Bath Voice December 2023

bathvoice December 2023 No. 46

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News Page 6 Review of the Year Page 10

What’s On: Pages 14-16 News Page 19 Sports News Pages 20

Recognition for their community work Ten individuals and organisations who have made an outstanding contribution to other people’s lives in Bath and North East Somerset have been presented with a prestigious award to mark their achievements. For more on this story and who they are see page 5.

‘Black hole’ in public finances

By John Wimperis, Local Democracy Reporter: Higher taxes and more stretched services are expected in Bath and North East Somerset as the council warns it must make “extremely challenging” efficiencies to fill a £35m budget black hole over the next five years.

Bath and North East Somerset Council’s cabinet member for resources, Mark Elliott, said: “With services that are already stretched, the efficiencies required are extremely challenging, however, I want to reassure residents we have the capability and expertise to

manage this situation.”

A council tax hike of the maximum permitted is once again likely for people living in the council area. Last year saw Bath and North East Somerset Council increase their share of council tax by 4.99% — of Continued on page 3

December 2023

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Continued from page 1

which two percentage points are ring fenced for adult social care funding — and an expected rise of the same percent next year has already been factored into the council’s figures.

For the 2024/25 financial year — which the council will set the budget for in February — the council will need to cut 12% of the estimated £143.2m budget.

That means the council needs to find £17.3m to balance the books.

Savings of £0.7m have been identified so far.

The figures are included in the Medium Term Financial Strategy which is set to go before the council cabinet on Thursday, November 9. It warns that, across the next five years, the council is facing a budget gap of £35.3m.

Savings identified so far across the next two years would reduce this by £1.7m.

In the current financial year, the council is also looking at a £6.5m overspend. This has mainly been driven by the council’s children’s services running £4.6m over budget due to an increasing number of looked after children and the increasing cost of hometo-school transport.

The council is “urgently exploring” what money it can save

in-year to prevent the need to dip into council reserves. The strategy stated: “Vacancy management, corporate spend controls, and stopping or pausing discretionary spend are all mitigations that will be implemented with immediate effect.”

But a recovering American tourist market while British people still prefer to holiday at home has seen a greater number of visitors at the Roman Baths, bringing in more money than expected for the council. At the same time, the new residents parking zones and emissions-based parking charges in Bath saw parking services also bring in more money.

Mr Elliott said: “Bath and North East Somerset Council has managed its finances very capably and cautiously, with well controlled spending and no high-risk investments. Despite that these reports show the significant pressure we face as a result of reduced government funding, the longer term impacts of Covid-19 and spiralling inflation.

“We remain focused on delivering services, supporting the most vulnerable in our community and delivering on the priorities we put before residents at the election in May, which they so comprehensively supported.”

Drama as show hit by illness The Rondo Theatre Company in Bath dramatically cancelled their production of Tennessee Williams’ play A Streetcar Named Desire due to a cast illness last month.

The show was to take place in the Larkhall theatre on Wednesday 29th November with a week long run – a production likely to attract those studying English Literature at school with the text on many modules. Instead the group behind the production based at the theatre in St Saviour’s Road presented two evenings on the 29th and 30th November when the audience discussed the story of Blanche, Stella, Stanley and Mitch. It is one of the risks all theatre companies whether professional or amateur take when staging a show. Larger companies and professional ones in particular will have understudies for the main roles. At an amateur level that may not be possible – as staging a play when everyone has full time jobs and families to care for is a stretch for most people as it is. A 1951 film of the play launched Marlon Brando as a major movie star when he played Stanley while Vivien Leigh played fragile Blanche. In a statement posted online the Rondo Theatre Company stated: The company are working towards bringing a full production of this classic drama to The Rondo Theatre in 2024.

Decisions about where the millions of pounds of savings needed next year will found will be made as the council goes through the budget setting process. A budget report will be finalised after it has gone through a public

Police www.avonandsomersetpolice.co.uk General inquiries: 101 Emergency 999 Fire www.avonfire.co.uk Inquiries: 0117 926 2061 Emergency: 999 Anti-social behaviour team asb@bathnes.gov.uk 01225 842462 Well Aware Health and social care information www.wellaware.org.uk (Freephone) 0808 808 5252

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Despite our best efforts, we sometimes get things wrong. We always try to resolve issues informally at first but we also have a formal complaints procedure. If you have a complaint about anything in the Bath Voice, contact the News Editor using the details below. We aspire to follow the the Code of Conduct of the NUJ (National Union of Journalists), nuj.org.uk/about/ nuj-code.

Further details of the complaints process can be found on our website or can be obtained by contacting the Editor by email: news@bathvoice.co.uk or by post: 1 Camerton Close, Saltford, Bristol, BS31 3BT or by phone: 07402 441485 All stories and pictures are © Bath Voice (unless otherwise stated) and may not be reproduced without permission.

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consultation, and will come before the council cabinet on February 8, 2024.

It will then need to be approved by a full meeting of Bath and North East Somerset Council, set for February 20.

December 2023

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Bath Presrvation Trust: There is a museum in Bath set in the fine stone portals of The Countess of Huntingdon’s Chapel on The Paragon that sadly is not open to the public writes Harry Mottram.

Inside are some fabulous models of Bath itself and various buildings, plus carvings, ornaments and examples of the city’s lost architectual heritage.

There’s just a problem that only a couple of million quid will sort out. Under the cold and slightly damp flagstone floor lies a medieval burial ground. To open the museum ideally the flagstones need to be lifted the burial ground excavated and the remains of the buried removed and reburied elsewhere, a damp proof layer laid down and the flagstones replaced and possibly covered with a wooden floor. You see it is a major job with no quick solutions.

The Countess of Huntingdon’s Chapel is the HQ effectively of the Bath Preservation Trust - the charity founded in 1934 and dedicated to use it’s publicity that: “campaigns for and promotes the conservation,

Alex Sherman to find out more.

“Bath is somewhere I’ve known all of my life with my grandfather an architect here, and family members in Bath, Bristol and Somerset,” he explained, “I’ve spent a long time in community development in Somerset working with people on transport, farming and the countryside for the county council.

“My path in heritage and landscape began with reconstructing lowland wetlands

on the Levels, creating the largest reedbed in the country and working with the community to discover the buried archeology such as the Sweet Track.

“One of the partners was the South West Heritage Trust and I joined them as head of business which meant finding funding for their museum projects.

“I’ve known Bath Preservation for many years but never thought I’d work for them but when the job came up it was too good to pass as it unites my two biggest interests: architecture and design and museums.”

Originally from Bedford he graduated in Environmental Health at UWE, Alex is married with a family in Wells and said his first job was in a pub in Bristol.

When a job came up in organising rural transport he stopped pulling pints and began to drink up a rich career in preservation and heritage.

For a more on the preservation trust and how it works and to become a Friend visit https://www. bath-preservation-trust.org.uk/

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Alex Sherman of the Bath Preservation Trust at The Countess of Huntingdon’s Chapel

sustainable enhancement and celebration of the unique and historic City of Bath as a World Heritage Site.”

Although the chapel is closed for the time being with the Museum of Bath Architecture, its other properties of No. 1 Royal Crescent, Beckford’s Tower and Landscape and the Herschel Museum of Astronomy are open to the public and all make for an interesting excursion.

I caught up with the Trust’s CEO

December 2023

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Community Award News continued from page 1: Bath & North East Somerset Council’s Community Awards 2023/24 champion ‘unsung heroes’ who make a difference in their communities and support others.

The Ten individuals and organisations who have made an outstanding contribution to other people’s lives in Bath and North East Somerset have been presented with a prestigious award to mark their achievements.

A special ceremony was held yesterday (November 8) at The Guildhall, Bath to present the ten winners with their awards, which include new trees being planted by Curo and More Trees for BANES at Whiteway Green in Bath. This will form a lasting tribute to the winners and help extend the green canopy across the district.

More than 60 nominations in eight categories were received for the awards, which this year included the newly named Jenny Willson Volunteer of the Year category in honour of a Bath & North East Somerset Council employee who sadly passed away this year. Jenny was known for her leadership in promoting health and wellbeing initiatives within the community and championed supporting others.

Councillor Sarah Moore, Chair of the Council, said: “I have nothing but admiration for all the nominees and their dedication to their communities. There are some remarkable stories of individuals who go the extra mile to support others and so I am delighted that the winners will be honoured with newly planted trees, which not only recognise their achievements but also contribute to addressing the climate emergency for the benefit

Bath marked Remembrance Sunday last month as veterans, members of the Armed Forces, The Royal British Legion, council, community and faith leaders, together with the public, paid their respects to those who have lost their lives in wars and conflicts in service to their country. The photo is from Bath & North East Somerset Council and shows the ceremony in central Bath as the city marked a day of reflections and in some cases of grief at the loss of friends, family and colleagues in the past.

of all of us.

“Congratulations to the ten winners on your well-deserved accolades and thank you to everyone who took the time to nominate your local hero.”

The winners are: The Beryl Dixon Community Leader of the Year: Winner – Daisy Douglas, Tender Education Young Volunteer of the Year: Winner – Jess Sheridan Volunteer Team of the Year: Winner – The Together Project Volunteer Team, Bath Cats and Dogs Home Young Volunteer Team of the Year: Winner - V Team, University of Bath Student Union Charity of the Year: Winner – We Get It Green Business Leader: Winner Storm Consultancy The Peter Duppa-Miller Award for Parish Councillor of the Year: Winner – Councillor Liz Kingston, Stowey Sutton Parish Council.

The Jenny Willson Volunteer of the Year: Winner – Fiona Bell Special Recognition, Posthumous – Terry Hodkinson Special Recognition, Posthumous – Jean Meredith This year the Community Awards were organised by the council in partnership with: The Student Community Partnership; HCRG Care Group; Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon, Wiltshire Integrated Care Board; The Third Sector Group; Curo Housing; More Trees for B&NES Senior Citizen News: New research commissioned by Bath & North East Somerset Council has revealed high levels of food insecurity for older people who are on low incomes.

The two studies by the University of Bath concluded that social connection, as well as health and financial resources, are key to reducing the risk of food insecurity.

Residents who are struggling

with food or in financial crisis can contact the Council’s Welfare Support Team on 01225 477277.

The team can help with food, bills, household items and debt. They are available to help Monday to Thursday 9am to 5 pm (Wednesday 9.30 am to 5 pm), and Friday 9am to 4.30 pm https://beta.bathnes.gov. uk/apply-welfare-support You can also contact the Community Wellbeing Hub on freephone 0300 247 0050, Monday to Friday 9am – 5pm or at https:// communitywellbeinghub.co.uk/.

There is also information online at our cost-of-living hub https:// livewell.bathnes.gov.uk/cost-livingsupport Information on local food support across B&NES can be found online at https://www. banesfoodfinder.org.uk Police News: A tip-off from a member of the public has led to a cannabis factory being discovered in Bath on Windsor Bridge Road.

Officers were searching for a missing person when they were approached by a member of the public who had witnessed people entering and exiting an abandoned property in Bath. They attended the location and used a drone to check on signs of a cannabis factory.

Officers searched the property on 23 November and discovered 1,000 scannabis plants.

Second Homes: A decision on charging owners of second homes in Bath double council tax had not been made when Bath Voice went to press.

The proposed plan by the council would also see more empty homes charged a premium under the Levelling-Up and Regeneration Act 2023, although the increases would not happen immediately.

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Bath City Foundation hosts a number of community events including this one during Autumn Half Term with a October Holiday Camp led by Women & Girls’ Officer, Emily Stephens with a girls-only session of football at Twerton Park.

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Bath City Foundation News: A family day at Twerton Park on November 11 last month saw hundreds of residents attend a match at the ground and enjoy activities laid on by the Foundation.

The match was watched by 1,928 with a ‘pay what you want’ gate fee on the turnstiles.

Families enjoyed a mixture of activities including face painting, an ice cream van, a fun shot speed game run by Foundation coaches, cross bar challenge and demonstrations on the pitch of some of the activities the charity runs like walking football.

There was support from the Roper Family Trust with free tickets given to schools although children under 16 were allowed in for free.

The foundation have launched a fund raising campaign to raise £6,000 to convert an area under the main stand for use for community events and activites.

Bath City Foundation works with a number of community groups.

For more on their work visit www. bathcityfoundation.org/ Missing Levi Davis News: The mystery of the disappearance of Levi Davis may never be solved after no body has been discovered after it was believed he fell into the sea in Barcelona. Reports in British media say a court has ruled in the city to end the investigation into the former Bath rugby who was last seen on October 29, 2022, in the Catalonian city after leaving the Old Irish Pub near the Rambla.

A report from a witness on a cruise liner in the bay near the harbour suggested he was seen in difficulties in the sea – however this was not passed to authorities at the time. In April the Mossos d’Esquadra (Spanish police) concluded he was likely to have drowned although there was no

To advertise, contact Erica on erica@bathvoice.co.uk or call 07402 441485

evidence that he either boarded a boat and fell in, or for some reason entered the water at the dockside.

If no new evidence is found, then it is a tragic end to a story of a man who appeared to be troubled with money and personal problems but as a talented rugby player and singer had the whole world at his feet. His mother Julie Davis who visited the city in search of clues criticised the speed of the police hunt for her son. His disappearance made headlines around the world and was covered in radio and television programmes such as BBC Radio 4’s File on Four programme.

In 2017 Levi played his first match for Bath against Bristol and was to go on to make more appearances scoring some 20 points before leaving in 2020 to play for Ealing. He was also known nationally for having appeared in the X-Factor Celebrity programme in the group Try Star.

As far as investigators are concerned it appears he somehow ended up the sea – how or why is a puzzle.

Widcombe Deli News: Bath Voice has covered the unfortunate news that the landlords of the Widcombe Deli did not renew the lease of the business in Widcombe Parade this month.

The good news is that two businesses on the parade have stepped forward to give an ongoing presence for the deli with a pop-up Widcomeb Deli.

The Ram pub and Larkhall Butchers will host the the pop-up version in soladarity with the ousted business.

More than 400 letters and emails of support were recieved by the enterprise when it was revealed the lease would end. For details of what will be on offer at the pop-up deli visit their website.

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Ticket Office News: Plans to close almost all railway station ticket offices have been scrapped following a campaign led by the Rail Unions, charities and transport campaign groups. The rail firms behind the cost cutting exercise have been told by Transport Secretary Mark Harper to withdraw the controversial plans. Bath Spa could well have been one of the stations hit – causing anger amongst groups that represent the visually impaired, the blind, the elderly and local representatives such as Bath MP Wera Hobhouse, Metro Mayor Dan Norris, Cllr Joanne Wright (Lead Member for Integrated Transport Authority), the passenger watchdog Transport Focus along with the station workers at Bath Spa railway station.

The good news follows a consultation process in which hundreds of thousands of responses were received damning the proposals and championing the ticket offices for being a reassurance for those who do not use the internet, the visually impaired and foreign visitors and

those without the ability to read English.

Mark Harper said: “The proposals that have resulted from this process do not meet the high thresholds set by ministers, and so the government has asked train operators to withdraw their proposals.”

Previously GWR said transactions at its ticket offices had fallen below 15 per cent and the plans would see ticket office staff working on platforms and concourses where they could be closer to customers and help them with a wider range of issues, while the kiosks could be phased out over a number of years. They added their plan to close ticket offices would keep stations “up-to-date.”

Clearly the petitions, demonstrations, letters and responses to the plans – across the political spectrum – have said loud and clear to keep the ticket offices open.

Crime News: Avon and Somerset Police have confirmed they have charged a teenage boy with murder at Bristol Crown Court in October.

In a statement the police said: “We’ve charged another teenage boy with the murder of 16-year-old Mikey Roynon. The 15-year-old from Wiltshire was arrested on Sunday. He is the third teenager to be charged with murder (joint enterprise) in connection with Mikey’s death. Mikey died from a single stab wound at a property on Eastfield Avenue in Bath on Saturday 10 June. The two other boys already charged – a 15-yearold from Dorset and a 16 year-old from Wiltshire – and appeared at Bristol Crown Court last month.

They were also charged with possessing an offensive weapon.”

The murder happened during what appeared to be a gathering of young people late at night in Eastfield Avenue in Weston and is one of three knife related murders this year in Bath.

The Mayor of Bath Cllr Dine Romero has set up a task group to look at ways of preventing knife crimes in the future by working with agencies such as the police and schools.

Cllr Romero who will chair the

group and said she wanted to “actually find out if there’s anything more that we as a council or any other agency could be doing.”

Mikey from Kingswood in South Glos died from a single stab wound at a property on Eastfield Avenue in Bath on Saturday, 10th June, 2023 at around 11.30pm.

He was attended to by members of the public according to local reports.

Police News: A tip-off from a member of the public to officers has led to a ‘sophisticated’ cannabis factory being discovered in Windsor Bridge Road in Bath. Officers were out searching for a missing person when they were approached by a member of the public who had witnessed people entering and exiting an abandoned property in Bath.

Following this discovery, officers searched the property on 23 November and found 1,000 suspected cannabis plants.

Bath Commander CI Scott Hill said: “This is a clear example of how we can work with our communities in Bath.”

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Alex Fletcher News: Bath City FC have announced their striker Alex Fletcher has left the club to join the Professional Football Association (PFA) as part of their health education team specialising in brain health writes Harry Mottram.

The role makes a lot of sense as the player suffered head injuries when he crashed into a concrete wall at Twerton Park during a match a year ago against Dulwich Hamlet in the National League South.

He had chased what he had described as a lost cause ball, made contact with a defender before falling and colliding with the wall that surrounds part of the pitch. The match was abandoned as para medics, colleagues, staff and club officials tended to him.

He was taken to Southmead Hospital in Bristol where he finally passed out and was operated on to remove fluid and a small piece of bone from his skull. It was touch and go after he was put into a coma to help him heal and to reduce swelling. After a week he woke to find he was still seriously injured with a possibility he might never play football again – let alone walk.

He praised the work of neurosurgeon Dr Neil Barua and the NHS for their work in saving his life. The extraordinary part of the story is his recovery – physiotherapy combined with encouragement from family, friends and his fiancé Ellie (pictured) all helped his motivation as he had to learn how to walk again. Incredibly it appears his brain functions are fine although he has concerns long term – but it has given him considerable experience of brain injuries and their effects which he will now

pass on in working for the PFA education team.

Bath City FC put out a statement last month that confirmed he was leaving the club – having returned to playing briefly this season. They said: “We can confirm that Alex Fletcher has departed the club.

We’re all immeasurably proud of Alex’s achievements and we wish him, and his family, all the best for the future. So many words but for now, we just want to say thank you.

72 Appearances 28 Goals 10 Assists Thank you, Fletch.”

Alex Fletcher said: “Fittingly, I’ve started a new role this week with the PFA, where I’ll be working on the Brain Health team delivering education to the English Football League and Barclays Womens Super League clubs around improving brain health for our members.”

Brain damage caused by playing sport has become a major issue – not just in football but other contact sports such as both codes of rugby. Heading the ball is one area that has been a concern although the old leather laced balls have been replaced by lighter balls

– but consistent contact is a worry.

The PFA have looked to educate the sport and its players. The PFA is pushing for a ‘transformational change in football’s approach to the brain health of current and former professional footballers’.

Clearly Alex Fletcher will be part of this push to improve the chances of players in not being affected by brain injuries – usually through heading the ball or a clash of heads with another player. The Bath City fans have been quick to show their admiration for him with an outpouring of support for his new career online with one saying perhaps fittingly for a supporter that Alex is ‘Forever a Roman.’

From Newport in South Wales Alex began his footballing career for Plymouth with stints at Torquay, Aldershot and Tiverton before signing for Bath in 2021. Now just 24 years of age he will begin a new career in what is arguably a more important role with the PFA. Bath Gaza War News: Bathonian film director Ken Loach addressed a demonstration in Bath city centre on Saturday (November 4, 2023)

protesting against the ongoing conflict in Gaza and Israel. He called for negotiations to enforce The rule of International Law; respect for Human Rights and Geneva Convention; a return to the original borders; forcible removal of settlers; and proper negotiations for a secure future.

The speech took place at a rally on Kingston Parade, to the south of Bath Abbey and was heard by approximately 500 demonstrators.

Groups involved included Bath University Islamic Society, Bath Friends of Palestine, Bath Stop War, Rethinking Security Bath, Bath Trades Union Council and Amnesty International.

Book News: Church Street in Widcombe is one of the oldest and most historic streets in Bath. A new history of the street has just been published, researched and written

by John Chambers who lives in Widcombe Terrace, Church Street.

The publication of the book by John in collaboration with the Widcombe Association, follows a highly successful series of guided walks along the street, based on his research.

A Walk Down Church Street, priced at £12, can be bought through the Widcombe Association’s website.

Merry Christmas A very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from Bath College.

Start something new in 2024 with Bath College bathcollege.ac.uk

Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Thanking all our readers and advertisers for supporting us in 2023

Thanks for all the support this year.

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Got a story for Bath Voice? Email Harry on news@bathvoice.co.uk

December 2023

bathvoice

10

n REVIEW OF 2023

The contentious ‘Colosseum’ design for the new rugby stadium put forward by Apollodorus Architecture caused a stir this summer after the club proposed their own plans which are now with the planners at the Council.

The year has been marked by a series of strikes and demonstrations why workers in the city in several sectors.

Nurses, doctors, civil servants, school teachers, railway staff and many more have taken to the streets and withheld their labour on a number of days.

The rise in inflation, interest rates, fuel costs and energy costs has seen their wages fall in real terms. These were at times unprecedented events as the nation’s workers rejected pay

offers that failed to keep pace with inflation. By the end of the year some of the disputes have been settle although some rail unions are still planning more action.

May’s council elections saw a near wipe out for the Conservatives who as recently as 2015 had run B&ANES when they held 37 wards. After the May election they collapsed to just 3 councillors - none in Bath. It has left Labour to become the official opposition with five councillors, the Independents also with five, and the Greens with three.

The row over the ‘ring of steel’ raised by the Conservatives clearly didn’t connect with voters or the disquiet over the introduction of the RPZs and anti pollution zone were not as contentious as originally thought. The results were perhaps also a result of national politics which have seen Tory stocks fall in the cstock exchange of pubic opinion. The elections also saw the Mayor of Bath Cllr Rob Appleyard lose his ward to the Green Party’s Saskia Heijtjes - seen by some as a rising star in the party with her high profile cycling persona.

The new mayor is Cllr Dine Romero of the Lib Dems who at one time led the party at the Guildhall - that role continues to be held Cllr Kevin Guy. Bath continues to grow in population with new housing developments planning and under construction. These are not without controversies. Locals have not welcomed the plans for around 300 homes in Sulis Fields at Odd Down, the plans to build social support housing off English Combe Lane, the coninuing development at the former MOD site now called Mulberry Park, and Lansdown, and

of course the former gasworks site.

One development that isn’t contentious is the first councl owned homes in a generation with apartments at the former council offices at 117 Newbridge Hill for NHS workers.

The city has seen three kniferelated murders this year - an alarming situation but one the authorities are keen to combat. The Bath & North East Somerset Violence Reduction Unit (VRU) is a multiagency group that aims to prevent and reduce violence in the area. The Mayor, schools, colleges and the police are all involved.

On a more uplifting note the recovery of Bath City footballer Alex Fletcher from a serious head injury sustained at a match at Twerton Park has given heart to all concerned at the club.

Buses have been in the news with anger over the new ‘dial a bus’ WestLink that has replaced some regular services. It’s led to a clash at times between the local authorities and the Metro Mayor Dan Norris.

One bit of transport news that was welcomed was the decision to trash plans to close railway ticket offices after a public consultation.

December 2023

bathvoice

n NEWS

Members of Bath Welcomes Refugees at the screening of the film The Old Oak

Film News: A new movie was screened at Twerton Park in October by the film director Ken Loach.

The Old Oak, written by Paul Laverty follows the regulars at a pub in County Durham and its landlord TJ Ballantyne played by Dave Turner.

Set in contemporary England it explores the social dynamics of a community which sees Syrian refugees being given accommodation in the hostelry.

The movie has been screened in Bath and has recieved good reviews - maybe not a classic but a thoughful film ‘Imbued with the fiercely humanistic spirit.’.

The screening of the movie at Twerton Park involved Bath City Foundation, Film Bath and Bath Welcomes Refugees - and the club itself.

Metal Detectiive News: 1,200 metal detectors gathered rin September for the annual ‘Rodney Cook Memorial Rally’ fundraising event to raise cash for the RUH. The organisers presented RUHX the official charity of the Royal United Hospitals with £56,000 raised this year. The Rodney Cook Memorial Rally was initially set up in 2018 by Gary Cook, in memory of his dad Rodney Cook who died from cancer in 2017. The money will go

towards a Robotic Surgery machine.

For more on the charity see www.rodneycookmemorial.co.uk.

Transport News: A consultation has been launched by the Metro Mayor Dan Norris and B&NES on transport in Bath.

Residents can give their views on proposals to speed up bus journeys along St James’s Parade and the Ambury Gyratory as well as changes to better connect cycle routes through the city centre.

Plus they are being asked for views on proposals including introducing bus lanes along Churchill Bridge and St James’ Parade and by making Ambury Gyratory largely two-way, allowing buses to travel directly to and from the bus station.

Other transport include plans for new and upgraded cycle routes across the city centre.

Residents can take part in the six-week consultation to help shape the plans on the table by visiting www.haveyoursaywest.co.uk Bear Flat News: The Bear Flat Association has arranged for a display of festive lights around the high street shops for Christmas.

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event on Saturday 9th December at 6pm.

Hospital News: The opening of the new Dyson Cancer Centre at the Royal United Hospital Bath (RUH) will now expect patients in spring 2024, rather than at the end of this year..

The RUH said this was due to a shortage of engineers.

Lyncombe Hill Fields News: For the second year in succession, the Friends of Lyncombe Hill Fields has been awarded the highest category (‘Level 5, Outstanding’) by the Royal Horticultural Society and South West in Bloom for the ‘It’s Your Neighbourhood” (IYN) assessment.

The assessment is based on three criteria: Community Participation; Environmental responsibility; Gardening Achievement.

The RHS assessor visited the Fields in late July. The Friends showed him around the Fields and presented him with a copy of our latest Annual Report.His written comments to conclude with the following for “Areas for Development”: “There is, in all honesty, little I can add to what is an outstanding space other than recognition and support!”

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December 2023

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now live with my husband, and which is famous for its peacocks.”

The author of a trilogy of novels set in and around Bath during the war including When Bombs Fell On Bath was originally from Kent, she moved to Bath with her family at the age of 11 and attended the City of Bath Girls School (now Hayesfield). She worked for the Ministry of Defence in management in Bath.

Her books are available on request in all good book shops and online.

Retail News: A new Zara store has opened in Bath’s Southgate. The

Le isu

10.30am-12pm there’s a Holburne Museum visit and Japanese inspired lantern making session.

To book onto RICE’s seasonal drop-in events or register as a volunteer, contact info@rice.org. uk or call T: 01225 476 420 or visit www.rice.org.uk/our-services/ activities-and-events/ Book News: Bath author Maggie Rayner has penned a new book called A Souvenir from Paris.

She said: “The new stories are wide-ranging, spanning Victorian times to the present day. Some have a local flavour, set in Bath and Somerset, and Corsham, where I

Spanish multi-national retail clothing chain has expanded in recent years while Bath has seen rival stores like Debenhams close.

With stores in 96 countries the retailer has seen a steady growth since it first opened a store outside of Spain 1985.

Like many firms in the rag trade it has not been without controversy with allegations of using suppliers operating sweat shops in the past.

Bathonians have in general welcomed the new fashion store after a period of decline in high street retailing as footfall fianly increases after the Covid shut downs.

Bath Rugby News: Bath Rugby Club’s application to redevelop their stadium on the recreation Ground (pictured) is now with the planners and comments on the Council’s portal have closed.

Whatever the arguments about the design it is a major business story for the city with the application to increase the capacity to 18,000 spectators - 4,000 more than now.

It represents a potential of far more consumers in the city centre on match day and a significant increase potentially for Bath’s businesses.

se s

n NEWS Dementia News: The Bath charity, based at the RUH campus The Research Institute for the Care of Older People (RICE), are launching a peer support and wellbeing programme of events and activities for people with a recent diagnosis of dementia or memory loss and their family or carers.

Since March 2023, when RICE was awarded over £300,000 by The National Lottery Community Fund, the charity has been assessing the post-diagnosis needs of patients and carers by gathering data, collecting insight through workshops and 1:1 sessions with people living with dementia. A new Lived Experience Advice Panel (LEAP) consisting of people with a diagnosis of dementia and their carers now meets at RICE every two months to collaborate with the charity’s fundraising team on many aspects of their work.

The first post-diagnosis support to be launched by RICE is a selection of seasonal drop-in events. The next one is on Tuesday 16 January 10.30am12pm with a Holburne Museum visit and Wedgewood inspired creative session.

Then on Thursday 8th February

13

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December 2023

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14

n WHAT’S ON

Sat 16 Dec. Church of St Mary the Virgin, Bathwick. Capella Nova: Rejoice, O World. Concert in aid of Bath Mencap. 7.30pm.

on Christmas Day or Jan 1.

Mission Theatre Tue 5 Dec. The Second Best Bed. Role Play Theatre. Liz Grand appears as Shakepeare’s widow Anne Hathaway. 7:30pm.

Fri-Sat, 8-9 Dec. A Christmas Carol.

Hobgoblin Theatre Company. Family friendly version of Dickens’ novella.

Friday 5pm, 7.30pm. Sat 2.30pm, 7:30pm Thu-Sun, 14-17 Dec. La Boheme.

Cardiff Opera. Puccini’s star crossed lovers Mimi and Rodolfo in a story of Bohemian romance in Paris. 7.30pm.

Rondo Theatre Wed 29 Nov-Sat 2 Dec. A Streetcar Named Desire. Tennessee Willams’ emotionally charged domestic drama. CANCELLED.

bathvoice

n WHAT’S ON

Christmas concerts and carols in Bath’s festive season Theatre Picks In Bath Egg Theatre Fri 1 Dec-Sat 13 Jan. Wendy: A Peter Pan Story. James Baldwin’s adaptation of J.M. Barrie’s classic story.

Various times including 10am, 2pm, 6pm. Age 6+.

Thu 7 Dec-Sun 7 Jan. Midnight Mole. A heart-warming, moondancing adventure from the creative team behind Snow Mouse- with a nod to Chekhov’s The Cherry Orchardfull of puppetry and music. 9.30am, 11.30am & 1.30pm (Not Mondays).

Age: 6mths-4yrs.

Sun 7 Jan – Mon 5 Feb. Snow Mouse.

A child finds a sleeping mouse buried under the soft white flakes.9.30am, 11.30am & 1.30pm (Not Mondays) Age: 6mths-4yrs.

Main House Theatre Royal Sun 2, Mon 11 and 18 Dec. A Christmas Carol. Guy Masterton brings Dickens’ novella to life. 2pm, 7pm.

Thu 7 Dec-Sun 7 Jan. Sleeping Beauty. Pantomime with song, dance and high comedy with Neil McDermott as the Prince, Jon Monie as Lester the Jester, Nick Wilton as the Dame, Jane Buckley as Fairy Snowfall and Maisie Sellwood as Princess Rose.

Various performance times. No show

December 2023

Continued from page 14

3pm.

Ustinov Studio Fri 1-Sat 23 Dec. The Turn of the Screw. Benjamin Britten’s opera is based on Henry James’s famous novella. Deborah Warner Season.

7.30pm.

Fri-Sat, 5-6 Jan. Sophie Bevan. One of the great lyric sopranos of her generation. Deborah Warner Season.

7.30pm.

Theatre Picks Outside Bath Bristol Hippodrome: Sat 2-Sun 31 Dec. Peter Pan. Pantomime.

Bristol Old Vic: Thu 23 Nov–Sat 6 Jan. Arabian Nights. Drama based on the folk tales ideal for children and families.

Bristol Tobacco Factory: Fri 1 Dec- Sun 21 Jan. Oliver Twist. A reimagining of Charles Dickens’ story set in Victorian England.

Cheltenham Everyman Theatre: Fri 24th Nov - Sun 7th Jan. Mother Goose. Pantomime.

Salisbury Playhouse: Sat 25 Nov-Sun 7 Jan. Dick Wittington. Pantomime production following Jack and his cat Cosmo in search of fame and fortune.

Taunton Brewhouse: Tue 5-Sat 30 Dec. A Christmas Carol. A new take on Charles Dickens’ morality story with

Wed 6-Thu 7 Dec. Gravest Fears: Two Ghost Stories by MR James.

With Robert Llyod Parry of Nunkie Productions. 8pm Fri 8 Dec. Rock The Tots: Christmas.

Music and drama for families. 11am.

Age 0-6.

Fri 8-Sat 9 Dec. Great Magician at Christmas. James Phelan entertains.

3pm, 8pm.

Wed 13-Sun 24 Dec. The Stolen Winter Light. Written by Douglas Murdoch with Greedy Pig Theatre.

Family show with a bewitching and hilarious festive tale. Relaxed performances available and all shows captioned.

Roper Theatre Sat 16 Dec. Bath. Beauty and the Beast. Pantomime in 60 minutes. 1pm, Continued on page 15

music, puppetry and drama.

Wyvern Swindon: Sat 2-Sun 31 Dec. Snow White. Pantomime.

Pick of Diary Events in Bath Fri 17 Nov-Wed 3 Jan. Royal Victoria Park. Bath on Ice. Ice skating outdoors – also Moguls Alpine Bar And Glow Golf.

Thu 23 Nov-Sun 10 Dec. Bath Christmas Market. Central Bath near the Abbey.

Thu 23 Nov-Sun 24 Dec. Milsom Place Father Christmas’ Grotto. After school times.

Fri 1 Dec. Bath Abbey. Bath Choral Society. J. S. Bach’s Christmas Oratorio.

7.30pm.

Sat 2 Dec. Methodist Hall, Bear Flat.

Christmas Art and Market. 10am to 5pm, Free Entry. Methodist Church Hall, Bruton Avenue. Handmade gifts and unique affordable artwork on sale including ceramics, painting, jewellery, sculpture, photography, printmaking, glass, illustration, cards, festive tree decorations and more. Buy direct from artists and makers and find out about the making processes. www. bearflatartists.co.uk Sat 2 Dec. Burdall’s Yard. The Aidean Pope Trio. Progressive jazz meets hiphop and rock. 8pm.

Tue 5 Dec. Bath Abbey. Carols with the Horizons Choir of Bath. 7pm.

Tue 5 Dec. Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institute. Philosophy and Life. Talk by A C Grayling. The talk will explore how to answer the Socratic challenge and examines the most important questions that arise in doing so: death, the great inevitable, love, the great desirable, meaning, the great mystery – and the great hope, happiness. What do these concepts mean – really mean? 7.30pm.

Thu 7 Dec. Bath Forum. Swing into Christmas. Down for the Count recreate the music of Nat ‘King’ Cole, Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, and Frank Sinatra. 6.30pm.

Sat 9 Dec. Bath City Farm. Father Christmas Show. British comic actor Stewart Wright is excited to bring Father of Christmas to life in Bath for the first time. 4.30pm.

Sat 9 Dec. Bear Flat Christmas Lights Switch-on: The Bear Flat Association has arranged for a display of festive lights around the high street shops. 6pm.

Sat 9 Dec. Christ Church, Julian Road. Bathtub Orchestra Christmas Concert with the Neston Larks Choir.

Festive music. 7.30pm.

Sun 10 Dec. Green Park Station.

Contemporary Arts Fair. From 12noon. Local artists exhibit.

Sun 10 Dec. Odd Down Sports Ground. Mental Elf Fun Run. Bath Mind are behind the family friendly 5K

15

Scientific Institute. Bath Abbey – the story behind the stones. Talk

by Jeremy Key-Pugh. Bath Abbey has recently completed the “Footprint Project” – an ambitious £19.3-million undertaking, which began with the need to stabilise the sinking floor, though ultimately it included a lot more work as well. The floor was subsiding because of the number of burials underneath it in the course of nearly 300 years. 7.30pm.

Fri 15 Dec. Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institute. Carols By Candlelight. Bath Celebration Choir.

7.30pm.

Fri 15 Dec. Herschel Museum of Astronomy. Winter Astronomy: Anniversary of Caroline’s 5th comet. fundraiser.

Take part in night time astronomy.

Wed 13 Dec. Bath Royal Literary 8pm. and Scientific Institute. Dickens Sat 16 Dec. American Museum. and the Victorian Christmas Book.

Steeple Rocks Christmas Concert.

Talk by Prof Dinah Birch. The lasting Wiltshire choir entertain in The significance of A Christmas Carol in the Stables. 2.30pm. context of other books that Dickens Sat 16 Dec. Bath Abbey. Handel’s wrote for the Christmas market, and Messiah. With Abbey choirs of Girls will also examine the wider tradition and Lay Clerks. Accompanied by of the Victorian Christmas book as it Rejouissance. 7pm. developed to reflect and sometimes Sat 16 Dec. Church of St Mary the to challenge the values of a rapidlyVirgin, Bathwick. Capella Nova: changing society. 7.30pm.

Rejoice, O World. Concert in aid of Thu 14 Dec. The Forum. Fastlove Bath Mencap. 7.30pm.

Tribute to George Michael. Top artist Sun 17 Dec. American Museum. Jazz brings George’s music to life. with John Law’s recreation. Musical Thu 14 Dec. Bath Royal Literary and Continued on page 16

Cappella Nova: Rejoice, O World Saturday 16 th December, 7.30 pm Church of St Mary the Virgin, Bathwick, Bath BA2 4EB Bath-based choir Cappella Nova celebrates Advent and Christmas in an evening of music and readings in the splendid setting of St Mary’s Church, Bathwick.

The title ‘Rejoice, O World’ is taken from the words of ‘Today the Virgin’ by John Tavener, which features in the concert.

Our concert is in aid of Bath Mencap. Tickets £15, students £8, under-18s free.

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n WHAT’S ON Continued from page 15

entertainment in The Stables. 2.30pm.

Sun 17 Dec. Chapel Arts. Clyve’s Funky Christmas Party. Bath’s Blue Eyed Soul Boy is back at Chapel Arts with his Soul City Foundation. 8pm.

Wed 20 Dec. The Forum. Lost In Music - One Night at the Disco.

A chance to dance the night away to the best music of the 1980s and beyond.

Sat 23 Dec. Komedia. Bingo Lingo.

Bingo but not as we know it. 7.30pm.

Sun 31 Dec. Widcombe Social Club.

New Year’s Eve party. Disco with music to dance in 2024. 10pm-1am Fri 5 Jan. Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institute. Gravitational Waves and Black Holes. Talk by Dr Isobel Romero-Shaw.

Pick of Diary Events outside of Bath Bristol Christmas Market. Bristol Shopping Quarter’s streets will play host to wooden chalets offering a selection of gifts as well as festive food and drink. 3 Nov to23 Dec 2023.

Winter Wonderland at Wookey Hole. Apparently Santa lives in these Somerset Caves. Until 1 Jan. Exhibition Picks in Bath American Museum, Bath. Claverton.

The Museum features collections from the United States where you can visit rooms that recreate periods of its history. Brick America exhibition – the USA in Lego. Until 31 December. Plus

plenty of festive events including gin tasting on the 7th, and felt making on the 19th.

Burdell’s Yard. Art exhibition.

Charlotte Moore - Panel Paintings.

A series of panel paintings, all with historical references. Formerly resident in Australia, Charlotte Moore has lived in and near Bath for the last 20 years, a member of Bath Society of Artists, over these years she has exhibited in Bath, London, and other open exhibitions. She studied at Chelsea School of Art and Falmouth College of Art. Free. Until February 3, 2024.

Herschel Museum of Astronomy.

It is located in a town house that was formerly the home of William Herschel and his sister Caroline.

Christmas is marked with a workshop on the phases of the moon on Saturday 16th – ideal for children.

Holburne Museum. The heart of the present day collection was formed by Sir Thomas William Holburne (17931874). It was eventually bequeathed to the people of Bath. Current shows include Lucie Rie pottery until Jan 7, the art of Sarah Biffin to Jan 14 and the art of Gwen John until 14 April.

Museum of Bath at Work. Julian Rd, Bath BA1 2RH. Enter the world of working Bath through a series of authentically reconstructed workplaces, workshops and display

galleries. Exhibition: All Day Long: The Workers of Bath in Fifty Portrait Photographs.

Museum of East Asian Art. MEAA’s collections consist of some 2,000 objects. The majority of these are of Chinese origin, spanning from 5,000 BC to the present.

Victoria Art Gallery. Exhibitions include Gail Mason: The Unseen Landscape to 7 Jan, 2024; When Dreams Confront Reality: Surrealism in Britain to 7 Jan; Catherine Ducker: Emotion in Colour. 9 Jan to 14 April. From Jan 19 to April 14: The Wonderful World of Ladybird Book Artists.

Exhibition Picks outside Bath Weston-super-Mare Museum.

Adventures in Time & Space - 60 Years of Doctor Who Art Exhibition. 21 Oct to 27 Jan 2024.

Bristol Museum & Art Gallery.

Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2023.

To 1 Apr 2024.

Attractions in Bath Assembly Rooms. The National Trust are working on the Georgian Experience, due to open in 2026. You can book a visit the once centre of Georgian social life – wearing period costume is optional.

Bath Abbey. Not just a place of worship with numerous events and services but also features a shop, tower tours, a discovery centre and a

social history museum.

Bath City Farm. 37 acres overlooking the city on Kelston View. A working farm with café, facilities, workshops and gardens – plus Father Christmas on the 9th.

Details on their website.

Bath World Heritage Centre.

Interactive exhibits and displays designed to reveal the history of Bath and show visitors and residents free walking trails and guides to help you explore everything Bath has to offer.

Jane Austen Centre. Gay Street.

Everything you need to know about the author and her life.

Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein. Gay Street. Monsters and more.

No.1 Royal Crescent. Features an immersive experience, which will allow you to see life as it was lived in Georgian Bath during the late 1700s.

Look beyond the Crescent’s famous Palladian façade and see what life was like for the wealthy and their servants in eighteenth-century Bath Great views from the windows.

The Roman Baths. The hot water that comes out of the ground is the reason Bath exists. A fascinating tour of the city’s history from the time of the Romans.

December 2023

bathvoice

n BATH LIBRARY BOOK REVIEWS AND NEWS Adult Fiction The Man Who Died Twice – Richard Osman This is the second book in Richard Osman’s very popular crime series. Again we meet ex-spook Elizabeth, Joyce, Ibrahim and Ron. Four senior citizens with a passion for crime solving.

Elizabeth has been sent a letter from an old colleague – he has made a mistake, stolen diamonds are involved; a nasty mobster and murder is never far away.

Can the septuagenarians hunt out again a ruthless murderer and perhaps even find some diamonds?

With great characters, Richard Osman strikes gold yet again. The relationship between the group of friends is infectious and tough issues are dealt with, like dementia and loneliness with a lovely light touch. The plot is pacey – with the group getting themselves into some sticky situations with lots of humour. I can see why these books are

so popular.

A Christmas Revelation – Anne Perry A Christmas crime caper from the popular writer Anne Perry.

A story set in Dickensian London; we met Worm returning home to Portpool Lane. He ducks and dives to survive and as he walks through the streets of London, the city is full of festive cheer!

As he approaches home, he spots the most beautiful woman he has ever seen, but she is being dragged away by two very nasty men and looks in grave danger – what is the information that only Elouise can tell them?

With the help of Squeaky Robinson, an accountant at the nearby hospital, Worm comes up with a daring plan to rescue Elouise before it is too late and of course just in time for Christmas Day. A perfect whodunit with great characters.

Young Adult Fiction

Honey and Spice - Bolu Babalola, as

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reviewed by Emilie Bioud, Keynsham Library Kikiola Banjo is studying in an English University dreaming on winning a tuition to go to NYCU. She uses her free time to do a radio show called Brown Sugar giving advice to her sisters on the campus against heart breaker guys. Her last episode depicts the new student just arrived who already created many troubles among the ladies, she nicknames him the Wasteman. She doesn’t know yet that she is going to have to work along this student if she wants to win her tuition. Would she resist his charm?

Bolu Babalola writes Modern Romances, very honest on the women feelings and desires. If I must complain about something it’s the fact that she writes for a wider range of readers, more Americanised, therefore her England is very fictional, I couldn’t relate to any of the description of it. It doesn’t impact too much on the story, you soon start to enjoy the different characters and wish they had their own stories told in another book. Get ready for some Soul and R’N’B music.

Children’s Fiction

Clarice Bean: Thinks like an Elf – Lauren Child I love all the Clarice Bean books – they are a delightful read with great illustrations and Clarice is a brilliant character. So, Christmas is fast approaching and at No.7 Navarino Street preparations are in full swing – or are they? Clarice hopes everyone on her street is full of Christmas spirt but that pesky spirit can sometimes float away and it important to keep an eye of it.

There is the tree to choose, the turkey

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to get; a Christmas list to prepare and concerts to attend but Clarice is determined that her whole street should enjoy Christmas with her and then, of course its snows.

The Queen’s Present – Steve Antony It is Christmas Eve and the Queen faces a dilemma- she still has not found the perfect present for the little princes and princess. Luckily she has very good connections and none other than Father Christmas is on hand to help her. Off they fly, all around the world in the search for the prefect present!

This book is beautifully illustrated as the pair tours the world and visit special place such as the Eiffel Tower in Paris; the Statue of Liberty in New York; the Himeji Castle in Japan and even the North Pole.

There is a delightful stop right at the end.

Library News

PLEASE NOTE: All Libraries, including Keynsham, Bath Central and Midsomer Norton will be closed on Monday 25th to Tuesday 26th December 2023 and closed on Monday 1st January 2024.

For any Library renewals please access LibrariesWest.org.uk.

As there’s always so much going on in all our libraries, and it’s all free, so drop in and see what’s on offer. For families with children, sing along at Baby Bounce and Rhyme, or get comfy whilst listening to stories at our everpopular Storytime.

For adults, we’ve got book clubs, writing classes, and much more throughout the year. Joining the library costs nothing, so pop in or visit www.librarieswest.org.uk to also access thousands of eBooks, eMagazines, Audiobooks, and a wealth of other resources! Our ‘Virtual Library’ has loads going on, including the latest library news, competitions, book reviews and, all our digital offers.

Search ‘Bath and North East Somerset Libraries’ on social media or visit bathneslibraries.wordpress.com

Moorland Road Community Library

Tues 10-4pm, Thurs & Fri 10-1pm and Sat 10-1pm. Email for more info at Moorlandroadcommunitylibrary@ gmail.com And visit https://www. moorlandroadcommunitylibrary.com/ to find out how to volunteer and much more. The library is seeking more volunteers to help keep it open for longer. Pictured left.

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n NEWS

HMO News: Owners of a “spotless” and “cosy” bed and breakfast in Bath have been given the go-ahead to turn it into a shared house writes John Wimperis LDR. Bath and North East Somerset Council has granted planning permission for the change of use of Bay Tree House from a bed and breakfast to a house in multiple occupation (HMO). An HMO is a property rented out to three or more people who are not considered one “household” — with Bay Tree House having space for six sharers to move in.

But the website of the hotel, on Upper Bristol Road — which has a four-and-a-half star rating on trip advisor — still shows rooms available to book into February next year.

Council officers approved the application, stating that the rooms were larger than the minimum size requirements and that there were not so many HMOs in the area that another one would create a high concentration.

Christmas Tree News: Mentoring Plus are selling Christmas Trees with all the proceeds going to mentoring programs and activities

Mentoring Plus will be holding their annual charity Christmas Tree sale this December with all the proceeds going to mentoring programs and activities for children and young people in BathNES. You can Pre-order your tree from the online shop for collection in December, or visit them at The Riverside Youth Hub just off the London Rd in Bath. All the trees are premium Nordman Firs, which are renowned for not losing their needles and from a sustainable tree farm in the UK. Buy a charity tree and know that you are helping to support young people in your community who are facing really tough challenges in their lives this Christmas.

for children and young people.

The sale is at the Riverside Youth Hub just off the London Road or you can pre-order your tree here https://mentoringplus. net/shop.

Ukraine News: Bath resident Scott Adams took a convoy of two pickup trucks carrying aid to Ukraine last month.

For the four-day trip, Scott Adams from Midford Castle took 600kg of medical aid and clothing to authorities in the city of Lviv in western Ukraine.

Knowing how badly the Ukrainian military needs large vehicles, Scott will also donated the two vehicles he took and reconditioned for the 1,700-mile voyage - a Mitsubishi L200 (bought for £9,000) and a Ford Ranger Thunder (£5,300) - to the Ukrainian army.

Like many Bathonians Scott is also sponsoring and supporting a Ukrainian family - Lidiia, her two daughters and three grandchildren - who have lived at Midford Castle since their arrival in England in

December 2023

April 2022. Scott bought the castle from Nocholas Cage the actor.

Planning News by John Wimperis, Local democracy Reporter: Brock Street, Bath Renovations at a Bath dentists could see an extra dental surgery installed in the building.

Bath Dental Excellence at 29 Brock Street could go from having five dental surgeries to six, if plans are approved. Two doors could be removed and a stud wall installed on the second floor to create a new surgery, and a heat pump could also be installed as part of the plans.

But the dental clinic needs listed building consent from Bath and North East Somerset Council before the plans can go ahead.

Brock Street was built by John Wood the Younger in the mid1700s, who would then build the Royal Crescent at the end of the street, and the dentists’ building is Grade II listed.

You can view and comment on the application here: https://www.bathnes.gov.uk/ webforms/planning/details. html?refval=23%2F04029% 2FLBA#details_Section

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n NEWS

Poppy Design News: In November, MP for Bath, Wera Hobhouse, visited Bath Spa University’s Locksbrook campus for a tour of its facilities, and to meet with students.

While on the tour of the building, Wera learned about Bath Spa Associate Lecturer in Product and Furniture Design, Jonathan Sturgess, who in his work as Design Director at Bath-based agency, Matter, has designed a new, sustainable poppy for the British Legion.

It is the first time in 28 years that a new poppy has been developed. The plastic-free poppy is created from red and green paper manufactured by papermaker James Cropper. The papers have been produced from a blend of renewable fibres from responsible sources and waste material from the production of coffee cups. The poppy is fully recyclable.

At the same time 16 design students from Hayesfield Girls’ School yesterday attended a Design Day held by Matter at their studios.

The Bath-based product design agency wanted to inspire the next generation of young designers.

Philippa Johnson, Head of Product Design from Hayesfield Girls’ School commented: “It has been such an insightful and exciting

19

day for the students and everyone has walked away enthused about the opportunities that a career in design can offer them.”

Diabetes News: People with type 1 and 2 diabetes are being encouraged to take part in a study at the Royal United Hospital looking at how glucose monitoring sensors can help them to manage their blood glucose levels.

The small sensors are fitted on a patient’s arm using an applicator and last for 14 days.

Rachel Mathias, Diabetes Research Nurse, said: “We want to find out how useful patients find the sensors to monitor the impact that food, activity and medication has on their sugar levels.

“By being able to monitor their

glucose levels regularly and easily, we are hopeful that they will be able to take action before they become poorly.

“The sensors also remove the need for regular finger-prick tests and can be easily attached to the arm by patients themselves.”

If you can be part of the RUH study, please email ruh-tr.

DiabetesAndLipidsResearch@nhs. net or call 01225 824125.

Clean Air News: Bath’s air quality has improved since the introduction of the Clean Air Zone (CAZ) in 2021 to new report has confirmed.

The BBC’s Clara Bullock reported: “The government’s Joint Air Quality Unit (JAQU) said that Bath’s air pollution levels had dropped to within legal limits, following the launch of the CAZ in 2021.

“The report confirms nitrogen dioxide concentrations had decreased by 22%. It said during 2021, there were no breaches of the annual mean nitrogen dioxide limit.”

It was feared at the time that drivers would use the outskirts of the city as rat runs to avoid the CAZ

but it appears that concern has not come to pass.

One aspect of CAZ that has put a smile on the face of the Council’s bank manager is the extra £3.3m it raised last year from fines and fees.

Christmas Recycling News: The recycling centres will be closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day and collection crews will not be out on those days.

Garden waste collections will be also be suspended until January 15.

Refuse and recycling collections between December 25 and January 12 will instead happen one to three days later than usual. You can check your collection dates and download a list of the changed dates here: www.bathnes.gov.uk/collectionday Dorothy House will be collecting Christmas trees for a donation. Book at: just-helping. org.uk/register-tree Alternatively, they can be taken to the council’s recycling centres or booked in advance for collection.

All decorations should be removed and the tree cut in half to be less than 1.2m tall. You can book a council collection here: https:// beta.bathnes.gov.uk/christmastree-collections

STOP. CHALLENGE. PROTECT.

WANT TO KNOW MORE

Protect your money. Don’t feel rushed into handing over money or financial information, take time to think about it and talk to someone you trust.

Just because someone knows your basic details doesn’t mean they’re genuine.

SOCIAL

PERSONAL INFORMATION

Your bank, or any other official organisation, won’t ask you to share personal information over the phone, email or text, be aware of unexpected contact. If you are asked for personal information check that it’s genuine, call them directly using contact details on their official website or correspondence.

Fraud and cybercrime are the most common criminal offences in the UK. As the threat continues to grow and evolve, it’s important to remember one thing - most of it can be prevented.

To advertise, contact Erica on erica@bathvoice.co.uk or call 07402 441485

YOUR MONEY

DON’T FEEL PRESSURED

PROTECT YOURSELF FROM FRAUD

By following just a few steps, you can make it harder for fraudsters to steal your money or personal information when online, on the phone or at your front door.

Go to www.avonandsomerset-pcc.gov.uk for more information on keeping yourself safe and to provide feedback.

STAY SAFE

CREATE STRONG RANDOM PASSWORDS FOR YOUR DEVICES KEEP YOUR DEVICES UP TO DATE VERIFY WHO YOU ARE TALKING TO ONLINE, OVER THE PHONE OR EVEN AT YOUR DOOR

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If you have been a victim of fraud or cybercrime, report it to Action Fraud by visiting www.actionfraud.police.uk or alternatively call 0300 123 2040.

If you receive a suspicious email report it to report@phishing.gov.uk

Got a story for Bath Voice? Email Harry on news@bathvoice.co.uk

If you receive a suspicious text forward it to 7726 (free of charge)

n SPORTS INFORMATION For results visit the website.

Sports listed in Alphabetical Order American Football: Bath Killer Bees: The Bath Killer Bees are members of the British Universities American Football League (BUAFL)’s South Western Atlantic Conference (SWAC).

BUCS South West Division 1. See www.thesubath.com/ americanfootball/ 03/12/23 - Exeter Demons (H) 10/12/23 - Bristol University Barracuda (A) 28/01/24 - Bristol University Barracuda (H) 04/02/24 - Bournemouth University Bobcats (H) Athletics: Team Bath Athletics Club Visit https://teambathac.org/ Athletics: Bath Half Marathon.

Sunday 17 March 2024 Visit https:// bathhalf.co.uk/ Badminton: Bath Badminton Club.

Visit www.bathbadminton.co.uk Badminton: Oldfield Park Badminton Club, Visit www. badmintoninbath.co.uk/ Badminton: Bath Women’s Badminton Club. Visit www. bathwomensbadmintonclub.net/ Boules: City of Bath Pétanque Club.

The club plays Pétanque and is open to all, with juniors and non-players welcome. If you haven’t played before, give it a go. The club is based at Larkhall Sports Club, but they also play in Queen Square Wednesday mornings, weather permitting.

Croquet: Bath Croquet Club: To join or for more info contact Hester Henebury on email hester2210@ btinternet.com or visit https://www. bathcroquet.com/ Cycling: Bath Cycling Club Visit https://www.bathcc.net/ Cycling: Bike Bath: The annual cycling event has been put off this year until 2024.

Equestrian: Bath Racecourse See: https://www.bath-racecourse. co.uk/whats-on for details.

Football: Bath City FC. Bath play in the National League South, the sixth tier of the football pyramid. The home ground is Twerton Park and the manager is Jerry Gill. Known as the Romans and play in black and white

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vertical stripes.

• Sat 2 Dec. VNLS. Home V Chelmsford.

• Tue 5 Dec. VNLS. Home V Yeovil.

• Sat 16 Dec. VNLS. Away V Dover.

• Sat 23 Dec. VNLS. Home V Welling.

• Tue 26 Dec. VNLS. Away V Chippenham.

• Mon 1 Jan. VNLS. Home V Chippenham.

• Sat 6 Jan. VNLS. Away V Yeovil.

Football: Bath City Women The Bath City Women Development Team will play in the Somerset County Women’s League in Division 2 North starting on September 3rd. They will play their home games at Lansdown South, the pitches that Bath City Youth have recently taken over, with at least one fixture at Twerton Park before the end of their season.

• Sun 26 Nov. Home V Poole Town.

• Sun 3 Dec. Away V Purton.

• Sun 10 Dec. Home V Shaftsbury.

• Sun 7 Jan. Away V Shaftsbury.

Football: Larkhall Athletic FC. Founded in 1914 the Larks play in the Southern League Division One South (SLD1S) and are based at the Securitas Stadium, Plain Ham. With a development team, a youth team and a women’s team the Larks are one of the leading outfits in the city. They are part of Larkhall Sports Club. Visit https://larkhallathletic.com/ • Sat 2 Dec. Away V Mousehole.

• Sat 9 Dec. Home V Cribbs.

• Sat 16 Dec. Away V Bideford.

• Sat 23 Dec. Home V Bristol ManFm. • Tue 26 Dec. Away V Westbury.

• Mon 1 Jan. Home V Frome.

• Sat 6 Jan. Away V Bishops Cleeve.

Football: Odd Down FC. They are currently members of the Western League Division One (WLD1) and play at the Lew Hill Memorial Ground.

• Sat 2nd Dec 23. WDL1. Away V Aek Boco • Sat 9th Dec 23. WDL1. Home V Longwell Green Sports • Sat 16th Dec 23. WDL1. Away V Brislington • Tues 26th Dec 23. WDL1. Away V Radstock Town • Sat 30th Dec 23. WDL1. Home V Warminster Town • Sat 6th Jan 24. WDL1. Away V Bishop Sutton

Hockey: City of Bath Hockey Club City of Bath were formed from a merger between Bath & Phillipians Hockey Club’s and they play at Lansdown. For details visit https:// www.cobhc.org.uk/ Hockey: Team Bath Buccaneers Hockey Club Team Bath Buccaneers is one of the largest and most successful Hockey Clubs in the West of England with over 800 members. Open to new members.

Based at University of Bath. For details visit https://www. teambathbuccaneers.co.uk/clubNews Hockey: Team Bath Hockey Club The University of Bath Hockey Club has six men’s and six ladies’ teams who play in the British University & Colleges (BUCS) leagues on Wednesdays. Based at University of Bath. Details at https:// www.teambath.com/sport/hockey/ Netball: Team Bath Netball.

Team Bath Netball play in the Vitality Netball Super League which begins in the New Year. Details at https://netball. teambath.com/ Pre-season competition 14 January, Tri-Tournament at Team Bath Arena with London Pulse and Severn Stars from 2pm. Home games in 2024, 7.30pm unless stated: • Fri 1 Mar. Home V Severn Stars.

• Fri 8 Mar. Home V London Pulse.

• Fri 15 Mar. Home V Saracens Mavs • Fri 5 Apr. Home V Leeds Rhinos • Fri 12 Apr. Home V Cardiff Dragons • Sat 4 May. Home V S. Storm. 4pm.

• Fri 10 May. Home V Loughborough • Fri 24 May. Home V Manchester • Fri 31 May. Home V S. Sirens.

Rugby: Bath Rugby Union Club Men Details at https://www.bathrugby. com/ The Blue, Black and Bath Rugby’s Champions Cup Pool fixtures for 2023/24.

Round 1 – 8/9/10 December 2023 Round 2 – 15/16/17 December 2023 Round 3 – 12/13/14 January 2024 Round 4 – 19/20/21 January 2024 Round of 16 – 5/6/7 April 2024 Quarter-finals – 12/13/14 April 2024 Semi-finals – 3/4/5 May 2024 Final – Saturday 25 May 2024, Tottenham Hotspur Stadium Premiership Rugby Cup. Fixtures:

• Sat 2 Dec. Home V Exeter (GP) • Sat 9 Dec. Home V Ulster (Investec Championship R1) • Sat 16 Dec. Away V Cardiff (Investec Championship R2) • Sat 23 Dec. Home V Harlequins (GP) • Sun 31 Dec. Away V Leicester (GP) • Sun 7 Jan. Home V Gloucester (GP) Rugby: Bath Rugby Ladies Club Women For details see https://www. bathrugbyladies.com/ Rugby: Bath Saracens RFC Bath Saracens are an amateur rugby club competing in the Dorset & Wilts 3 Central. Formed on 13th March 1947, Bath Saracens are still going strong 75 years on. All welcome to train at Lambridge Training Ground in Bath every Thursday night between 19.30 and 21.00. See https://bathsaracens. co.uk/events/category/games/ Rugby: Combe Down RFC in 1896 the club currently play home fixtures at Holly’s Corner, Bramble Way. Details on their Face Book site.

Rugby: Bath Gladiators Rugby League Club Bath Gladiators will participate in the newly established Franchise Rugby League starting this season. Visit: https://bathgladiators.com/ Swimming: Based at Bath Leisure Centre and established in 1899, Bath Dolphin Swimming Club (BDSC) is one of the oldest swimming clubs in the South West Region. They provide competitive swimming opportunities for young swimmers through to a masters swimming group.

As a holder of the Swim England quality accreditation, Swim Mark, they offer a year round competitive swim team with high quality coaching and technique instruction for all ages and abilities.

Tennis: Bloomfield Tennis Club was founded in 1927 and is located at 98 Wellsway, Bath. The club welcomes new members. To join visit https://clubspark. lta.org.uk/BloomfieldTennisClub Tennis: Bath Tennis Club is at Park Lane, Weston, and bills itself at a friendly club. The club has a number of membership categories ranging from pay as you go to full membership. For details visit www.bathtc.co.uk

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n NEWS News: Plans for almost 200 student rooms are one step closer to being built in Bath as plans for the final details are set to come before the council writes John Wimperis, Local Democracy Reporter.

Developers want to build 186 student bedrooms along with 104 flats on the site of the disused Hartwells car showroom on Newbridge Road. When first announced in 2019, the plans faced overwhelming opposition from the local community.

Newbridge councillor Michelle O’Doherty said at the time: “I am concerned about the overdevelopment of the site, and I am also worried that the access into the site is both inadequate and dangerous due to the number of people who will be living on the site.”

Bath and North East Somerset Council had voted unanimously to refuse planning permission but the decision was overturned on appeal by the planning inspectorate in 2021, granting approval for the “outline” plans. Now a “reserved matters” application which sets out the final details of the scheme has been submitted to the council.

With the inspectorate’s decision granting outline permission, the developers have already secured approval for the number of flats and student bedrooms. All the council can now have a say on is the scale, design, and landscaping of the development.

Hartwells plan to build four apartment blocks around “a series of connected courtyards,” with two residential blocks facing onto Newbridge Road and two student blocks at the southern edge of the site by a new cycle path.

They hope to fit the blocks facing Newbridge Road within the design of the largely Victorian street with a modern take on gabled roofs. A design and access statement submitted with the application said: “A simple, uncluttered approach to pitched roof form is sought, appropriate to the larger scale of blocks The proposals also contain of parapets and hipped gables.”

The flats in the blocks will range from studios and one-bedroom apartments to two-bedroom apartments, while the student accommodation will be a mix of studio apartments and “en-suite clusters” with a shared kitchen and living area.

December 2023

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The proposed new cycle path at the south of the side would line up with the former railway line which runs through this part of Bath and later becomes the Bath and Bristol Railway Path.

Business News: An old shop “in need of repair” in the centre of Bath could soon reopen as a wine shop and restaurant writes John Wimperis Local Democracy Reporter.

18 Green Street has been a shop since at least 1819 when it was a corset maker’s. It has since been a florist, ladies’ fashion shop, shoe shop, and — most recently — foot clinic Shuropody. Now the new owners have submitted a planning application to Bath and North East Somerset Council proposing restoring historic features and opening a restaurant in the building to serve small plates.

Currently, the building is in need of repair, with a design and access statement submitted with the application warning: “The beam and roof structure is in need of repair to prevent further damage to the historic fabric of the building.”

The new owners propose addressing these issues, while also undoing twentieth century alterations to reveal historic aspects of the building of which “only traces” remain. They propose stripping out the modern shop fittings and partition walls to reveal the original fireplace and limestone walls, while 1930s wooden panelling will be retained and re-established where possible.

The statement added: “The new small plate restaurant, wine shop and residential unit will enhance the community and ensure the entire building is brought back into beneficial use. […] The restored asset and new viable use should contribute to the character and distinctiveness of Green Street.”

Business News 2: Shaftsebury Road in Oldfield Park is the location for an improved Cooperative store.

The upgraded outlet includes parcel collection services, an in-store bakery, hot food, coffee, a free cash machine and limited parking.

The former Scala Cinema was opened in the 1920s but eventually closed as a pitcure house in the 1960s.

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SOMER VALLEY CAMPUS (RADSTOCK)

SAT 27TH JAN - 10AM-1PM CITY CENTRE CAMPUS (BATH)

WED 6TH MAR - 4PM-7PM For more information and to register, visit:

bathcollege.ac.uk/openevents To advertise, contact Erica on erica@bathvoice.co.uk or call 07402 441485