof sometimes. I’ve cut away a few myself but I’m getting to the age where I can’t risk getting up a ladder.” He said he was finding it hard to come home from work every day and for safety reasons having to clear the garden of leaves. The petition was referred to the council’s executive member responsible for communities and local place, Cllr Leigh Ingham. Our pictures show some of the trees that are close to or
touching properties in the streets affected. A council spokesperson said: “The petition has been processed and will be passed on to the appropriate council teams.”
South Gloucestershire Council has approved a treatment tank at the Shortwood Quarry landfill site at Cattybrook Road to manage leachate. The site, run by Enovert, stopped taking waste in July 2021 and the capping of the site is now at an advanced stage. However, the production of leachate through the natural degradation of waste is expected to continue for many years. Until now it has been managed by recirculation within the landfill, with excess discharged to the foul sewer under consent by Wessex Water. However, due to constraints on the sewer network and having reviewed what is being, it is considered that the most effective and sustainable way to manage it is via a dedicated management plant.
The Week in • Wednesday 25th October 2023
5
Taking the budget debate into communities South Gloucestershire councillors and staff will be going out into the community to hear people’s views on its budget proposals. ‘Community Conversations’ is a new approach to public consultation. In addition to an improved online presentation of budget information, the council says it is committed to providing in-person opportunities for residents to speak to officers and elected
members who will be visiting different types of venue as part of the consultation process, including shopping centre, libraries, and even pubs and cafés. The council says it is facing the prospect of making “incredibly difficult decisions” that will affect the services it can deliver and, in some cases, will need to increase or introduce charges for some things. The outline budget is based on raising
council tax by 4.99%, which equates to a £1.82 per week increase for a Band D property. This is the highest increase possible under current Government rules, but below inflation and it will not by itself allow the council to keep up with rising costs. Co-leaders Cllr Claire Young and Cllr Ian Boulton say any increase in costs passed on to residents is regrettable during the cost-of-
living crisis. They have written to the Secretary of State for Local Government and the Chancellor to demand more support for local services in this year’s Autumn Statement. The consultation runs until 8th December. Feedback will be considered before a budget is finalised in February. To find out more visit www.southglos.gov.uk/south-glos-budget2024
Cuts in library service to save £473k a year A consultation has been launched asking people for their views on the best way to minimise the impact of cuts to the library service in South Gloucestershire. Savings agreed as part of last year’s budget include reductions in spending on the service to make an annual saving of £473,000. The proposals would reduce staffed library opening hours from 351 to 285, a reduction of 19%, with more hours covered by Open Access, which allows users over the age of 16 and those who are younger and accompanied by an adult to use their local library when there are no staff on duty.
It is also proposed to remove staffed access over lunch time in eight of the 12 libraries Cadbury Heath, Downend, Hanham, Kingswood, Staple Hill, Winterbourne, Filton and Patchway. Staffed hours would end in all libraries at 5pm. There would be a further one day reduction in staffed access at Cadbury Heath, Patchway and Winterbourne libraries. To minimise the impact of reduced staffed hours, they would be prioritised to cover the locations and times when libraries are most well used. Savings are also being proposed by reducing
back-office and management costs of the service and stopping some of the least-used community collection services.
Have your say at www.southglos.gov.uk/librarysavingsconsultation
Staple Hill is one of the libraries where reduced staffed hours are proposed
Plans to dim all street lights There are plans to dim street lights across South Gloucestershire to 25% capacity and people are being told to visit trial areas after midnight for a “realistic view” of what it would be like. The council has been trialling dimmed lights since January in some parts of Thornbury and is now proposing to push the change out across all street lights in the district. The council says: “Such a measure would support our green commitments and help us address the financial challenges we face - we estimate that once fully implemented, each year, this proposal would reduce our carbon emissions by a further 15% and reduce our spend on energy by £200,000 per year.” Street lights have been programmed to dim to 25% late at night throughout the 12week consultation period at trial sites
6
include the High Street and around Page Park in Staple Hill; High Street, Blackhorse Road, Cecil Road and South Road in Kingswood; and some roads in Filton, Winterbourne and Patchway. The council says there is no evidence suggesting a direct link between dimming lights and crime: “However, we recognise that some people, especially women and people from some minority groups who have historically been at greater risk of being targeted by anti-social behaviour, will have concerns. With partner organisations, we will continue to assess location-based evidence and work together to reinforce messaging which reduces fear of crime.” The lights would be updated over a twoyear period, starting from next April. Have your say at https://streetlight.commonplace.is/
The Week in • Wednesday 25th October 2023
Bikes stolen from shed Three youths were seen on CCTV breaking into a garden shed in Rock Road in Keynsham between 3.45am and 4.20am on Tuesday 17th October. After cutting the padlock from the door, the offenders stole two bikes - a grey Cube Nature electric bike, which has blue writing, and a black Giant Revolt manual pushbike with green writing. If you have any information about this incident call 101, giving reference number 5223253279. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Halloween trail ‘bigger and better’ The Halloween Trail is one of the annual highlights on
which Nicola Bartlett has turned into a haunted mansion.
Hanham High Street, bringing the community together
The event is sponsored by Tollgate Hire and Jemima’s Beauty
with visitors discovering new businesses.
who cover the printing costs of the trail maps, certificates and
It began on Monday and runs until Tuesday 31st October. It’s
small prizes.
free for families to take part and they need to collect a map from Eclectic Gift Shop between 10am and 4pm Monday to Saturday and enjoy a circular route of the High Street looking
Vans targeted
for the Halloween displays.
Someone stole a white Ford Transit from Lays Drive in Keynsham between 4.30pm on Wednesday 11th October and 7.30am the next day. The vehicle has since been found but all the tools inside had been stolen. The crime reference number is 5223249054. And a van window was smashed while it was parked on St Ladoc Road in Keynsham at approximately 11.15am on Saturday 14th October. Nothing was stolen so it is possible that the offender was disturbed. The reference number for this crime is 5223251263. If you have any information regarding these incidents, especially CCTV images, call 101. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
with some of the community involved in making some of the
The Week in • Wednesday 25th October 2023
The organisers say the trail is “bigger and better than ever”, Halloween displays or donating items such as a dolls’ house
Spooky half-term fun There is a Halloween trail along High Street and Broad Street in Staple Hill over the half term break with families invited to search for spooky items and collect sweets along the way. The trail runs until 31st October and is free to enter. Entry sheets can be collected from Platinum Petcare, Nom Wholefoods and Sweet Treats. Participants can enter into a prize draw to win a hamper of treats donated by local businesses.
Nicola Bartlett with the haunted mansion
7
LETTERS New administration must reject parking charges
numerous times before.
available for the fourth Monday of the month
the past year lost someone close to them.
Cllr Sam Bromiley, Leader of the Conservative
primarily, between 2pm and 4pm, and may be
Successful candidates will be able to attend a
Group on South Gloucestershire Council
asked to help on the first Wednesday of the month
training course with the other current volunteers
between 5.30pm and 7pm.
at Saltford Golf Club on 9th November. Anyone
Applicants will need to be mature and have a
interested should send a brief but pertinent CV to
good level of interpersonal skills and life
bereavementkeynsham@gmail.com
Dear Editor During May’s local election campaign, both keep car parking free in all council-owned car
More praise for uplifting brass band Dear Editor
experience, as well as being a good listener.
Anyone interested in discussing the role before
parks in South Gloucestershire. The pledge was
applying can contact 07776 493221.
contained in both parties’ manifestos, which can
I'd like to add to Ann Lovell's letter, published last
Someone who has a caring background and face-
week, about her delight at listening to the
to-face contact with the public would be a positive
Alan Hale
still be read online.
Coordinator, Bereavement Support
It’s therefore extremely disappointing to learn that
Salvation
advantage. We do not provide a counselling role
contribution to the community in Kingswood.
and advise against a person applying who has in
Keynsham
the Lib Dem-Labour coalition that now runs the council will next year introduce car parking
I too went through exactly the same experience
charges at car parks right across the district.
on an impromptu hearing of them in Staple Hill
It’s even more disappointing to hear that the
where they performed an indoor concert entitled
coalition is blaming the previous Conservative
‘Come as you are’. I went along in my relaxed
administration for introducing these charges.
mode of dress and was so enlightened by their
Let me take this opportunity to set the record
expertise, accompanied by songsters and with a
straight once and for all: this claim is completely
touch of light, un-opposing, calming religion.
and utterly untrue. The Conservative Group has
This remarkable group also perform on the
never attempted, nor even desired, to introduce
stadium in Page Park now and again.
parking charges.
It makes such a change to talk of the good things
The budget approved by the council in February
in life instead of all the stuff being put forward
did not seek to introduce car parking charges in
about the uneasy High Street complications in our
South Gloucestershire. Instead, what it did was
beloved old Keynsham.
ask officers to look at some potential options for
Honor Bane
raising revenue. Naturally, these options were not
Downend resident
known at the time because the feasibility work
Formerly of Rivermead House, Keynsham
Labour and the Liberal Democrats promised to
had not yet been undertaken.
Army
Brass
Band's
uplifting
by officers, the introduction of parking charges
Could you volunteer for bereavement support?
was presented as a possibility. But members of the
Dear Editor
current administration are entirely free to accept
Bereavement Support Keynsham (BSK), which
or reject this proposal. All budget proposals that
was established in early 2022, has proved to be a
are taken forward are done so at the consent of the
much-needed
administration, and its current members may act
bereavement. A result has been that BSK is now
as they see fit.
looking to recruit a few more volunteers.
When in previous years the introduction of
The nature of the role is to provide an empathetic
parking charges has been presented as a potential
ear to those (whom BSK is pleased to call guests)
revenue raising scheme, the Conservative Group
are suffering bereavement and to engage them in
has always rejected it. The coalition should reject
conversation or be supportive in whatever way
it this year too.
necessary.
We believe, and have always believed, that car
BSK volunteers have to exercise confidentiality,
parking charges are bad for residents, bad for
be non-judgemental and understand that BSK is
businesses and bad for our high streets.
an inclusive group which welcomes diversity.
Car parking charges do not need to be introduced
Though ‘drop-in’ sessions are held in the Baptist
in South Gloucestershire, and we urge the
Church Hall on High Street, there is no religious
coalition to reject them as we have done
affiliation. The volunteers will need to be
In August, following a study of potential schemes
8
service
for
those
Staff’s cycle challenge raises over £4,200 for charity Staff at Keystone Bathrooms in Warmley took on the challenge of cycling the equivalent of Land’s End to John O’Groats on four static bikes to raise funds for their adopted charity Warmley Wheelers. The bike project, which is located next to the Bristol & Bath Railway Path at Warmley, provides cycling opportunities for people with heath conditions, supported needs and physical disabilities. A total of 18 staff took part and achieved the distance in 23.30 hours. They far exceeded their £2,500 target with the final total being £4,235. Keystone manager Dale Gregor said:
“All the staff were keen to take on this challenge as we have been associated with Warmley Wheelers for over three years and totally support the great work they do. It has been a great team builder.” The photo shows Keystone staff outside their Crown Way premises along with Andy Underdown, the programme coordinator of Warmley Wheelers (pictured on the far left), who said: “We have been truly humbled by this great effort by the staff of Keystone Bathrooms and this reflects the amazing support we have from our local business community.”
suffering
The Week in • Wednesday 25th October 2023
Fight to make Keynsham High Street safer continues Despite a setback which caused them to withdraw a
alternative styles of kerb are concerned, as well as from the
regarding the continuing casualties.”
motion at the last meeting of Bath & North East Somerset
Royal National Institute of Blind People and Sustrans (the
The councillors were this week still awaiting the sight of the
Council regarding casualties on Keynsham High Street,
charity which works to improve everyday journeys for
road safety audit that it was promised would be available
a cross-party group of district councillors are continuing
everyone).”
mid-September.
their fight to make changes.
Cllr David Biddleston (Labour) said: “The strength of feeling
They encourage anyone who has suffered a fall on the High
The design of the High Street cycle lane, which opened in
and concern within the local community has been
Street to ensure that they report it on the ‘Fix My Street’ page
March 2022, has resulted in a list approaching 100 casualties,
demonstrated by some 500 members of the public who have
of the B&NES Council’s website.
with more than 60 officially recorded with the council.
so far signed the petition asking for a resolution to the
The six councillors have been holding meetings to compile a
ongoing number of casualties.”
report to go to the Lib Dem-controlled authority, seeking a
Conservative councillor Alan Hale said: “It was only after
change to the layout to make it safer for pedestrians and as a
much consideration that we agreed to withdraw the motion
precursor to a motion for a future council meeting.
at the last council meeting. It was done because an
Lib Dem councillor Hal MacFie said: “As a group
amendment was being suggested by the Cabinet which would
representing the town we cannot stand idly by whilst
have quashed our motion and closed down any further action
members of our community continue to suffer serious
for six months. We are hopeful that working cross-party will
injuries. We are taking advice from professionals as far as
demonstrate the strength of feeling and concern in Keynsham
Seeking a resolution: from left, George Leach, Hal MacFie, Alan Hale, David Biddleston, Alex Beaumont & Andy Wait
Sudoku 1-Easy
SUNDAY CHEMISTS Sunday 29th October
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 25th October 2023
9
Formal complaint about consultation Saltford Parish Council has made a formal complaint to the West of England Combined Authority (WECA) about the recent A4 Bath to Bristol consultation. The council says the consultation website was difficult for users to navigate and that relevant information for Saltford was hard to find or not correctly linked. It adds that wording in the online survey “pushed responses in a specific and deliberate direction to generate a desired result in favour of WECA proposals”. The complaint also highlights that WECA added new and more detailed information almost four weeks after the consultation opened on 21st August, and after the council and others had already submitted their responses. The council is also concerned that WECA discouraged responses to be submitted by email or in writing, and that not having an adequate number of staff at the dropin event in Saltford (despite awareness that high numbers were expected) prevented some residents from raising objections about the proposals. The council also says there was a data breach of Saltford residents’ personal information at the drop-in event. The council urged WECA to conduct the follow-up consultation next year in a “fair and appropriate manner”, and to set out clearly from the start all the information.
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Councils criticised over roadworks scheduling Both South Gloucestershire Council and Bath & North East Somerset Council have come in for criticism for their scheduling of roadworks this week. In South Gloucestershire, where a major route is already closed, emergency work to repair a fault on the Hambrook lights on the A4174 Ring Road began on Monday and was set to last four days. With the lights switched off, there has been no right turn out of Bristol Road. As part of the diversion all traffic is having to turn left and go around the Bromley Heath roundabout. The council has apologised for any delays, saying the work has been scheduled to coincide with half term when there is less traffic but has nonetheless been criticised on social media as Beckspool Road at Frenchay has also been closed since Monday for work to extend traffic calming measures. Next week further works will be carried out but the road will not need to be closed. Down Road at Winterbourne is also closed for five days this week at Damsons Bridge for work to improve access for people in wheelchairs to get across the bridge. The council says the improvements have been brought forward following concerns from local mobility-impaired residents and to coincide with
including on Bristol Road, Chandag Road, Charlton Road, High
quieter roads during half term.
Street and the Keynsham bypass.
The A432 Badminton Road remains closed because of the
Cllr Hale said: “This level of intrusion to the free running of
defects that were discovered over the summer on the M4
traffic in and around the town is absolutely ridiculous. A town
overbridge. A free shuttle bus is operating to help fill the
that already has an inadequate infrastructure for the level of
transport gap there.
housing we have with no promise of any improvement, but no
Meanwhile in B&NES, a Keynsham councillor has flagged up
doubt there will be the threat of further development to ensure
concerns about the planning of roadworks around the town. Cllr
that the town becomes gridlocked more frequently.”
Alan Hale contacted the council’s street works team last week,
In response, the department’s principal engineer said it is a
asking whether the authority has any control over the schedule.
“challenging task” to coordinate roadworks but care is taken to
Prompting his concern was a spate of projects over recent days
anticipate potential disruptions and prevent major overlaps.
Crossword ACROSS
DOWN
1. Small skewer (9)
2. Hair curler (6)
9. Infuse (6)
3. Biscuit (6)
10. As well (4)
4. Mass flight (6)
11. Ended (4)
5. Bound (4)
12. Give (6)
6. On the way (2,5)
13. Grave (7)
7. Sicilian volcano (4)
16. Faithful (4)
8. Ship's flag (4,5)
17. Close (4)
13. Metallic element (9)
18. Bishop's diocese (3)
14. Govern (4)
20. Mineral (3)
18. Legal action (4)
21. Bard (4)
19. Splash (7)
23. Morass (4)
22. Dozen (6)
25. Jumper (7)
23. Feeding trough (6)
26. Pantihose (6)
24. Take away (6)
29. Labour (4)
27. Blast of wind (4)
30. Virtuous (4)
28. Painful (4)
15. Footwear (5)
31. Irish province (6) 32. Practised (9)
10
The Week in • Wednesday 25th October 2023
A visit to lovely Ludlow We spent a couple of days in Ludlow last
Arthur died in 1502 at Ludlow Castle at the
month. This small Shropshire town on the
age of 15 years and seven months. In 1492
border of Wales and England is in an area
he had become Prince of Wales and heir to
of picturesque and pastoral beauty.
the throne.
We arrived at our accommodation mid-
In 1501 the young Arthur married Catherine
afternoon and were struck by its proximity to
of Aragon in Spain. They travelled to Ludlow
the centre of Ludlow. Our balcony jutted out
Castle the following January and on 2nd
from the old stone-built hotel abutting the
April he died of “sweating sickness”. His
River Teme. To our right, the 15th century
heart was buried at St Laurence Church and
Ludford Bridge forded the mossy and
three weeks later his body was taken to
shallow river, home to mallards, kingfishers
Worcester Cathedral and entombed there. In
and egrets, and a calming balm on a hot,
1509 Henry VIII became King and six weeks
sticky day.
later married his brother’s widow.
Settling into our temporary home, separating
A little further along the narrow alleyway
the ancient village of Ludford from Ludlow,
where St Laurence Church is situated is a
we looked across the bridge and up towards
small but atmospheric garden. It is called the
the town. We had come to see Ludlow Castle,
Jubilee Garden and had been for a long time
originally built after the Norman Invasion of
an isolated piece of waste land. However,
England in the 11th century.
adjacent to it is the Medieval Reader’s
Our first evening’s stroll was up Broad
House, a listed building whose timber beams
Street. We passed Tudor beamed buildings
and Tudor architecture provide a striking
and old stone cottages with floral displays in
backdrop for the much newer Jubilee
pots enhancing the small gardens fronting the
Garden.
steep, wide hill. Ludlow town is set out in an
In 2016 developers applied for planning
ancient grid system with narrow alleyways
permission to build five executive houses on
leading outwards. These are filled with little
this plot of land.
shops and businesses and a plethora of old
horrified and opposed the plan which was
coaching inns, now serving tourists as hotels
eventually rejected. This crisis led to an idea
and pubs.
by Ludlow Civic Society to benefit local
On one of these little streets is 11th century
residents
St Laurence Church. Its tower dominates the
contemplation and solitude. The garden is in
and
Local residents were
produce
an
area
of
town and can be seen for miles around. It has
the shadow of St Laurence's tower and has
the distinction that it is where the funeral
seating strategically placed around it. When
service for Arthur Tudor, Henry VII’s eldest
we were there trailing roses, hollyhocks and
son took place. Arthur was Henry VIII's older
peonies made an uplifting display of late
brother and was destined to become King
summer colour.
upon the death of his father. Unfortunately,
On the final day we headed for Stokesay
Tudor buildings in Broad Street, Ludlow
Castle, about eight miles north of Ludlow
about the castle’s time during the English
and run by English Heritage. Although the
Civil War and its extensive history since then.
castle is more of a ruin, there is much of
However, it just so happened that the day we
interest to fire the imagination and remind us
visited, the castle was preparing for the
of medieval knights, the poverty of peasants
annual food festival that was to run later in
and comfort of kings.
the week. Nevertheless, as luck would have
The great hall is mostly intact. Its soaring
it, just as a delivery lorry left the castle, I
curved roof beams denote its importance as
managed to take a snapshot before the
a centre of social and political power. It was
mighty castle gates closed. I almost felt as if
built by Laurence of Ludlow, a very
I’d stormed the place myself!
important wool merchant and royal adviser,
The Shropshire countryside with its Welsh
around 1294. The gate house is also striking.
Marches and intriguing tales, is a place I will
It is painted bright yellow with Tudor beams
visit again and next time check the opening
and opens onto a green space that faces the
times for its most famous attraction!.
great hall. The top of the castle tower can be
Christine Rogers
negotiated by a series of ancient stone steps; however, I appreciated its beauty from
Stokesay Castle
a distance! Having experienced a world that existed many years ago we were quite happy to wend our way to the Stokesay Castle
coffee
shop
and
delight in the tea and cakes on offer. We then intended to visit Ludlow Castle, the most important border fortification along the Welsh Marches. It was here between 1473 and 1483 that Prince Edward (one of the Princes in the Tower) spent some of his childhood years. I was also keen to hear The Week in • Wednesday 25th October 2023
Ludlow Castle
11
Council issues statement on conflict in Israel and Palestine A statement has been issued by the leaders of the three political parties on South Gloucestershire Council about the conflict in Israel and Palestine. Lib Dem leader Cllr Claire Young, Labour leader Cllr Ian Boulton and Conservative group leader Sam Bromiley said: “Our hearts go out to all who are suffering in Israel and Palestine, and we grieve for the loss of innocent life. “We stand in solidarity with everyone in South Gloucestershire who has been affected by events in Israel and Palestine. Our thoughts are with all those who fear for the safety of their loved ones or grieve for those lost. “We condemn unequivocally Hamas’ terrorist attack. Their
actions have set back the cause of peace and resulted in terrible suffering for innocent civilians. We echo demands for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages. “We recognise that both Israelis and Palestinians are suffering as a result of Hamas’ actions. Hamas terrorists are not the same as the Palestinian people. It is vital that while terrorists are targeted, civilians are protected, and that vital supplies are able to enter Gaza, in line with international law. “We must not allow these tragic events to divide our communities here in South Gloucestershire.
“We are deeply saddened to see the increase in antisemitic and Islamophobic incidents in this country following this awful violence. While we are pleased that there have not been any reported incidents of this nature in South Gloucestershire, we must of course remain vigilant. Lasting peace can only be achieved by bringing people together and rejecting division. “We call on the UK government to do all that it can to support our citizens who are affected by this violence and to help bring about peace in the region.”
Situations Vacant
From left, Conservative group leader Sam Bromiley, Lib Dem leader Cllr Claire Young & Labour leader Cllr Ian Boulton
12
The Week in • Wednesday 25th October 2023
The Community Page
Keynsham Town Council Festive fun for little ones After the success of last year’s Christmas tree trail, Keynsham Town Council will once again be bringing a festive trail to High Street, Temple Street and Market Walk. To coincide with the Winter Festival theme of ‘Let it Snow’ the trail will feature snowman in 12 local shop windows. Many thanks to Keynsham Mencap for decorating the snowmen so beautifully. Collect all the letters on each of the snowmen and receive a stamp from each business to complete your trail. Bring the trail passports to our offices. The trail opens on Friday 17th November with final trails accepted on Friday 8th December at 5pm. Don’t forget to tag us in on our Instagram account @keynsham_town_council searching for the snowman.
Christmas jumper swap Keynsham Town Council is encouraging people to
“We thought the Christmas Jumper Swap might be
swap their pre-loved Christmas jumper. Simply
especially good for parents of young children who
bring in your pre-loved jumper to our offices (15-
grow out of their clothes so quickly,” said Katherine
17 Temple Street), or the drop-off point at
Sears, Deputy Town Clerk. “Instead of buying a
Keynsham Leisure Centre, or directly to one of our
brand new Christmas jumper each year, they can
upcoming Swap Days.
simply swap over for a bigger size.”
Kicking off the festive season Keynsham Town Council is excited to share
brand new location on Temple Street and for
details of the Winter Festival on Friday 24th
anyone looking to have photos printed on the
November. Keep an eye on our Facebook and
night Keynsham Photo Centre is open late for all
Instagram pages as well as in the free official
those who want to print out their festive
programme which will be in High Street shops
memories. Frozen Princess look-a-likes Elsa and
from early November.
Anna will be outside St John’s Church on the
Katherine Sears, Deputy Town Clerk and lead
night for photo opportunities.
festival organiser, says: “We know people want
A reminder that there will be street closures on
to revisit old favourites, but each year we also like
the afternoon and evening. From 3.30pm to
to add a little new Christmas magic into the
10pm, the road closure includes part of Charlton
festival.”
Road from the Tesco mini roundabout to the High
Celebrations officially start with a procession
Street, the whole of High Street and part of
leaving from Memorial Park gates at 6.15pm and
Temple Street from Iceland to Carpenters Lane.
heading along High Street to the Main Stage
Exit from the Tesco car park on to Charlton Road
opposite St John’s Church. People can enjoy late-
will be right-hand turn only during the road
night Christmas shopping with local businesses
closure. There will be a short closure of Bath
as well as a variety of market stalls along High
Hill/Temple Street to allow the procession from
Street, Temple Street, Market Walk, Keynsham
Keynsham Memorial Park gates up to the
Leisure Centre and in Fear Hall.
junction with High Street. Traffic will be
There will be street entertainers along the High
controlled by stop/go board operators between
Street and a pop-up performance space outside
Bath Hill Roundabout and the lights at the
the library for community groups and local
pedestrian crossing on Rock Road. If passing
choirs. The Space above the library will feature
through the town, please use the diversion routes
local schools and performers singing and dancing
that will be in operation. As part of the road
whilst downstairs there will be a Punch & Judy
closures, parking suspensions are also in effect in
puppet show. The fun fair will also returns to
these areas so cars must be removed by 3.30pm
Temple Street with a Ferris wheel, helter-skelter,
on 24th November.
thrill ride and other amusements.
Parking suspensions will also be in place from the
New for 2023. Keynsham Leisure Centre is going
day before in front of Southside Block, Temple
to host market stalls, a toy tombola and our free
Street, the side loading bay between the library
face painters. The soft play area will be open until
and the old fire station and the loading bay in
8pm. There will be an official Santa’s Grotto in a
front of Sainsbury’s.
Celebrating sustainable living The free Keynsham Re-loved community event took place last Sunday. Brought together through a partnership between Keynsham Eco Festival Keynsham Town Council and Keynsham Cultural Programme, we hope it demonstrates the value in looking at fashion, homeware and lifestyle items in a different and more sustainable way. “Sustainable fashion doesn’t have to be boring,” said Cllr Caitlin Brennan of Keynsham Town Council. “Sustainable living is about thinking in a creative way to take an item – clothing or furniture – and make it unique and totally suited to your own needs.” Working with local charity shops, Keynsham Re-loved’s main event at the Fear Hall was a high street fashion show featuring runway themes including Winter Wear, Winter Warmers, Green and Party Wear. Bristol-based sustainable stylist extraordinaire Becky Barnes compèred the event and aimed to shed some light on how we can shop well whilst still considering the environmental impact of our fashion choices. There was also a market of local retailers focused on sustainable products and practices. Thank you to all the models who volunteered their time, energy and enthusiasm.
The Week in • Wednesday 25th October 2023
13
Crossword Solution
Sudoku Solutions 1-Easy
2-Hard
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The Week in • Wednesday 25th October 2023