Bath Echo - Issue 077 - 03/05/2024

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Friday 3rd May - Thursday 16th May 2024

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Issue No. 077

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Photo © William Beck

Plans for 16 supported living bungalows on Tufa Field P2

DYSON CANCER CENTRE OPENS

Man jailed following knifepoint robbery at Batheaston store P6

Services now available to over 500,000 people - P3

SAFETY ISSUES DISCOVERED AT JOLLY'S STORE - P2

Three-month project planned for storm water storage tank P14

Inside: Archive photos, our £20 crossword competition & lots more!

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“Significant” problems found at Jolly’s store

In this issue...

Top Stories

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Pictures from the Past

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Crossword

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Food & Drink

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What's On

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Community

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Health

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Education

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Business

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Politics

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Sports Fixtures

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Becky Feather Reporter

“SIGNIFICANT” health and safety problems involving rain and broken glass falling into Jolly’s department store have emerged.

Bath & North East Somerset Council, which owns the building on Milsom Street, has this week given an assurance that safety measures are in place following the issues last year.

The extent of what happened is highlighted in two planning applications by the council for repair and alteration work to a total of five skylights at the Grade II listed building.

A design, access and heritage statement prepared by Ferguson Mann Architects on behalf of the council notes: “The property at 7-14 Milsom Street has been experiencing leaks and deterioration of external and internal fabric for a number of years, assumed to be the consequence of inadequate

maintenance regimes and poor detailing in certain instances.

“During 2023 this has culminated in large quantities of water entering the shop area below, causing severe damage to the fabric and also providing significant health and safety issues to the staff and public using these premises on a daily basis.”

The report says that skylight 2 had five broken panes of glass “which were falling into the trading area below, therefore this instigated an urgent package of repair works, completed in late 2023”.

Skylight 3 also had several slipped and broken panes of glass which were falling into the shop that again meant urgent work had to be done late last year.

The report says skylight 4 had many of the same issues as skylight 3 but is in a worse condition, with extensive rotten sections of timber.

Repair works haven’t yet begun but the skylight has been covered with temporary plastic sheeting to minimise water getting in.

The Jolly’s store on Milsom Street

There is also an application for repairs and alterations to skylights 12 and 13 which both have several cracked panes of glass that are at risk of falling into the trading area and allowing rainfall in.

Both are said to have decayed and rotting timber casements: “This has instigated the need for an urgent package of repair works to be completed in 2024.”

This week Councillor Mark Elliott, cabinet member for Resources told the Bath Echo:

Tufa field bungalow plans submitted THE latest planning application for the ecologically-sensitive site in the south of Bath known as the Tufa Field has been submitted.

A supported living scheme with 16 bungalows and a communal hub with carers’ accommodation is being proposed by Bath & North East Somerset Council for the land to the rear of 89-123 Englishcombe Lane. Development of the site is controversial as the site is an important nature reserve due to its tufa flushes, a rare type of limestone spring.

The council says the proposals balance the need for community housing with protecting the site’s ecology. The land is described in the application as “unmanaged pasture grassland”.

The council had sought planning permission in 2018 for a scheme of open-market housing consisting of 37 units with splitlevel access to accommodate the

site’s topography.

In 2020 the planning committee resolved to grant permission, subject to completion of a legal agreement and compliance with 34 planning conditions.

However, the decision was made not to pursue the proposed scheme.

The council has since proposed a “landscapeled” scheme for the 1.40-hectare site, providing adults with learning disabilities and/ or autism the opportunity to live independently. The plans, which are now open for consultation, see bungalows organised into two clusters around an internal landscaped courtyard and connected via a footbridge over a watercourse and habitat area.

There would be 10 one-bedroom units, five with two bedrooms and one with three bedrooms.

A communal hub designed for health, wellbeing, and socialising which includes accommodation for carers is also proposed.

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There would be private outdoor gardens and communal space, and parking for staff and visitors, as well as cycle parking spaces.

The proposed development retains the access point and pedestrian pathway from Englishcombe Lane.

The application says the project’s potential impacts on wildlife during construction will be very carefully managed to ensure compliance with all relevant policies and legislation, and the long-term management of the site and the off-site areas will deliver net enhancements for biodiversity that are secured and funded through appropriate agreements.

Tufa Field campaigners have a website – www.tufafield.com – and say any development goes against the council’s selfproclaimed environmental and ecological emergency declarations.

The planning reference is 24/01168/REG03.

The deadline for comments is 24th May.

“The council is working closely with the occupier on a long-term maintenance programme for the building and a full review of the roofs is under way.

“Temporary repairs have been carried out to two lantern lights while planning consent for full repairs are pending, however safety measures are in place and there is full and safe access throughout the store for visitors.”

Consultation on both planning applications closes on Friday 24th May.

News in Brief Man arrested for attempted murder A man was arrested on Tuesday, 30th April, on suspicion of attempted murder and assault following an incident in Twerton.

Police were called to Sheridan Road shortly before 9am to a report that a man had been injured in a serious assault which had taken place several hours earlier. Police said: “Officers attended alongside the ambulance service and a man, in his 40s, was taken to hospital with injuries which are being treated as life-changing, but not lifethreatening. A 36-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and assault by causing actual bodily harm.”

Neighbourhood Inspector Jon Nash said: “We recognise this is a very concerning incident and we are conducting a thorough investigation into what happened. If you do have any information which could help this investigation, please call 101 and quote reference 5224109825.”

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Issue 077

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Your City, Your News - Bath Echo

New £50m Dyson Cancer Centre opens its doors THE new state-of-the-art Dyson Cancer Centre at the Royal United Hospital in Bath has opened its doors, welcoming its first patients after a three-year build.

The purpose-built centre brings together many of the hospital’s cancer services under one roof, to provide a cancer services hub for over 500,000 people in the South West.

It includes the RUH’s oncology, chemotherapy and radiotherapy services, a 22-bed inpatient ward, a dedicated pharmacy, research team and nuclear medicine and physics teams.

Cara Charles-Barks, RUH Chief Executive, said: “This is a major milestone for our community – we know cancer affects many lives and this new centre will help transform the care we provide for the people we care for and their loved ones, as well as providing an exceptional working environment for our dedicated staff.

“Together with patients, staff and those with an interest in cancer services we’ve looked at every aspect of the care we provide and the surroundings we provide it in.

“We’ve worked to create a place where excellent clinical care is matched by a healing environment.

“Thoughtful interior design, the use of natural light and over 100 artworks and art installations – many of which are influenced by the local environment – create a soothing and welcoming space, to balance the high tech facilities housed in the new centre.

“We’re grateful to everyone who has helped us create this amazing building which will benefit so many.”

Ali Underhill, aged 45, from Bath, who is currently using cancer services at the RUH, said: “Being diagnosed again at 43 was tough.

My cancer can’t be removed by surgery so I’m reliant on systemic drug options to keep the cancer at bay.

“The oncology department is my literal lifeline and I’m there most weeks as my treatment is quite dose dense.

“The new centre for me represents a fresh new environment to continue my treatment for as long as possible.

“Having spent time as an inpatient on William Budd ward and as a ‘frequent flyer’ for the chemo unit and day unit, I know how much this facility is needed for the RUH to continue delivering the highest standard of

The atrium of the Dyson Cancer Centre | Photo © William Beck

care.

“The staff do an amazing job and will now have modern facilities and a much better layout than the current building. The new building is also more accessible and as someone who has mobility needs I can’t wait!”

The new centre is backed by over £40 million in Government funding as part of the New Hospital Programme.

Morag Stuart, Chief Programme Officer of the New Hospital Programme, said: “The opening of the Dyson Cancer Centre is a major milestone for the New Hospital Programme, the Royal United Hospitals Bath NHS Foundation Trust and, most important, for the population of Bath and beyond. “This is a perfect example of new services being funded, designed and constructed in collaboration and will improve the lives of so many.”

The Dyson Cancer Centre was also supported by an additional £10 million fundraising campaign from RUHX, the hospital’s official charity, including a £4 million donation from the James Dyson Foundation and £1 million by the Medlock Charitable Trust.

Rhyannon Boyd, Head of RUHX, said: “We are so proud of and grateful to all of our wonderful supporters who helped create this transformational new centre for their community, for today and in the future.

“Over 11,000 amazing donors raised £10 million to make the Dyson Cancer Centre extraextraordinary.

“This new facility couldn’t have been created to offer this extraordinary environment for cancer care and treatment without all of these generous supporters in our local

community, who donated to help care for their friends and loved ones.”

Sir James Dyson and Lady Deirdre Dyson paid a visit to the new centre as it was nearing completion. The Dysons have a strong connection to the RUH having welcomed two of their children at the hospital.

The James Dyson Foundation previously supported the construction of the awardwinning Dyson Centre for Neonatal Care at the RUH with donations, design work and research.

Following the success of the unit, the Foundation donated an additional £4 million towards the RUH’s most ambitious project yet, the new cancer centre.

After their visit, James Dyson, Founder and Chief Engineer, said: “Both of my parents died far too young from cancer, so I’ve always tried to support causes that involve treating or researching this terrible disease.

“Bath and the South West desperately needed a new cancer hospital to serve 500,000 people and carry out cutting-edge research – and I was pleased we could continue helping the RUH, after the success of the Dyson Centre for Neonatal Care.

“The Dyson Cancer Centre has state-of-the-art equipment, such as CT gamma scanners, which allow patients to have two specialist scans at the same time.

“It will also be home to vital research programmes in nuclear medicine and medical physics, and more than 60 live clinical trials – all under one roof.

“In a way, I hope no one has to come to it. But if they do, I hope the Dyson Cancer Centre will be an uplifting place – one filled

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with light, art, space and views of nature – for patients and their families, as well as the hospital staff who care for them.”

A key feature of the new centre is the Macmillan Wellbeing Hub, supported by a £1.5 million donation from Macmillan Cancer Support.

The three-storey hub will provide a welcoming, non-clinical space designed around the needs of patients and their families. It will also include comfortable accommodation where relatives and loved ones can stay overnight.

Megan Inett, Partnership Manager at Macmillan Cancer Support, said: “Being diagnosed with cancer can affect so many different areas of your life, from relationships to finances.

“With counselling rooms, complementary therapy space and cancer information, the new Macmillan Wellbeing Hub will support people with all those non-clinical needs, enabling them to live well with cancer, not just survive.”

Construction partner Kier broke ground on the Dyson Cancer Centre in July 2021 and have managed a complex project within the constraints of a busy hospital site.

Patients, staff and visitors have been able to watch the progress of the new building.

From the demolition of the old therapies building and extensive groundworks which uncovered ammonite fossils from 250 million years ago, through to the three-storey building emerging from behind the hoardings, Kier has been a familiar presence at the RUH over the last three years.

David Snell, Strategic Healthcare Director at Kier Construction Western & Wales, said: “The Dyson Cancer Centre is a vital new healthcare facility that will serve the South West for many years to come.

“This project means a great deal to everyone involved and we are incredibly proud to be handing it over and to be continuing our legacy of delivering state-of-the art healthcare facilities that make a tangible difference in people’s lives.”

The new Dyson Cancer Centre is located near the main entrance of the RUH and has its own entrance – patients and visitors do not need to enter the main RUH building.

The Macmillan Wellbeing Hub will be open from 8am – 6pm and patients, loved ones and the wider community can drop in for information during these times.

News in Brief Railway Station clock set to be returned The clock on the front of Bath Spa Railway Station, which was removed in 2022 along with the ornamental gable because of structural safety fears, is set to be returned to its rightful place.

During a site inspection that summer, it was noticed that the gable on Isambard Kingdom Brunel’s Grade II* listed building had become displaced and was beginning to tilt towards the street, so it was rapidly dismantled.

Now Bath & North East Somerset Council has granted Network Rail listed building consent to repair and strengthen the façade which involves adding steel reinforcement bars. The masonry that was dismantled was fully marked, recorded and stored safely so the original blocks can be restored in the correct order.

Three people arrested after drugs swoop Police in Bath say that following intelligence they have completed successful warrants at two addresses at Phoenix House in Julian Road. The Bath and North East Somerset Neighbourhood Policing team said on Friday 26th April: “The warrants resulted in three arrests and seizures including cash and drugs.

“Three suspects remain under investigation. The local beat team will continue to conduct high visibility patrols in the area.”

Residents are encouraged to report any intelligence directly to local officers, via the police website or by calling 101.

Gas pipe works on A4 completed on time Initial upgrades to gas pipes along the A4 Bristol Road in Corston near Bath have been completed, ahead of more works taking place this summer.

The work by Wales & West Utilities was finished on time and was essential to keep the gas flowing safely to heat and power local homes and businesses, keeping people safe and warm for generations to come.

A further second phase of the project will be completed during the summer holidays.

Wales & West Utilities’ Simon Lee managed the work. He said: “We are pleased to complete this initial section of work and would like to thank the local community for their cooperation.”

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Locals urged to choose right care options ahead of bank holidays PEOPLE in Bath are being encouraged to choose the right service when seeking health care over the two upcoming bank holiday weekends in May. Many GP practices and pharmacies will be closed for the bank holiday weekends at both the beginning and end of May, which could lead to increased pressure and heightened demand on already-busy hospital emergency departments.

Residents are being asked to prioritise self-care for minor illness and injury, and to seek advice from NHS 111 online for conditions that may be more serious, but do not require a trip to hospital.

Using NHS 111 online allows people to take control of their own health and wellbeing, with the service able to provide person-specific advice and information on how to care for health concerns at home.

For conditions that require an inperson assessment, 111 can also signpost people towards those health services unaffected by the bank holidays.

Dr Barry Coakley, Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board, said: “Our local NHS is always very busy, and our frontline

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Pop-up restaurant at former Bath abattoir John Wimperis

Local Democracy Reporter

teams often feel this pressure even more acutely during a bank holiday weekend, as well as in the days that follow.

“With two bank holiday weekends coming up, and at a time of year when people will be keen to spend time outdoors, it’s really important that any person in need of help chooses the option most appropriate to their symptoms. In most cases, this means just staying at home and resting, especially for people showing signs of norovirus, flu and Covid-19, all of which are still circulating in our communities and have the potential to make those more vulnerable very poorly.

“This advice, while particularly pertinent ahead of a spate of bank holidays, is valid at any time of year, and we thank people across

all our communities in advance for their continued support of their local NHS.” Some pharmacies in the region will remain open on Monday 6th and Monday 27th May, and these sites will be able to support people needing emergency prescriptions, as well as those looking for quick in-person advice and guidance.

People who would usually collect their prescription on a Monday are advised to check they have enough of a supply to cover the days when most pharmacies will be shut, and to order any extra medicine needed before the long weekends.

Details of which pharmacies will be open during both May bank holidays can be found online using the Find a Pharmacy tool at www.nhs.uk.

A NEW “pop-up” restaurant has been granted a premises licence for a former abattoir in Bath.

It is the latest culinary venture by the Walcot Group, which runs Walcot House and Green Street Butchers in Bath, along with Mother and Wild in Corsham.

Located on Cheltenham Street in Westmoreland, what was once an abattoir is now a production kitchen for the owner’s local restaurants.

An application to secure an alcohol licence for the site states: “It benefits from an enclosed external courtyard which is drenched in sunshine during the summer months.

“We wish to utilise this space — ‘Cheltenham Yard’ — by providing a licensed ‘pop-up restaurant’ with pizza oven, grill, and bar.”

The group applied for a licence to sell alcohol on the premises up until 10pm every day, planning to close at 10.15pm.

Speaking to object to the proposed licence before Bath & North East Somerset Council’s licensing subcommittee, neighbour Emma Sinden said that the street was

almost completely residential and about 80% of the houses had young children.

Ms Sinden, who was joined at the committee by other neighbours who did not speak, said she was concerned about the noise of people drinking, among other issues.

She said: “I think it’s going to be very difficult to get a five-year-old child to sleep at seven o’clock at night.”

But the agent for the applicants, Terrill Wolyn, said: “They are responsible applicants who have invested in their premises and their staff. They have a positive impact on the communities they serve and there’s no better example of this than the way they transformed what was previously the old Club XL premises on Walcot Street.”

She added that the premises would be “a restaurant with table service where the emphasis is on good food — this is not a boozer, a nightclub, or an end-of-night destination.”

Deborah Still of the Walcot Group added: “A lot of flats in that area don’t have access to gardens, so this gives them somewhere to come outside.”

Members of the licensing sub committee agreed to grant the licence as applied for.

Bridge set to close for around six weeks for repair works

North Parade Bridge in Bath | Photo © B&NES Council

John Wimperis

Local Democracy Reporter

CARS and some boats face disruption as a bridge in the centre of Bath will close for an estimated six weeks later this month.

North Parade Bridge across the River Avon will close from 20th May for waterproofing and masonry works, with investigations and repairs to the underside of the bridge.

The work is currently estimated to take six weeks, subject to findings from initial investigations.

The bridge will be closed to cars and cyclists but open for pedestrians. A temporary pontoon will be set up under the bridge which Bath & North East Somerset Council warned may restrict the movement of larger boats.

Manda Rigby, council cabinet member for transport, said: “Closing North Parade Bridge is necessary as we carry out essential maintenance works to this

historic structure, which was built in 1836.

“The works are estimated to take six weeks, but as with any project on a historic asset, there is always the possibility that other defects may be discovered when we start uncovering the surface.

“Please take the time to plan your journey if you cross the bridge regularly and follow the signed diversion route. We apologise for any disruption during these essential works.”

The council added that access to the leisure centre, cricket club, and local business will be unaffected.

A diversion route will be in place.

Contractors Volker Highways will carry out the works and an email address — highways_projects@bathnes.gov.uk — has been set up for queries.

Cleveland Bridge, built ten years before North Parade Bridge, closed for an expected three months of repairs in June 2021 but only fully reopened to twoway traffic in October 2022 after severe corrosion was discovered in the structure.

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Man jailed following knifepoint robbery A 48-YEAR-OLD man has been jailed for six years and eight months following a knifepoint robbery at a shop in Batheaston.

Ian Gant, of no fixed address, threatened a member of staff at the shop on the High Street with a large kitchen knife before stealing cash from the tills on Monday 19th February.

Gant was sentenced at Bristol Crown Court on 23rd April, having pleaded guilty to robbery and possession of a bladed article last month.

He was identified through CCTV enquiries and witness statements before being arrested by police in Wales.

In a victim personal statement, which was read out in court, the victim said the incident has had a long-term impact on her.

“This incident has changed who I am, from my whole personality to my feelings of security and even to little things such as not caring what I look like and feeling like I can’t wear nice clothes,” her statement said.

“I feel like I am not the same person anymore.”

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Concerns raised over proposal to turn air raid shelters into bike shed John Wimperis

Local Democracy Reporter

Ian Gant | Image © Dyfed-Powys Police / Avon & Somerset Police

DC James Robinson said: “No one should have to endure such a terrifying ordeal and I’d like to praise the bravery of the victim in coming forward.

“This sentence has taken a dangerous individual, who was willing to use a weapon and force to obtain what he wanted, off the streets. He was identified quickly through our enquiries and arrested shortly after.

“It also reflects the magnitude of the offence and shows that those who commit crime involving knives and extreme levels of fear will receive a significant punishment for doing so.”

A PLAN to turn two “very rare” Second World War air raid shelters in Bath into a bike shed has sparked concern among conservationists.

Air raid shelters were built across Bath during the Second World War. The Bath Blitz in 1942 saw the Luftwaffe conduct three bombing raids on the city as part of the “Baedeker Blitz” on cities of cultural importance.

Now an application for listed building consent to repair a leaky roof at Grade II listed 3 Park View, just off the Lower Bristol Road, is also seeking permission to turn two of the city’s surviving air raid shelters at the end of its garden into a bike shed.

The end walls of the two shelters, which face each other, would be opened up and the space between them enclosed with a new roof and a door to access it.

A statement submitted with the planning application said: “The bomb shelters are used as sheds

but are not readily accessible.

The alterations will maintain their historic significance whilst making them utilitarian.”

But local conservationists have criticised the move and urged Bath & North East Somerset Council to not let the work go ahead.

The Bath Blitz Memorial Project said the shelters were “very rare survivors of wartime air raid shelters” and added that their entrances — which would be knocked through under the plans — are particularly historically significant.

Submitting a letter of objection to the plans, the project’s historical researcher said: “The risk of a bomb hit on one shelter causing blast damage in the other had been thought of, which is why the doorways that face the two structures in number 3 are staggered so that the blast from one hit would not blow the door of that shelter into the door of the other, which would be a weaker point than the brick surrounding the door.”

“The positions of the doorways

is therefore of particular historic interest.”

One of the two shelters extends into the garden of number 4 and is believed, by Bath Blitz Memorial Project, to likely have been publicly funded for residents of the whole terrace.

The other smaller shelter, and ones in the gardens of numbers 5 and 6, are believed to be private ones constructed later.

Also submitting an objection to the plans, Bath Heritage Watchdog stated: “Private shelters built in the style of public shelters will have been quite rare even in the wartime; to have such shelters survive through the 80+ years since built makes them an important and very rare heritage asset, and fully justifies the Grade II listing they currently enjoy.”

Their objection added that the air raid shelters were not covered by the list entry for the Park View terrace, but instead were Grade II listed under another list entry covering the garden walls, and therefore a separate application would have to be submitted for the work.

Service continues raising awareness of River Rescue Cabinets AVON Fire & Rescue Service is working to raise awareness of the lifesaving River Rescue Cabinets located along Bath’s riverside in a bid to prevent accidental drownings.

The River Rescue Cabinets are brightly coloured stations located at regular intervals along the waterways in Bath and Bristol.

They contain a lifesaving throwline, which can be accessed in an emergency to provide assistance to somebody in difficulty in the water.

Bath Watch Manager Rich Wheeler said: “It goes without saying that we only encourage you to swim at supervised sites

such as swimming pools.

“You should also avoid entering the water when under the influence of alcohol or drugs as this can greatly impact your ability to swim.”

Statistics from the Water Incident Database show that 40% of people who accidentally drowned had no intention of entering the water.

Slips, trips and falls were often the cause of these accidents.

However, if somebody ends up in the water, River Rescue Cabinets can be accessed to provide assistance whilst emergency crews are dispatched to the scene.

Rich added: “Whatever the

circumstances, remember that if somebody ends up in the water, you should never enter the water after them, even if you are an experienced swimmer and confident in the water.

“Never underestimate the hidden dangers. Instead, use a River Rescue Cabinet to help them.”

To use the cabinet: • Call 999 • Quote the location number on the cabinet. You will be given a four-digit code to open the cabinet and access the throwline inside.

• Ensure you are a safe distance away from the water’s edge and

take the throwline and unfasten the Velcro.

• Wrap the end of the line around your less dominant hand, ensuring you have a secure and firm grip.

• Using your dominant hand, throw the bag towards the person. Whilst you do this, a rescue crew will be travelling to your location.

If someone is in trouble in the water, the best way to help is by staying calm, staying on land, and remember to use Call, Tell, Throw: • Call 999 for the emergency services

A firefighter during water safety training | Photo © AF&RS

• Tell the struggling person to float to live, on their back in a starfish shape.

• Throw them something that floats.

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

F

IRSTLY a big thank you to everyone who responded to the recent Local Plan Options consultation.

This gave people the opportunity to comment on where we should plan for the delivery of new homes and jobs and what policies are needed for addressing the climate and ecological emergencies.

We received nearly 7,000 responses online. That’s three times more than any previous planning consultation.

The planning team will carefully consider the issues raised and they will help to shape the Draft Local Plan.

We wanted to reach as many people as possible and give them the opportunity to have their say, so the nine-week

consultation period included extensive communication with communities and stakeholders and a series of in-person events that were attended by more than 600 people. Our website also included links to videos, explaining the process and giving guidance for commenting or outlining the proposed options.

I think this response shows the pride we all have in our area. It’s a fantastic place, and, as council leader, I find people in other parts of the country are interested in what we are doing, particularly on things like tackling the climate emergency.

This is reflected in a new report ‘Civic Partners in Net Zero’, which details innovative ways universities are working with

their local places to achieve Net Zero targets. I am delighted that it includes a case study on our collaboration with the University of Bath on using local planning policy to reduce carbon in new buildings.

This report is from the Key Cities Innovation Network (KCIN), led by a Steering Group chaired

by Professor Ian White, ViceChancellor of the University of Bath. This coordinates universities associated with the cross-party group of 27 Key Cities across England and Wales – including Bath & North East Somerset – which is the largest grouping of urban authorities in the UK outside London.

I am proud of the strong and longstanding partnerships we

have with our two universities and look forward to continued fruitful collaborations.

Finally, I know that urban gulls can become a nuisance and even cause distress for people in some instances. However we are limited in how much we can do to solve this because it is illegal to interfere with the birds or their nests. Action can only be taken by local authorities in very specific situations where public health or public safety is at risk, as gull species including herring and lesser black-backed gulls are protected by law.

Anyone who feels their health is being impacted should report via https://bit.ly/4dpGXZO.

It is illegal to injure the birds, eggs and their nests without consent from Natural England.

We also urge residents and businesses who are experiencing problems with gulls to ensure they aren’t making their roofs and gardens an attractive target by removing outdoor waste wherever possible. It’s also advisable if you’re planning property renovations to get professional advice on building gull-deterring measures.

The council will soon be applying to Natural England for a licence to allow removal of nests and eggs during the breeding season in cases where a member of the public’s safety is at risk.

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Pictures from the Past The problem with North Parade Bridge WITH Cleveland Bridge still with a weight restriction, it will probably come as bad news to many in Bath that North Parade Bridge is going to be closed to motorised traffic for at least six weeks, beginning on 20th May. To make matters worse, investigations may uncover other problems.

The causes are very similar to the problems with Cleveland Bridge. Underneath all that

masonry is an iron bridge which was built in 1836 to carry horse-drawn vehicles, people on horseback and pedestrians.

Users had to pay a toll, which helped to maintain it.

In this picture we can see the graceful iron work as well as the buttress at the North Parade end of the bridge which served as the toll-house.

In this photograph from 1890, the toll collector can just be seen in the doorway of the toll-house, which was conveniently placed next to the gates.

However, by the early 1900s, it was

beginning to look drab and rusty. Worst still, as heavy cars and goods vehicles used it, the ironwork began to suffer.

Eventually, the bridge could no longer stand the strain. In 1928 it was reduced to a footbridge, but by 1936, the traffic disruption caused by its closure necessitated its reopening, but not before it had been strengthened, and the ironwork hidden behind stone cladding.

This stone cladding may have seemed like a good idea at the time, but beneath it was the iron bridge, albeit strengthened.

As we can see in this picture, there were

just two small slots to allow fresh air through the man-made cavern beneath the roadway. The cladding allowed damp to create problems made worse by the weight and vibration from coaches, double-decker tour buses, and goods vehicles the bridge was never designed to bear. Once again the bridge will be reduced to a footbridge. Perhaps, as one planner in the 1960s suggested, the road should be kept closed to motorised traffic, so that the public can safely enjoy the spectacular views to each side of North Parade Bridge.

Above: The iron work that makes up the bridge

Below: The bridge in the early 1900s

Above: The toll collector in the toll-house

Below: The bridge with stone cladding

Kirsten Elliott Akeman Press

COLUMN | Wera Hobhouse, Liberal Democrat MP for Bath

H

ERE we are in May - a month which held much anticipation for a General Election and a desperately-needed change in government for our country.

Nevertheless, it is clear that the Conservatives are desperate to hold on to their final months in power, resorting to last-ditch attempts to get voters on side, such as pushing their immoral and unworkable Rwanda scheme through Parliament.

This Conservative government has already wasted millions of taxpayer pounds - £241 million to be precise - on the colossal failure that is the Rwanda scheme. While we all want to stop the dangerous Channel crossings and the tragic

loss of life over these treacherous journeys, it’s clear that the Conservatives have totally failed at the task at hand. Rather than focus on immoral and reckless gimmicks, we Liberal Democrats are committed to tackling the asylum backlog, fixing the broken asylum system and establishing safe and legal routes for refugees from all countries.

Despite being declared an emergency piece of legislation by the Prime Minister, the Rwanda Bill saw months of delay before the government could even pass it through Parliament, let alone get flights off the ground. Their capacity for dither and delay is hardly surprising.

Just last week they pushed back their already 5-year-old promise to ban Section 21 evictions, yet again leaving renters in the lurch and in fear of being evicted from their homes at a whim.

In the House of Commons, I proposed amendments to the Renters (Reform) Bill which would have closed the loopholes that allow tenants to be unlawfully evicted by rogue landlords.

Nevertheless, the government did not accept the proposal. It is increasingly clear that ensuring renters’ housing stability is not a priority for the Conservatives.

While we may not have an opportunity to elect a new government this May, up and down the coun-

try people are getting to vote on their local government representatives and new Police and Crime Commissioners. In anticipation, I spoke with members representing all groups in Bath & North East Somerset Council about the abuse and intimidation they often face during election campaigns.

We have united behind the Local Government Association’s “Debate Not Hate” campaign to prioritise healthy debate over threats and abuse. I subsequently raised the disturbing issue in the Parliament, calling on the government to extend their security

measures protecting Members of Parliament to all elected representatives.

I was privileged to be able to speak at a reception hosted by the National Trust recently at Bath Assembly Rooms.

It was a pleasure to see the building filled with lots of familiar and friendly faces, in exactly the way it was first intended to be used.

The Rooms have played a special role in our city since 1771, having been built by our community for our community. It is a welcome reminder of the rich history Bath is steeped in and the community spirit we all share.

Issue 077

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Across 9 Icon (5) 10 Dealers to spare or shuffle (9) 11 Part of a journey (3) 12 Disney classic set in a forest (5) 13 Garments that zip up to go down? (9) 14 The former Mrs. McCartney (5) 15 Long periods (9) 16 Authority (3-2) 18 Give up (5) 22 Woebegone (9) 25 Fold-up bed (5) 27 The Crimea, for example (9) 28 Mixes gin or produces beater (5) 29 Amp input label (3) 30 Close by (2, 3, 4) 31 Musical first lady (5)

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Food & Drink

Friday 3rd May - Thursday 16th May 2024

Melissa Blease Sponsor our new Food & Drink section! Get in touch via advertise@bathecho.co.uk

Food Writer

Tasty Dates For Your Diary Save 25% off lunch menu prices at the uniquely characterful Budo (Argyle Street) by grabbing a rollickin' rice bowl (there are several incarnations to choose from), a plate of punchy pickles and a pint of your choosing for just £17.25 between 12noon-3pm every Tuesday to Friday. www.budobath.co.uk Indulge in a suitably chilled-out Bank Holiday Brunch at Saw Close semi-alfresco chill-out zone Vino Vino from 1pm on Bank Holiday Sunday 5th May, presented in partnership with the iconic Whispering Angel (producers of the benchmark classic Côtes de Provence rosé) and supplemented by a mellow backdrop of old school R'n'B, House and Afro beats courtesy of the legendary DJ Salouse.

To make that all-important booking, email enquiries@

vinovinowinebar.co.uk www.vinovinowinebar.co.uk Do lunch at Clayton's Kitchen (George Street) for just £30 for two courses (or £35 for three) every Wednesday-Friday between 12noon-2.30pm – an absolute bargain for a lovely lunchtime experience. www.claytonskitchen.com Spring out at Flourish (Saltford) on Friday 10th May when their fabulous Spring Lamb Dinner brings a selection of Somerset lamb dishes to the table, alongside flavoursome, seasonal sides-to-match. To make that allimportant booking, call 01225 536644 (ext. 4) or email kitchen@ flourishatglenavon.co.uk https://bit.ly/3SlU9Fi A uniquely exciting venue, Bath's hottest private event chef and a

cocktail king; put 'em together and what have you got? Two spectacular Spring Tasting Menu events courtesy of a super-cool collaboration between Yuzu

by Dan Moon and the vibrant Cassia Collective (Sovereign Point, Midland Road) on Friday 10th and Saturday 11th May. Enjoy a sumptuous 7-course seasonal feast best enjoyed with a carefully-curated wine flight and a selection of sensational cocktails to round off the evening in style (£75pp). https://bit.ly/3xxWpCI Shimmy along to lovely, lively Meze hotspot Pomegranate (Walcot Street) on Saturday 11th May for an unforgettable evening of delicious food abundant in flavour, history and heritage accompanied by live music and “soulful tunes” and all served up in uniquely characterful

surroundings. Booking essential; call 01225 462992 or email info@ pomegranatebath.co.uk www.pomegranatebath.co.uk Treat yourself to a burger or a main course at Velo Lounge (Moorland Road) between 5pm10pm on a Monday evening... and they'll treat you to a free pudding, a glass of wine or a milkshake in return! While we're on the subject of lounging around: enjoy three tapas and a glass of wine for just £13.25 from 5pm every Tuesday, and/or two cocktails for £12.50 between 5pm-8pm every Sunday to Friday. www. thelounges.co.uk/velo/ Get up-close-and-personal with MasterChef 2023 finalist Kasae Fraser at the Pasta Laboratory (Richmond Place) on Thursday 23rd/Friday 24th May when Pasta Lab head honcho Federico

will hand over the keys to his newly-refurbished kitchen to allow Kasae to rustle up an outstanding 6-course feast (click on the booking link to peruse the full, glorious menu) in uniquely pretty, sociable surroundings (£85pp). https://bit.ly/4bgWVUl Earn yourself a whopping 50% off A La Carte menu prices at super-stylish Japanese restaurant Robun (George Street) every Sunday simply by quoting SUNDAY50 when making that all-important booking. www.robun.co.uk Melissa regularly reviews restaurants across Bath. www.theprandialplayground.uk Follow Melissa on X Find her @ThePigGuide

Recipe: Fish Burgers Fish burgers offer a lively, lighter alternative to their traditional meat-feast counterparts without forsaking any of that 'big bite' satisfaction. But when it comes to cooking your burgers, don't skip the refrigeration part of the recipe – if you fry them at room temperature, they're prone to crumbling and falling apart in the pan; you have been warned!

Ingredients (makes 4 fat fish burgers) • 400g skinless mixed fish fillets, e.g. salmon, basa, cod, haddock • 3 spring onions • The juice of ½ lime or lemon • 1 bunch of coriander • 2 tbs plain flour, lightly seasoned • 1 egg, beaten • 140g panko breadcrumbs To serve: • Brioche burger buns • Mayonnaise • Little Gem or Romaine lettuce leaves • Sliced tomato

Method • Briefly blitz half the fish, half the coriander, the spring onions and a spritz of lime or lemon juice in a food processor to create a coarse paste and chop the reserved fish into small chunks. Stir the whole lot together in a large bowl, season with salt and white pepper and shape into four chunky patties.

• Sprinkle the seasoned flour onto a plate, beat the egg in a small bowl and tip the breadcrumbs into a second bowl. Coat each patty in a dusting of flour and briefly dip into the beaten egg followed immediately by a tumble in the breadcrumbs, patting firmly as you go to ensure that the breadcrumbs stick to the flour- and egg-coated burger. Transfer the burgers to a plate and chill for a minimum of 1 hour (or up to four hours, if you're getting ahead).

• When you're ready to cook, heat around 1-2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large frying pan and fry the burgers over a medium-high heat for around 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the fish has cooked through and the burgers have developed a golden-brown crust. If air frying, preheat your fryer to 190c and cook the burgers for around 12-15 minutes to achieve the same result, turning halfway through.

• To assemble, spread the base of each burger bun with generous dollops of mayo, then top with the lettuce, burgers & slices of tomato. Dive in!

TE ENDS ADVANCED RA MAY! H T 6 1 Y A D S R THU

30 MAY - 1 JUNE 2024 SCAN HERE

FAMILY TICKET (2 ADU LTS X 3 £50 KIDS)

DISCOVER MORE AT THE ROYAL BATH & WEST SHOW

Book your tickets now: bathandwest.com/tickets Family ticket (2 adults, 3 children) £50, Children (5 - 15) £2, Children under 5 Free

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Review Beau Street, Bath BA1 1QY 01225 355336 thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk Subtly occupying two Grade II listed buildings in the heart of Bath, the Gainsborough Bath Spa opened its doors in the Heritage City in 2015 and created quite a splash from the get-go, not least of all because the hotel has exclusive access to the natural thermal waters that have kept the city buoyant for centuries. So yes, there's modern history to shout about here.

Friday 3rd May - Thursday 16th May 2024

Dinner at The Gainsborough Bath Spa But the Gainsborough has been refreshingly forward-thinking in its approach to contemporary fine dining protocol too, moving with the times through the years since it opened – and this year's new menu splash is, to my mind, the one that's going to cause the biggest ripples in Bath's restaurant scene. But before we even get to that food...

A well-considered ambience of understated red carpet glamour (subtle chandeliers; acres of marble; reception staff who make you feel like they've been waiting

The chargrilled meat skewers on offer at The Gainsborough Bath Spa

to greet you, and only you, all day) lie beyond a grand entrance, combining to offer a seductively sophisticated welcome offering a “feel like a million dollars” buzz.

The lovely little bar (which specialises in spiffing cocktails) is a cool oasis of chic overlooking the hotel's indoor pool; the quintessentially modern-British Canvas Room hits traditional afternoon tea hotspot heights.

But oh, the dining room!

Coffered ceilings, original artwork, an impressive wine wall; intimate corners (including a cosy firelit 'snug' at one end) and space for all elsewhere – it's modern without being overtly Insta-friendly, and traditional without being stuffy.

On the brasserie's reinvented menu, “a kaleidoscope of globally inspired gourmet experiences”.

It's a brave USP indeed – and bravery, as we all know all too well, can backfire. But in this instance, brave equates as inspired, and intelligent. Like this...

Enormous, glistening prawns ('Dancing Prawns', no less!) – crispy on the outside, soft and juicy within – drenched in a glossy, citrus-infused, Asianesque emulsion. A trio of meaty, chargrilled skewers (chicken, lamb and beef ) served with a chunky, piquant satay sauce that

The charcoal-grilled, super-succulent short ribs have received high praise

had nothing to do with sickly peanut butter and everything to do with real, roasted nuts, chilli, and – I'm guessing – tamarind.

A rich Rendang, laden with luscious chicken, fragrant with turmeric, lemongrass and cardamom and enriched with coconut – comforting; complex; addictive.

Charcoal-grilled, super-succulent short ribs partnered with a spicy/sweet sambal that we wanted to order by the jar, for carrying on with at home. Glistening nuggets of moist, super-fresh lobster marinated in umami-rich miso, spring onion and a gentle whiff of garlic oil, the sweet, sweet meat, tangled up in silky, creamy linguine, served in our lobster's own, huge shell and dusted with chilli flakes. And, after all that...

'Chocolate': a super-elevated version of a cookie/ice cream sandwich bringing brownies, chocolate ice cream and salted caramel sauce together in very grown-up harmony, and a delightfully green-tinged Pandan Crème Brûlée sprinkled with citrus honeycomb that bought texture and balance to the soft, sweet pandan-infused custard.

They say East meets West; I say, you're not going to find anywhere else in the city that serves this kind of high-level fusion food in such an elegant but thoroughly welcoming environment.

The Gainsborough is as wonderful as it was when it first opened its doors – but the new menu has seriously upped the 5-star ante.

Reviewer: Melissa Blease

Issue 077

P13 13

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What's On Mr Doodle! Museum Mayhem The Holburne Museum 3rd May – 1st September Presenting the first ever UK museum exhibition of internationally renowned artist and internet sensation, Mr Doodle. Also known as Sam Cox, he has captivated viewers worldwide.

Bird Song - Walk and Talk Sydney Gardens 5th May, 10am – 12pm Join local bird enthusiast Lucy Starling who will be leading a walk and talk from Sydney Gardens to Bathampton. Take some binoculars, a drink and a snack if wanted. Tickets required.

Friday 3rd May - Thursday 16th May 2024 The Sad Club

Krater Comedy Club

Bath Pavilion 3rd & 4th May, 7.30pm Featuring a live band, epic backing vocalists and one of the UK's leading Elvis tributes, don't be 'lonesome tonight' and book your tickets - they will not be 'returned to sender'!

The Egg 3rd – 4th May A riotous piece of gig theatre, The Sad Club mixes live music, bold new writing and laugh-out-loud comedy to give a glimpse of what growing up is like, in all its messy, complicated glory.

Komedia Every Saturday night, from 6.30pm Kick off your weekend with some proper good laughs and discover the best in live stand-up with three hilarious comedians and a top-notch compère.

Meal deal tickets available.

Dinosaur Family Fun Day

The Garden Against Time

The TigerFace Show

Elvis By Candlelight

Bath Racecourse 6th May, 12.15pm Meet some dinosaurs at the Dino Family Fun Raceday! Watch out for roaming Raptors, a Triceratops, Baby Dinosaurs, and other ferocious beasts that will be let loose around the racecourse.

Bath Elim Church 8th May, 6.30pm Mr B's welcomes prize-winning writer Olivia Laing back to talk about her brand new book, The Garden Against Time, a compelling exploration of the significance of gardens.

Bath Spring Fayre

Painting with Acrylics

Bath Craft Fair

The Glass Menagerie

Milsom Street 10th – 12th May Showcasing an array of spring-themed workshops, walkabout entertainment, and performances by local singers, performers, and community groups.

Enjoy a selection of food and beverages.

No. 1 Royal Crescent 10th May, 6 - 8pm Learn to paint a beautiful arrangement inspired by the flowers popular in Georgian Britain. Full step-by-step guidance will be provided as you create your masterpiece on a birchwood panel.

Weston Free Church 11th May, 12 - 4pm Featuring over 20 crafters and small businesses selling cards, decorations, jewellery, accessories, books and much more. This month's free activities include a family-friendly spring trail.

Theatre Royal 13th – 18th May A poetic portrayal of a family on the brink of change. This intimate and intense memory play explores the complex web of love and loyalty that binds families together.

Bath Digital Festival

The Girl Next Door

Made in Bath

Thompson Twins' Tom Bailey

Various Locations 14th – 16th May Bringing people and technology together to explore the thriving digital scene in Bath. The event will celebrate the city with a focus on three impactful themes which have foundations in Bath.

The Mission Theatre 14th – 18th May A young woman - Lily - appears in her garden carrying a washing basket; in the next-door terraced house Rob - an outof-work actor - sees her over the hedge and is instantly attracted to her.

Bath City Centre 15th May, 11am A 2-hour walking tour of Bath, exploring the fascinating inventions and surprising innovations with their roots in Bath. This is a free walk, but places are limited so online booking is essential.

The Forum 16th May The Thompson Twins are widely regarded as one of the most iconic bands of the 1980’s and provided the soundtrack to many people’s lives during that incredible era of music.

22-23 WESTGATE STREET, BATH, BA1 1EP

SEE WHAT’S ON

BOX OFFICE: 01225 489 070

WWW.KOMEDIABATH.CO.UK

Rondo Theatre 9th May, 7.30pm Wild. Wacky. Wonderful. What did you want to be when you grew up? A joyful, yet melancholic comedy, The Tigerface Show asks us to rethink what it was we wanted to be when we grew up.

P14

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Friday 3rd May - Thursday 16th May 2024

Community

Share your news with us Email: news@bathecho.co.uk

Three-month project planned for storm water storage tank THE latest project to help prevent untreated wastewater from reaching the River Avon in Bath will be getting underway in the next few months.

More than £650,000 is being invested by Wessex Water to enhance storage capacity in the Fox Hill area.

This should dramatically reduce instances of heavy storms contributing to overwhelming the sewer system and causing overflows to operate automatically to release diluted water into the river before it is treated.

The three-month scheme is one of nearly 100 being completed under the Bath-based water company’s £3-million-a-month programme before 2025 to reduce the overall operation of storm overflows by a quarter while boosting support for the environment.

Teams will move on to the site just north of Combe Down in June to build the new tank, which will be capable of hosting nearly 100,000 litres of excess water.

A length of new sewer and new manholes will also be constructed as part of the project.

During periods of heavy rain,

excess flows from combined sewers carrying both foul water from home and businesses and rain run-off will be held in the tank to prevent overflows from operating at the River Avon more than a kilometre away.

Instead, the stormwater will be returned to the sewer once the weather has eased and piped onwards to a water recycling centre for treatment and safe return to the environment.

Wessex Water’s project manager Greg Andrews said: “While overflows have always been a part of this country’s sewerage system protecting homes and businesses from flooding if the network become overwhelmed, we’re committed to progressively reducing their use and eliminating the release of untreated wastewater.

“Between now and 2025 we’re tackling the overflows in our region that have operated most frequently in the past and our work at Fox Hill is one of those 13 priority projects.

“Holding back excess water for safe treatment is one way we can help ease the pressure excess rainfall can cause on the sewer system and protect the health of

the River Avon.’’

The scheme will take place on public land near Springfield Park, with one short diversion to a local public right of way while the work is in progress.

In addition to writing to the local community, Wessex Water is hosting a drop-in session about the Fox Hill project at St Andrew’s Community Church, Hawthorn Grove, Bath, BA2 5QA on Monday 13th May (3-6pm), at which members of the public can ask questions about the project.

It will be the second such scheme to protect the river to take place in Bath in the last eight months, after more than £1.3 million was spent in the autumn to install a storm tank in the car park of Bath RFC’s playing fields off the London Road.

Capable of holding more than 170,000 litres of storm water, the Lambridge tank was followed by two further projects to enhance protection of the Avon, with a further 160,000 litres of storage space being created within Victory Field in Bradford on Avon as part of a near-£2 million investment that was completed this month.

More than £800,000 is also being

Warning issued over ‘Nottingham Knockers’ in Oldfield Park

Police have raised concern over the doorstep callers | Library image

Becky Feather Reporter

POLICE say there have been recent reports of ‘Nottingham Knockers’ operating in and around the Oldfield Park area of Bath.

Nottingham Knockers are doorstep cold callers who offer a selection of household products for sale.

The scam is believed to have originated in Nottingham, hence the name.

Avon & Somerset Police say such callers usually tell residents that they are ex-offenders trying to go straight, then try and sell poor

quality and over-priced cleaning products.

They may also offer services such as roof or driveway repairs and cleaning.

People are being urged to be vigilant and the police remind residents that they are under no obligation to answer the door to anyone they don’t know or aren’t expecting.

If you do talk to them, they are supposed to be able to provide a valid pedlar’s certificate and should leave your property when asked.

Police always recommend using a door chain and asking to see the identification of unexpected callers. Genuine callers expect

you to check their identification before opening the door and would never try to rush you.

If you are suspicious, ring 101 straight away or 999 in an emergency.

Police advise people to keep windows and doors secured if they’re not in the room, and to keep cash in the bank, not at home.

Never agree to have work done or hand over money on your doorstep, and ideally get written quotes from at least two traders for any work. Always agree a start and finish date and agree a price before any work starts on your home.

The police ask residents to look out for their vulnerable and elderly neighbours and make sure they know what to do when they receive an unexpected caller.

Officers are seeking further information and any CCTV footage that can lead to the persons involved being identified.

This can be done by calling 101 or visiting https://orlo.uk/pDZZR. Police have also provided several local businesses on Moorland Road with cold-calling stickers for anyone who wants to display them. These can be found in the local charity shops.

Anyone who would like further crime prevention advice is asked to contact 8058@ avonandsomerset.police.uk.

A storm water tank, similar to the one being installed | Photo © Wessex Water

invested to build a below-ground tank that can hold 50,000 litres of water in Hanham in South Gloucestershire in the east of Bristol this winter.

Storing wastewater is just one way Wessex Water is tackling storm overflows before 2025, with increased capacity to treat sewage at 42 of its water recycling centres, including introducing more nature-based and lowcarbon treatment methods such as reedbeds and wetlands also being delivered.

Investigation and monitoring of overflows has also been enhanced, along with increased sewer relining to help keep wastewater within the system and prevent infiltration of groundwater that can lead to flooding. The company has also unveiled proposals to invest a record £400 million towards the goal of reducing overflow operation in its next five-year investment period between 2025 and 2030, subject to approval by industry regulators.

Artists and makers join Newbridge Arts Trail

The Hole in the Hedge by Jo Thorne | Image © Jo Thorne

MORE than 30 artists and makers will be exhibiting in 11 different venues in the 13th annual Newbridge Arts Trail.

The trail takes place over the weekend of Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th May. The four main public venues are Weston Methodist Church on Kennington Road, Newbridge Primary School, Fairfield House and The Locksbrook Inn. The remaining exhibits are hosted in private homes. Maps with artists’ details will be posted to local residents or can be picked up from one of the four main participating venues at the time of the event.

There will be an opportunity to speak directly with artists about their inspirations, with some doing demonstrations so you can learn about their techniques.

The trail hosts a wide range of creative mediums, from painting and printmaking to pottery and jewellery.

Much of it will be at affordable prices. There will also be cards and small gifts available, making the trail a great place to find an original gift whilst supporting local artists.

As well as being part of the trail, on Sunday Fairfield House will have historical guided tours about the lives of the Ethiopian royal family in Bath. These will be at noon and 1.30pm with lunch available afterwards.

The trail is free of charge and the venues are open between 10.30am and 5pm across both days. A fee will apply to the guided tour at Fairfield House.

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Health

Friday 3rd May - Thursday 16th May 2024

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RUH awarded £21m to help decarbonise Combe Park site THE Royal United Hospital in Bath has been awarded a £21.6 million grant to help towards the decarbonisation of its Combe Park site.

The cash boost, awarded by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero as part of the Salix Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme phase 3c, will fund improvements including more environmentally-friendly lights, insulation, and heating and cooling controls.

Most of the vital funds will be used to de-steam much of the RUH’s 52-acre site, a process that will see the hospital’s ageing heating systems replaced with more energy-efficient options such as heat pumps.

Together, these initiatives will make the hospital more sustainable, and a more pleasant environment for those who use it.

RUH Chief Executive Cara Charles-Barks said: “We are beginning to make great strides to reduce our emissions,

through initiatives such as decommissioning our entire nitrous oxide manifold and a sustainable travel plan.

“However, we knew we needed to make significant investments in our estate to fulfil our commitment of reaching Net Zero for scope one and two emissions by 2030, in line with BaNES Council’s goals.

“This grant is therefore invaluable. It will enable us to make these essential changes in the coming years, and will have a positive impact on the environment and the experience of being in hospital.

“We know that getting this right will be better for the health and wellbeing of the people we care for, the people we work with and the people in our community.”

When the proposed improvements are completed, by 2026, they will result in an estimated 24% annual reduction in carbon emissions over which the RUH has direct control.

Cardiology patients to benefit from £1m cath lab refurbishment

Some of the Cardiology team at the hospital | Photo © RUH

PATIENTS suffering from heart conditions can now benefit from a £1 million refurbishment project at the Royal United Hospital.

The RUH’s oldest cardiac catheterisation lab, also known as a cath lab, has been completely transformed to bring it up to date with the latest state-of-the-art equipment.

A cath lab is where important cardiology tests and procedures take place, including angiograms with stenting of arteries and the implantation of pacemakers and cardiac defibrillators.

The three-month project has seen the first GE Allia IGS 520 Pulse lab in the country installed, providing cutting-edge technology for the people cared for at the hospital.

The new kit gives staff access to the latest treatment and diagnostic technology on offer, including a reduction in the

X-ray radiation dose delivered to patients undergoing tests.

The lab has been tailored to provide enhanced support for the implantation of pacemakers and complex devices like cardiac defibrillators.

Bradley Isaac, Specialty Manager for Cardiology, said: “The new cath lab is a fantastic addition to the facilities we offer our cardiology patients.

“The new equipment provides us with the latest technology to treat the people we care for and ensure we can continue to provide them with the very best experience at all times.

“I’d like to thank everyone involved in the project for their hard work and for working differently over the past three months to keep disruption to a minimum. This new facility reflects our commitment to providing our patients with the very best care and support.”

This equates to just over 3,400 tonnes of carbon dioxide, the equivalent of just under 1,000 return flights from London to Seoul, or more than 150,000 car journeys from Bath to London, every single year.

There is a proven link between lower carbon emissions and better health for the community.

The combustion of fossil fuels is the primary contributor to illhealth from air pollution, and best estimates suggest that over one-third of new asthma cases could be avoided by efforts to cut carbon emissions.

The RUH worked closely with the Carbon Energy Fund to develop the plans, and they will continue to support the RUH as the changes are implemented.

Now, the team is working to secure contractors for the project, with work due to take place over the next two years.

Steven Heape, Project Manager of the Carbon Energy Fund, said: “It’s been a pleasure to support

Photo © RUH Bath

the Trust in working towards its ‘Net Zero by 2030’ goal.

“We look forward to working with them with the project throughout its construction and the 15-year operational phrase, ensuring delivery of the guarantee carbon savings.”

Laura Couldrey, Senior Programme Manager at Salix, said: “We are delighted to work

with RUH as it progresses its decarbonisation journey to meet its Net Zero target.

“Ultimately it will result in a better place environment for patients and visitors, as well as the staff working at the hospital.

“We look forward to supporting RUH in achieving its goals and cannot wait to see this work begin.”

Call for care home contingency plan John Wimperis

Local Democracy Reporter

BATH & North East Somerset Council is being urged by councillors to draw up contingency plans to help care homes in future pandemics.

It comes after an independent report into the high rate of deaths in care homes during the Covid-19 pandemic was published.

Bath and North East Somerset had the highest rate of Covid-19 deaths in care homes in all of England in 2021, more than double the national average, despite a relatively low number of deaths in the area as a whole.

The report, by NIHR ARC West, did not identify any practices in the area’s care homes as causing the high deaths but found that shortages of staff and the layouts of care homes were key issues that caused problems both in Bath and North East Somerset and care homes in other nearby areas.

In response to the findings, councillors on Bath & North East Somerset Council’s scrutiny panel on children, adults, health and wellbeing voted on Monday 15th April to urge the council to “develop contingency plans that will enable care homes to be supported with emergency staff for pandemics and other unexpected events.”

They also called for the council to look at how care home layout and structure could support

better isolation and infection control, to give care homes “more consideration and autonomy” to balance the needs of infection control and the physiological and social wellbeing of their residents, and to support communication to reduce feelings of “abandonment and isolation.”

Councillors also said they wanted to recognise the “huge effort and commitment and sacrifice” of care home staff.

A major research aim the NIHR ARC West report had been tasked with was to determine why Bath and North East Somerset had a higher rate of Covid-19 deaths in care homes than other areas.

But at the meeting, vice chair of the panel Councillor Liz Hardman (Paulton, Labour) said: “We don’t really have an answer.”

The report consisted of a “quantitative study” looking at data about care homes collected

by Bath & North East Somerset Council, and a “qualitative study” consisting of interviews with care home staff. But the report stated that researchers were “unable to collect sufficient data”.

Researchers also told the committee that they had emailed all 77 care homes in Bath and North East Somerset to ask them to take part in their interviews.

They later contacted care homes across the West of England after only a small amount responded.

Researchers ended up interviewing 14 people from five care homes both inside and outside of B&NES. But Paul Scott, the council’s associate director

of public health, said there had been an analysis done by the council a year ago into why the death rate in care homes in the area had been so high. He said: “That pattern of having a higher percentage of deaths occurring in our care homes and a lower percentage occurring in a hospital than the England average had been there for about 10 years. That’s a pattern that we see in B&NES.” He said that in the last figures available, the area had the second highest figure for people dying in their usual place of residence out of 150 English local authorities, something which is increasing nationwide which he believes to be due to more care planning.

He added that the area also had a lower rate of escalating people from care homes to hospital.

Mr Scott said: “We had lower deaths from Covid-19 in our population overall at that time, lower than the England average.

“We had one of the highest care home death rates but one of the very lowest hospital death rates, and in fact, if those two things had averaged out we wouldn’t be having the conversation at all probably.”

Dr John Banks, of the team behind the report, said: “The overall finding from us was that the practices and the behaviour that we that we identified within care homes, both quantitatively and qualitatively, did not show any indication that it contributed to the particular death rates that you found in B&NES.”

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Spotlight on pioneering project to reduce carbon emissions Becky Feather Reporter

AN initiative by the University of Bath and Bath & North East Somerset Council features in a new climate change report.

The joint project, to reduce carbon emissions in construction by connecting local planning policymakers with academic experts in sustainable construction, is one of six innovations proposed by the Key Cities Innovation Network (KCIN) in ‘Civic Partners in Net Zero’, a collection of peerreviewed studies detailing ways in which universities are working with their local places to achieve Net Zero targets.

In January 2023, B&NES was the first UK local authority to implement planning policies requiring that all new building developments must achieve Net Zero operational energy, and that major developments would have to meet an embodied carbon target. Both these requirements go far beyond national building

regulations, but now represent a growing trend among local authorities.

The council has worked with the University of Bath to review the impact of the policies in the first few months of implementation and consider how they can be further developed and refined.

What they have found is a significant improvement in the projected outcome in new applications and broad industry support for the policy aims, as well as a clear understanding of the support and monitoring that will be required to ensure the

policies are effective in achieving the intended outcomes during and post-construction.

Professor Ian White, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Bath, said: “Sustainability is priority research theme for the University of Bath and I am delighted to see the University and Bath and North East Somerset Council collaborate in this way to help meet the challenge of achieving Net Zero in our home city.

“I want to thank Dr Will Hawkins and his collaborators for their innovative and important work in this area. This report shows the high potential that exists when Key Cities and their civic institutions work together to tackle important challenges.”

Councillor Kevin Guy, leader of B&NES Council and deputy chair of Key Cities, said: “This is a landmark report as it sets out how collaborative working between universities and their places across the Key Cities is unlocking the innovation we need to achieve our Net Zero goals.”

Graduate returns to his roots at Newton Park AS Bath Spa University celebrated its ongoing commitment to sustainability and protecting the environment in its recent Green Week, a former student returned to the Newton Park campus to talk about the enterprise he started.

Ed Morrison, who graduated in Media Communications, has taken his passion for nature and turned it into a growing business.

He is the founder of Roots Allotments, a Bath-based company offering space for people to have a go at growing their own food.

Launched in December 2021, the allotment spaces are nodig, chemical-free and supply members with organic seeds, plants, tools, in-person events and online videos.

The seeds for the business were planted during the pandemic.

After leaving a career in advertising and going to Devon to live with his grandmother, Ed began experimenting with growing his own food.

After moving back to London, and into a flat with no garden, he

Ed | Photo © Roots Allotments

considered getting an allotment, but discovered there was a 28year waiting list.

He learned that long waiting lists were also an issue up and down the country.

Ed linked up with friend Will, whose family farms land near the Newton Park campus, to use a field as a test allotment site. Another friend, Christian, floated the idea of a new type of allotment that provides growers with everything they need to get started.

The three now run the company and Roots has since opened four sites across the UK, with five planned this year. Ed credits his time at BSU with giving him a range of applicable skills and experience.

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The Francis Hotel to undergo £13m 98-bedroom revamp THE Francis Hotel in the centre of Bath is set to undergo a £13 million revamp, with a new restaurant and dedicated spa being introduced.

The renovation project by the Sutton Hotel Collection will get underway in July, and includes the full refurbishment of all 98 bedrooms and suites and a reconfiguration of the hotel’s lobby. The Francis Hotel was once home to 18th-century architect John Wood the Elder, who was the inspiration behind the first Georgian stone buildings of Queen Square, the Royal Crescent, and The Circus.

Working with award-winning interior designers 3DReid, the design concept planned for the hotel and all 98 bedrooms will take inspiration from the Georgian era whilst appreciating all the modern amenities and touches that today’s traveller expects.

The refurbishment will include a complete reimagining of the ground floor and lobby including

the introduction of a snug.

The snug will be open to the general public during the day and will be an intimate space for hotel residents to relax over a pre- or post-dinner drink in the evening.

The project will also see the introduction of a new destination restaurant, The Townhouse Brasserie, which will showcase the finest British cuisine.

The Townhouse Brasserie will focus heavily on seasonal and locally-grown produce cooked over an open hearth in front of guests.

Towards the end of the refurb, a brand-new thermal spa and three treatment rooms will be created.

William Gibbs, Hotel Director of Sutton Hotel Collection, said: “We are thrilled to be announcing the upcoming £13 million renovation of The Francis Hotel.

“This transformation will not only create an even more compelling hotel stay for domestic guests, but also drive even greater interest from more international leisure and business tourists who

The Francis Hotel on Queen Square | Photo © Sutton Hotel Collection

are visiting Bath.”

Shaun Bowles, Cluster General Manager of The Francis Hotel, Bath, added: “Our vision is to create something incredibly special in the heart of Bath that

Brewery given green light for latenight opening on Wednesdays

offers truly personalised and curated experiences to guests.

“A place where guests can be their best selves and our team can be proud to offer a unique and enhanced service.

“Our location is already one of the best in the city, combine that with our fascinating history and compelling refurbishment and we will be one of the most soughtafter places to stay in Bath.”

SouthGate customers raise £9,000 for charity

John Wimperis

Local Democracy Reporter

A BATH brewery which wants to host pottery classes has been given the green light to stay open late on Wednesdays, despite neighbours warning that punters were disturbing their sleep.

Bath-based Electric Bear Brewing Co is located on the edge of the Brassmill Industrial Estate in Newbridge, with its popular taproom open on Thursdays through to Sundays.

But an application to the council to open for the same hours on Wednesdays too prompted concern from locals next door on Osborne Road that the brewery was “being transformed into a public house and party venue”.

At a hearing before Bath & North East Somerset Council’s licensing sub committee on 18th April, the brewery’s Clive Milner told councillors that people had asked to hold events such as pottery classes and film nights at the brewery, and they wanted to sometimes hold them on Wednesday nights.

He said: “This is really just to give the business the option of expanding the business and trying to make our way in the current climate.”

But Nigel Gardner, who was one of the neighbours to submit an objection, said the noise of

The brewery on a summer’s day | Photo © Electric Bear Brewing Co

people sat outside the taproom in summer stopped children and people who have work in the morning from getting to sleep on Osborne Road.

He said: “We are used to the noise of the industrial estate, but they don’t go on to 10 and beyond.”

He added that events such as pottery nights were “innocuous”, but reminded councillors: “If the committee gives a licence, they give a licence for the selling of alcohol through those hours, not for pottery classes.”

The brewery said it asked people to leave quietly and tried to call last orders early so the premises could close by 10pm.

Mr Milner said: “We are aware of the residents on Osborne Road and try to keep the noise as low as possible, but at the same time the taproom is an important part of our business.”

He said that they did not expect a lot of noise on Wednesdays when they held events, but there may be some from people talking as they left.

The licence application, which concerned changing its licensed hours from ending at 7pm on Wednesday to ending at 10pm, was granted by councillors, with a condition that the building's shutter be closed from 7pm to keep noise down for neighbours.

Concerns about noise from businesses are nothing new in this part of suburban Bath, where industrial units lie right next to quiet residential streets.

In January, locals a few streets away contacted the council about sex toy company Lovehoney making too much noise at night.

Neighbours said that heat pumps installed at their warehouse on Locksbrook Road were too loud.

The Giving Box in SouthGate, supporting local charities | Photo © SouthGate Bath

VISITORS to the SouthGate Bath shopping centre have raised over £9,000 for four local charities over the past year, it has been revealed.

A series of initiatives, including a selfie station, seasonal events and an onsite donation box, have contributed to the funds raised for The Lily Foundation, The Nest Project, RUHX Children’s Services and Off The Record.

The Nest Project provides free clothing, equipment and toiletries to children under the age of five in families who are experiencing financial pressure, whilst RUHX provides care to hospital patients across Bath, helping to reduce pressure on local hospitals and offer support to those seeking care.

The Lily Foundation is the UK’s

leading mito charity, raising awareness, funding research and supporting families impacted by the life-limiting disease, whilst Off The Record Bath works to improve the emotional health and wellbeing of young people in the area.

Guy Henderson, centre director at SouthGate Bath, commented: “Supporting our local community is very important to us.

“We’re blown away by the fantastic contributions of visitors to the centre over the past year, and very proud that together we can help our charity partners continue their vital work.”

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Politics

Planning Round-up

Councillors' home addresses to be made private John Wimperis

Local Democracy Reporter

COUNCILLORS in Bath and North East Somerset will be able to keep their home addresses private if they wish to, amid growing concerns about intimidation.

The home addresses of local councillors had been listed publicly in the register of interests, unless councillors could provide “evidence of threat of violence and intimidation”.

Now councillors will be able to ask for their home address to be treated as a sensitive interest and not publicly disclosed.

It comes after Local Government Minister Simon Hoare wrote to the chief executives of local authorities in England last month in response to concerns about intimidation in public life.

Mr Hoare said: “The government encourages monitoring officers to look sympathetically at accommodating requests for the withholding of home addresses from published versions of the register of interests where there are legitimate concerns of violence or intimidation.”

Speaking at a meeting of Bath & North East Somerset Council’s standards committee on 23rd April to discuss the change, Councillor Michelle O’Doherty (Newbridge, Liberal Democrat) said she supported it, although she personally was happy having her address public.

She said: “Having been a councillor for seven years, the political discourse has got so personalised and often quite unpleasant that I think a lot of councillors feel very vulnerable.”

Councillor Alan Hale (Keynsham South, Conservative) added:

The Guildhall in Bath

“Anything that makes it safer for our colleagues or even to give them some peace of mind, I will follow. I will continue to display my address because it would be a pointless exercise to try and hide it in a small town, and people know me.”

The council’s monitoring officer Michael Hewitt said in a report to the committee that it was a “draconian” move, but there was a balance to be struck between protecting councillors and transparency.

If a member’s address would

be an interest in any council meeting, they would still be required to declare an interest and not take part in the debate or vote.

The committee voted in favour of the proposal.

Since 2019, candidates in local elections have not had to have their home addresses published to stand at election, in line with parliamentary candidates.

However, until now, councillors have been required to have their addresses publicly available in the register of interests — unlike Members of Parliament whose addresses remain private.

Last month, councillors on Bath & North East Somerset Council spoke of receiving death threats and having their homes, families, and pets targeted in a meeting where they voted to back the Local Government Association’s Debate Not Hate campaign.

Locals urged to report ongoing issues with gulls RESIDENTS and businesses in Bath affected by gulls are being encouraged to report them to the council, as part of efforts to tackle their impact.

Bath & North East Somerset Council regularly receives complaints from people whose health, wellbeing, and enjoyment of outdoor spaces are impacted by the birds’ behaviour.

Anyone who feels their health is being impacted should report them to the local authority via their website.

However, action can only be taken by councils in very specific situations where public health or public safety is at risk, as gull species including herring and lesser black-backed gulls are protected by law.

It is illegal to injure the birds, eggs and their nests without consent

from Natural England.

The council will soon be applying to Natural England for a licence to allow removal of nests and eggs during the breeding season in cases where a member of the public’s safety is at risk.

The licence does not permit councils to take action in cases where people’s health or safety is not being threatened, for example where gulls are swooping on pets or people, causing noise nuisance or causing sleep disturbance unless it has required medical treatment.

The council is also encouraging businesses and residents to seek professional advice on gullproofing measures if they are undertaking any roof work or renovations to properties.

Permission from Natural England is not required to prevent gulls

Hotel conversion approved by planners Plans to turn a Grade I listed city hotel into a private house have been approved by Bath & North East Somerset planners.

Both planning permission and listed building consent have been given for the conversion of the 15-bed Windsor Townhouse hotel at 69 Great Pulteney Street.

The changes involve minor alterations to the floor layout, including removing modern partitions to restore the building’s historic value.

The six-floor building already includes a residential flat.

Green light for works at Little Theatre Bath & North East Somerset Council has granted listed building consent for works to be carried out at the Little Theatre in Bath Street in the city centre.

The Grade II listed former townhouse has been a cinema since the mid-1930s.

The external works include stone cleaning, repointing and cleaning of moss to coping stones. A coping stone will also be replaced.

Permission sought to remove risky branches from nesting on roofs in the first much we can do to solve this instance.

Anyone who is having roof work carried out before the nesting season should consider asking their contractor to deter gulls from nesting by proofing potential nesting spots, such as behind chimney stacks and parapets.

Once nests are in use, they cannot be interfered with until the chicks have fledged. It is also recommended to ensure there are adequate waste storage facilities and to remove any accumulated outdoor waste to deter the gulls.

Councillor Tim Ball, cabinet member for Neighbourhood Services, said: “We know that urban gulls can become a nuisance and even cause distress for people in some instances, however we are limited in how

because it is illegal to interfere with the birds or their nests.

“We urge residents and businesses who are experiencing problems with gulls to ensure they aren’t making their roofs and gardens an attractive target by removing outdoor waste wherever possible.

“It’s also advisable if you’re planning property renovations to get professional advice on building gull-deterring measures, such as spikes, into the works.

“We will shortly be applying to Natural England for a licence to take action in cases where gulls are putting people’s safety or health at risk.

“Anyone who feels they are experiencing a serious situation of this nature is encouraged to report it to us.”

Hayesfield Girls’ School has applied for permission to carry out works to a tree that is posing a risk to the house next door.

The conifer at the front of the school in Upper Oldfield Park is estimated to be up to about 10 metres tall. The conifer does not have a Tree Protection Order on it but is in a conservation area so permission is required from Bath & North East Somerset Council to carry out any works.

The application says the tree has grown over the wall that divides the school from the neighbour’s property.

The school says: “If the relevant branches were to fall in high winds, his car and conservatory would be damaged.” The planning application reference is 24/01449/TCA. The deadline for any comments is 10th May.

check in with their local church, school or anywhere with grass or fields and ask if some space can be left for nature this year.

But ultimately, the momentum behind No Mow May shouldn’t stop with May. And thanks to the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority I lead, it won’t.

Think the fact an incredible 620,000 square meters of land is being transformed for the region’s pollinators thanks to bee-rilliant bee projects I’m funding.

Projects like the transformation of Smallcombe Vale’s The Nuttery into a pollinator haven. Or how

about the creation of wildflower meadows, flowering trees and more at Bath City Farm, or 10 mini nature reserves in primaries and secondaries across the West including in the city.

Alongside my annual Bee Bold Awards, it shows that I am delivering on my commitment to make the West the bee and pollinator capital of the country.

But I know we can go further. So, this year, please give No Mow May a go. Who knows, you might like it so much you give the lawnmower a permanent shunning.

The bees will certainly thank you for that.

COLUMN | Dan Norris, Labour Mayor of the West of England

I

f you peer over your garden fence this May, you might think your neighbour’s lawn is looking a little scruffy.

A few more dandelions than normal.

Or (horror!) patches of grass growing at different lengths.

But don’t tut, that may be on purpose. And it’s a good thing!

Yes, it’s that time of year again: No Mow May, where Bathonians keep their lawnmowers and strimmers in the shed for 31 days, and give space back to nature.

It’s a simple idea. Giving the mower a breather means spring plants getting a chance to set seed before the first cutting.

This means your lawn becomes

a haven for insects, birds, hedgehogs, and more.

And it allows wild plants to get a foothold in May, to feed bees, and other pollinators, through summer.

I’ve backed this campaign since it started, and every year, I’m always fascinated speaking with residents about the different plants they spot in their backyards.

And I’m not just talking daisies or buttercups either, but plants we’d not often see in our gardens - one resident told me she’d even started growing wild strawberries!

Worryingly, future generations won’t see these either if we continue down our current path.

Tragically we’ve lost 97% of our wildflower meadows since the 1930s.

That’s why I’m again urging readers to take part by doing, well, nothing! Leave the mower alone, and watch the flowers fill your lawn. Check out plantlife. org.uk/campaigns/nomowmay for more info.

If you can’t imagine allowing your entire patch to run wild, then how about leaving a circle of grass in the centre of the lawn to bloom?

Or why not stagger it - so that you have one area that’s mown once a month, one area mown at the end of each summer, and so on.

And for those without a garden, fear not! I’m urging everyone to

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Friday 3rd May - Thursday 16th May 2024

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In Other News

Sporting Fixtures

Police appeal after deliberate fire in Southdown Becky Feather Reporter

POLICE are appealing for witnesses after a house in Southdown and a car on the driveway were damaged in an arson attack in the middle of the night.

Two people were inside the property at the time, but managed to get out without being hurt.

Police say the criminal damage took place about 3.30am on Sunday 28th January in The Circle area of Southdown.

Designated Investigating Officer Nick Long said: “The fire caused a significant amount of damage to the car and property, and it is fortunate that nobody was injured as a result.

“CSI forensics attended the scene shortly after the incident, and officers have also carried out CCTV and house-to-house enquiries in an attempt to identify the person or persons responsible.

“We’d ask anyone who has not yet come forward with information about this incident to please contact us on 101 and quote

Bath Rugby Friday 10th May – 7.45pm Bath Rugby vs Newcastle Falcons (Away) Gallagher Premiership - R17

Bath Cricket Club (1ST XI)

Saturday 4th May – 12pm Bath CC vs Lansdown CC (Away - Combe Park) WEPL The damaged vehicle | Photo courtesy of Avon & Somerset Police

reference number 5224023497.”

Alternatively, Crimestoppers can

take anonymous reports on 0800 555 111.

Saturday 11th May - 12pm Bath CC vs Burbage & Easton Royal, Wilts (Home - North Parade) WEPL

Building owners learn more about energy saving Lansdown Cricket Club PEOPLE who own or occupy listed buildings in and around Bath and North East Somerset are being invited to attend a series of events to understand how they can save energy.

The events are being organised by the grant-funded Green Heritage Homes project, a collaboration between B&NES Council, Bath & West Community Energy (BWCE), Bath Preservation Trust, the Centre for Sustainable Energy and People Powered Retrofit, which aims to improve understanding of energy efficiency works to listed buildings.

The first event will be a free webinar on Wednesday 15th May and will feature talks from several of the partner organisations.

Bath & North East Somerset Planning & Conservation team will talk about applying for Listed Building Consent, BWCE will outline the retrofit services it offers to help owners and occupiers, and Bath Preservation Trust will discuss how the historic significance of a building

Residents will be able to find out more about improving their homes

is assessed when considering energy measures.

Councillor Sarah Warren, Deputy Council Leader and Cabinet Member for Climate Emergency and Sustainable Travel at Bath & North East Somerset Council, said: “We are lucky to have some truly outstanding listed buildings in Bath and North East Somerset and these events will allow us to support homeowners

and occupiers and help them to understand how they can save energy and support our ambition to be carbon neutral by 2030, while also conserving their property.”

As part of the Green Heritage Homes project, the council recently launched a Level 0 preapplication advice service that allows owners and occupiers of listed buildings to discuss

possible measures with a conservation officer at the initial stages of a potential retrofit project.

The Energy Efficient Listed Buildings webinar will be held on Microsoft Teams on Wednesday 15th May, 9.30am to 12.00pm.

You can sign up for the free event via https://bit.ly/4a3DYmW The Green Heritage Homes project is funded with £344,308 from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, working with the South West Net Zero Hub through the government’s Local Energy Advice Demonstrator Programme (LEAD).

Service Level 0 pre-applications will be part of the Green Heritage Homes project until the end of March 2025.

The Service Level 0 preapplication is exclusive to listed buildings (Grade II, II* and I).

Interested homeowners can apply on the council website (https://bit.ly/4aMNTyx), or contact the conservation officer via alexandra_best@bathnes.gov. uk to find out more.

Crossword answers - Issue 076 (19/04/2024) Across: 1 Painkiller, 7 East, 9 Brandt, 10 Synopsis, 11 DiCaprio, 12 Wreath, 13 Atom, 15 Exemptions, 18 In any event, 20 Maps, 22 Asians, 24 Whole hog, 26 Arousing, 27 Catnap, 28 Else, 29 Redundancy.

Down: 2 Airlift, 3 Ninja, 4 Intercede, 5 Lasso, 6 Renew, 7 Euphemism, 8 Smitten, 14 Miniature, 16 Ere, 17 Petrol can, 19 Nostril, 21 Prosaic, 23 Skier, 24 Waged, 25 Extra.

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Saturday 4th May – 12pm Lansdown vs Bath CC (Home - Combe Park) WEPL Saturday 11th May - 12pm Lansdown vs Bridgwater CC (Away - Bridgwater Cricket Club) WEPL

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Please send fixtures lists for your team to sport@bathecho.co.uk and we'll add your next event to our sports calendar. If you have photographs that we can use, we'd also like to include them here, on our website and social media.

We're happy to host match reports from across Bath and the surrounding area. Send them to sport@bathecho.co.uk with the subject Match Report. To ensure we can include your report in our next issue, please limit the length to around 400 words.

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