THE WEEK IN East Bristol & North East Somerset Issue 812
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20th December 2023
Read by more than 40,000 people each week
Cracked bridge over M4 to be demolished The cracked A432 bridge over the M4 near Emersons Green, which has been closed since the summer, is to be demolished and a new one built. Traffic disruption is set to last another two years. Defects were discovered on the overbridge and it is no longer deemed safe for traffic as movement would cause concrete to fall onto the motorway. It is safe for pedestrians and cyclists. National Highways has been carrying out detailed and specialist inspections and revealed on Friday that neither strengthening nor refurbishing work would provide a longterm solution. Both options would take a similar amount of time to complete as a full replacement but would only extend the bridge’s lifespan for a limited time. Instead, the Government-owned organisation is opting to
“We will continue to work with South Gloucestershire
said: “We are as disappointed as residents are to hear this
install a new bridge in the same position. Plans are under
Council to help manage the impact of the closure and to
news, although we recognise National Highways are
way for a new bridge which could be up to four metres
progress with the bridge replacement.”
acting as a matter of safety in the interest of all bridge and
wider, allowing for significantly wider footways and cycle
Demolition of the bridge is planned for summer/autumn
motorway users.
ways and possibly a bus lane.
2024. Due to timescales and costs, it is not possible to
“Our highways team is working closely with National
Sean Walsh, National Highways’ route manager, said:
install a temporary bridge during the works.
Highways and will continue to work to keep people
“Safety is our number one priority, and our extensive and
Prior to demolition, National Highways will need to divert
moving as freely as possible around the area and will
detailed investigations show that we now need to demolish
services embedded in the structure, including a water
endeavour to help fill any transport gaps where possible.”
and replace the bridge. As you will appreciate this is an
main, high voltage cables, fibre optics cables, and a gas
National Highways has been funding a shuttle bus
expensive complex process and we are working with
main. From next month activity will starting on site with
between Yate and the bridge since October and the council
partners to expedite the process as quickly as possible. We
ecological surveys and vegetation clearance to establish
says it will continue to discuss further mitigating factors
fully understand the disruption the closure has and will
works compounds. It is hoped construction of the new
to help residents who have had transport issues since the
cause, and thank people for their patience as we move this
bridge will be completed in 2025.
closure.
project forward as soon as possible.
South Gloucestershire Council’s leader Cllr Claire Young
Diversion routes continue to be fully signed.
Also in this week’s issue
Warning over TikTok fire-starter craze in Keynsham . . . page 3
Kingswood shop loses licence for selling counterfeit tobacco . . . page 5
Spotlight on fast-food restaurant issues in Longwell Green . . . page 6
Farewell after 16 years in print . . . page 7
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The Week in • Wednesday 20th December 2023
Consultation events on major housing proposals With public consultation now under way
Here are the dates:
Monday 29th January at Turnberries
on the draft South Gloucestershire Local
Tuesday 9th January at Hanham
Community Centre in Thornbury (4pm
Plan, there is a series of events residents
Community Centre (4pm - 7pm).
- 7pm).
can attend to find out more about how
Thursday 11th January at Tesco Extra Yate
Tuesday 30th January at Chipping
their area could be affected.
(9am - 5pm).
Sodbury Town Hall (4pm - 7pm).
The council believes at least 7,813 new
Friday 12th January at Charfield Hall
Online events will also take place on 10th
homes will need to be on greenfield land,
(4pm - 7pm).
and 15th January from noon to 2pm and
some of which is currently protected Green
Monday 15th January at Warmley
from 6.30pm to 8.30pm. Find out more at
Belt, including on the ‘east fringe’ of Bristol.
Community Centre (4.30pm - 7.30pm).
www.southglos.gov.uk/newlocalplan
Those sites include land at Shortwood; fields
Wednesday 17th January at Mangotsfield
This phase of consultation is open until 7th
north of the A420 at Warmley; farmland at
Football Club (4pm - 7pm).
February.
Barry Road in Oldland Common; a site next
Friday 19th January at Emersons Green
See Letters, page 8
to Mangotsfield School; and land north of
Village Hall (noon - 3pm).
Lyde Green. Housing is also proposed on
Monday 22nd January at Pucklechurch
three Green Belt sites in Hanham - 125
Community Centre (3.30pm – 6.30pm).
homes at Castle Farm Road (The Batch); 85
Tuesday 23rd January at Almondsbury
homes south of Abbots Road; and 60 homes
Old School Hall (4.30pm - 7.30pm).
on land at Castle Inn Farm. Redrow Homes
Wednesday 24th January at Easter
and Ashfield Land already have a speculative
Compton Village Hall (4pm - 7pm).
planning application lodged for the 20-acre
Thursday 25th January at Shortwood
Batch site.
Methodist Church (noon - 3pm).
Warning over TikTok firestarter craze in Keynsham
The Batch
Land north of Warmley is earmarked for housiing
A warning has gone out after reports of youngsters deliberately starting fires in Keynsham. Avon Fire & Rescue Service (AF&RS) is sharing key safety advice as videos appear
“If you are worried that someone you know
online of a dangerous new fire-setting
is setting fires, remove the resources they
trend. AF&RS says the videos, dubbed by
may need, in this particular case small
some as the ‘fire trend’, have been seen on
aerosol cans and toilet roll tubes.”
TikTok in recent weeks. Growing concerns
Anyone worried that their child has an
in the local community, specifically
unusual fascination with fire can contact
concerning secondary school pupils in the
fire.setters@avonfire.gov.uk
Keynsham area, have led to the fire service
Emily said: “We can talk you through how
highlighting the issue.
we are available to help you manage this
Emily Cook, youth intervention lead at
behaviour to prevent harm. My most
AF&RS, said: “We understand TikTok
important advice is before following a trend
trends are exciting and viral videos cause
think of the impact it could have if it goes
intrigue, but fire is always dangerous, and
wrong for reasons out of your control. As
we seriously encourage people to think
always if you do see a fire get out, stay out
twice as this trend can cause injuries to you
and call 999.”
and others around you that could last a
For more advice and information visit Avon
lifetime.
Fire & Rescue Service’s website.
3G pitch plan People are being asked to have their say on
In a statement they say: “We are in early
early proposals for a 3G pitch at Wellsway
consultation with Somerset FA as a
Sports Centre in Keynsham.
proposed site for a new 3G pitch as an
The sports centre is based at Wellsway
addition to the astro pitch and need to know
School at Chandag Road, which is part of
if you, your clubs, your associations, your
Futura Learning Partnership.
community groups, etc. would use it.”
The Week in • Wednesday 20th December 2023
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Dangerous driving investigation Police are investigating a collision near Warmley for which a man was arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving. At about 6.25am last Tuesday a collision involving two cars happened at the Deanery Road roundabout, where the A420 meets the A4174. The driver of one of the vehicles involved, a BMW, pulled up near the petrol station and got out of the
car. The driver of the second vehicle, a Fiesta, then collided with the parked BMW, causing damage. A 44-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving and driving while unfit through drugs and later released on bail so further enquiries could be carried out. Police ask anyone who saw either collision, or has footage, to call 101, quoting reference number 5223302729.
Major extension will see school’s intake double Plans for a major extension of St Keyna Primary School in Keynsham have been granted planning permission. The new facilities will see the Monmouth Road school becoming a two-form entry school, increasing its capacity to 420 pupils. The new two-storey building will contain six new classrooms, additional social dining space, additional special educational needs quiet rooms and an office. There will be new hard sports courts and a grass pitch. The existing car park will be extended. The building will be constructed to energy-efficient Passivhaus principles and standards.
THE WEEK IN Barrs Court, Bitton, Brislington, Cadbury Heath, Compton Dando, Corston, Downend, Emersons Green, Fishponds, Hanham, Hillfields, Keynsham, Kingswood, Longwell Green, Mangotsfield, Marksbury, North Common, Oldland Common, Pucklechurch, Saltford, Staple Hill, Stockwood, St George, Warmley, Whitchurch, Wick, Willsbridge. 16,000 copies are distributed through retail outlets, libraries, pubs, community centres each week. Verified pick-up rate of 97%.
The Week In Community Ltd, 8 Temple Court, Keynsham. BS31 1HA 0117 986 0381. www.theweekin.co.uk.
ISSN: 2052-9767
Publisher Editor Contributors
Stephen Rodgers admin@theweekin.co.uk Becky Feather 07403 273967 Christine Rogers
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Keep in touch, let us know what you think, send us your news www.facebook.com/theweekin The Week in • Wednesday 20th December 2023
Convenience shop is stripped of its licence A convenience shop in Kingswood has lost its premises licence after selling counterfeit tobacco products. The review of International Store’s premises licence was submitted on behalf of South Gloucestershire Council’s Trading Standards team, supported by the police. The council’s licensing sub-committee heard last week that the premises licence had been held since June 2022 by Jyar Ltd and the company’s director Tahsin Jasem had been the designated premises supervisor (DPS) responsible for selling alcohol since 11th September 2023. The previous DPS was removed in the summer and the premises licence suspended for two weeks after Trading Standards, backed by the police, called a review because illegal tobacco products were being sold, in some cases to
Tattoo studio approved A planning application to open a tattoo studio at a former Kingswood off licence has been approved. Black Diamond Tattoos Bristol Ltd applied to South Gloucestershire Council to change the use of the corner shop at 168 New Cheltenham Road. Council planners supported the proposal, saying it would not harm the parade of five units and would likely increase footfall to support the other traders. In June we reported that the off licence owner Michael Hutton had been stripped of his licence after a police raid found suspected cannabis disguised as sweets.
The Week in • Wednesday 20th December 2023
children, as well as complaints about underage alcohol sales. Last week the sub-committee said it was very concerned that almost immediately after the previous hearing, International Store had been found to be selling counterfeit cigarettes and tobacco and that a complaint had been made about cigarettes and vaping products being sold to a 16-yearold. The sub-committee also noted evidence provided by the police that the store was operating outside its licensable operating hours. Mr Jasem told the hearing that he had been struggling financially and that his family, particularly his mother, had been impacted by terrorist activities in the Middle East. He said he had never knowingly sold illicit tobacco products, nor would condone the sale of illicit tobacco or underage alcohol sales by his staff. He said he purchased his tobacco products from reputable suppliers but had previously purchased duty-free cigarettes when returning from Iraq. He apologised for selling these products on and said that he would never do that again. Mr Jasem considered that he was a fit and proper person to be a DPS and that he was fully aware of his responsibilities including operating within the licensable operating hours,
staff training, the operation of a CCTV system, and the implementation of Challenge 25 ID scheme within the store. But the sub-committee was very concerned by the history of illegal activity taking place at the shop, that Mr Jasem had failed to follow the guidance and advice given by the police and Trading Standards and had shown a lack of understanding regarding his responsibilities. To ensure the prevention of crime and disorder and the protection of children from harm, the sub-committee said it had no option but to revoke the premises licence and remove Mr Jasem as the DPS. He has 21 days from the decision date to appeal.
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‘Lessons need to be learned with more drive-thrus coming to Longwell Green’ Ongoing issues connected to the McDonald’s restaurant at Aspects Leisure Park at Longwell Green have been highlighted by increasingly concerned nearby residents. They fear there will be similar problems with traffic congestion and delivery riders and drivers at the three new drive-thru restaurants that have recently been granted permission at nearby Aldermoor Way. The residents say lessons need to be learned, with more joined-up thinking needed. Long queues of traffic waiting on Leisure Road to enter the single drive-thru lane to McDonald’s can create congestion that prevents other Aspects Leisure Park users from exiting the area. Dangerous parking and manoeuvring outside the entrance to McDonald’s car park and drive-thru occur regularly, with some vehicles parking on the zebra crossing zigzags. Other issues include the poor state of Leisure Road and litter and rats in the area. One resident told us: “The issues are very well known to McDonald’s, South Gloucestershire Council, and the police. It had been hoped that McDonald’s would act responsibly to help address them. However, despite submitting a planning application to add a second lane to their drive-thru entrance, and it being granted a year ago, it has still not been installed. “Large numbers of McDonald’s food takeaway riders/drivers also gather in various areas near McDonald’s to await food orders. That has led to considerable amounts of littering in such areas and them not worrying about obstructing other cycle path/pavement users. “McDonald’s have not been regularly picking up such litter
There will be more drive-thrus at Aldermoor Way when the area is redeveloped
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There is still only one drive-thru lane despite planning permission being granted a year ago for a second
and cigarettes, neither regularly emptying litter bins placed in such locations, as previously agreed with South Gloucestershire Council. “McDonald’s need a designated place on their own premises for the ever-increasing number of their food takeaway delivery riders, who currently wait on the A4174 Ring Road cycle path. After collecting food orders, the deliverers ride on pavements and race off while often looking at their phone for route maps and instructions. “Instead of addressing the known bad litter issues around McDonald’s and their waste storage compound issues, it was very sad to discover they had decided to cut down a stretch of mature hedgerow instead to try to address rat problems.” Leisure Road is in a poor state, with potholes and faded road markings, and there are concerns it could become more dangerous if street lighting is reduced in line with council plans. Residents also highlight the “dangerous” location of the zebra crossing just after a sharp bend as drivers exit the leisure park to join the ring road roundabout. The problem of inconsiderate parking and calls for double yellow lines on Leisure Road have been raised at local Community Engagement Forums run by the council over the last two years. Residents and the police have said at the meetings that there is a need for double yellow lines.
We put the concerns to South Gloucestershire Council and a spokesperson told us: “Officers from our highways and street enforcement teams have previously met with the management of McDonald’s at Aspects Leisure Park and the police, to discuss issues with access to the restaurant and litter. McDonald’s said they were intending to alter the entry and exit and review the car park access arrangements, as well as installing a new bin.
Mature hedging has been removed
“Any issues with riders parking on pavements, cycle paths and obstructing the public highway should be reported to the police. “Although we don’t have any personal injury accidents recorded at the zebra crossing at Leisure Way over the past five years, people can make suggestions for improvements to the management and safety of roads, footpaths and cycling routes via our local transport priority list. Leisure Road is a site we are aware of in terms of its condition, and it is on a list of sites that requires resurfacing.” The neighbourhood police told us that they had not received any calls in recent months in relation to the issues highlighted but that Police Community Support Officers have been working with McDonald’s management in relation to the delivery drivers, and this has seen a change in where they park so as to minimise disruption to the public. They added: “We are also aware McDonald’s themselves do conduct regular litter pick-ups to try and reduce the impact that this has on the immediate area around the restaurant.” Repeated requests to McDonald’s press office for a response to the concerns raised have not been answered. The Week in • Wednesday 20th December 2023
Farewell after 16 years in print So that’s it! 812 issues of The Week In and innings closed. I didn’t make the magical 1,000th edition. Mind you I would be well on the way to my 75th birthday if I did. Rupert Murdoch may still swap wives in his 90s, but then he doesn’t produce a local weekly newspaper! Next week is going to be strange. But then next week is
From the editor From the conversations I’ve had and the emails I have received in recent weeks, I know how much The Week In in print will be missed. My 10 years to date at The Week In have been the most enjoyable of my career. The hours can be long but it’s a sociable and deeply rewarding job, knowing that we make a real difference in local communities. Independent local journalism matters, now more than ever. We are proud to have provided reliable news and information week in, week out, to have held decisionmakers to account, supported campaigns and given our readers a voice. We are grateful for the support of everyone, including our advertisers, contacts, contributors and members of our community benefit society. And although this issue – No 812 – is our last, The Week In continues online. You will still be able to get all the news, views and information via our new and improved website – www.theweekin.co.uk - which will be updated daily. The Week In has always been a really effective platform for advertisers, and details of how to contact new sales manager Debbie Wylde are in the panel below. Please carry on letting me know about issues that matter to you, sharing your news and sending in your letters. And keep reading The Week In! I wish you all a merry Christmas and a happy new year. Finally, I thank all the wonderful colleagues I’ve worked with and wish Stephen a well-deserved retirement! Becky Feather
The Week in • Wednesday 20th December 2023
Christmas, and the first one in 16 years when I won’t have to rush back to work right afterwards to prepare the New Year edition of the paper. I won’t miss that. Nor will I miss the 5am alarm call every Wednesday to drive the van in the dark (and rain!) to collect the papers. There is plenty I will miss though. Not just the alchemy that takes place in turning the printed word into something you can actually hold in your hand. I will miss editing out opinion from the facts in the press releases we receive from large organisations each week. I will miss the comments of gratitude from the public as they pick up the latest edition, sometimes as quickly as I am putting them into the dispensers. I will miss the publisher’s privilege of writing opinion pieces on matters which bother me personally. But most of all, I will miss the people who stop me in the street like an old friend to ask what’s going on or to tip me off about a possible story. It is more than just putting words on paper, The Week In has always been about the people. The ones who feature in it, the ones who read about them and most important, the ones who have been close to me in the office during the last 811 weeks. Those who have written the stories, designed the adverts, planned the pages, printed the paper and delivered it. I would use up the rest of my word count for this article to name them all. Sadly, some are no longer with us, but to all of them I say thank you for playing your part and being such good company. When editor Becky Feather joined me over a decade ago, my wife declared that she had got her husband back. Now, with The Week In moving online and the relentless production schedule and deadlines removed, I hope Becky’s husband will also be able to say the same thing next year. And 2024 promises to be as interesting as any of the preceding ones, if not more so. Will there be a General Election? What will happen to Keynsham High Street? Will
Stephen Rodgers. Photo: Chris Clarke
we see more houses built on green fields? Will local councils be able to balance their books amid the dire financial forecasts? But these are challenging times for the media industry too. I have used these pages previously to highlight both the difficulties facing local newspapers and some of the measures I have taken to respond. With political debate increasingly conducted via unregulated social media and increasing use of artificial intelligence to propagate the arguments, the need, both nationally and locally, for trusted media sources is greater than ever. But that will be a debate for someone other than me and younger too! I will remain an interested bystander (and avid reader of The Week In) and always with a sense of satisfaction and joy. Thank you for reading and taking The Week In seriously over these last 16 years. Stephen Rodgers
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LETTERS Flooding could be easily prevented Dear Editor I noticed you reported flooding on Barry Road, Oldland Common, in Issue 811. I have been reporting this for over a year as a majority of the gullies are full of mud, resulting in the road flooding and floodwater entering Oldland church hall’s front area. The council said it fixed the problem earlier this year, but nothing has changed. Pedestrians get splashed by passing cars. Something needs to be done. Simply cleaning the gullies would solve the problem. Nick Gould, Oldland Common
Shock over sacrifice of green space Dear Editor Hanham District Green Belt Conservation Society (HDGBCS) has expressed grave concern over South Gloucestershire Council's preferred strategy to encroach upon Green Belt land, specifically in Hanham. The proposed development plan includes three sites - The Batch, Castle Inn Farm, and an area south of Abbots Road, collectively earmarking more than 270 homes. HDGBCS vehemently opposes this decision, citing the significant environmental and recreational benefits these sites currently provide. The meadows, situated at the edge of the Avon Valley, are bordered by ancient woodland and stone walls, forming an integral part of Hanham's historic landscape. They offer a sense of spaciousness and connect the town to the woodlands, providing valuable recreational opportunities for residents. The area's wildlife credentials are equally compelling. It serves as a wildlife corridor and forms part of the woodland strategic network, supporting a diverse range of flora and fauna. Species-rich neutral grasslands, ancient woodland, a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) for geology, two nature reserves, and numerous SSSIs add to the site's exceptional ecological value. The presence of badger setts
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and foraging habitat for woodland species, including bats, further highlights the irreplaceable nature of these lands. HDGBCS also refutes the council's claim that these sites could be developed early in the plan without straining existing infrastructure. The limited capacity of local GP services, infrequent and unreliable bus services, and inadequate roads suggest otherwise. Increased traffic would not only exacerbate congestion but also pollute this pristine environment. In response to this alarming development, HDGBCS is mobilising a public awareness campaign to inform residents about the draft Local Plan consultation. Leaflet distribution and workshops will inform residents about the consultation process and encourage them to voice their concerns. HDGBCS urges all residents of Hanham and surrounding areas to actively participate in the consultation and stand against this damaging proposal that threatens to irreparably harm the environment, recreational opportunities, and the very character of Hanham. Hanham District Green Belt Conservation Society has produced on online guide explaining the ways in which you can comment/object to the council's Local Plan Phase 3 Consultation which can be found at https://www.hanhamgreenbelt.com/how-toobject-to-sgc-s-new-local-plan Caroline White, Chair, HDGBCS
Tax ‘misinformation’ Dear Editor From his letter in The Week In of 6th December, Mr Gannaway is clearly very worried about inheritance tax. Sadly, there is a lot of confusion about inheritance tax. I think that Mr Gannaway has fallen prey to the deliberate misinformation of some rich newspaper owners and rich politicians. Mr Gannaway and I agree that it is scandalous that the super wealthy can reduce how much inheritance they pay or even to avoid it altogether. But the super wealthy also avoid paying other taxes and, to some extent, also avoid obeying some of our laws. We should not
abolish the entire tax and legal system in the UK, just because the super wealthy get away with such behaviour. Furthermore, it is not true that inheritance tax is paid by “ordinary people”. According to the most recent report by HMRC, out of 722,000 deaths only 27,000 resulted in inheritance tax being paid. So less than four per cent of people who died actually paid inheritance tax! The vast majority of people who die - and presumably this vast majority includes “ordinary people” - do not pay inheritance tax. Most inheritance tax was paid by estates significantly in excess of £1m. Again, these are not “ordinary people”. Paying tax is the subscription price for being members of a civilised society; the money raised is used (or should be used) to pay for our roads, schools and health care, together with many other essential services. Since the money has to be raised somehow, having an inheritance tax seems a good idea. If someone dies leaving £1m then the family inherit about £850,000 and about £150,000 goes to schools, hospitals, etc. The people who have most to gain from getting rid of inheritance tax are the super wealthy who use private schools and private hospitals. It is unsurprising that they spread misinformation about inheritance tax so that people like Mr Gannaway call for its abolition. Edmund Cannon
School funding needs to be fair Dear Editor Years ago, as I walked round the class of sevenyear-olds and as I looked at his work, Peter said: “Miss, you give me brain ache.” “That sounds serious Peter, what do you mean?” I replied. I had not heard the word before and was curious and not a little worried. “You make me think Miss, it does my head in.” Mightily relieved I had not caused any real damage, I laughed and said but that’s what they pay teachers vast sums of money to do. Peter could not have looked less impressed, and yes,
I lied. Over the years I have often thought of the compliment Peter was paying me but nevertheless sympathised with his condition. South Gloucestershire being 151st - that is at the bottom - of the list for Government funding would give anyone an ache in the brain. Over the years I have asked many times why South Gloucestershire has been so badly funded. The replies have included: “Someone has to be bottom of the list” and an even more truthful one - i.e. they don’t really know about us and are obviously sticking their finger in the air to make a calculation that does not satisfy our need. Education is so important, I hear people say; how Peter’s brain would certainly ache if he tried to work that one out when funding for education is inadequate. Perhaps that’s why people don’t think too hard as the consequences are dire. I don’t say we need vast sums of money but funding does need to be fair and realistic. Cllr April Begley
Thank you for your efforts and dedication Dear Stephen It is with much sadness that we say goodbye to The Week In, in a paper format. Yes, you will still be available each week via your website. Maybe it's just my age but there is something about sitting down with a coffee and having an actual newspaper in front of you. It's the feel and the smell of it! Such a great shame that no one could be found to step in and take over the reins. I still have a copy of the very first edition, the first edition when the paper changed into its present incarnation and I will pick up a copy of the final edition (all will be found in a drawer after I'm gone, maybe). So, I wish you well for the future Stephen. A very big thank you to you and your team for all your efforts and dedication over the years. So, for now, it's good night but not goodbye! John Howlett Member of Keynsham Creative Writers
The Week in • Wednesday 20th December 2023
Consultation shows clear support for safer lanes campaign A new group campaigning to make it safer for walkers, cyclists and horse riders using the lanes that cross the commons in the Siston area says the response from local residents in a recent consultation is one of clear support. Slow Down For Siston is concerned with speeding vehicles and the lack of visibility and signage around Siston Hill and
Toy story Just before we went to print this week, we were asked to help make one child’s Christmas wish come true. The young owner of this Stick Man lost him in a Keynsham supermarket on Monday and staff there have asked us to pass on this message: “He’s had a lovely adventure and is ready to be home for Christmas.”
from Carsons Road to Goose Green and Webbs Heath. There are no road signs to warn drivers to look out for pedestrians, cyclists, scooters, deer, hidden entrances, or slow vehicles, such as tractors. The group is also concerned about the lack of safe pedestrian access between the ancient commons. A total of 150 consultation forms were sent to residents in the Webbs Heath, Siston Lane, Goose Green and part of Siston Hill, and 98 were returned. All respondents voiced concern about the speed of traffic on local roads; 94 respondents are concerned about the volume of traffic and 85 are concerned about the condition of local roads. Asked if they think the safety of pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders on local roads is a concern, 97 agree; 95 would welcome a Commons Connect scheme to link Webbs Heath, Goose Green and Siston Common with safe pedestrian
The blind corner outside Brook Farm at Goose Green, with no safe space to separate pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders from traffic
Sudoku 1-Easy
access; 92 would welcome the introduction of safe pedestrian walkways to one side of the road where there is currently no option for the public other than to walk in the road. Quizzed about whether the speed limit should be reduced from 40mph to 30mph, 97 voiced support while 85 would welcome the introduction of speed-limiting measures, such as traffic chicanes or speed ramps. The consultation has now been sent to South Gloucestershire Council for consideration.
Mayor of the Year award for Dan Norris Dan Norris has been named Labour’s Mayor of the Year at an awards ceremony in London. The West of England Mayor beat off competition from other mayors including Greater Manchester’s Andy Burnham, West Yorkshire’s Tracy Brabin and South Yorkshire’s Oliver Coppard to scoop the prize. At the awards, attended by more than 1,000 people including senior Labour frontbenchers, Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises for Labour (SME4Labour) highlighted Mr Norris’s work to help during the cost-ofliving crisis and climate emergency. They pointed to Safer Shops West so independent shops can install security measures to tackle shoplifting and support to cut energy bills through the Mayor’s Energy Bill Blitz drive. Mr Norris said: “People and businesses in the West of England have faced a particularly tough couple of years but they constantly inspire me through their innovation and resilience. What matters to me about this award is that it puts our amazing region on the map. People who this time next year could well be sitting around the Cabinet table got to hear about our part of the world.”
2 -Hard
Dan Norris
The Week in • Wednesday 20th December 2023
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Multiple garage break-ins in Keynsham There have been multiple garage burglaries in the Keynsham area this month and anyone with information or CCTV images is being asked to contact the police. Thieves broke into about 20 garages at a yard
on Lockingwell Road during the night of Thursday 7th December. One of the victims reported that their garage had been entered but nothing had been stolen, despite some items being inside. The crime reference number is 5223299699.
Competition reels in funds for Poppy Appeal Every Remembrance Sunday, anglers from the South West and Wales gather on the banks of the River Avon to compete for the Bill Milton Memorial Trophy. The event is organised by Ray Bazeley and Paul Bence and is sponsored by Project Building Contractors, DW Smith, Gems
jewellers and a number of tackle shops. Despite the weather, 84 anglers took part in the event last month, the winner being Nigel Wyatt who caught a mixed bag of bream. The event raised £4,010 for the Poppy Appeal.
During the night of Saturday 9th December a black Carrera e-bike was stolen after a garage on Tenby Road was broken into. The crime reference number is 5223301160. Someone climbed over a fence to get to the side door of a garage on Chandag Road between 1.30am and 2am on Sunday 10th December. The handle was smashed off and a chain pulled off to gain entry. Nothing seems to have been taken although a freezer was opened. The crime reference number is 5223301077. A group of seven garages at Lambourn Road were damaged when someone made an unsuccessful attempt to force entry during the night of Monday 11th December. The reference number for these incidents is 5223303147. At Torridge Road thieves stole a motocross bike and a bicycle after entering an insecure garage on Tuesday 12th December. The culprits removed bricks from the wall to enter the next door garage and steal the bikes. The
reference number for this crime is 5223304056. Someone damaged a ring doorbell and moved CCTV cameras before ripping the door off to gain entry to a garage on Summerleaze. This is thought to have happened at about 4am on Tuesday 12th December. Nothing is believed to have been taken. The crime reference number is 5223303090. A garage on Deveron Grove was broken into after someone broke the lock and lifted the door to gain entry during the night of Tuesday 12th December. The crime reference number is 5223304009. And a garage on Cedar Drive was broken into during the night of Tuesday 12th December. The main door was prised off the runners, but nothing seems to have been stolen. The reference number is 5223305078. Call 101 and give the call handler the relevant crime reference number if you can help the police. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Plans for HMO Front row - Anthony Milton from Project Building Contractors & Clare Chipping & Brian Lloyd from the Royal British Legion; back row - Paul Bence, Nigel Wyatt & Ray Bazeley
Plans to turn a house in Syston Way in Kingswood into a house of multiple occupation (HMO) have been submitted to South Gloucestershire Council. The application has been lodged by Lucent Alpha Centauri Ltd for No 35. It seeks to build a single-storey rear extension, following demolition of the existing rear store, install a rear dormer and change the use to a six-person HMO. The planning reference is P23/03294/CLP. The council expects to make a decision by 23rd January.
Crossword ACROSS
DOWN
1. Run away (7)
1. Wall hanging (5)
5. Foundation (5)
2. Waterlogged (5)
8. Anger (3)
3. Supervise (7)
9. Relapse (7) 10. Fruit (5) 11. Eye infections (5) 13. Draw in (7) 15. Currency (4) 17. Football (6)
4. Exclude (6) 5. Animal (5) 6. Female voice (7) 7. Refuge (7) 12. Also (3) 14. Extended journey (4) 16. Exhort (4)
19. Tumult (6)
17. Spanish drink (7)
22. Female child (4)
18. Tell all (7)
24. Cotton fabric (7)
20. Appease (7)
26. Deal out (5)
21. Fuss (3)
29. Stinks (5)
23. Part of foot (6)
30. Showing sorrow (7)
25. Surrey racecourse (5)
31. Poem (3)
28. Spring flower (5)
27. Raises (5)
32. Indian province (5) 33. Arm exercise (5-2)
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The Week in • Wednesday 20th December 2023
Over 1,200 people sign petition to stop South Glos parking charges A petition signed by more than 1,200 people to stop plans to introduce car parking charges in South Gloucestershire has been formally submitted to the council by the Conservative group. The Tories say it highlights the damaging effects that parking charges would have on high streets and local businesses and are calling on the Lib Dem-Labour coalition to drop the proposals with immediate effect. South Gloucestershire is currently one of the
few places in the country that still offers free parking in all council-owned car parks. During the local election campaign in May, the Tories, Lib Dems and Labour groups all promised to keep parking free. But as part of its budget planning, the cashstrapped council has been consulting on introducing parking charges to raise income. The coalition leadership have stated that under the previous Tory administration, council officers had been working to
Man in court after double stabbing A 30-year-old man appeared in court on Friday in connection with the incident in Downend Road in Kingswood earlier this month in which two men suffered stab wounds. Corey McClean, 30, of Two Mile Hill Road, St George, has been charged with wounding with intent, possessing a knife/blade/sharp/pointed article in public and intentional strangulation.
The two men, both in their 40s, were treated in hospital for their injuries after the incident in the early hours of Sunday 3rd December. They have since been discharged to continue with their recovery. McClean was remanded in custody by Bristol magistrates following the hearing. His next appearance will be at Bristol Crown Court on Monday 15th January.
The Week in • Wednesday 20th December 2023
introduce car parking fees but the Conservatives have stated categorically that they have never attempted, nor desired, to introduce such charges. After presenting the petition to the full council meeting last Wednesday, Cllr Bromiley said: “The administration has repeatedly said that it will be firmly guided by public opinion in everything it Conservative group leader Cllr Sam Bromiley & deputy seeks to do. Its members Cllr Liz Brennan at Laburnum Road car park in Hanham must now practice what they preach and respect the seek alternative revenue-raising opporwishes of residents by scrapping the parking tunities, ones that don’t unfairly penalise charges plans completely. residents and businesses.” “It is unfair and unnecessary to start charging After the petition was presented council people to park their cars in South leader Cllr Claire Young said that no decision Gloucestershire. While I appreciate the had been taken as yet and consultation financial challenges the council currently responses would be taken into account when faces, the administration must do more to setting next year’s budget in February.
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New South West Gambling Service
Situations Vacant
Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust has launched the South West Gambling Service which offers people affected by gambling the very latest evidence-based treatments and support. The trust is collaborating with partner organisations to deliver a comprehensive treatment pathway for people who can either self-refer or get referred from a local healthcare professional. It's thought that more than 130,000 people across the UK could be experiencing problems due to gambling, according to Gambling Commission figures, with around 1.3 million people engaging in either moderate or lowrisk gambling, although other research estimates that this figure could be higher. If you or someone you care about is affected by gambling, visit awp.nhs.uk or call 0330 022 3175.
Nail bar plans A planning application for a new nail bar in Kingswood has been lodged with South Gloucestershire Council. The application relates to 15 Regent Street, which was previously Thomas Matthews Hair & Beauty salon. The council aims to make a decision by 22nd January.
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The Week in • Wednesday 20th December 2023
Health chiefs reassure patients after ‘discrimination’ concerns Regional health chiefs have stepped in to clarify that Hanham Health patients can continue to book appointments at the reception desk. The practice, which has around 27,000 patients at surgeries in Hanham, Oldland Common and Almondsbury, introduced a new online access system called Anima earlier this year to meet NHS England
requirements and help manage patient demand more effectively. Patients were told by Hanham Health that appointment requests could no longer be made at the reception desk due to confidentiality, although they could still be made over the phone. But concerns that this in particular disadvantages elderly and vulnerable patients
Green Christmas at church St Barnabas’ Church at Warmley opened its doors on Saturday 9th December for people to come and view several ecofriendly Christmas tree displays provided by local schools and groups. Many people braved the wet weather to visit the Green Christmas Celebration where there were also eco-friendly crafts to buy and enjoy making, as well as plenty of refreshments.
There was variety of entertainment including from Oldland Brass, the Great Day Choir, Warmley Guides, Warmley Players, St Barnabas CofE Primary School, Fingers & Frets and Black Sheep Harmony Choir. It is hoped that the event highlighted the need to live more simply and tread lightly on the planet at a time of climate emergency.
without internet access or skills were raised with Cllr Ian Scott, who chairs the Health Scrutiny Committee on South Gloucestershire Council. He asked the NHS Bristol, North Somerset & South Gloucestershire Integrated Care Board (ICB), which is responsible for the commissioning and contract management of general practice services locally, to investigate. Last month he received a response saying the matter had been discussed with the practice and that the surgeries would continue to offer patients the opportunity to book appointments in person with a receptionist. The ICB said that Hanham Health “regretted any misunderstanding or concern”. However, earlier this month patients again raised concerns, via The Week In, that appointments could not be made at reception. Cllr Scott raised this as a matter of urgency with the ICB and has now been told by the board: “We have discussed the matter again with the practice and can confirm that they will be continuing to offer people the opportunity to book appointments in person with the receptionist. “On behalf of the practice, I would like to apologise that a recent poster appeared on the
Cllr Ian Scott
reception desk in error advising patients could not book appointments within the practice.” Cllr Scott told The Week In: “I welcome and appreciate the positive response from both the Integrated Care Board and Hanham Health. I did visit the practice and discussed my concerns with one of the managers, so I am pleased to see that my comments have been taken on board. “I also spoke with an 80-year-old+ patient who genuinely was trying to log on to the phone app but found using the correct email and password just too challenging. “The positive response means that discrimination can be avoided and sends a positive message to all GP practices in South Gloucestershire.”
A green Christmas tree made from recycled paper
A Bethlehem scene made from recycled cartons and boxes
The event at the church was well attended
The Week in • Wednesday 20th December 2023
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South Glos advice charity’s Christmas appeal A charity in South Gloucestershire has issued a Christmas appeal to support its service as it helps people struggling in the cost-of-living crisis. Citizens Advice South Gloucestershire says that for many this Christmas, it won’t be a matter of deciding which gifts to buy their children or stocking up on all the trimmings for Christmas dinner. Instead, they’ll be deciding whether to turn the heating on or do their essential weekly food shop, and how to keep a roof over their family’s head. October was the busiest month on record at Citizens Advice South Gloucestershire for cost-of-living issues, including access to charitable support and foodbanks, and help with Personal Independence Payments (PIP). The same month saw the number of clients overall rise by almost 50% compared to October 2022. Energy costs are set to be more expensive this year than last due to the loss of the £400 Energy Bills Support Scheme discount. The charity says this will contribute towards the
Crossword Solution
winter being a challenge for many already struggling to manage their finances. By contacting Citizens Advice South Gloucestershire, people can access support for a wide range of areas including benefits, debt, Universal Credit, emergency support,
• £40 would provide a two-hour face-to-face appointment with a specialist debt adviser to help someone in crisis manage their debts. • £100 would fund a volunteer adviser training placement for a month.
foodbank voucher referrals, housing, employment and relationship breakdown. Dedicated advisers offer free, independent and confidential advice to anyone who needs it in South Gloucestershire. The charity is asking for a regular donation this Christmas, or a one-off £20 donation. • £20 would enable the charity to answer three telephone advice-line calls to help local people.
Find out how to make a donation - and how to get help - at www.southgloscab.org.uk/ The advice line is 0808 278 7947.
Spotlight on public transport improvements Metro Mayor Dan Norris, in partnership with North Somerset Council, has set up a new £2m fund called WESTlocal, so communities can design and run their own public transport to suit their needs. The parishes of Oldland, Bitton and Siston are considering submitting ideas with the potential of funding to support the development of a new transport service. The consultation will go live in mid-January – look out for it on https://oldlandparishhub.commonplace.is/ WESTlocal is looking to fund schemes that are locally designed and introduce new provision, rather than sustaining schemes and services that are already in place; that operate not-for-profit with any surplus reinvested in the scheme; that help reduce carbon emissions by moving people away from reliance on privately-owned cars; demonstrate clear demand within the community for the service; and have a clear plan for ongoing monitoring and improvement.
Boots branch closing The Staple Hill branch of Boots the Chemist will close next month. The High Street store is one of some 300 around the country that are closing. After 27th January the nearest store for collecting prescriptions will be Kings Chase Shopping Centre in Kingswood.
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The Week in • Wednesday 20th December 2023