Bath Echo - Issue 044 - 31/01/2023

Thousands wait over 12 hours to be seen at Accident & Emergency P2

FEARS FOR NEW FASHION MUSEUM

Failure to secure £20m puts project at risk - P3

More bus services to be cut as funding reduced

A CHANGE to the way some bus services across the West of England are funded will see several routes being cut in the coming months.

Bath & North East Somerset Council says it has stepped in to protect some of the services, following a decision by the West of England Combined Authority (WECA) Committee to reduce the amount of money being spent on buses from April.

25-year-old convicted for terrorism offences after recording video P3

Warning issued after sharp rise in number of norovirus cases P3

Record amount raised thanks to annual firework display P4

The committee, made up of the leaders and Mayor from the three councils in the region, voted to reduce the amount of money spent on supported buses at a time when the costs to run the services have increased. Although WECA is the local transport authority for the area, B&NES Council has earmarked £280,000 from its own budget above what it already contributes to the region’s buses ‘pot’ to fur-

ther fund local services.

At the meeting on 18th January, Metro Mayor Dan Norris announced the introduction of a new Demand Responsive Transport (DRT) system for the sub-region.

In Bath, where DRT will not be introduced, the local authority’s additional funding will safeguard the following bus services:

region’s fur

Council “extremely sorry” after home branded “inadequate” P4

Photo © B&NES Council

In this issue...

Crossword P7

Community P10

Health P12

Education P13

Business P14

Politics P15

In Other News P16

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Thousands wait over 12 hours to be seen at A&E

NEW data has revealed that thousands of people in the region had to wait more than 12 hours to be seen in Accident & Emergency departments in December.

Across the South West, 14,461 people waited over 4 hours to be seen, while 6,147 people waited over 12 hours.

At the Royal United Hospital in Bath, just over 1,000 patients waited four hours, and 216 people waited over 12 hours to be admitted.

The average ambulance response time for the most urgent incidents was over 13 minutes in December, far higher than the NHS target of 7 minutes.

Response times for urgent conditions such as heart attacks

and strokes are even longer. Ambulance response times in the South West for these Category 2 emergencies are now over 2 and a half hours, almost nine times higher than the 18-minute target.

Wera Hobhouse, MP for Bath, commented: “The Government’s failure to tackle the crisis in our NHS is letting down people in Bath and putting patients’ lives at risk.

“How much more evidence do Ministers need? They either don’t care or just can’t grasp the scale of this problem.

“Unacceptable and heartbreaking delays mean the Government is falling far short even on its own targets.

“Far too many people across the South West are having to wait

far too long to get the treatment they need. In many cases, this is literally a matter of life or death. People in our area deserve far better.

“Our NHS isn’t just at breaking point – it is splitting at its very seams. We need action from the

Conservatives.

“Liberal Democrats are demanding the Government release the money they promised to help discharge patients from hospitals, and launch a campaign to recruit the extra paramedics and ambulance staff we need.”

Bus services cut once again due to rising costs

Continued from page 1

... The Metro Mayor announced that demand-responsive services will be introduced in areas outside of Bath from April. These would allow people to ‘order’ minibuses through a phone call or app, within a zone or specific drop off / pick up points outside the zone.

More information on the Demand Responsive Transport scheme, named ‘West Link’, can be found on the West of England Combined Authority website. Where DRT is being introduced in April, B&NES Council will continue to fund some supported services until June, to ease the transition to the new arrangements.

The services being temporarily funded are:

• 82 – Paulton – Midsomer Norton – Radstock

• 172 – Bath – Paulton

• 179 – Midsomer Norton – Bath

• 672 – Blagdon – Bristol

• 768 – Midsomer Norton – Bath

Following the WECA Committee decision, a number of services will not be supported after April, although many of these journeys will be possible using the new DRT services.

Services being cut include:

• 22 – Twerton – University of Bath (school holidays only)

• 178 – Midsomer Norton –Brislington Park & Ride

• 185 – Paulton – Trowbridge

• 636 – Whitchurch – Keynsham

• 640 – Bishop Sutton –Keynsham

• 663 – Somerdale – Chandag Road

• 664 – Somerdale – Saltford

• 665 – Somerdale – Longmeadow Road

• 668 – Peasedown St John –Bristol

• 683 – Keynsham – Wells

• 684 – Wick to Keynsham

• 752 – Hinton Blewett – Bath

• 754 – Hinton Blewett – Radstock

• 757 – Combe Hay – Midsomer

Norton

Commercial bus services in Bath and North East Somerset are unaffected by the changes.

Councillor Sarah Warren, Dep-

uty Council Leader and cabinet member Climate and Sustainable Travel, said: “The system for bus provision is broken, both nationally and locally, following many years of funding cuts and deregulation and needs an overhaul.

“We welcome the fresh thinking that has led to the new demand responsive services being introduced, and very much hope that it will provide a flexible and sustainable way for people to access jobs, leisure and work, despite the speed of its introduction by the Mayor.

“Costs across the industry have been rising at a time of reduced funding, and this new model is the only way we are able to retain services for our residents.

“That’s why, even with the financial challenges we are facing, we are proposing additional council funding for buses.

“In Bath, where the Mayor is not providing DRT, we will use the council’s own money to ensure all existing supported bus services can continue.

“We will also be supporting some services across North East

Somerset for an additional two months to help with the transition and will continue to work closely with WECA and the other local authorities to embed the new services successfully.

“DRT has the potential to improve access and contribute to our net zero targets, however given that DRT on the scale being proposed by the Mayor is untested, we are asking that communities be involved in shaping the next steps for its implementation.”

Metro Mayor Dan Norris said:

“Once again less is being invested in West of England bus services than elsewhere. It works out at £20 a head here but £36 in Manchester and £63 in Liverpool.

Mr Norris is now calling for new powers so he can both raise and spend money for buses directly.

The Metro Mayor said: “Less money from local councils means fewer buses. There is no way of getting round that.

“The councils also specified which buses they would spend that lesser amount of money on and said deal or no deal. I was presented with a one meal menu.

The only option was gruel. And that was a half portion.

“I know passengers will be upset not to get the bus services they need and deserve but without more cash from local councils who are the only ones with tax raising powers there is no way of doing more.”

Speaking about the new on-demand bus service, Mr Norris said:

“WEST link is not a replacement for supported buses. Indeed government rules say I cannot spend the money being used for it on existing supported services.

“It is a new system designed to get people to main transport corridors.

“I am sure it will be disruptive and there will be teething problems but I hope WEST link will provide a much-needed new public transport option to help people get out and about to their destinations.”

WEST link is being funded by the West of England Combined Authority, predominantly using money secured from the government through the Bus Service Improvement Plan.

A number of services will be temporarily funded following the vote to reduce the money allocated for buses

Accident & Emergency at the Royal United Hospital in Bath | Photo © RUH

Funding bid failure puts future of Fashion Museum in peril

John Wimperis

Local Democracy Reporter

THE future of Bath’s Fashion Museum has been thrown into doubt after it missed out on crucial funding.

Bath and North East Somerset Council had hoped that the government’s Levelling Up fund could cover more than half the cost of relocating the Fashion Museum, which was forced to leave the Assembly Rooms in October.

But there was no money for Bath when the government recently announced the successful levelling up bids.

The council now say they are looking for alternative ways of funding the project and are aiming for the museum to reopen in 2027 or 2028.

Local MP Wera Hobhouse said: “I was very disappointed to learn that Bath & North East Somerset Council’s bid to secure levelling up funding for our city was unsuccessful. This was the second time Bath missed out.”

The Fashion Museum has been closed since October when it left its Assembly Rooms home of 60 years because the National Trust,

who own the building, wanted to use it for their own Georgian “experience.”

Plans to move the Fashion Museum into a new location in the old post office opposite Waitrose, which is part of the wider plans to regenerate Bath’s Milsom Quarter, will cost £37m according to the council.

The West of England Combined Authority is putting £2.4m into the regeneration project but the council hoped the bulk of the funding for the new museum would be paid for by the government’s Levelling Up fund and had submitted a bid for £20m.

Reacting to news that the bid had been unsuccessful, council leader Kevin Guy said: “Whilst this is disappointing news from the government, the process of working up the Levelling Up Fund bid has demonstrated the benefits of this project to our local economy and to our communities.

“We are convinced that it will deliver a hugely positive impact on the local visitor economy and increase cultural participation and skills-based opportunities amongst some of our most deprived communities.

“In our Roman Baths, we have one of the most successful heritage attractions in the world. I’m wholly confident that we will be able to use our expertise to deliver the new Fashion Museum, which will be one of the most significant pieces of cultural infrastructure in the country over the next few years.”

Ms Hobhouse criticised how the allocation of Levelling Up funding had been handled by

Bath man convicted for terrorism offences after recording video

A 25-YEAR-OLD man from Bath who made and shared a video about how to make an explosive substance has been convicted.

Elliot Brown was found guilty at Bristol Crown Court on Monday, 16 January, of two-terrorism related offences following an investigation by Counter Terrorism Policing South West (CTPSW).

Brown recorded a video in which he used a smart device to recite how to make a specific explosive substance.

In March 2020, he then shared what he recorded in a Telegram chat group where members expressed extreme right-wing views and ideology.

Brown’s offending came to light during a separate terrorismrelated investigation, for which one person was convicted and jailed in June 2021, as they had the footage saved on their phone. He was arrested by counterterrorism officers in February 2021.

When questioned, Brown told officers he made the video as a joke as he had a dark sense of humour, but did not harbour the same extreme ideology as seen within the chat group. However, contradictory evidence was found on his phone of videos showing terrorist attacks in Germany and New Zealand, in addition to neo-Nazi imagery. Brown was found guilty of one count of possession of terrorismrelated material and a second of distributing it, intending

to, or recklessly, encouraging terrorism.

The jury reached a majority verdict on both counts after deliberating for more than seven hours following a five-day trial.

Detective Superintendent Craig McWhinnie, Head of CTPSW said: “Elliot Brown was not just seeking to explore an interest in extremist related materials.

“The video he produced and thought appropriate to share with people harbouring similar abhorrent views will understandably shock people.

“While there is no evidence that Brown planned to commit any terrorist attack, his actions went beyond just casual talk and are a criminal offence under the Terrorism Act.”

Superintendent Steve Kendall, of Avon and Somerset Police, said: “People like Elliot Brown, who hold extremist views, can live absolutely anywhere and although these instances are rare,

they remind us we all need to be vigilant.

“Our number one priority is always public safety and that’s why we work so closely with our counter terrorism partners and other agencies. We will always work tirelessly to root out offenders such as Brown.

“If you are concerned about someone’s behaviour please contact us. We will be able to help with support, and where necessary, take appropriate action.”

Every year thousands of reports from the public help police tackle the threat of terrorism. If you see or hear something that doesn’t seem right, trust your instincts and act early, especially if the people you love and know have started to have extreme views or are just acting differently than before. Reporting won’t ruin lives, but it could save them. Find out more at https://www.gov.uk/ report-terrorism.

the government. She said: “I know many MPs up and down the country are aggrieved with this Government’s uneven distribution of funding. B&NES Council’s visionary project to revitalise the internationally significant Bath Fashion Museum and develop a new location for its fashion collection at Locksbrook in collaboration with Bath Spa University will attract more visitors and create new jobs.

“I know a lot of hard work went into this bid and I share my colleagues’ and constituents’ disappointment.”

“It seems curious that the South East received a disproportionate amount of money while the South West missed out. “So far I have not seen any feedback as to why our bid failed. “The council is awaiting detailed feedback from the Government so that it can work out next steps.”

Warning after increase in norovirus cases

HEALTH leaders in Bath and the wider region have warned residents to be cautious following an increase in the number of people becoming unwell with norovirus. Transmission of norovirus, which commonly causes an unpleasant bout of sickness and diarrhoea, is currently very high, with the latest data suggesting that the number of people infected with the bug during the first week of January was more than double that for the last week of December. The growing number is putting added pressure on already very busy local NHS services, especially the region’s acute hospitals, where norovirus outbreaks have led to staff absences and partial ward closures.

People are now being asked to take simple and effective measures to curb the spread of norovirus, such as washing hands regularly. Avoiding others when feeling unwell and not visiting friends and loved ones in hospital until at least 48 hours after all symptoms of norovirus have passed can also make a real difference at this busy time.

Gill May, Chief Nurse at the Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board, said: “Although norovirus usually clears up on its own in just a few days, the subsequent disruption an

outbreak has on local health and care services can be every bit as unpleasant as its symptoms.

“At this very busy time, when all of our services are experiencing an intense level of sustained demand, norovirus has the potential to make a challenging situation even more difficult.

“This is why we need people across the region to support us in trying to limit the spread of this nasty winter bug. Any people who develop symptoms of norovirus should stay at home until at least 48 hours after beginning to feel better, and this means not going to school or work, and especially staying away from health and care settings, such as GP practices and hospitals.

“Washing hands with soap and water is one of the most effective ways of killing norovirus bacteria and preventing further transmission, as is regularly wiping down surfaces, such as where food is prepared and flush handles on shared toilets.”

While the symptoms of norovirus can be managed at home, some people, including young children and those who are older, may be at a higher risk of becoming severely unwell, especially through dehydration.

People with norovirus and in need of medical help should avoid visiting services in person, and instead make use of NHS111 online or call their local pharmacy or GP practice.

25-year-old Elliot Brown was convicted for terror offences

The museum was previously located at the Assembly Rooms | Photo © A G Baxter / Shutterstock.com

Day of police action to tackle drugs sees three people arrested

A DAY of action by police in Bath on Wednesday 18th January, saw three people arrested and a large volume of drugs seized.

The Bath Neighbourhood Policing Team led an operation to disrupt and apprehend suspected drug dealers and prevent drug crime in the city and surrounding communities.

Four warrants were executed simultaneously in the early hours at different addresses in Bath. During the operation, a quantity of class A and class B drugs were seized, suspected to be cocaine and cannabis, along with a number of bladed articles and large sums of cash.

Two men, aged 18 and 24, and a woman, aged 58, were arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of controlled drugs. They have been released under investigation.

Neighbourhood policing Inspector Lee Humphreys said: “Drugs, and the crimes associated with them, destroy the lives of those who take them and those around them.

“This was a great combined effort

Record amount raised thanks to annual firework display

A RECORD amount of money was raised for charity by the Rotary Club of Bath’s community fireworks display at the Recreation Ground last November.

The annual event raised a total of £38,000. The amount will be shared between two charities, Youth Connect South West and the Glasshouse Academy, as well as the Club’s own charitable Trust.

from various teams across the force to act on intelligence given to us and sourced by some of our officers.

“The operation has allowed us to seize large amounts of drugs and weapons which could make it onto our streets.

“The Bath Neighbourhood Policing Team is committed to reducing drugs in the city and surrounding areas and bring those responsible to justice.” If you have information about people you believe are dealing drugs in your area, call 101.

Rotary Club President, Roger Morris, said: “As a Club we were delighted to be able to put this popular event on again, after a three year break due to the pandemic. We had great support from our sponsors, Bath Recreation Trust, and from our partners, including the Students’ Union at the University of Bath, and Bath Rugby.

“Most of all, we are very grateful to the people of Bath who came along in their thousands for what everyone seems to agree was a thrilling display.”

The event is organised with support from members of the University of Bath’s Student Union RAG committee, who helped set up the safety fencing

and act as stewards alongside members of the Rotary Club.

Roger continued: “The RAG committee sells its own tickets to students, and as a Club we also make a donation to their charitable funds from the proceeds of the event.

“If the money raised by the

students is included, it means the fireworks display raised well over £40,000 for charity: a very pleasing result.”

The Rotary Club is planning to put on the display again this year over the Bonfire Night weekend, with the final date yet to be confirmed.

Council “extremely sorry” after home branded “inadequate”

John Wimperis Local Democracy Reporter

BATH and North East Somerset Council has said it is “extremely sorry” after taking over a nursing home, only for the quality of care to deteriorate and the care home to be branded “inadequate” by the Care Quality Commission.

A CQC report published in November found one person had been left sitting in urine overnight, another had an “unexplained bruise” to their chest, and staff did not call for medical assistance for seven hours after one person had suffered a stroke.

Charlton House in Keynsham had been taken over by Bath and North East Somerset Council in 2020 after owner Sirona said they could no longer run the residential care home.

Alison Born, who shares the role of the council’s cabinet member for adult services and council house building, told a council scrutiny panel on 17th January: “We are extremely sorry that we have let people down and have not provided the consistently high quality of care that residents and their families expect and deserve. We make no excuses for this.”

The council also issued an apology to Charlton House residents and their families when the report was published.

Chair of the council’s children, adults, health, and wellbeing scrutiny panel and leader of the Conservative opposition, Vic

Pritchard, said: “Some of what has been reported in the press has been really abhorrent, and amounts in my mind to torture.”

Adding to his comment after the meeting, he stressed that he did not think this was done proactively but thought that what some residents had experienced was of a comparable level.

Mr Pritchard had previously called for Ms Born and council leader Kevin Guy to resign over the issues at the care home.

In her statement to the scrutiny panel, Ms Born said: “We have produced a detailed action plan to address all areas of concern and are working hard to improve the service provided but we recognise that this will not happen overnight due to the context that we are operating in.

“That context is that social care services have been underfunded for many years and the problems caused by that underfunding have been exacerbated by the combination of 12 years of austerity budgets where funding was reduced further, together with the impacts of Brexit and the pandemic.”

She said that a national shortage of staff in the care sector meant the care home was reliant on agency staff and still not able to cover all shifts.

During Covid, the care home also took in people discharged from the Royal United Hospital in order to relieve pressure on beds at the Bath hospital.

Ms Born said: “With hindsight, this was not a good move because

the service lacked resilience, but it was made in good faith to try to support our partners in the local health and social care system at a time of crisis.”

Since the issues were raised, the care home has only been at half capacity in order to reduce the staffing pressure. A floor of the home was closed and, as a result, there are now only 14 people staying in the 30-bed care home. The council’s director of adult services Suzanne Westhead said that thinking about the provision of care in the home keeps her awake at night.

She told the panel: “It was my team that identified the concerns that were written up in the CQC report in October. We alerted CQC to our concerns […] They came in and they shared our concerns.”

But councillor Liz Hardman said: “I would have been really disappointed if they hadn’t done that. That’s part of their job.”

She told Ms Westhead and Ms Born: “There are tipping points all the way along in what happened to Charlton House and what I would like to challenge […] is why weren’t they picked up.”

Ms Hardman said: “What happened was, because people were discharged from the RUH, their needs were more complex and under the wider system, Charlton House was unable to respond to service user needs. So this should have been picked up fairly quickly.”

She added that another “tipping point” was the lack of senior

staff at the care home, with key positions being filled by agency staff. She said: “This is a care home which, over a relatively short period of time, deteriorated into one which was deemed inadequate by CQC.”

Ms Westhead said members of her team were working on improving the quality of care in the home. She said: “They have been sleeping on site at times. They have been making spot checks. They have brought in a team to work with them so we’ve got senior clinical staff now working on site, working with the nursing staff and the care staff.” New staff brought in include a senior nurse from the RUH and a new registered manager. She added that they were also building up their own nursing staff so the care home would not

be dependent on agency nurses again.

Ms Westhead said: “CQC was in last week. They are pleased with the improvements that we have made. So much so that they won’t be coming back for now.” But she stressed that there was still work to do.

Ms Born added: “I think that they’ve seen significant improvement that means they do not feel they need to come back immediately. So it’s off their immediate concern radar but it doesn’t mean everything is completely out of the woods and everything is done.

“So they will be back. And, as has been said, they will probably do a full inspection when they come back, but they are sufficiently reassured that they are not planning to come back in the next 28 days.”

Councillor Alison Born, Ricky Smith and Councillor Kevin Guy outside the care home last year | Photo © B&NES Council

Members of the Rotary Club of Bath celebrating the record amount raised Photo courtesy of the Rotary Club

“No change” to Remembrance Sunday events following spat

John Wimperis Local Democracy Reporter

THERE will be “no change” to Bath’s Remembrance Sunday events, Bath and North East Somerset Council has insisted. A political spat erupted between Bath Conservatives and the Liberal Democrat-run council after Bath’s remembrance services were included on a list of savings that could be made to the council’s budget.

Bath’s Conservative Association quickly took to Twitter to brand the move as insulting to current and former service members. But Liberal Democrats on the council have insisted Remembrance Sunday events will still go ahead. Council cabinet member for resources Richard Samuel said: “There will be no change to remembrance events at all. The only thing that will change is the body that funds them.”

Running the annual Remembrance Sunday parade will now be taken on by Bath’s charter trustees, a group which includes the Mayor and deals with the city’s ceremonial duties. The list of savings, published in advance of the council’s corporate scrutiny panel’s meeting to scrutinise the budget on Monday 30th January, stated that £27,000

could be saved if the council events office stopped running events such as Remembrance Sunday and Summer Sunday, which it runs on behalf of the Mayor’s office and Royal British Legion.

Councillor Samuel added: “In Bath, it has been funded by the council so effectively people in North East Somerset have been paying for Bath’s [event], but now it will be paid by the charter trustees.”

Bath Conservatives continued to criticise the move, posting on Twitter: “[Bath and North East Somerset Council] is washing its hands of supporting it: the cost and organisation will now be passed entirely to the Mayor of Bath and his team of two.”

Royal visit for Bath as Queen Consort opens charity’s new HQ

THE Queen Consort visited Bath on Wednesday 25th January to officially open the new Bath headquarters of national charity the Royal Osteoporosis Society.

Her Majesty has a long-standing relationship with the charity following her late mother’s and late grandmother’s experiences of osteoporosis.

A spokesperson from the Liberal Democrat group insisted: “We can absolutely assure everyone there is no cut to the Remembrance Sunday budget.

“We are bringing it in line in Bath and other areas in Bath and North East Somerset so the charter trustees in Bath are meeting to agree to fund it in the way that Keynsham town council does for their celebrations.”

The spokesperson added: “It’s offensive in the extreme for the Conservatives to use our veterans as a political football.”

The local authority’s final budget will be agreed upon by Bath and North East Somerset Council’s cabinet on 9th February.

It will go to full council for approval on 21st February.

CCTV appeal after teenager touched

AVON and Somerset Police have launched an appeal for help from the public to identify a man they want to speak to in relation to an incident in the city last November.

On Thursday 17th November, an unknown man inappropriately touched a teenager while they travelled on the Number 5 First Bus, travelling in Bath, at around 9.50am.

He is thought to have alighted at Bath Bus Station.

Officers believe the man may have information about the incident which could aid their investigation.

He is described as white, of large build, with dark-coloured eyes and eyebrows. He is seen wearing a black beanie hat, a white striped T-shirt and a black jacket. He is thought to be in his 60s.

If you recognise the man or have any information about the incident, contact 101 and quote reference 5222276586.

Since 1994, The Queen Consort has been globally highlighting the condition, which affects half of women over 50.

During her visit to the new offices in the Bath Quays Enterprise Area, the Queen Consort met with specialist nurses who run the charity’s free helpline, which answers 13,000 enquiries a year, providing support and information for people living with osteoporosis and their family members. After meeting with staff and volunteers, Her Majesty attended an event at the Guildhall to celebrate the charity’s move to the city.

The Guildhall event was attended by regional leaders, including the Mayor of the West of England, the Leader and Chair man of Bath & North East Somerset Council and the Mayor of Bath.

The City of Bath has a proud medical history, having played a leading role in the development of rheumatology as a clinical specialism.

The Royal Osteoporosis Society was launched by a group of clinicians in Bath’s Mineral Hospital in 1986. The pioneering medics saw the injustice and missed opportunities around osteoporosis and resolved to set up a national charity to support the 3.5 million people affected.

As it grew, the charity moved out of the city to rural Camerton in the 1990s.

COLUMN | Councillor Kevin Guy, Leader of Bath & North East Somerset Council

WE expect 2023 to be another challenging one. Energy bills are impacting on us all and my thanks again go to all those providing support locally, including the 53 Warm Spaces signed up to our Directory at www.bathnes.gov.uk/warmspaces.

Our message is a simple one “Help is out there”. Our Community Wellbeing Hub on 0300 247 0050 provides support from a wide range of local partners and we have a comprehensive range of information available at www. bathnes.gov.uk/costofliving.

Despite these challenges we will continue to focus on our priorities, including tackling the cli-

mate and ecological emergency and improving transport. There are three Liveable Neighbourhoods pilot schemes underway and we are also implementing new residents’ parking schemes (RPZs) in the city. We know that local transport generates strong opinions and we often have the difficult task of weighing up what are often very different views that have been expressed. Our role as councillors is to consider what has been put forward, alongside the council’s priorities. However, listening to local views as we shape schemes is incredibly valuable and we will continue to do so.

Staying with transport, you

may have seen plans from the Metro Mayor to introduce “Demand-Responsive Transport” (DRT), particularly in rural areas. I want to emphasise that in Bath itself, DRT is not being introduced. For Bath the council has included in its draft budget for next year the money needed to continue all currently supported bus services in the city. Where DRT is being introduced, the council is also putting in additional funding to support some services for two months following its introduction, to help with the transition. We have recently consulted on our draft budget and final decisions will be taken next month.

Finally, following online discussions I have had with the mayor of the Ukrainian city of Oleksandriya, I am delighted that a new Friends of Oleksandriya group has been established. The group has launched an appeal to raise funds for generators to maintain warmth, light and power to hospitals, schools and places of shelter in the city, which is similar in size to Bath.

I was particularly proud to welcome students and sixth form students recently to an event at the Bath Guildhall to discuss the appeal.

The mayor of Oleksandriya, Ser-

Osteoporosis causes bones to weaken and fracture following simple injuries such as a cough, a fall from standing height, or even a hug from grandchildren.

Fractures caused by osteoporosis are one of the most urgent threats to people living well in later life, and to the independence and freedom people deserve.

Craig Jones, Chief Executive at the Royal Osteoporosis Society, said: “Bath has a proud medical history, having been a catalyst in the development of rheumatology as a discipline.

“The fact that the 3.5 million people with osteoporosis have a national charity at all is owed to the vision of medics based in the Mineral Hospital in the 1980s.

“We’re very proud to be back home in Bath and hope to be considered one of the assets of this great city.”

During the Guildhall event, Her Majesty met with other supporters, including Annette Browne, 64, who suffered four painful spinal fractures due to osteoporosis.

Annette said: “It was such a pleasure to meet Her Majesty today and I hope her involvement helps more people to understand osteoporosis and take simple steps to strengthen their bones earlier in life.

“This can make such a difference to people’s quality of life later on.”

hii Kuzmenko, joined the meeting via Zoom and updated us all on the local situation. He spoke about the hours of power cuts that residents are living with and the freezing cold temperatures they are enduring. He thanked the people of Bath and North East Somerset for the help provided so far after 13 smaller generators were donated to the city and delivered over the Christmas period by the Friends group.

If you wish to donate to this appeal, you can do so at www.generatorsforukraine.co.uk or email generatorsforukraine@outlook. com for further information.

Photos © The Royal Osteoporosis Society / Freia Turland

Pictures from the Past: Bath, City of Views

View from Camden Crescent

Kirsten Elliott Akeman Press

THIS time we move to the north side of Bath for a view from Camden Crescent – but a view that is very different today. Much of what we see in the foreground has gone – even the house with the striking bargeboards over its central eaves and porch – to be replaced by the Snow Hill estate in the 1950s and Alpine Gardens in the late 1960s.

The road in the foreground is Upper Hedgemead Road, and we can see that the little cottages the man is walking

away from are fenced off – they may well have suffered in the landslips of the 1870s and 1880s and had gone by about 1900.

Although the houses on these slopes, their jumble of roofs showing how closely packed they were, were described as dilapidated and in disrepair, many people did not want to leave.

They had a strong community spirit and could not afford the rents in the new Snow Hill blocks. Today, such Georgian artisan cottages are sought after and, if repairs are needed, carefully restored. One building which is still there is the old malthouse – formerly part of Walcot

Brewery – which can be made out on the right-hand side of the image, slightly less than halfway up, with a row of little windows in its roof. Above it and to the left can be seen part of the London Road and its terraces.

Kensington Chapel is on the right, jutting out from the rest of the terrace, while almost opposite is the entrance to Hanover Street, which also still exists. St Saviour’s Church can be seen in the distance, with Bailbrook House among the trees to its left.

Little Solsbury is almost out of shot to the left and Bannerdown provides a backdrop for Larkhall and Batheaston.

To admire the modern view, head up to Camden Crescent via Lansdown Road, and head eastwards along the crescent. At the end, you could turn left and double back along St Stephen’s Road before turning left again to head steeply down the old road which led northwards out of Bath. Cross Camden Crescent and turn sharp left to head along Upper Hedgemead Road. Fork right down Lower Hedgemead Road where almost immediately you will find a gateway into Hedgemead Park. For information about the park go to the Friends’ website, www.hedgemead.org.

COLUMN | Mark Shelford, Conservative Police and Crime Commissioner

IWANT to start by thanking those who have completed the precept survey.

I appreciate you sharing your thoughts regarding my proposal to increase the policing part of the council tax by £15 for the average band D household. The survey is now closed, and I will be discussing your responses with my team before coming to a decision. I will continue to keep you updated about the precept decision over the coming weeks. I would like to bring to your attention our next Performance and Accountability Board (PAB) happening at 1pm on 7th February. As PCC, I was elected to be your voice in local policing and,

part of this role, is to scrutinise and question the Chief Constable. During the next PAB – which can be watched online – we will be discussing police funding, morale and leadership, Stop and Search, drugs and the HMICFRS report regarding a national inspection of vetting, misconduct and misogyny.

To watch online, please visit my website: www.avonandsomerset-pcc.gov.uk

Moving on, I wanted to tell you about the StreetSafe tool, which can be found at: www.police. uk/pu/notices/streetsafe/streetsafe. The website allows you to quickly and easily report where and when you have felt unsafe

and the findings help inform the police’s and partners’ community safety activities.

It’s important to remember that a crime doesn’t always have to be committed for you to feel unsafe.

I often hear Bath residents’ concerns regarding road safety, especially around the sharing of roads and cycle lanes between drivers, cyclists, e-scooter users and pedestrians.

If at any point you have felt unsafe or you witness anti-social behaviour taking place, I encourage you to use the StreetSafe tool and to contact your Neighbourhood Policing team.

With Valentine’s Day around the corner, I urge online daters to

stay alert to potential scammers and not fall victim to romance fraud. Romance fraud is much more common than many of us realise and the more we talk about how to spot the signs, hopefully we can stop more people falling victim to this heart-breaking crime.

Romance fraud involves fraudsters who masquerade as romantic partners.

After laying the groundwork for a ‘relationship’ with a victim, the scammer will ask for ‘favours’ like sending them money, providing personal and financial information, or purchasing items for

them.

It isn’t hearts these fraudsters want to steal; it’s bank account balances.

This is an awful crime; victims invest time into someone and think they have a genuine personal connection.

I know many victims feel ashamed when they realise romance fraudsters have scammed them.

Please know support is available on the Action Fraud website. If you think a family member or friend is a victim of this terrible crime, please make them aware of the signs and encourage them to report it to Action Fraud.

Crossword

You can find the answers to last issue's crossword on page 16. Congratulations to Barbara Sheppard for winning £20!

Crossword Competition!

For your chance to win £20, submit your full name, postal address and answers by email to puzzles@bathecho.co.uk and we'll enter you into our draw.

The winner will be the first randomly opened entry with the correct answers on 09/02/2023. Please note: We will not accept crossword entries to our postal address. The winner will be notified by the email address they use to enter this competition.

Proposals could see people being charged to enter city centre

John Wimperis Local Democracy Reporter

PEOPLE could have to pay to drive into some parts of central Bath, under a proposal being considered by Bath and North East Somerset Council. The plan is to charge people for permits to enter the city centre security zone, known by some as the “ring of steel.”

The security zone covers York Street and several other roads in the centre of Bath.

Businesses, tradespeople, and people living within the zone need to apply for a permit to bring their vehicles into the zone but these are currently free. The report does not specify exactly

which vehicles would be charged for permits.

The proposal also suggests charging for requests to access CCTV and charging big events for the incident rooms which the council sets up for emergency planning.

The idea to charge for these is only a proposal to “explore options” at the moment. It is being included in budget plans in the hope of generating £30,000 for the council when implemented in 2025 or 2026.

A consultation would be run before the charges are implemented.

At a meeting of the council’s corporate scrutiny panel on Monday 25th January, when councillors looked at budget

proposals, councillor Andrew Furse said: “Are we saying that if you are rich enough to buy a permit you can enter the city centre?

“Many residents in and around the city centre, who are on a very low wage, who own a car because they have to because of where they work or the type of work they do, will then have to pay more and more for access to their own city centre.”

But council cabinet member for resources Richard Samuel shut down suggestions that a permit could one day be needed for cars to drive into the clean air zone, insisting: “We are not going to charge cars in the clean air zone. End of.”

Bath’s clean air zone was the

Fashion Museum reveals selector for Dress of the Year 2022

beauty.

“We are delighted that she has agreed to choose our Dress of the Year 2022 and are looking forward to a great selection!”

Hunt’s career spans working for some of the world’s most influential women’s titles on both sides of the Atlantic.

Her writing has appeared in The Washington Post, The Guardian, Essence, Harper’s Bazaar, Vogue, Refinery29, The Evening Standard and other publications. She has also made a number of appearances on BBC Woman’s Hour, Sky News and more. As the founder of R.O.O.M. Mentoring, she advocates for greater diversity within the fashion industry by providing a supportive network for some of the many talented aspiring designers, journalists and image makers of colour London has to offer.

first outside London when it was introduced in 2021 and it does not charge private cars.

The city centre security zone was introduced to prevent vehiclebased terrorist attacks. The cost of implementing the scheme

recently surpassed £3 million. A final budget will be agreed by Bath and North East Somerset Council’s cabinet on 9th February.

It will go to full council for approval on 21st February.

Councillors approve their own 4% pay rise

KENYA Hunt, one of the UK’s top magazine editors, has been announced as the selector for the Fashion Museum Bath’s Dress of the Year 2022.

Each year, the Fashion Museum invites a respected expert from the fashion industry to select a Dress of the Year that encapsulates the prevailing mood of fashion, represents the past year and captures the imagination. The chosen design becomes part of the Museum’s world-class collection.

Kenya Hunt is the Editor-in-Chief of ELLE UK.

She said: “It’s an honour to join a long list of admired editors and image-makers in selecting the Dress of the Year.

“And what a year to be asked to do it! 2022 proved to be a particularly pivotal one for all of us – culturally, socially and politically. It’s been a year in which fashion spoke volumes.” Previous selectors have included a wide range of leaders in the fashion industry, from senior fashion editors to groundbreaking stylists, to those that

have changed the face of fashion retail.

Rosemary Harden, Fashion Museum Manager, said: “We are thrilled that Kenya Hunt has accepted our invitation to select the Dress of the Year 2022.

“Kenya is a visionary fashion editor and a leading voice in fashion today, advocating for greater diversity within the industry.

“The Dress of the Year has always been about cutting-edge fashion, noting trends and picking up on the zeitgeist. We are so pleased therefore that Kenya’s choice will join the Dress of the Year collection, reflecting the mood of 2022.”

Kevin Guy, Leader of Bath & North East Somerset Council, added: “As the Fashion Museum looks towards its future, and the Milsom Quarter Masterplan, it is key that the Museum keeps up to date with the mood of the moment in fashion.

“Kenya is an international authority on style and at the helm of a much more honest and expansive view of fashion and

In 2021, she was recognised by The British Fashion Council for her work and awarded a Global Leader Of Change Award. Her critically acclaimed book, Girl: Essays on Black Womanhood (HarperCollins/HQ), is out now. An American based in London, she lives south of the river with her husband and two sons. The Dress of the Year 2022 will be revealed this spring via a digital announcement, and the chosen ensemble will be available to view online via the Fashion Museum website and social media channels.

The Fashion Museum recently left its home of 60 years in Bath’s Assembly Rooms and it's hoped it will reopen in the Old Post Office in the centre of Bath.

A new Fashion Collection Archive is also being created in the west of the city to house the collection, in partnership with Bath Spa University. The project will create a new home for the world-class collection of fashionable clothing and will allow the Museum to tell more stories and engage with more people.

John Wimperis Local Democracy Reporter

COUNCILLORS on Bath & North East Somerset Council have approved a backdated 4% pay rise for themselves.

Being a councillor is a parttime role for most councillors, and they are officially paid an allowance rather than a salary. This will rise by just over 4%, backdated to March 2022, which will mean a pay rise from £9,107 to £9,474 for most councillors. Council cabinet member for resources, Richard Samuel, said: “This is, of course, never good timing.”

Councillors voted to approve the pay rise at a full council session last Thursday, 19th January.

In Bath and North East Somerset, councillor allowances are usually increased in line with the percentage pay rise for officers employed by the council, which are agreed between their union and local government employers. But this year, instead of a percentage rise, their union and local government employers agreed a flat rate increase of £1,925 applied to each spinal point.

Councillor Samuel said: “That

did give us a bit of a problem because our policy was to link to the percentage rise. “And, as members will know, particularly on some of the lower allowances, that would have led to a very distorted additional award.”

A rise of 4.04% was recommended by an independent panel asked by the council to look at this – a lower rise than if a flat increase of £1,925 had been implemented. Seconding the motion, councillor Karen Walker said: “I would like to thank the panel and their recommendation that elected members should be remunerated fairly for the duties they carry out in public life.”

Some councillors are paid an additional sum on top of their allowance, called a special responsibility allowance, for roles they perform on the council. Council cabinet members will be paid an extra £20,624, up from £19,824, and the leader of the council will be paid an additional £34,345, up from £33,012. The chairs of committees and the council are also paid a special responsibility allowance, as are the leaders of political groups. Political group leaders are paid an extra £428 per member, which has not changed.

Kenya Hunt, who will be choosing the Dress of the Year 2022

Photo courtesy of Kenya Hunt / B&NES Council

York Street, Bath | Photo © John Wimperis

The Guildhall in Bath

What's On

Flats and Sharps

The Chapel Arts Centre

1st February, 8pm

Flats & Sharps are a four-piece bluegrass outfit from Penzance, Cornwall. They deliver energetic, enthusiastic, and spirited Bluegrass to audiences all around the world.

Ernie’s Journey

The Egg

5th February, 11.30am & 3pm

Ernie’s Journey at The Egg is a magical circus theatre adventure with seamless integration of circus, physical theatre, story-telling, stage magic, poetry and puppetry.

Bath Floods

BRLSI

8th February, 7.30pm

Since the first settlements by the River Avon and until the last devastating floods in 1960 and 1968, it was accepted that the city of Bath and its nearby area would be inundated every few years.

Conservator Challenge

No.1 Royal Crescent

11th-19th February, 10am - 4pm

Wondering how to keep the little ones busy this half term? Follow the investigation trail round the house to find museum pests and hazards, and stop them in their tracks.

The Magic Flute by Mozart

The Mission Theatre

3rd & 4th February, 7.30pm

After making their Bath debut in 2022 with Così fan tutte, Cardiff Opera return to The Mission Theatre with a new, exciting production of one of the most enduringly popular stage works ever.

The Lavender Hill Mob

Theatre Royal Bath

6th – 11th February

The men who broke the bank and lost the cargo are back. The world premiere adaptation of The Lavender Hill Mob, the classic Ealing Comedy starring Alec Guinness, is heading to Bath in 2023.

A Night at the Opera

Bath Abbey 10th February, 7pm

Relive the drama and romance of your favourite opera tunes in the magical setting of Bath Abbey as Abbey soloists and choirs perform opera greats such as Nessun Dorma and Dido’s Lament.

Star Viewfinders

Herschel Museum

11th-19th February, 10am - 5pm

Make a star viewfinder and take part in the National Star Count. Find out how light pollution can affect our views of the constellations and see how many stars you can spot from your back garden.

Laurence Guy

Walcot House

4th February, 10pm

Having crafted his own signature of sophisticated underground music, Laurence has amassed a collection of loyal listeners, all of whom are united in an appreciation for his abilities and talents.

WWDF ‘A kind of Magic’

The Forum

7th – 9th February, 6.45pm

West Wiltshire Schools Sports Partnership Dance Festival is back again at The Forum, Bath. The theme is ‘A kind of Magic’, with 48 performances from primary, secondary and special Schools.

Thirst

The Rondo Theatre

10th & 11th February, 8pm

Although a stark look at alcoholism in its various forms, Thirst is also a joyous and uproarious look at life, family, theatre, religion, and most importantly, the positivity of the pub.

Veganistan with Sally Butcher

Topping & Company

13th February, 7.30pm

Bestselling author Sally is the fieryhaired proprietress of the notable Persian food store Persepolis in Peckham, which she runs with her Persian husband, Jamshid.

Stephen Lynch

Komedia

5th February, 7pm

His unique blend of musical based comedy has earned him fiercely loyal fans around the world who live to experience his sold-out live shows and his top-rated Comedy Central Specials.

ReBalance Bath

Various Locations

7th – 26th February

A brand-new festival of wellbeing, focused around the 7 pillars of wellness. The festival brings together hotels, venues, wellness practitioners, spa therapists and restaurants.

February Half Term Fun

Dyrham Park

11th - 26th February, 10am-4pm

Grab yourself a sheet to create your very own 'chatter box' to make your own bespoke nature adventure around the 270-acre site. Sheets can be collected for free on site.

Mosaic Madness

Roman Baths

13th – 17th February, 10am - 4pm

Family activity during February half term. Have a go at creating your own marvellous mosaic design. From 10am12.30pm and 1.30pm-4pm. Included in the admission price.

Community

New exhibition opened at RUH to fundraise for Bath Mind

Families avoid conflict thanks to national mediation service

A NEW exhibition by Jason Dorley–Brown, an artist and Bath Mind Ambassador, has been opened at the RUH to help raise much-needed funds for the mental health charity. The exhibition is a group show featuring 52 artists, most of whom are local, exhibiting a mix of artistic mediums from the written word to painting, illustration, photography, sculpture and more.

Each of the artists will be donating 30% of the proceeds from sales of their pieces to Bath Mind and 30% to the hospital’s Art at the Heart programme.

Jason said: “Achieving positive mental health is a challenge that many of us face, and artists are no different in that respect.

“Each artist that has contributed work to this exhibition has shared their own experience of mental health issues, with a written statement alongside their work describing their personal understanding of the connection between their art practice and positive mental health.

“We do hope that you enjoy the art that you will see as you walk along the corridors of the RUH and that maybe one will bring a smile, or possibly inspire you to consider your own creative outlet. Hopefully this exhibition will help promote conversations concerning ‘Art as Therapy’ as well as awareness of the wonderful work of Bath Mind, and the support they offer.”

Cara Charles-Barks, RUH Chief Executive said: “We’re really pleased to host this exhibition, every week, thousands of people walk through the corridors of the RUH so it’s a great opportunity to reach people and help continue those important conversations around mental health.

“We’re proud of the connection we have with our local community and the work Bath Mind do to support patients in our Emergency Department.

“We’re grateful to Jason for bringing this diverse group of artists and experiences together under our roof.”

Bath Mind is a local,

independently run mental health charity. They promote and nurture mental health and wellbeing through the provision of information, activities, advice and support.

Services available include crisis telephone support, befriending, wellbeing groups, counselling, supported living and mental health training.

Bath Mind’s Emergency Department Adult Intervention Service at the RUH offers support to anyone presenting to the Emergency Department with mental health crisis behaviours, low mood, depression and anxiety who is over the age of 18 years and able to actively engage in support.

Although affiliated with the national Mind charity, Bath Mind is run and funded entirely independently.

Art at the Heart provides a wellestablished award-winning programme of exhibitions and participatory projects at the RUH. All works are for sale with a proportion paid to the RUH.

PARENTS in Bath who have decided to separate or divorce this year have been encouraged to find out how to avoid courtroom confrontation thanks to Family Mediation Week.

January usually sees a rise in parents deciding to live apart, or to start the separation or divorce process, as the various pressures that go hand-in-hand with the Christmas period act as a final straw for relationships.

Jane Robey, CEO of National Family Mediation, the largest provider of family mediation in England and Wales, including mediators in Bath, said Family Mediation Week is designed to raise awareness of the benefits of family mediation, a process that can help ex-partners agree what works for them, whilst avoiding the court process with all the stress, delay and cost it can bring. She said: “Many parents emerge from the festive period feeling defeated by the pressures on relationships and finances that have been highlighted during the holiday period.

“We often see a spike in enquiries across the country at this time, and are working with a number of parents in Bath who simply don’t know which way to turn. Their life-changing decision to separate brings with it so many tough questions.

“Family Mediation Week shines a helpful spotlight on these

tricky issues, offering separating parents information about their options as they look to make arrangements for parenting, property and finance.

“Family mediation is a process where an independent, professionally-trained mediator helps you work these things out, enabling you to avoid courtroom confrontation. Professional mediators help empower you to create long-term solutions for your particular circumstances, rather than leaving it to a court to make decisions for your family.”

Between April 2022 and January 2023, National Family Mediation (NFM) received over 40 referrals for its mediation services in Bath. It is also taking part in the Ministry of Justice’s Family Mediation Voucher Scheme, which meets up to £500 of mediation costs for families if they need to discuss arrangements for children.

Jane added: “The key message that I want to get out there is that people don’t need to face this difficult time alone.

“There are trained mediators who can help to keep things amicable, and to find a solution and resolution for the problems at hand that genuinely works for all.”

Legal Aid is also available for family mediation.

Anyone wanting to know more about the benefits of family mediation can visit https://www. nfm.org.uk/ or call 0300 400 0636.

Ukrainian programme broadcast by Bath radio station

LOCAL community radio station Radio Bath is supporting Ukrainian refugees in the area with the launch of a new programme, broadcast entirely in the Ukrainian language.

There are around 2,000 Ukrainian people currently living within the station’s coverage area, but there has been no Ukraine-specific content available for them.

Radio Bath sought to remedy the situation in the run-up to Christmas, meaning families

living in the West could share information and cultural ties, while relatives back home in Ukraine could listen online.

The latest addition to the Radio Bath line-up is Zhenya Shkil, a local resident of Ukrainian origin, who has been an activist and a member of the movement known as Bath Stands With Ukraine, from the first days of the war.

Zhenya was found with help from B&NES Councillor Dine Romero, Cabinet Member for Children,

Young People and Communities.

The dedicated show, ‘Stand with Ukraine’, was broadcast on Sunday 22nd January.

It was the second Stand with Ukraine, the first being in December when listeners tuned in online from as far away as Liverpool.

Ukrainians were able to listen to the first radio programme of its type for Ukrainians in Southern England, in their own language. The station’s Content Director,

Steve Fountain explained: “When Radio Bath launched on 5th November 2020, the station’s aim was to become a voice for Bath and beyond, a place where local businesses, charities and organisations could come on air and share their story.

“We couldn’t have imagined that less than 2 years later, Bath and North East Somerset and Wiltshire would welcome refugees from Ukraine –Ukrainian citizens forced to leave

their homes because of war. Our aim is to be available to all communities across our coverage area.”

Zhenya said: “I have been working with the local Council helping Ukrainian refugees and I have recently become an Ambassador of the City of Oleksandriya in the UK. I am involved with the committee that worked hard collecting money to purchase 25 generators of different powers for this city."

Maximus – Bath Rugby Mascot by Joe Short | Photo courtesy of Art at the Heart

Care home resident celebrates her 103rd birthday

Another busy year recorded for the Wiltshire Air Ambulance

STATISTICS released by the Wiltshire Air Ambulance charity revealed that it attended more than 80 incidents in the Bath area last year.

A total of 1,061 missions were undertaken by Wiltshire Air Ambulance in 2022.

The charity carried out its lifesaving work in Bath 167 times, attending 83 incidents in the city and its surrounding areas, as well as airlifting or escorting patients to the Royal United Hospital 84 times.

With its airbase in Semington near Trowbridge, Wiltshire Air Ambulance’s helicopter can fly to the centre of Bath within just four minutes. Subsequently, the charity is called to Bath more than any other air ambulance resource.

A RESIDENT at a care home in Bath has celebrated her 103rd birthday and said she feels the secret to a long life is just being herself.

Dorothy Rich lives at MHA Stratton House on Park Lane and was treated to a birthday party to celebrate her special milestone. Staff at the residential home, which cares for 33 residents, decorated the dining room in preparation for Dorothy’s big day. A birthday cake was prepared by the kitchen staff and Dorothy’s son David came in to enjoy the day with his mum.

Harriet Law, the home’s admin manager said: “Dorothy is a lovely lady, she is very polite and

always speaks to everyone in a nice manner.

“She has been here for five years and is a very popular resident.

“The day was very relaxed, and we all had a great time celebrating Dorothy’s birthday. We managed to keep her birthday party a surprise and she was delighted when she came into the dining room and saw what we had done.

Dorothy was in a great mood, she really enjoyed her cake and thanked everyone for organising the day for her.

“She had a lovely day surrounded by her son, staff and residents and when we asked her the secret to a long life, she replied, maybe just being me.”

Wiltshire Air Ambulance’s director of income generation and communications Barbara Gray said: “We have a very dedicated aircrew – consisting of pilots, critical care paramedics and doctors – who respond to emergencies, on average, three times a day, 365 days a year.

“We know it is a really difficult time for the country right now, with fuel and energy bills rising, along with inflation, contributing to this current cost of living crisis.

“However, we remain ever grateful to our amazing donors and local businesses who continue to support us and help raise the £4 million it costs each

More than 150 trees to be planted on streets across B&NES

MORE trees are to be planted across Bath and North East Somerset following a public consultation last September to decide their locations.

B&NES Council has announced it will plant more than 150 trees in Bath, Keynsham, Saltford, Peasedown St John, Paulton and Camerton by the end of 2023.

The new trees will contribute to increasing canopy cover across the district, helping to tackle the climate and ecological emergencies.

More than 380 responses were received in the consultation, with 67% of people supporting all proposed planting locations.

Seven of the 10 sites were supported by 80% of respondents. The locations for the 154 trees will be:

Bath

• Bear Flat

• Evelyn Road

• Fox Hill

• Old Frome Road

• Southdown Estate

• Third Avenue

North East Somerset

• The Daglands, Camerton

• Coronation Avenue (and surrounding), Keynsham

• Tennis Court Avenue, Paulton

• Orchard Way, Peasedown St John

• Stratton Road, Saltford

The project is being funded by the government’s Trees for Climate programme and delivered by the Forest of Avon Trust.

The grant will support the care of the trees for two years after planting, after which the council says it will continue regular tree inspections and maintenance.

Councillor David Wood, cabinet member for Neighbourhood Services, said: “We are committed to playing our part in responding to the climate and ecological emergencies.

“Increasing the number of trees

on our streets will help us all breathe cleaner air, increase biodiversity and make local areas more appealing. “Trees also provide muchneeded shade and help us manage stormwater by providing absorption for excess rainwater runoff.

“The aim of our tree planting schemes are to increase canopy cover, especially in these particular areas which have below the Forestry Commission’s recommended urban canopy cover of 20%. Thank you to everyone who responded to our consultation to help us make sure we get the location of every single new tree right.”

year to keep our air ambulance flying and saving lives.”

Of the 1,061 missions in 2022, the charity’s helicopter was used for 670 (63%) of them, with the remaining 391 incidents attended by critical care cars.

A total of 263 patients were transferred to local hospitals, up from 237 in 2021, the majority of which to the Royal United Hospital, Bath (84), Southmead Hospital, Bristol (63) and Great Western Hospital, Swindon (44). The largest number of call-outs were to cardiac emergencies (351), which equates to a third of all missions and a rise from 306 in 2021.

There were 174 road traffic collisions attended, plus 74 medical collapses, 51 sporting incidents and 44 assaults. A total of 139 incidents involved children, while 31% of all missions (329) took place at night. The largest number of incidents Wiltshire Air Ambulance responded to were in the Swindon area (173), followed by 83 in Bath and 69 in the city of Salisbury. Wiltshire Air Ambulance is a charity and receives no regular direct funding from the Government or National Lottery grants. Each year the charity needs to raise £4 million to continue flying and saving lives.

Partnership to help improve maths skills

BUSINESSES across Bath and North East Somerset are being encouraged to help staff develop their numeracy skills by signing up for a new initiative delivered by Bath College and B&NES Council.

Multiply is a new national Skills for Life programme that has been designed to support businesses to invest in their workforce.

The initiative is being funded through the West of England Combined Authority (WECA).

Bath & North East Somerset Council’s Achieve in B&NES team is working with the college to deliver a programme of free tailor-made industry/sector short courses to help local employees become more maths confident in the workplace. Bespoke courses for employers could include:

• Working with databases to build in formulas

• Understanding how to work out accurate costings

• Working with money, including discounts and mark-ups

• Feasibility or understanding ratios and proportions for mixing accurately and without waste.

The introductory short courses or one-off workshops will be

delivered in the workplace, online or at local community hubs.

For employees who want to progress, there will also be options to study for a Level 2 Maths qualification, which is equivalent to a GCSE Maths pass grade.

Councillor Dine Romero, cabinet member for Children and Young People, and Communities, said:

“The Multiply Programme gives businesses an opportunity to help local employees improve their numeracy and confidence.

“It could also have a positive impact on their business by helping to improve staff retention and career progression and enabling the company to become an employer of choice.”

The courses are free and available to all employees aged 19 and over who are UK Residents or have a Right to Live in the UK. Those taking part must not already have a Level 2 Maths qualification.

Local employers and business owners can find out more about the scheme by emailing Achieve@bathnes.gov.uk or acl@ bathcollege.ac.uk, or by calling 01225 328822.

Dorothy at Stratton House care home in Bath | Photo © MHA

It's hoped more than 150 trees will be planted by the end of the year

Photo courtesy of Wiltshire Air Ambulance

Women urged to book ‘lifesaving’ cervical screening test

A MUM of three is urging women across Bath to make sure they take up the offer of a cervical screening test after her own identified that she had cancer.

40-year-old Nyssa Edwards had not had any symptoms of cervical cancer before she went for her screening.

She said: “The test saved my life, it’s as simple as that. I was 39 at the time, hadn’t had any symptoms and had no reason to expect that the screening would pick up anything, but it found I had abnormal cells. The cells were removed and further tests showed it was cancer.”

Nyssa underwent a radical hysterectomy after which it was found the cancer had spread to her lymph nodes and womb.

She then began a programme of chemotherapy and radiotherapy at the RUH which was followed later by brachytherapy treatment, a type of internal radiation therapy, at the Bristol Haematology and Oncology Centre.

In September last year, Nyssa’s oncologist gave her the news that the treatment had gone well and that the cancer had gone.

Nyssa said: “It was incredible to hear that news – I was just completely stunned.

“Throughout all the treatment you’re just hoping that it will work and that you get to hear that news at the end of it all.

“The treatment I received at the RUH was fantastic, particularly from the Radiotherapy team, which was so supportive and helpful all the way through.

“I’m just so relieved that I made sure I attended my smear test.

If I hadn’t, the cancer could have spread even further and it could have been a very different outcome for me.

“My message to women would be to please make sure you go for your test when you are invited. It really could save your life –without a doubt it saved mine.”

In the middle of her treatment, Nyssa married her long-term partner, Tom.

She continued: “We’d had to postpone our original wedding date because of my hysterectomy and I was determined we wouldn’t postpone it again. I actually had a radiotherapy session on the morning of my wedding!”

Nyssa will continue to have

Hospital's maternity care praised by CQC

RESULTS from the National Maternity Survey 2022, published by the Care Quality Commission, show that the RUH has scored better than most in several aspects.

These include whether parents feel they are treated with dignity and respect during antenatal care, whether enough information was provided to help parents decide where to have their baby and whether they felt involved in decisions about antenatal and postal natal care.

The CQC results also showed that those giving birth had high confidence and trust in the staff caring for them at the RUH, felt that any concerns raised were taken seriously and were able to have skin to skin contact with their babies shortly after birth. The survey, which went to those who gave birth in February 2022, looked at the whole experience of maternity care, from antenatal appointments through to giving birth and postnatal care. There were no areas where the RUH scored worse than other trusts who took part in the survey.

Zita Martinez, Director of Midwifery at the RUH, said: “We strive to provide the people we care for with a high standard of personalised, supportive care, and we are really pleased to see

this reflected in the CQC’s results.

“We would like to express our gratitude to women, birthing people and their families who took the time to complete the CQC survey last year. This information is absolutely vital for the ongoing development of our services.

“Nationally midwifery services have been under a lot of pressure over the last year due to staffing challenges and the impact of COVID-19. To have received such positive results against this backdrop is testament to the hard work and dedication of our midwifery teams who have remained committed to ensuring women and birthing people have a safe and positive experience in our care.

“We know there is always room for improvement and one of our key focuses at the moment is reopening our Chippenham birth centre and reinstating home births after we had to make the difficult decision to pause these services earlier this year due to staffing challenges.

“We know how important it is that people have choice about where they have their babies and were pleased to be able to reopen our Frome Birthing Centre in October after recruiting a number of additional midwives."

surveillance check-ups for the next three years and is also being supported by the RUH’s cancer rehab team.

She said: “I’d be lying if I said I

worry the cancer will come back. But the local Macmillan Cancer Support group has been a great help and very supportive and the RUH team will be helping

me with my ongoing physical and mental recovery.

“It’s been a long, tough journey but I’m staying positive and looking forward to the future.”

New service to help patients with radiotherapy treatment side effects

A NEW service has been launched at the Royal United Hospital to help people experiencing late side effects following radiotherapy treatment.

Funded by Macmillan Cancer Support, the Radiotherapy Late Effects Service offers support and guidance for patients who are experiencing long-term side effects or complications from the treatment.

This could include medication, therapy support or onward referral to specialist teams within the hospital.

The late effects of radiotherapy, developing six months or longer post-treatment, can vary widely and, depending on the part of the body treated, may include bowel and bladder disorders, pain, swelling, sexual dysfunction and fatigue.

These physical symptoms can develop months, years, or even decades after undergoing radiotherapy, and can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life.

Hazel Clarke, Radiotherapy Late Effects Radiographer at the RUH, said: “Radiotherapy is an extremely effective, lifesaving treatment and the majority of people who receive it will not experience any long term side

effects. However, this service is here to provide support for those who do.

“Our focus is on improving quality of life for our patients. We really get to know each person, listening to them and understanding what it is that matters to them.

“This enables us to set personalised goals and we work with the patient to achieve these, improving their symptoms and enhancing their overall wellbeing.”

John, 75, from Keynsham, was first diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2013. He initially had a prostatectomy, a procedure in which the prostate in removed, and received the all clear but the cancer returned in 2020.

John then underwent radiotherapy which is when he started experiencing late effects.

John said: “For me the effects of radiotherapy happened fairly soon after treatment began and affected my bowels. I suffered from debilitating diarrhoea, I was too nervous to leave my house because I needed to be near a toilet. It was really affecting my quality of life.

“I was referred to the Radiotherapy Late Effects Service and met with Hazel to discuss my history and symptoms. I was prescribed medication which has

been transformative but even before this, just having someone to talk to was such a benefit to me.

“Knowing that I wasn’t alone in this and that late effects is a real condition which can be managed was really reassuring.

“Since starting treatment my life has opened up. I’ve been able to book a holiday for the first time in two years as I finally feel confident enough to get out and about. I would strongly encourage anyone who think they might be experiencing late effects to reach out to the service for help.”

People who are experiencing late effects can self-refer by emailing ruh-tr.LateEffects@nhs.net or calling 01225 824853. Alternatively, people can be referred by a healthcare professional such as their GP. The RUH Radiotherapy Late Effects Service is part of the wider South West Late Effects service established with funding support from Macmillan Cancer Support.

Nyssa ringing the bell to mark the end of her cancer treatment | Photo © RUH don’t

Uni secures funding for Government-backed short courses

BATH Spa University has secured funding for five new Skills Bootcamps in partnership with the West of England Combined Authority, helping students start their dream careers.

Since September 2021, the university has taught over 250 students the sector-specific skills needed for their future careers through a Skills Bootcamp. Over half of them have now secured new roles in tech after completing their short course.

The bootcamps are fully funded by the Department for Education as part of the Government’s Lifetime Skills Guarantee, which helps everyone gain skills for life. The new courses look at targeting two of the biggest skills gaps identified within the West of England: environmental data science and digital skills within the education sector.

Data science is crucial for any business producing large volumes of data and is widely used in various industry domains including marketing, healthcare and environmental science. Three new Skills Bootcamps have

been designed with this in mind. These courses focus on environmental data engineering, environmental data analysis and using AI for environmental sustainability, opening the door to a range of careers in data science.

All three courses will also teach students interview techniques, tips on how to improve their CVs and confidence to apply for jobs, therefore improving their employability.

Two further Skills Bootcamps focused on upskilling education staff will focus on the education sector and PGCE staff already working at Bath Spa University. These courses will teach staff the key digital skills needed to complete their everyday roles, such as how to utilise Smartboards and Microsoft programmes. They will also learn how to use the bespoke systems in a school setting.

Students on the Skills Bootcamp for Education Staff will also have the opportunity to take part in the Microsoft Learn for Educators programme.

This programme enables

institutions and faculty members to be flexible in how they teach curricula, allowing educators to teach wherever and however they and their schools feel comfortable, whether that is in the classroom, online, or a combination of the two. The Bath Spa University short courses have been very well received by students. Student Nicola took part in a Skills Bootcamp in Creative Computing: UX/UI Design and has recently started a new role as

a UX Designer. When asked about the course, she said: “My lecturers, Amira Ahmed and James Shaw, couldn’t have been more helpful and supportive. I’m so grateful for the Skills Bootcamp experience and the dedication of the staff and fellow students.”

Reflecting on the successes of the past year, Andy Grey, Associate Lecturer in web development and data science, said: “It’s great to see a community spirit being generated remotely, with learners

actively discussing the subject and supporting each other in and out of session time.

“I believe this has been one of the core reasons they’ve fostered excellent new skills and achieved employment within the tech space.”

Applications for these Skills Bootcamps are currently open. Applicants must be looking to work in Bath and North East Somerset, North Somerset, Bristol or South Gloucestershire and be over 19.

If you are in Year 9, 10 or 11, this is your opportunity to visit Bath College and try something out for the day before making any decisions about what to study in the future. Give college life a go for the morning, pick two courses to try out, and see if Bath College is the right place for you! You can also find out more at our open event on Saturday 28th January at our Somer Valley Campus in Radstock

For more information and to book, scan here or visit

Photo © Bath Spa University

Community groups benefit from £28,000 of poverty funding

VULNERABLE residents in Bath are set to benefit from £28,000 worth of fuel poverty grants that have been awarded to local charities and community groups.

The latest round of National Grid’s Community Matters funding will see £2.5 million shared among organisations committed to tackling fuel poverty, including Bath-based Percy Community Centre, which has been awarded £7,000 to deliver a warm space and a hot meal, three times a week, to people in need in the city.

Centre spokesman Roger Houghton said: “The grant from the Community Matters Fund has enabled us to offer a warm space at the Percy Community Centre until March this year.

“Falling temperatures and rising utility costs have made this a vital resource for our local community.

“We will be offering a warm venue, hot food and drinks and company for those in need of support, whether financial or emotional. We’ll also be providing activities and advice. “We’re all grateful to National Grid for making this possible.” Another group to benefit is VOICES – Domestic Abuse Charity, which will receive £9,900 to provide energy saving advice and warm hubs.

Ursula Lindberg, the CEO of VOICES, said: “This grant from the Community Matters Fund

will make a huge difference to the practical help we can offer our clients.

“Survivors of domestic abuse and their children are disproportionately impacted by the cost of living and energy crisis which creates additional stress and can affect mental and physical health.

“The grant will help us to provide timely and specialist energy support and warm packs to families who are often unable to easily access other sources of help. We would like to say a huge thank you to National Grid Electricity Distribution for this much-needed support.”

A third Bath beneficiary is All Saints Church in Weston, which has been awarded £5,320 to deliver a warm café for local people.

Peter Heywood from the church said: “The Welcome Café and Food Club provides weekly support for people in our community who are struggling with food security and with the cost of living crisis.

“We see this in our area mainly affecting young families and older single people.

“The grant from the Community Matters Fund will help us to open longer during this winter, providing a warm space during the cold months. It will also help us to provide much-needed items to help our guests to keep warm in their own homes. A big thank

you from all of us to National Grid for this support.”

Other Bath charities to benefit from the funding include: Southside Family Project, which has been awarded £3,975 to deliver fuel debt advice and energy saving packs at hubs in Writhlington, Keynsham and Foxhill. Genesis Trust Bath has been awarded £2,531 to deliver a warm space for the local community.

Business holds fashion swap fundraiser in aid of Bath-based DHI

A LOCAL business has held a Fashion Swap Fundraiser in aid of the Bath-based charity Developing Health & Independence (DHI).

DHI supports people with issues linked to homelessness, alcohol or drug use, and poor mental health to regain control of their life.

Marlin Communications partnered with the charity three years ago to support their work through a mix of staff fundraising and charity donations.

DHI developed the Fashion Swap Fundraiser which means people can fundraise and update their wardrobes at the same time. The idea is simple, with people encouraged to invite over a group of friends, ask them to bring a couple of pre-loved items, enjoy a coffee or even a glass of wine, swap and choose clothes and make a donation to DHI. Any leftover clothes can be offered to DHI clients.

Paul Oaten, Marketing Manager, Marlin Communications said: “The event was great fun and a big success.

“Our colleagues from across the business had the chance to get together socially and raise some money to support the great work that DHI do.

“We also invited other businesses from the business park, a great opportunity to get to know our neighbours over a coffee and a sandwich!”

Katie Rawlings, Fundraiser, DHI,

said: “Our hope is to encourage many people to hold an event at home or in their work place.

“Essentially it will be a really fun get together for friends, help to prevent clothes going into landfill (£140m worth of clothing each year) and will give people a much-needed lift. For more information go to www.dhionline.org.uk.”

The latest round of Community Matters funding was launched by National Grid’s electricity distribution business as an urgent response to the national cost of living crisis, which is putting millions of households at risk of fuel poverty.

Alison Sleightholm, Regulation and Corporate Director at National Grid, said: “Tackling fuel poverty is an immediate and pressing priority for us. This

year, we’re giving away a record amount to support our most vulnerable.

“We’re pleased to see the first community organisations, charities and local authorities being awarded their grants. “Our multi-million-pound fund is supporting a wide range of worthwhile and ambitious projects which will benefit communities this winter and help families keep homes warm.”

Thermae Bath Spa introduces system to keep people off phones

A NEW system has been introduced at the Thermae Bath Spa to ensure guests can enjoy the natural thermal facilities without being disturbed by mobile phones.

The introduction of Yondr mobile phone pouches, which customers can use to keep their phones secure but unusable during their time on the site, will help reduce interruptions for guests and unwanted inclusion in other people’s photographs.

It’s hoped the new system will also stop staff from having to recover dropped phones from the bottom of the pools.

The partnership between Thermae Bath Spa and Yondr will see people given a pouch that closes with a magnetic lock, making it impossible to use until it is opened when guests leave.

Spa Director Angela Bonner said: “Bathing in the naturally warm, mineral-rich waters is a unique experience in the UK. “People have come to Bath for

thousands of years to bathe in the water.

“If people can immerse themselves in the magical experience without being distracted by mobile phones, we believe they will enjoy far greater benefits.”

The Yondr pouch is used at venues across the world, but this will be its first application in a UK spa.

Angela continued: “On arrival all guests will be asked to put their mobile phones in a Yondr pouch which leaves the phone unusable while inside the Spa. On departure the pouch will be opened, and the phone released.”

A warm café at All Saints Church, Weston

Photo courtesy of All Saints Church in Weston / National Grid

The Marlin Communications team have been raising funds for DHI Photo © DHI / Marlin Communications

Photo © Thermae Bath Spa / Yondr

Politics

Consultation opened on three-year crime prevention plan

PEOPLE across Bath and North East Somerset are being asked to give their views on a proposed three-year plan to help prevent crime and protect communities in the area.

The Joint Community Safety Plan 2022- 2025 sets out how the B&NES Council and its partners, the Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner and Avon and Somerset Police, will work together to build strong, resilient communities.

Using local crime data, the draft plan addresses joint working to tackle key issues including crime, disorder, anti-social behaviour, domestic abuse, preventing people from being drawn into terrorism, and working in partnership to combat serious organised crime and to reduce serious violent crime. The plan reflects some of the priorities and concerns raised by local people, including:

• Continue to identify opportunities for longer-term funding to reduce domestic abuse and improve outcomes for survivors.

• Support and enable the reporting of, discovery of, and response to, incidents of modern slavery and exploitation.

• Meet their Prevent duties and help other partners to do so, including raising awareness of reporting method for online extremist material working with community groups to raise

awareness of radicalisation and in particular the role of social media.

• Ensure the Police and other partners agencies work closely with Area Forums on key community safety issues. Continued focus on river safety campaigns with partners and students.

• Work with the Student Community Partnership and with educational establishments to promote safety, e.g., awareness of drink spiking.

• Work alongside partners to promote safety on our streets particularly in response to national campaigns regarding women’s safety in public areas.

• Work on hate crime through the Hate Crime Partnership and encourage families and friends to report concerns.

The draft also sets out how the council aims to support delivery of the Avon & Somerset Crime Plan in Bath and North East Somerset.

For the local authority, this covers wide-ranging responsibilities, including delivery of those services that help to create healthier communities and address the underlying causes of crime, but also respond to concerns and broader issues that contribute to making people feel unsafe in their communities such as antisocial behaviour, environmental crime, fly-tipping and rogue trading.

Councillor Dine Romero, cabinet member for Children, Young People and Communities, said: “Together with Avon and Somerset Police & Crime Commissioner (PCC) we have a shared aim which is to take every opportunity to protect the public and promote safer communities.

“I welcome this draft plan which reflects our shared priorities and sets out how we will protect the most vulnerable people from harm.”

Mark Shelford, PCC for Avon and Somerset, added: “A key theme of my Police and Crime Plan, and my first priority for the people of Avon and Somerset, is preventing crime.

“As your PCC, I am the voice of local people in policing so I regularly visit people in Bath and North East Somerset, where I’m also a resident, and talk to individuals, community groups, business owners and local councillors about the policing issues that matter.

“It’s important that I understand your concerns and priorities to ensure your local police are delivering an effective and efficient service.

“However, preventing crime is something we have to do in partnership with other agencies and our communities to ensure they are strong and resilient. To read the draft plan and take part in the consultation, visit http://bit.ly/3wxqQVL.

Residents reminded about need for ID when going to vote

RESIDENTS across Bath and North East Somerset are being reminded that a change to national legislation will mean that they need to show photographic ID when voting. A passport, photocard driving licence, Blue Badge, Older Person’s Bus Pass or a Disabled Person’s Bus Pass are some of the documents that will be accepted as proof of identity before voters will be issued with a ballot paper at the polling station. Voters will also need to be on the electoral register.

The need for photo ID is a new requirement, introduced by the UK Government’s Elections Act, which comes into effect on 4th May 2023.

The full list of acceptable photo ID is available on the Electoral Commission’s website here. An acceptable form of photo ID that is out of date can still be used if the name is the same as on the electoral register and the photo is

recognisably you.

Voters who don’t have an acceptable form of photo ID can apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate online or by completing a paper form. They can also apply for the certificate in person at the Guildhall in Bath, where staff will be able to take a photograph to accompany their application.

To apply for the certificate, residents will need to provide a passport-style photo, full name, date of birth, the address at which they are registered to vote and their National Insurance number.

Will Godfrey, chief executive of Bath & North East Somerset

Council, said: “Although the local elections are not until May, we are encouraging residents who want to vote to make sure their name is on the electoral register and that they have an accepted form of photo ID.

“If you’re not sure whether you are registered to vote you can contact the council to check.”

You can check if you are on the electoral register by calling 01225 477333 or emailing elections@ bathnes.gov.uk.

The deadline to register to vote for the May elections is Monday 17th April. Residents can apply for a Voter Authority Certificate at the same time as registering to vote.

The deadline to apply for a certificate for the May election is 5pm, Tuesday 25th April.

The requirement to show photo ID only applies to people voting in person at a polling station.

If you vote by post, you will not need to provide photo ID.

Public Notices

Request for information concerning ownership of:-

Re: Land adjacent to Midshires Care Ltd, Station House, Ashley Avenue, Bath, Somerset, BA1 3DS

Notice is hereby given that we, being Property Risk Inspection Ltd, have an interest in the matter of group of trees located adjacent to Midshires Care Ltd and the nuisance in subsidence damage being caused to Midshires Care Ltd.

We are attempting to identify the relevant land owners in order to discuss available management options to abate the said nuisance. If any person has any knowledge of the owner of this land or other responsible party could they please make such knowledge known to us at the address below. In the event that we are unable to discover the owner of the land within a period of 30 days of this notice, then we will seek to enter the land and carry out the management works required.

CONTACT: Siani Barkway-Fox INSURANCE SERVICES

PROPERTY RISK INSPECTION LTD

2 THE COURTYARDS

PHOENIX SQUARE

SEVERALLS PARK

WYNCOLLS ROAD COLCHESTER

ESSEX, CO4 9PE

REF: 248550

TELEPHONE: 01206 754980

GOODS VEHICLE OPERATOR'S LICENCE

Ian D Fern trading as Ferns Surfacing Ltd of Tutsham Farm, West Farleigh Maidstone ME15 0NE

is applying to change an existing licence as follows

To add an operating centre to keep 5 goods vehicles and 0 trailers at Hallatrow Business Park Yard 7, Wells Road Hallatrow Bristol BS39 6EX

Owners or occupiers of land (including buildings) near the operating centre(s) who believe that their use or enjoyment of that land would be affected, should make written representations to the Traffic Commissioner at Hillcrest House, 386 Harehills Lane, Leeds, LS9 6NF, stating their reasons, within 21 days of this notice. Representors must at the same time send a copy of their representations to the applicant at the address given at the top of this notice. A Guide to Making Representations is available from the Traffic Commissioner's office.

Family Announcements

If you would like to announce a birth, death or marriage in a future issue, we'll be happy to help. If you'd like to book a notice with us, email our team via advertise@bathecho.co.uk or call 01225 589789.

MP's praise for welcoming refugees

MP for Bath Wera Hobhouse has thanked residents for welcoming Afghan refugees with ‘open arms’ during a Westminster Hall debate.

The MP also criticised the Government’s response in dealing with the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan and the “inadequacies” of the current resettlement scheme.

Mrs Hobhouse spoke of how she had recently taken an Afghan refugee into her office.

Her staff member ‘fled Afghanistan in harrowing circumstances’ in 2021, with the MP praising them for being a ‘wonderful asset’.

Ms Hobhouse expressed her disappointment that even in this case, despite the staff member having worked for the British Council, the Parliamentary authorities were “unhelpful” in supporting the completion of their full employment access.

Speaking during the debate on

Thursday 19th January, the MP raised how the University of Bath has provided sanctuary scholarships to Afghan students. The university has provided financial assistance to Afghan scholars and students who wish to further their academic and professional development in the UK.

She also expressed her gratitude to Bath Welcomes Refugees, Julian House, and constituents in Bath for their efforts in supporting Afghan refugees. Over the course of her speech, Mrs Hobhouse raised concerns about the lack of support the Government is providing to Afghanistan refugees.

Wera said: “It is unforgivable that the Government is not offering the support and help that many in Afghanistan need.

“Many are highly qualified professionals who simply wish to come here, find a job and make a positive contribution."

In Other News...

First council houses for more than 20 years finally completed

John Wimperis Local Democracy Reporter

BATH’S first council homes for more than 20 years are finally ready, seven flats in a refurbished Victorian villa. There were over 600 applicants for the seven flats, which were being advertised through Bath and North East Somerset’s Homesearch platform. The council are now “whittling down” the shortlist, with priority given to people working in the NHS. With the flats ready for the council’s first social tenants in 20 years to move in, the Local Democracy Reporting Service was invited to take a look around. Located near the Royal United Hospital in Bath, 117 Newbridge Hill is owned by Bath and North Somerset Council and was being used as council offices before a decision was taken to renovate it and sell it off as flats.

But after the Lib Dems took power with plans to build council housing, the development was commandeered to become their first social housing project. Tom Davies, who shares the role of the council’s cabinet member for adult services and council house building said: “We were fortunate to identify a project in development that could be repurposed.”

The villa now contains seven homes, two of which are twobedroom flats with their own front doors at the rear of the

property, and five of which are one-bedroom flats coming off a central lobby and stairwell.

Mike Chedzoy, the council’s building services manager, described the flats as “very high spec for council housing”. There is special soundproofing underneath the carpets to minimise noise for people living downstairs, a skylight above the stairwell will open automatically if smoke is detected in the building, and the flats have an energy efficiency rating of EPC

C — described as a “miracle” in such an old building.

Outside, there are bike racks and each flat’s parking space has an electric vehicle charging point. But being in a historic building means that some flats have their constraints and quirks. The two bedrooms in the basement level flat have, due to the shape of the building, smaller and quite highup windows.

The flat also contains a cellar room which has been fully drylined and carpeted, providing a unique space off the back of its living room. And in some of the upstairs flats, the arched stone mouldings of the building’s arched windows are visible when looking outside.

Tom Hugo, the council’s senior housing practitioner, said: “I think there’s a huge amount of character on the inside. Two flats at the front […] have their own garden as well. The ground floor flat […] will have its own private patio space as well.”

The flats will be rented at a social rent level, with the cheapest costing £91.50 a week and the most expensive £125.22.

Mr Davies said: “I can’t believe how exciting it is. We are nearly getting to have people living here quite soon.”

The flats are ready for people to move in when the tenants have been selected.

He added: “We are determined to be a really excellent landlord as a council.”

He insisted that the seven flats were only the start of the council

housing program, saying: “When our manifesto comes out […] we will be explicitly stating that we wish to move it to hundreds of council houses.”

He added: “The council itself will now play an active role in the provision of housing.”

The next plan in the pipeline is to build eight council homes on a storage yard by Argyle Works on the Lower Bristol Road. The scheme was granted planning permission at the end of September.

Mr Davies said the council were looking at building council homes in Keynsham too.

He said: “I do think it has been helpful we have been able to find the first stage in Bath, the city itself, but the need is across the region.”

There are plans for 200 council homes at various stages in the pipeline.

Mr Davies added: “The next phase will be to identify the pipeline that takes it from 200 to several hundred.”

Plans to turn Weston Island into arts destination move closer

PLANS to transform Weston Island in Bath into an arts and cultural destination have moved a step closer following the approval of B&NES Council’s Local Plan partial update.

Bath MP Wera Hobhouse has welcomed the news, which could see the site, which is currently operated as a bus depot, turned into a dedicated arts space.

First Bus bought the island in the 1990s and has been based there ever since. They have recently stated that it is their intention to leave in the coming years.

Nicola Turner, Director of the Bath Art Depot said: “We’re delighted to be able to confirm that it is now Council policy that Weston Island can be developed

for arts and cultural purposes.

“This is an important stepping stone for our long-term vision for the island, and means that we can start building the funding needed to purchase the island, and create

an exciting, innovative, relevant and transformative creative destination for the South West.”

MP Wera Hobhouse said:

“This project is very close to my heart and I have backed it

Crossword answers - Issue 043 (17/01/23)

wholeheartedly from Day 1. I am keen to see it reach fruition.

“I want to congratulate the members of Bath Art Depot for all the work they have done so far. They have been engaging with both Twerton and Newbridge residents over the past year, and there is tremendous support for this project across the city.

“If the island does become available in a few years’ time, then we should have a bold vision for what it could be, and the many ways in which it could benefit the local community.

“I believe that Bath needs and deserves an international contemporary arts destination that complements our current offerings, creates a vital new

Across: 1 Nappy, 4 Fantastic, 10 Scouse, 11 Saucepan, 12 Whispered, 13 Amber, 15 Old hat, 17 Shepherd, 19 Scissors, 21 Expose, 22 Carry, 24 Hungarian, 27 Scabbard, 28 Ninety, 29 Hailstorm, 30 Swede.

Down: 12 Alcoholic, 3 Paul's, 5 Abscess, 6 Taut, 7 Steamship, 8 Image, 9 Dejection, 14 Detergent, 16 Hasdrubal, 18 Restarted, 20 Shudder, 23 Accra, 25 Renew, 26 Pact.

hub outside the city centre and encourages visitors to extend their stay.

“It would be wonderful to be able to attract international artists to come and exhibit alongside local artists who are living and working there.

“I fully support Bath Art Depot’s exciting vision for what the island could be and will continue to champion this ambitious project.”

Tom Davies, Mike Chedzoy and Tom Hugo outside 117 Newbridge Hill | Photo © John Wimperis

Nicola Turner, Simon Periton and Natasha Kidd with Wera Hobhouse MP

This newspaper is produced using paper from sustainably-managed forests.

When you’ve finished reading, please make sure this newspaper is recycled. Just pop it in your green recycling box, or use it for something handy around the house, such as lining your kitchen food caddy.