Bath Echo - Issue 129 - 08/05/2026

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Friday 8th May - Thursday 21st May 2026

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For news items and press releases: news@bathecho.co.uk 01225 585484 Editor Sebastian Hawker editor@bathecho.co.uk Becky Feather, Reporter becky@bathecho.co.uk Richard Briggs, Sports Reporter richard@bathecho.co.uk Advertising & Marketing: Rob Last - 07990 253664 rob@mediabath.co.uk For sport and match reports: sport@bathecho.co.uk 01225 585484 Want to have a letter published? letters@bathecho.co.uk Subscriptions/Distribution: production@bathecho.co.uk 01225 585484 Published by Media Bath Limited

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Reporter

THE plans for Bath’s new Fashion Museum are expected to get the go-ahead next week.

Although the project will see the loss of 1,945 square metres of commercial space and nine flats in the heart of the city, the benefits of the council-led scheme is said to outweigh that.

The proposals have the support of conservation experts at the Bath Preservation Trust, the 20th Century Society, The Georgian Group and Historic England.

The site includes the Old Post Office building, the Regency terraced properties at 21, 23 and 24 New Bond Street, and the courtyard behind.

Next Wednesday, 13th May, Bath & North East Somerset Council’s planning committee is being recommended to approve the proposals and grant listed building consent for the new venue, which it is expected will open in 2020 and attract 250,000 visitors a year.

The scheme includes the change of use of the vacant shop at 23 New Bond Street, No. 24 (which was Albaray but where a pop-up fashion store called L&Y is due to open on 9th May) and 25-26 (Rodd & Gunn/first floor vacant)

as well as 27 Northgate Street, the vacant former post office/postal museum.

No. 21 New Bond Street (Lakeland) will be significantly reduced in scale by the demolition of the rear extension but retained as a smaller unit in commercial/retail use.

A report to the planning committee acknowledges that a “high level” of commercial floorspace will be lost but taking into account the scale of the city centre and the number of remaining premises, the loss is not considered to be “harmful”.

It says: “To the contrary, the museum use is considered a catalyst for regeneration of New Bond Street and the Milsom Quarter, leading to more trips to and footfall in this part of the city centre.”

The report also highlights that the loss of nine flats above shops on New Bond Street and Northgate Street comes at a time when the council can’t demonstrate the required five-year housing land supply, with the current supply being half that. However, the “unique and substantive benefits” of the project are said to outweigh the loss of housing stock.

The project is targeting a net zero carbon building with additional insulation, high performance

How the proposed Fashion Museum could look | Image © B&NES Council

secondary glazing, modern ventilation systems, awnings to passively control solar gain and solar PV panels for renewable energy on site.

Works to create an enhanced public realm are proposed outside the museum as part of the Milsom Quarter public space project. The council is planning to turn the end of Broad Street in front of St Michael’s Church into a new pedestrianised public square, funded by the West of England Combined Authority (WECA).

Northgate Square will include spill-out seating from the new museum café.

The whole project including the public realm work has been put at £54 million. As well as grants and donations the council is planning to cover £20 million through borrowing.

The new museum will have double the floorspace of the

From the Editor... Opinion, insight and the stories shaping Bath this week

R

OADWORKS are often an inconvenience, but for some businesses here in Bath, they can become a matter of survival.

We’ve all experienced it – roads being closed off while they are resurfaced, utility pipes are replaced or new crossings are installed. And the latter of that list is what has caused problems for traders in Chelsea Road over the past few weeks.

We were due to run a story on the issues they’ve been facing, and the lack of contact they’ve been experiencing when trying to address the mass disruption with their ward councillors, and the wider council. However, just like the businesses, unfortunately we

didn’t receive any comment from the local authority, which stalled us a little bit. Humph.

Alas, we are still working on the story, and even though much of the work has been completed (contractors are due back next week to finish off the new continuous crossings), we should have something on our website in coming days. Do keep an eye out for it.

Having spoken to a number of businesses up and down Chelsea Road last Friday, their concerns are pretty clear. The roadworks even meant some of them were unable to open, as unbeknownst to them, the pavement outside their premises was dug up and barriered off. Compensation

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former museum which was at Bath’s Assembly Rooms for nearly 60 years. The National Trust took back the venue in 2022 and the collection of more than 100,000 items is in storage at Dents at Warminster.

Ward councillor Paul Roper, who is also the Liberal Democrat council’s cabinet member for economic and cultural sustainable development, said: “The Fashion Museum project is a key development for the authority and will be an anchor institution in the Milsom Quarter.

“B&NES is blessed with one of the finest collections of fashion items in the world and since the loss of the Assembly Rooms, there has been no suitable location for the collection to be displayed. The creation of a dedicated, purpose-designed space with accompanying public realm improvements will be of international significance and benefit us economically and culturally.

“In addition, creating this new, exciting venue will help deliver our goal of encouraging visitors to stay longer in the city.”

The National Trust’s refurbishment of the Assembly Rooms, which includes a new Georgian visitor experience, is ongoing and on course to open in 2027.

Sebastian Hawker

has been suggested, but there are fears this may amount to just a few hundred pounds for those affected. Trade along the street has dropped drastically, with some traders reporting a 60% drop over recent weeks. The businesses have been in touch with the council, we’ve seen the emails, yet no reply was received.

Unclear signage on the approach to Chelsea Road – “Chelsea Road CLOSED for A4 Newbridge Road”, which as a driver would see when travelling past, would make them think the road was completely closed. But instead, the road was made one-way, with traffic heading northbound.

The crossings themselves have

been (partially) installed across Park Road and Kennington Road. Another two crossings are planned across Chelsea Road itself, at the junctions with Newbridge Road and Newbridge Hill, with B&NES Council saying the work is likely to take place later in the year or next. Traders say this is the beginning of the end, with longterm plans to make the street completely one-way.

We will have to wait and see what the outcome is for the road once the contractors complete the first two crossings, but if the ongoing changes continue to affect trade for the businesses, surely something has to be done to sort things out.

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Royal Victoria Park ponds refill plan to be tested BATH & North East Somerset Council is set to test temporary measures this summer to help restore water levels in the ponds at Royal Victoria Park while longer-term plans are developed.

The work follows an initial phase of feasibility studies carried out by the council and Wessex Water, which began in summer 2025 and looked at possible future water sources.

As part of the next stage, the council will continue clearing silt and debris from the ponds, examine how badly the liner is leaking and begin repair work.

A number of interim options to raise water levels are also due to be explored.

These include diverting rainwater from the roof of the Temple of Minerva and from the stream at the edge of the Great Dell. The cascade leading from the Botanic Garden is also set to be cleaned and repaired.

The council says its long-term goal is to restore a regular water supply, creating the chance to rethink how the ponds fit into the wider park, including their role in the landscape, ecology and

Councillor Oli Henman and Paul Saynor | Photo © B&NES Council

biodiversity of the area.

Councillor Oli Henman, cabinet project lead for climate change, said: “Royal Victoria Park is one of Bath’s most treasured green spaces. Restoring a sustainable water supply and reimagining how the ponds sit within the park is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to preserve this habitat for the future.

“The interim measures we’ll be carrying out at the ponds this summer aim to stabilise the ponds and identify a long-term water supply.

“By working closely with Wessex Water, we’re uncovering practical, climate-resilient solutions that make best use of natural water sources and rainfall.

“This is a challenging context made worse by climate change and will take some time to rectify.

“We are approaching the work in phases to secure value for money and will likely need additional external funding for later stages.

“Once a consistent mix of water sources has been identified, we plan to ask our communities to help us shape the future of the

ponds and the role they play within the whole park.”

Paul Saynor, water supply technical director at Wessex Water, said: “By working in partnership we have made some really good progress in investigating a sustainable water supply to the ponds.

“This is an important step in helping the council restore this historical amenity for local residents and visitors."

The council said maintaining water levels has been difficult for several years after the Georgianera spring mains deteriorated and water was diverted because of flood risks to nearby properties.

Work will begin once conditions are dry enough, with further monitoring due to assess reliable sources of water to help top up the ponds during dry summers.

Longer-term proposals will depend on the results of this summer’s work and on affordability, with the council saying it expects to seek outside funding for later phases.

New landscaping and habitat creation around the ponds may also be considered as part of wider improvements to the area.

Businesses bring new homeless day centre to life Becky Feather Reporter

STAFF from local businesses rolled up their sleeves and picked up their paint brushes to give a city centre building a new purpose as a day centre for people experiencing homelessness.

The day centre in Corn Street is being developed by Bath-based charity Julian House, which has been supporting the homeless community for close to 40 years.

Julian House already runs an off-the-streets hostel for rough sleepers in the city centre, along with supported accommodation where people recovering from homelessness can prepare to live independently.

The new day centre is where Julian House previously ran a bike workshop social enterprise, which closed in 2025.

Volunteers from companies including Interaction UK, Bath Building Society, Business West and Netcraft have been involved in getting the day centre ready to open later this month.

Work is under way at the day centre in Corn Street | Photo © Julian House

Annie McKenna, digital content executive for Bath Building Society, said: “It was an amazing experience to be part of the project getting the day centre ready for opening.

“I definitely learned new skills and met lots of new people, and I am so proud to be part of the team at BBS where we’re actively encouraged to volunteer in our local community.”

Helen Bedser, chief executive at Julian House, said: “Rough sleeping across England is at an all-time high, and any visitor to the city centre will know that there

are many people experiencing homelessness here in Bath with limited options during the day.

“This service will complement existing projects delivered by local partners like Genesis Trust and we hope it will significantly enhance the care and support we can offer to some of the most vulnerable people in our community.

“We’re so grateful to the local businesses who got stuck in to help us make the day centre ready for action.”

The day centre will be open throughout the working week,

offering homeless people a safe space to relax, use laundry and washing facilities and access support that can help them get off the streets.

This comes at a time when the future of Julian House’s hostel on Manvers Street is at risk as Bath & North East Somerset Council considers its future approach to tackling homelessness.

Helen Bedser added: “In such uncertain times, this day centre is part of our strategy to ensure continued support for our clients.

“We remain committed to supporting people facing homelessness in Bath and across the South West and will do everything in our power to offer them safety and a pathway to better things.”

An opening date has not yet been confirmed.

The day centre will be independently funded and delivered by Julian House, with financial and volunteering support from the local community.

Anyone interested in getting involved can contact fundraising@julianhouse.org.uk

News in Brief Improved pool facilities at Saltford school Bath & North East Somerset Council has approved a planning application for improved swimming pool facilities at Saltford Primary School in Claverton Road.

The scheme is for a new singlestorey, timber-framed changing room with showers, toilets and plant room following the demolition of the existing block.

Council throws out HMO plan in Lower Weston Bath & North East Somerset Council has refused plans to convert a property in Lower Weston into a six-bed house in multiple occupation (HMO) on the grounds that it would be harmful to the neighbourhood.

Syntix Properties Ltd had applied to turn the four-bed mid-terrace in Windsor Villas into a HMO. Only minor alterations were proposed to No.15, including internal reconfiguration to the ground level of the three-storey property. The application stated it would be “a high-end HMO that will be managed under strict controls”.

B&NES Council keeps a register of HMOs, as it is acknowledges that a cumulative impact can harm a neighbourhood. Planning officers said Syntix Properties Ltd’s scheme would not cause ‘sandwiching’ of a home between two HMOs. However, it would push the number of HMOs within a 100-metre radius to 15, which is a concentration of 12.7%, in excess of the 10% threshold.

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Family pay tribute after two drivers are jailed over fatal crash THE family of a 26-year-old woman who died in a head-on crash on the A36 at Claverton have paid tribute to her after two drivers were jailed.

Ella Cook, from Warminster, died following the collision on 15th April 2023.

Bristol Crown Court was told Alfie Cook, who was driving a BMW, and Lewis Glasby, who was driving a Ford Fiesta, had been racing each other before the crash.

The collision happened when the BMW was involved in a head-on crash with a Ford Fiesta being driven by Ella Cook.

Glasby, 23, of The Beeches in Warminster, and Cook, 22, of Brook Street in Warminster, both admitted causing death by dangerous driving and two counts of causing serious injury by dangerous driving.

The charges of causing serious injury by dangerous driving related to Toby Harridge and Nicole Colliss, who were passengers in Alfie Cook’s vehicle.

Cook, who is not related to Ella, was sentenced on Friday 10th April to nine years and four months in prison. Glasby was jailed for nine years.

Both men will be banned from

Ella Cook was killed in the collision in April 2023 | Photo: Family handout

driving for five years after their release and must pass an extended test before getting their licences back.

On behalf of Ella’s family, her fiancé Kai Poa-Tams said: “It has been incredibly difficult to find words for Ella, because the love I feel for her, and the love her family and friends feel, is far greater than anything words can hold.

“Ella was a deeply loving partner, daughter, sister and friend. She gave herself completely to the people she cared about, always putting others first with a warmth that made everyone feel safe, valued and understood.

“She had a natural way of bringing people together, and her

kindness left a lasting mark on everyone lucky enough to know her.

“She was also immensely talented and creative, with an artistic spirit that showed in so many parts of her life.

“Whether through the way she expressed herself or the little touches she brought into everyday moments, Ella made the world around her brighter, more thoughtful, and more beautiful.

“Alongside this, she had a wicked sense of humour, playful, quick, and sometimes perfectly silly, that filled our days with tummyaching laughter.

“Ella was also a valued and dedicated member of staff at NHS Blood and Transplant,

Crackdown on ‘unacceptable’ behaviour on Snow Hill estate

progressing through her career with remarkable determination.

“In a way that feels both heartbreaking and extraordinary, her work came full circle—she received donated blood after the collision, blood that she herself had helped process earlier that very day.

“That was Ella: giving to others, right until the very end. From the moment we met, everything just clicked. It was instant, effortless, and real.

“From that day on, our lives became one. We were never just two separate people; we were a team, in everything we did. We had planned a life together full of love and family.

“We were going to get married, to build a home, and to raise children of our own.

“We dreamed of sharing time with her parents, and with her brother and sisters’ children, creating a life full of closeness and joy.

“Our children would have been the luckiest in the world to have Ella as their parent, because she would have given them the same boundless love she gave to me.

“In one of our anniversary cards, Ella wrote: ‘Here’s to more years of us, filled with midnight kitchen dances, weird TV shows we get

addicted to, stormy Cornish beach trips, far too many burgers, and a whole lot more love.’

“That was us. We fell more in love every day, and every day we felt lucky to have each other. I would give anything for just one more day with her.

“Ella was truly one of a kind. She was warm, loving, creative, and full of life—and the world feels immeasurably emptier without her.”

Designated Investigating Officer Emma Ling said: “Both Alfie Cook and Lewis Glasby were driving well in excess of the speed limit before the fatal collision occurred.

“Excessive speed is one of the Fatal Five causes that lead to most death and serious injury collisions in this country.

“Both men deliberately ignored the speed limits and drove dangerously along a busy A-road, with seemingly little thought of the tragic consequences that could, and sadly did, happen.

“They have both received substantial prison sentences and driving disqualifications as a result.

“Our thoughts are with Ella’s family, who have been left devastated by what has happened.”

Network Rail on track to extend platform

Becky Feather Reporter

POLICE say they have added extra patrols at the Snow Hill estate in Bath following increased reports of anti-social behaviour (ASB).

They have been working closely with housing association Curo to address issues, predominantly from the Berkeley House block, which have centred around: • Non-residents accessing the blocks.

• Drug dealing and use.

• Verbal abuse of residents • Rough sleeping in communal areas, blocking access up and down stairways or to lifts.

• Littering and mess left in communal areas.

Police have supported Curo in two successful civil injunctions which prohibit two frequent ASB offenders from attending the area.

They have already arrested both offenders for at least one breach and say they are ready to support Curo in any future injunction applications.

A number of community protection warnings and notices to prohibit offenders from attending the area have also been issued by the police.

They have been operating a targeted patrol plan with neighbourhood officers attending the area throughout the day with a specific focus on early-hours

The work will be carried out during weekend night shifts

Becky Feather Reporter

Berkeley House in Snow Hill | Photo © Avon & Somerset Police / Bath and North East Somerset Neighbourhood Policing

patrols to catch anyone sleeping in communal areas. Response officers have also made patrols overnight.

The police say they have been holding meetings with Curo to discuss the longer term, including what can be done to improve the physical security of the blocks, how vulnerable residents can be safeguarded, and the most appropriate enforcement actions to take against both resident and non-resident offenders.

This week a Curo spokesperson told the Echo: “This ongoing criminal behaviour has had a

serious and detrimental impact on residents. It is unacceptable.

“We’ve responded by working with police to coordinate action and sanction those responsible.

This has included securing injunctions against two prolific offenders to ban them from Berkeley House.

“We’ll continue to use the powers at our disposal to tackle the behaviour of this problematic minority.”

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NETWORK Rail has lodged a listed building application to extend Platform 1 at Bath Spa Station.

The proposals will enable passengers to open all doors on the passenger trains stopping at the station, which Network Rail says will be especially helpful for people with reduced mobility.

The station is managed by Great Western Railway and served by trains operated by CrossCountry, Great Western Railway and South Western Railway.

The platforms at the station, which was designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, have been altered and extended in several ways since it opened in 1841.

A report with the application, which has been submitted to Bath & North East Somerset Council, says: “The down platform (Platform 1) at Bath Spa Station is currently too short to open all the doors for both the 9 or 2×5 Car Class 800 Intercity

Express Train (IET) sets onto a useable platform.

“This means that Great Western Railway (GWR) have adopted special operational procedures utilising Selective Door Opening (SDO) principles and technology.

“Driver stopping tolerances are presently non-compliant and therefore consistent positioning of the train on the platform is unreliable, especially for Persons of Reduced Mobility (PRM) doors.”

The proposed platform extensions are 5.6 metres at the ‘Country End’ and 0.93 metres at the ‘London End’.

The application says the proposed works will not have an impact on the historic fabric and overall look of the Grade II* listed station.

Construction works are expected to be carried out during weekend night shifts. The proposed compound is in the station car park and will take up 17 spaces including the motorcycle area.

The consultation deadline is 5th June. The planning reference is 26/01549/LBA.

Issue 129

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Council to spend £2m shoring up city vaults

Latest proposals for Sulis Down site could see 200 homes being built John Wimperis

Local Democracy Reporter

The area has been closed to traffic since last June

Becky Feather Reporter

BATH & North East Somerset Council will spend £2 million on a long-term solution to shore up the vaults next to the Roman Baths, it has been revealed.

The council announced on 4th June last year that Stall Street would be temporarily closed for investigative and remedial work starting the following day.

On 26th June a Temporary Traffic Regulation Order was put in place, closing Stall Street from approximately five metres north of its junction with York Street, and Bath Street from its junction with Stall Street. The order was for a maximum of 18 months.

A report posted on the council’s

website outlines budget approval for remediation works.

It says: “The Stall Street vaults adjacent to the Roman Baths are currently safely secured with temporary propping and traffic management measures in place.

“A long-term solution is required for the ongoing maintenance of the vaults, ensuring their structural stability and future use, and to fully reopen the street to vehicular movement at ground level.”

The council’s director of capital and housing delivery has approved a £2 million budget “to identify and deliver long-term remediation to the Stall Street vaults, including options analysis, design and implementation of the required interventions”.

PLANS to build hundreds of homes on the southern edge of Bath are back, two years after the council blocked a previous scheme.

The Hignett Family Trust has submitted a new planning application to Bath & North East Somerset Council to build 200 homes on fields in Combe Down, known as the South Stoke Plateau.

It is the latest attempt by developers to get permission for the Sulis Down development.

In April 2024, the council’s planning committee turned down the plans to build 290 homes on the fields. Councillors said the plan had some benefits, such as being 40% affordable homes, but they had concerns about traffic and a lack of community facilities.

Now, applicants the Hignett Family Trust and Welbeck Land are proposing building a “community hall” as part of a revised planning application.

The plans also include a “village green”, playground, and allotments.

The applicants are still proposing

Work is continuing on an earlier phase of the development

that 40% of the homes will be affordable housing.

The planning application states: “The vision for Sulis Down is to create a beautiful new addition to the City of Bath, bringing forward a very high quality, sustainable, landscape-led proposal where landscape, ecology, architecture and materials combine with beautifully-designed public spaces and streets.”

The original plans triggered a huge backlash. More than 1,200 people lodged objections to the plans on the council’s online planning portal, and over 100 people turned up to protest outside the planning committee when it considered the scheme in 2024.

Councillors voted 7-1 to refuse planning permission.

The Hignett Family Trust called the decision “chaotic” and “unreasonable” and appealed to the government’s Planning Inspectorate to overturn it. The Planning Inspectorate said that councillors were right to refuse planning permission and dismissed the appeal. The planning inspector warned: “There would be an adverse effect on the special qualities of the [Cotswolds National Landscape] in terms of views of the escarpment and high wolds landscape as well as dark skies.”

The developers say they have reduced the heights of the houses in response.

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Historic Bath telephone Party in the City to fill Bath with free box set to be restored live music later this month

The site where the phone box stood next to the Assembly Rooms

Becky Feather Reporter

THE National Trust has been granted listed building consent to temporarily remove the old red phone box in Alfred Street in Bath for restoration in a workshop.

The K6 former kiosk, which has already been taken away, was on the pavement next to the Grade I listed Assembly Rooms and to the rear of the Grade I listed Circus. The site is in the Bath Conservation Area and World Heritage Site.

The kiosk was designed in 1935

by Sir Giles Gilbert Scott, and was installed around 1937/8.

Being Grade II listed, it holds significance in its own right.

Before the red phone box was installed, there was a K1 box within the lobby of the Assembly Rooms. The glazing in the phone box will be replaced with laminated single glazing for safety. The existing paint will be stripped, minor metalwork repairs will be carried out, and the box will be redecorated before being reinstated.

It will complement the refurbishment and alteration work which the National Trust is currently carrying out within the Assembly Rooms, including a new Georgian visitor experience.

The tourist attraction is due to reopen in 2027.

BATH is preparing for its biggest ever Party in the City, with organisers promising the largest free multi-venue music celebration in the south west when the event returns on Friday 15th May. Thousands of people are expected to head into the city centre from 5pm, as live music spills out from pubs, clubs, churches, museums, galleries and other spaces across Bath. This year, 50 venues will take part, the highest number so far, with hundreds of singers and musicians performing across the evening.

Party in the City is the flagship opening event for Bath Festivals’ four weeks of live performances and will once again be free to attend.

Organisers say the 2026 programme will offer something for every musical taste, from acoustic pop, blues, folk, funk and soul to jazz, indie rock, choral music and classical. New for this year, venues will each focus on a particular genre, making it easier for audiences to stay in one place if they want to follow a specific style of music.

Among the headline locations, Bath Abbey will host choral performances, while the Guildhall will stage a mix of classical, jazz and folk. Green

Photo © Party in the City

Park Station will become a hub for all ages with music, bars and food, including a big party stage and an emerging band stage on the Friday, followed by a choirs festival on Saturday. Komedia will host contemporary acts and latenight clubbing, while The Forum will be home to the Youth Stage, showcasing projects involving state schools from across the region.

Other venues stretch from the Abbey Hotel to Widcombe Social Club, with the city centre set to come alive with music throughout the evening. Selected venues will also continue with free and ticketed events after 11pm.

The weekend programme continues with the Festival of Choirs at Green Park Station on Saturday 16th May, featuring

more than 750 singers in 15 choirs, followed by a full day of choir workshops at the Roper Theatre on Sunday 17th May. This year also introduces The Kids Are Alright, a new battle of the bands competition for music students and recent graduates from colleges across the south west. The live final will take place at Roseberry Road Studios, with the winner receiving a mentored session at Distillery II recording studios.

Festival director Chris Rogers said: “Party in the City isn’t just something that happens in Bath it’s something Bath does together.

And, yes this is the biggest event yet, but that’s because more people have got involved.

“We have created a culture where everyone is welcome and this underpins our commitment to grow smarter while keeping it human and spontaneous.”

Brochures are now available across the city, with an app and online listings also helping people plan their evening.

Organisers are also offering a limited-edition VIP wristband to people who donate £10 online, giving access to queue-skipping and selected front-row seating while helping support the event.

You can find out more at www. partyinthecity.org.uk

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Crime & Court

Friday 8th May - Thursday 21st May 2026

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Get in touch: advertise@bathecho.co.uk

Teachers feared violence after Bath Magistrates hand voyeur suspended jail sentence teenager’s threatening emails A TEENAGER who sent anonymous emails to two teachers – including a rape threat – has been given a referral order and a three-year restraining order against each victim.

His parents were also ordered to pay the victims a total of £5,000 on Thursday 23rd April, with the chair of the bench at the Youth Court in Bath saying the case was one of the most disturbing they had dealt with.

The boy from Bath, who was 14 at the time he sent the messages, pleaded guilty to three offences.

Between 30th April and 11th July last year, he admitted harassment which caused one teacher to fear that violence would be used against her with “threats to rape her, paralyse her and release intimate images of deep-fake images”.

Over the same period, he threatened to share a photograph which showed or appeared to show her in an intimate state.

She feared it could lead to her being banned from the teaching profession, even though she had done nothing wrong.

Between 8th and 11th July 2025 his harassment put another teacher in fear of violence. He was abusive towards her, instructed her to keep her windows shut, said he knew where her family lived, and threatened to harm a

Bath Magistrates’ Court

baby.

Prosecuting, Kevin Withey said the police had been informed of the threats, and using technology had been able to trace the IP address to the billpayer.

Representing the 15-year-old, duty solicitor Jennifer Stetson said it was a “serious and unusual case”.

She said the boy, who had no previous convictions, was “so ashamed” of what he had done; he could not explain why he had done it but has since been working with the youth justice team on a voluntary basis and making “real progress”.

Magistrates said they noted the contrast between the “particularly nasty crime” and the polite young gentleman standing in front of them.

The 12-month referral order is the maximum they could impose.

Describing the crimes as having “life-altering consequences”

for the victims, the magistrates ordered his parents to pay £3,000 compensation to the first teacher and £2,000 to the second, initially ordering it to be paid at the rate of £500 a month.

Ms Stetson asked the magistrates to reconsider, saying they were “punishing the parents, not the child”. After retiring for a short period, the bench said the amount of compensation remained unchanged, but they agreed it could be spread over two years.

They highlighted that there is a right of appeal to the Crown Court against the level of compensation.

The restraining order bans the teenager from contacting the two women directly or indirectly, and from entering a named school.

No order for prosecution costs or surcharge was made, with the magistrates saying they were prioritising compensation.

Reporting restrictions prevent the Echo from identifying the boy or giving any information that might identify him.

The Youth Court Bench Book, published by the Judicial College, states: “Fair and accurate reports of proceedings, even where individuals are not identified, should be encouraged where appropriate as they can help promote public confidence.”

The offence took place three years ago

A MAN who pleaded guilty at Bath Magistrates’ Court to a charge of voyeurism has received an 18-week suspended jail sentence.

In February, Richard James, from Kilmersdon Road in Radstock, admitted the offence, which took place between 1st May and 9th June 2023.

He was remanded on unconditional bail so the Probation Service could prepare a pre-sentence report, and the magistrates made an interim Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) requiring him to register his details with the police within three days.

James, 43, was back in court for sentencing on Wednesday, 22nd April. Prosecutor Maree Doyle told the bench that the offence took place three years ago and there had been no recent behavioural concerns.

Defending James, solicitor

Anthony Bignall said that since the incident, the defendant had gone out of his way to get help for his problems with amphetamine and cannabis, and had taken steps to address his offending behaviour. Sentencing James, magistrates said they had taken into account his early guilty plea, obvious remorse and addiction problems.

They said the 18-week prison sentence would be suspended for 18 months as there is a “real chance of rehabilitation”.

James will be on the Sex Offender Register for seven years, and the SHPO will also run alongside it.

James was ordered to do 40 hours of unpaid work within 12 months and undertake 26 days on the Building Choices programme and up to 10 rehabilitation activity requirement (RAR) days.

He must also pay prosecution costs of £85 and a court surcharge of £154.

13-year-old girl admits Man drove home from a wake while assaulting police officers twice over the alcohol limit

The girl is already subject to a referral order

A 13-YEAR-OLD girl appeared before the youth court in Bath on Thursday 23rd April to plead guilty to a series of charges, including three assaults on police officers.

The teenager, who we cannot name due to reporting restrictions, admitted that on 4th October last year in Bath she assaulted another girl by beating her and committed criminal damage by destroying the victim’s mobile phone worth £170.

On 27th December 2025 in Bath, she assaulted a police constable in the execution of his duty.

She assaulted another constable in Bath on 28th March and on the same date assaulted an officer at Keynsham Police Centre.

She also admitted an assault on a female in Bath on the same date.

Solicitor Micia Rigby, defending the 13-year-old, who is already subject to a referral order, asked magistrates to adjourn the case for a pre-sentence report to be prepared by the youth justice team.

The magistrates heard that the girl is also in breach of an anti-social behaviour (ASB) injunction and the police will be seeking a community behaviour order (CBO).

She was remanded on unconditional bail, although remains under the terms of the injunction imposed in March, and will be sentenced on 4th June.

A 60-YEAR-OLD man who drove a short distance to his home in Keynsham after consuming alcohol at a wake was more than twice the alcohol limit, Bath magistrates heard.

At the hearing on Monday 20th April, prosecutor Mia FogwillTait said that on the night of 3rd April, a member of staff at Tesco in Keynsham was concerned that a customer who’d gone in to buy wine was intoxicated and alerted the police after he drove away in a Ford Transit van.

Police went to Geoffrey Taylor’s address in nearby St Francis Road, where the van was parked on the driveway and he was standing next to it. He was slurring his words, his eyes were glazed and he was struggling to stand.

Taylor failed a roadside breath test and was arrested. In custody, a breath test revealed 74 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath. The legal limit is 35.

The court heard that Taylor had two previous convictions for driving with excess alcohol, although they date back to the

A member of staff at a Tesco store alerted the police

1990s. His licence was clean at the time of last month’s offence.

Representing Taylor, duty solicitor Mark O’ Donnell said the self-employed carpenter had gone to a wake at the Royal British Legion in Keynsham, which is next to Tesco.

His partner had then asked him to pick up some wine on his way home, and he had gone into the supermarket where he had apologised for stumbling in the foyer. He had then driven the 300 yards to his home.

Mr O’Donnell said it had been playing on Taylor’s mind that there were tools in the van

that belonged to him and his colleagues, and he had previously suffered a break-in. He had made the “extremely foolish” decision to drive home.

Taylor would lose his employment as a result of the inevitable driving disqualification, as would four people who depended on him for work, said Mr O’Donnell.

Magistrates banned Taylor from the road for 20 months, but that will be reduced by 25% if he does a drink-drive rehabilitation course.

He was fined £440 and must also pay a surcharge of £176 and costs to the Crown Prosecution Service of £85.

Issue 129

Man, 22, admits cattle cruelty and £9,000 fraud A 22-YEAR-OLD man has admitted causing cruelty to cattle in Bath, as well as pleading guilty to a £9,000 fraud.

Animal welfare charges have been brought by Bath & North East Somerset Council against Tobias Moxham, of Landcross in Bideford, and another man, Hisnain Mahmood.

Mahmood, 32, denies the allegations against him.

In March, magistrates issued a warrant backed by bail for both men when they failed to turn up at the court, and matters were adjourned to Wednesday 6th May. At this week’s hearing Moxham admitted: • Between 16th March and 2nd May 2025 causing unnecessary suffering to between 19 and 30 bovine calves that were grossly malnourished.

• Between 16th March and 22nd April 2025 causing unnecessary suffering to a bovine calf which had chronic malnutrition.

• Between 16th March and 2nd May 2025 did not take reasonable steps to ensure the needs of between 19 and 30 calves were met as they were kept outside, rather than in a barn.

• Between the same dates did not take reasonable steps to ensure the needs of those calves were met as they were weaned too

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Hisnain Mahmood owns land at Deanhill Lane in Weston

young.

• Between 16th March and 19th August 2025 did not take reasonable steps to ensure that the calves were protected from pain, suffering, injury and disease, due to rubble, fence post holes and plastic in the field where they were grazing.

• Between 16th March and 2nd May 2025, being responsible for those calves, failed to take reasonable steps to ensure they were cared for by enough competent staff.

• Between 2nd May and 19th August 2025 did not take reasonable steps to ensure the needs of 19 bovine calves were met as their diet was not

suitable.

• After 24th August 2025 failed to notify the Secretary of State within three days of the movement of cattle off a holding at Bath.

Three further animal welfare charges against Moxham were withdrawn.

He also admitted a charge of fraud by false representation between 19th May 2025 and 22nd May 2025. It relates to £9,000 he was paid to fund building work at a couple’s home.

At Wednesday’s hearing, District Judge Lynne Matthews ordered a pre-sentence report from the Probation Service and warned Moxham of the “significant

prospect” of him being sent to prison as a result of the offences.

He will be sentenced on 22nd July and was granted bail until then on condition he is not responsible or cares for livestock.

Meanwhile Hisnain Mahmood, previously of Belvedere in Bath but now giving an address in Wallbank Court in Birmingham, denied the same eight cattlerelated offences that Moxham admitted. In addition Mahmood denied a further three charges: • That between 16th March and 2nd May 2025 at Bath he failed to give protection to calves not kept in buildings by giving them access to a well-drained lying area.

• On 2nd May 2025 he failed to record the death of a calf at Bath with seven days.

• On 4th August 2025 at Bath he failed to ensure that 19 calves not kept in buildings were in conditions giving them protection from adverse weather, predators and risks to their health, and that they had access to a well-drained lying area.

The judge adjourned his case to Bristol Crown Court where Mahmood will next appear for a hearing on 12th June.

The trial is not expected to take place until sometime next year.

Mahmood was granted conditional bail.

Why do we ‘name and shame’ in our stories?

Since the introduction of our Crime & Court section, we've been contacted by concerned members of the public, defendants and guilty parties regarding the inclusion of their names, ages, and partial addresses.

We are proud to be able to provide court coverage of cases at Bath Magistrates' Court, something that many local newspapers are unable to do due to restricted time for their reporters. Reporting court cases acts as a deterrent against crime. Printing a defendant’s age and address stops anyone with the same name from being defamed.

We do not have access to police or CPS files regarding cases, so everything reported is based on what the prosecution and defence say during a court hearing.

HM Courts & Tribunals Service encourages and facilitates media access to courts and tribunals. We have the right to attend and report on proceedings held in open court, unless a statutory restriction applies, or a court order prevents this.

Our stories are governed by the regulator IMPRESS, the Independent Monitor for the Press. We follow their dedicated Standards Code, which can be found at https://bit.ly/4n0d9qN

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Friday 8th May - Thursday 21st May 2026

Pictures from the Past Locksbrook

The Locksbrook Cemetery, which was known as Walcot Cemetery

Kirsten Elliott Akeman Press

THE first of this week’s archive photos, taken around 1870, shows Locksbrook Cemetery – originally known as Walcot

Shaftesbury Avenue around 1905

Cemetery – which opened in 1864.

Hard to believe that it once stood in what, to all intents and purposes, was open country.

The plot of land behind the stone wall stretching across the foreground was home to

Locksbrook Nursery, owned by William Ashman, whose house and greenhouse can be seen to the left of the cemetery lodge.

In 1875, the eastern end of the nursery – to the right – was acquired to build Weston Parochial Schools.

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The rest of the nursery survived until the late 1880s when houses were built over it and Mr Ashman’s house was demolished.

One house that does survive, however, is that on the extreme right, on the far side of the road in Locksbrook Place, which is still

recognisable today.

The second photo dates from around 1905 and shows Shaftesbury Avenue, which was built over part of the nursery.

A link with the earlier photo is provided by the cemetery lodge, which can be seen in the distance.

Issue 129

P11

Your City, Your News - Bath Echo

Crossword

Congratulations to Natasha Smith-Craig for winning £20!

You can find the answers to last issue's crossword on page 24

Complete our crossword for your chance to win £20!

Across

Down

1 Country bordering Rwanda (7) 5 Capriciously (2,1,4) 9 Conference and source of online talks (3) 10 Cassava extract (7) 11 Close friends (5) 12 Long noosed rope used to catch animals (5) 13 Georgian capital (7) 15 Seaport in NW Israel (5) 16 Chippie offering (4) 17 Writer Behan (7) 19 Bellowing (7) 22 Walked like a duck (7) 26 Doctor's place (7) 29 All time (4) 30 Meagre (5) 31 "Salome" composer (7) 33 Indian corn (5) 34 Disposer of stolen goods (5) 35 Vastness (7) 36 Careful attention (1,1,1) 37 Cybercafe sights (7) 38 Telephone's base partner (7)

1 Soak spot (7) 2 Contemptible person (7) 3 Model ___ Campbell (5) 4 Romance language (7) 5 Eventful trip (7) 6 Intoxicating liquor (7) 7 He was bound to escape (7) 8 Wild American horse (7) 14 Disgrace (5) 18 Incline head (3) 20 Wield (5) 21 Imperial weights (3) 22 Type of thinking (7) 23 Drafted (5,2) 24 "Hands off!" (3,2,2) 25 Illustrates (7) 26 Implore urgently (7) 27 US again destroyed lizards (7) 28 Least difficult (7) 32 Bring to fruition (5)

Entering our competition - via email or post For your chance to win £20, submit your full name, postal address and answers by email to puzzles@bathecho.co.uk or via post to: Crossword Competition 0805 Bath Echo, PO Box 5395, Bath, BA1 0YA The winner will be the first randomly opened entry with the correct answers on 20/05/2026.

They will be notified using the details they provide when entering the competition. Winners will be given the option of receiving a High Street shopping voucher or be provided the £20 via a BACS transfer.

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Food & Drink

Sponsor this section!

Get in touch with Rob Last via rob@mediabath.co.uk

Melissa Blease

Food Writer

Tasty Dates For Your Diary The Bath Brew House (James Street West) has undergone a revamp and introduced brand new head chef to the kitchen. Go forth and discover a selection of seriously good small and large plates (“comfort food done properly,” no less) including the indulgent Deus Stout Beer Cheese Fondue at your earliest opportunity. www.thebathbrewhouse.com Old and New World wines dictate the theme at the next Secret Supper Club at the Packhorse (South Stoke) on Thursday 14th May when an expert from Talking Wines will explore why wine and food create such perfect harmony and how both tradition and modernity can help tell the story of amazing wine regions.

Review

For further info, email info@ packhorsebath.co.uk www.packhorsebath.co.uk Enjoy lunch at William’s Table Pub and Kitchen (Thomas Street/ London Road) for just £12.50 every Wednesday - Friday from 12pm-4.30pm. www.williamstablebath.co.uk An incredible Mezze Feast, a sense of community and the joy of being part of something very meaningful: that’s A Taste of Palestine at the Rose and Crown (Larkhall) on Wednesday 20th May. £4 will be donated to Medical Aid for Palestinians on behalf of every diner (£24pp). roseandcrownlarkhall.co.uk Dive in to any pasta or pizza

paired with a glass of wine for £20 every Monday - Friday until 5pm at Antica (Argyle Street/Pulteney Bridge). www.anticabath.co.uk Sri Lankan curry specialists SriLicious will be popping up at the Village (Larkhall) on Saturday 23rd. Can’t make the date? SriLicious will be popping up again at The Village on Saturday 6th June. www.thevillagelarkhall.co.uk Indulge your senses with 3 inspired seasonal dishes for just £25 at the Beckford Bottle Shop (Saville Row) every Tuesday Friday lunchtime. www.beckfordbottleshop.com Edesia (High Street) are offering

putting the best of the just-grown bunch in the spotlight (£45pp). thecorstonwheatsheaf.co.uk

The Methuen Arms (Corsham) are presenting their very first Farmers’ Market on Saturday 26th May. If you’re a local food and/or drink producer keen to showcase your products, this is the perfect gig for you! https://bit.ly/4dcaBmh

Shake up your Sundays when Hawker Atelier (aka chef Joseph Hawker) introduces his inaugural Sunday Session to Picnic in the Park (Lower Bristol Road) on Sunday 31st May and/or Sunday 7th June: an inspired Sunday menu with fusion twists served in vibrant, intimate surroundings.

FFI and to book, email info@ hawkeratelier.co.uk (3-courses £50; 5/£65; 6/£75; Two sittings on each date).  /hawkeratelier

Veg out at the Corston Wheatsheaf on Thursday 28th May when the pub will present a fully vegan, plant-based Supper Club menu

You can read more about the local food scene, including reviews, on Melissa's website at: www.theprandialplayground.uk

through classics both ancient and modern. Having said that, you definitely don’t need a stiff drink before perusing the rest of the menu: an array that at once excites, soothes and tempts at all bases.

As a result, PrimaVista’s promising-looking pizzas were kicked to the kerb in favour of new (to me, at least) dishes that demanded discovery.

Starter one, Polpette and Pecorino: distinctively beefy meatballs resting on an intensely tomato-ey sauce and topped with a glossy lake of indulgent Pecorino Romano cream.

Starter two, Sauté di Mare: an opulent medley of fat mussels, tender clams and plump prawns in a classy version of a classic tomato, garlic and parsley combo, served on a slice of fragrantly nutty Altamura bread that I’ve never met before but want to forge a lifelong partnership with from here on in.

For my main course, I couldn’t move past the intriguing ‘Chef’s

Favourite 5P’ — and I’m very glad I didn’t: five elements, one dish and multiple flavour hit variations in every forkful, with sweet, vibrant Piselli (basically a pea sauce), deeply umami Prosciutto Crudo Essiccato, smoky, crisp Pancetta, salty/fruity Parmigiano and nutty, beautifully-textured rigatoni all playing their own part in a perfect partnership. It takes an intelligent chef with a great palate to create a dish like this; Jack is clearly that chef.

Meanwhile, if you think you know Spaghetti Bolognese… you don’t, but Jack does, and he calls it Una Bolognese in Calabria: velvety, slow-cooked beef and pork ragú fired up with a subtle blast of Calabrian sausage, hit up with a nudge of smoky, spicy 'nduja and tangled up in the kind of smooth but still robust tagliatelle that, if you were a Bolognese sauce this special, you’d want to wrap yourself up in too.

Leave without a Dolci? You definitely can’t. Return? You will, for sure. Saluti, PrimaVista.

PrimaVista

8-9 Quiet Street, Bath BA1 2JN 01225 260688 www.primavista.uk  @primavistarestaurants It takes a tonnellata of brave entrepreneurial chutzpah to open a new Italian restaurant in a city that’s already home to around 40 ventures that lay claim to serving the pizza/pasta/tiramisu/etc. in the South West.

But while the restaurant world version of a modern Roman invasion continues to dominate eating out options in the Heritage City, not all of those options are equal in either style or standards… and this is where the story of PrimaVista not only begins, but is already creating its own legend.

Despite PrimaVista’s novelty factor, its charms are timeless.

Shiny and vibrant with a subtly exciting vibe, it isn’t hard to imagine Sophia Loren and Pierfrancesco Favino enjoying a late lunch here, both of them finding both the environment

the perfect antidote to the midweek murks: a terrific selection of tacos paired with a freshly-made Margarita for just £16 on Tuesdays, or the classy, classic steak and cocktail combination for just £20 every Thursday. www.edesiabath.co.uk

The Sauté di Mare at PrimaVista

and the menu molto gradevole.

While you’re certainly not required to do so, you too might want to use your booking here as an excuse to dress up nice and party on. It’s glamorous in a distinctly modish way, with several subsections adding intimacy to the overall spacious environment, thoughtfully

smart décor flourishes adding interest throughout and a range of gorgeous cakes/desserts/dolci given the beautifully-lit spotlight they deserve behind a shining glass counter.

Diversions digested, the cocktail list opens with a heady range of proper Italian muddle-ups before smoothly gliding us

Issue 129

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What's On

Friday 8th May - Thursday 21st May 2026

Bath Spring Fayre

The Constant Wife

Party In The City

Weeknight Vegetarian

Milsom Street 8th – 10th May A free outdoor event in the historic city centre. The fayre features artisan traders, street food, drinks, live music and walkabout performers, creating a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere.

Theatre Royal 11th – 16th May 1927. Constance is a very unhappy woman. “Nonsense” says her mother “she eats well, sleeps well, dresses well and she’s losing weight. No woman can be unhappy in those circumstances”.

Various Locations 15th May, 5.30pm Where the sound of live music will spill out of pubs, clubs, churches, museums and galleries, and into the streets. Some 2,000 singers and musicians will play at 39 venues and it’s completely free.

Topping & Company Booksellers 18th May, 7pm Joe Woodhouse brings Weeknight Vegetarian: Easy vegetable recipes for lunch & dinner. Full of deliciously simple veggie-filled recipes, it is perfect for the everyday home cook.

DroneArt Show: Four Seasons

The Nightingale Of Bath

Dawn Chorus Walk

Bath Digital Festival

Bath Racecourse 8th May, 7.15pm The DroneArt Show merges cutting-edge drone technology with iconic music in a way that has amazed audiences across the globe. Hundreds of drones will dance above in perfect synchronisation.

No.1 Royal Crescent 14th May, 6pm Thomas Messel, the author of The Nightingale of Bath, will present an engaging talk about his book followed by the opportunity to ask questions and buy signed copies.

Bath City Farm 16th May, 4.30am – 7am Nature Guide Nick Patel of 'Wilder Skies' will take you through the various species of birds which call Bath City Farm home during summertime. A great event for those wanting to learn more about birds.

Various Locations 19th – 21st May This year, the festival is being built around one simple idea: What If? Expect practical insight, creative collisions, and real conversations, from live demos and hands-on sessions to founder stories.

Circuit Of Bath In A Weekend

Darwin & The Ascent Of Women

A Night At The Movies

Storytime With The Owls

Batheaston & Odd Down 9th – 10th May Join Cotswolds Wardens to do the whole 20.5 miles of the Circuit of Bath over one weekend. You can do one day, either day or both days. All walks by the Voluntary Wardens are free of charge.

BRLSI 14th May, 6.30pm How did Darwin’s theories relate to and impact women? This talk will reflect on these questions and highlight how, both literally and metaphorically, Darwin contributed to the ascent of women.

St Michael’s Without 16th May, 7.30pm Experience the thrill of the big screen as the City of Bath Brass Band presents a night of iconic film music performed live to pictures. Featuring scores from James Bond, Jurassic Park and many more.

The Bird of Prey Project 20th May, 10am - 11am Take along your little ones to read 'Owl babies' with some of their real owls.

Enjoy learning about owls with a classic picture book and experience some of our gentle owls flying up close.

Sydney Gardens Tree Walk

Blood Wedding

The Bath Literature Festival

London African Gospel Choir

The Pavilion, Sydney Gardens 10th May, 2.30pm Sydney Gardens Tree Walk - a chance to discover some of the amazing trees in the park. A fascinating and informative walk by tree expert, Robin Barnes, a regular guide at Westonbirt Arboretum.

The Egg 14th – 16th May A cautionary tale about the danger of clinging to tradition at the expense of personal desire, Blood Wedding presents a world where ‘old ways’ collide with new passions.

Various Locations 16th – 24th May The programme features everything from fascinating author talks to engaging workshops. Whether you’re an avid reader or an aspiring writer, you'll find the perfect event for your interests.

The Forum 21st May, 7.30pm This one-of-a-kind show sees the 22 piece pan African choir - world-class vocalists, musicians and dancers from across Africa and the diaspora - breathe new life into the iconic 1986 album.

KIDS UNDER

5 GO FREE

ADVAN CE WEDNE D RATE ENDS SDAY 2 7 MAY

28 - 30 MAY 2026

DISCOVER MORE AT THE ROYAL BATH & WEST SHOW

ADULT + C

HILd TICK

Book your tickets now: bathandwest.com/tickets • ShEtlaND PoNy GrANd NatIonAl • BArK & WESt • GREAT BRItISh KITCHEn • lIVEStoCK & EQUINE ClaSSES • • lIVE MUSIC • BEES & HOnEY • HOrtICULTUrE • ART PAVIlIoN • lAKESIDE FArM • TRaCTOr TED • pony ClUb gAmES •

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Community

Later Living Expert

Festival-themed trail for visitors to Roman Baths FAMILIES visiting the Roman Baths during the May halfterm will be able to take part in a new festival-themed trail inspired by the ancient Roman celebration of Floralia.

Running from 23rd to 31st May, Mission Floralia will bring a series of hands-on activities to the Bath attraction, with children invited to become festival helpers as they make their way through the site.

The experience is based on Floralia, the Roman festival linked to flowers, crops and new life, and will see families taking on challenges, trying Roman games, making colourful creations and searching for hidden flowers around the Baths and Museum.

Young visitors will also have the chance to meet Goddess Flora beside the Great Bath and will be given sunflower seeds to plant at home after their visit.

B&NES Council says the event is designed to echo the atmosphere of ritual and celebration that would once have been part of life at the site 2,000 years ago,

Community, Care and Connection

At Darcy Gardens, we believe that moving into care is not simply a change of address it is a transition for the whole family.

The experience will begin on 23rd May | Image © B&NES Council

with floral decorations and spring-themed activities woven throughout the attraction.

Alongside the half-term programme, families will also be able to explore the wider Roman Baths experience, including immersive reconstructions of Aquae Sulis, costumed characters and audio guides, including a children’s version narrated by Michael Rosen.

From 26th to 29th May, the site will also host Archaeology Adventures, where children can uncover replica Roman artefacts in a purpose-built trench using real excavation techniques.

The sessions will take place daily at 11am and 12 noon and cost £6 per child in addition to entry.

The Roman Baths is open every day from 9am to 6pm during the period.

Mission Floralia is included in the admission price.

Family tickets start from £51, with savings of up to 50% compared with individual prices.

Entry is free for children under five, while reduced prices are available for those aged six to 18.

Bath and North East Somerset residents with a Discovery Card can continue to visit the Roman Baths free of charge.

Summer of theatre and More closures of M4 music at museum before route reopens

A CGI image of how the bridge over the M4 will look | Image © Highways England

Becky Feather Photo © American Museum & Gardens

THE American Museum & Gardens is bringing back its Summer Series this year, with a programme of open-air theatre and evening music events set against the backdrop of the Limpley Stoke Valley.

Running through June, July and August, the season will combine outdoor performances, live music, food and late opening in the museum’s grounds, giving visitors the chance to enjoy the gardens after hours as the sun sets over the surrounding countryside.

Set within the Cotswolds National Landscape, the venue says the series is designed to offer a relaxed summer evening experience, with guests encouraged to bring blankets or chairs and make use of food and drink available from the Garden Deli, BBQ and bar.

The theatre programme begins on 12th June with Othello, performed

by The Lord Chamberlain’s Men, whose all-male cast will stage Shakespeare’s tragedy in the

open air.

On 17th July, Pantaloons Theatre Company will present Sherlock Holmes & The Hound of the Baskervilles, described as a playful retelling of the classic story featuring live music, humour and audience interaction.

The theatre season concludes on 9th August with a family-focused musical version of The Jungle Book, promising original songs, familiar characters and a highenergy adaptation of Kipling’s story. Alongside the theatre productions, three Garden Lates events are also planned, each centred on Americana-inspired live music.

Last Night’s Fun will perform on 5th June, followed by Jonnie Melancholy and the Sad Cowboys on 24th July, with The Strays closing the series on 28th August.

The evenings will blend music, gardens, food and views across the valley, drawing on influences including folk, Celtic, country, bluegrass, blues and soft rock.

Reporter

THE new A432 Badminton Road bridge over the M4 will open to traffic on Saturday 20th June, National Highways has announced.

To complete construction work safely beforehand, the motorway between junctions 18 and 19 is closed overnight (8pm – 6am) this week in both directions until Saturday 9th May. There will be further overnight closures from Monday 1st to Saturday 6th June. Then, from Monday 8th to Saturday 13th June, there will be lane closures on the M4 in both directions to finish work on the embankments by the bridge.

Drivers are advised to plan their journeys in advance and avoid the area, if possible to avoid delays.

Used by around 16,000 vehicles a day, the old overbridge linking Bristol and Yate was closed to traffic in the summer of 2023 after extensive cracking was discovered. It was demolished in

March 2025.

The new multi-million-pound bridge will open to nonmotorised users, including pedestrians and cyclists, from the afternoon of Friday 19th June, before traffic management is removed overnight and all vehicles can use the bridge from 7am the following day.

Sean Walsh, route manager for National Highways, said: “Since we announced the old bridge needed to be demolished, the team have worked incredibly hard to deliver this project in just two and half years, half of the five years it would normally take.

“This new bridge will make a significant and positive difference to the journeys of visitors, local communities, and businesses.”

The new bridge – 46.5 metres in length and 20 metres wide – spans eight lanes of motorway but will be slightly wider than the old one.

This is to ensure the road lanes and pavements are wide enough to meet today’s safety standards.

The barriers along the sides are higher to keep people walking and cycling safer.

That is why our approach is centred on providing wraparound support, offering reassurance, guidance and continuity for residents and their loved ones at every stage.

Since opening, we have been delighted to welcome our first residents, with a steady flow of admissions each week. Everyone brings their own story, helping to shape a warm, inclusive, and vibrant community where people feel a genuine sense of belonging from the moment they arrive.

Our regular column will share a snapshot of life at Darcy Gardens, alongside helpful insight for those considering a move into care. We understand the importance of making informed decisions and aim to provide clarity around our services, as well as what families can expect during this important transition.

Connection is at the heart of everything we do. We are proud to be building strong relationships with local organisations including Bath Radio, Rotary International and the Women’s Institute, as well as local churches, social groups, and wider community initiatives.

These partnerships enrich daily life and ensure residents remain actively engaged with the world around them.

Recent highlights include a memorable visit from a local school choir and an ice cream stand supporting the Barchester Charitable Foundation, reflecting our commitment to both intergenerational connection and charitable engagement.

Looking ahead, we are excited for upcoming experiences such as a visit to The Newt in Somerset during Garden Week, alongside our regular favourites - Friday Coffee Mornings, Fish & Chip Club and Film Club.

At Darcy Gardens, family is not defined by place, but by feeling.

Through compassionate, personcentred care and a strong sense of community, we are creating a home where residents and families feel supported, connected and truly at home.

Celebrating Life

Celebrating Life

01225 562409 Oldfield Lane, Bath, BA2 3NR www.barchester.com/home/ darcy-gardens-care-home

Issue 129

P15

Your City, Your News - Bath Echo

Society opens 20th year Fears over plans for up to 105 of community awards homes next to Keynsham woodland

Bath Building Society's Richard Ingle

BATH Building Society has launched the latest round of its Community Awards, marking 20 years of the scheme that supports charities and community organisations across the district.

The awards form part of the society’s commitment to give 2% of its profits back to the community each year.

Applications are open to charities, community groups, community interest companies and school PTAs in Bath and North East Somerset.

Over the past 19 years, Bath Building Society says it has donated more than £138,000 through the scheme, supporting more than 150 local charities and groups.

In 2025, the total funding pot rose to £15,000, more than double the

level available in previous years.

This year, organisations can apply for grants of up to £5,000, with one award of £5,000 available, alongside two grants of £2,500 and five of £1,000.

Chief executive Richard Ingle said: “As a judge for the annual Awards, I’m always blown away by the great work that local charities, community groups and volunteers do in our local community. The Society’s roots in the community are very important to us.

“We have committed to donate 2% of profits back into the community and are pleased that we were able to increase the funding pot for our annual Awards last year.”

Further details and application information are available at https://bit.ly/4niiGKG

OBJECTIONS have been pouring in after Taylor Wimpey submitted a planning application for up to 105 homes on the outskirts of Keynsham.

The developer says the site on the eastern edge of the town, next to Manor Road Community Woodland, is a “logical and sustainable extension to the existing settlement”.

It says Parcel 5325 is considered to be “Grey Belt”, as confirmed in a pre-application response from Bath & North East Somerset Council, which establishes a “clear policy route for the determination of this application”.

Designating land as Grey Belt allows development in less significant areas of the Green Belt to help meet housing targets.

The site has been promoted for residential development through the emerging B&NES Local Plan.

Taylor Wimpey’s outline planning application includes 45% onsite affordable housing, a new vehicular and pedestrian access on to Manor Road, public open space, tree planting and habitat creation, as well as site drainage and infrastructure.

Signs objecting to the proposals have been erected and as of this week, more than 190 objections had been posted on the council’s planning portal, along with one

The land being earmarked for development

of support.

Ward councillor Andy Wait (Keynsham East, Liberal Democrat) has already asked for the application to be called in to be determined by the planning committee.

He has voiced concern about overdevelopment and that existing residential roads are being expected to cope with yet more traffic. He described the access to the field as “bizarre and dangerous”, adding: “A site visit is needed to see how the traffic has burrowed into the banks along that road as cars attempt to pass each other on an extremely narrow road.”

Councillor Wait said “the strongest objection of all is the existence of a rich natural diversity of wildlife in that field” with three sides of it adjoining Manor Road Community Woodland.

Independent councillor Alan Hale, who represents Keynsham South, said: “This development is as far from a main road as it could probably be, and as such, many unsuitable roads will be blighted by the passage of HGVs for a considerable time.”

He added: “The Manor Road playing field is a recreational area much used by families and children who currently only have to consider a normal weight of traffic, rather than a succession of HGVs back and forth. There is a road safety hazard in this.”

Councillor Hale said Manor Road, at the point of the proposed development, is a “narrow country lane” used as a route to school. “This additional demand for road space will become a road safety hazard because there is frequently pedestrian traffic and pedal cycles as part of the school commute.”

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P16

Friday 8th May - Thursday 21st May 2026

www.bathecho.co.uk

Health RUH nurses from class of 1996 celebrate 30 years in Bath FOUR nurses who began their training together at the Royal United Hospital in Bath in 1996 have come together to celebrate 30 years of service.

The group, described as part of the RUH’s “Class of 96”, met to reflect on the changes they have seen over three decades and the reasons they have remained at the hospital ever since.

The four are Dana Di.Iulio, now an Infection Prevention and Control Nurse; Jackie Robinson, Senior Sister in Urology; Toni Salamon, Lead Surgical Nurse Practitioner; and Nadine Geary, a Recovery Nurse.

All trained at the RUH after starting on a Common Foundation in Nursing Programme before moving into their chosen specialist areas.

Looking back on what has changed most, the nurses said advances in technology and the expansion of the hospital stand out.

“Technology definitely,” said Jackie. “It’s come such a long way and has improved the care we can provide to our patients and helped the staff too.”

Dana added: “The size of the hospital too.

“It’s grown a lot over the years and we now look after more patients than ever before.”

Asked about the most difficult period of their careers, all four pointed to the Covid pandemic.

“We saw things that we’d never seen before,” said Nadine.

“It was a really tough time both emotionally and physically.”

Dana said: “Working in Infection

Toni Salamon, Jackie Robinson, Chief Nurse Toni Lynch, Nadine Geary and Dana Di.Iulio | Photo © RUH

Prevention meant that a lot of people came to us for advice, so keeping on top of all the latest guidance was a real challenge.”

Jackie added: “For me, the hardest thing was seeing how it affected our patients’ relatives

First residents welcomed as Darcy Gardens care home opens in Bath DARCY Gardens has welcomed its first six residents, marking an early milestone in the launch of the new care home and community in Bath.

The residents have moved in as the home in Oldfield Lane begins to establish itself, with staff saying they have settled in well and are already enjoying the surroundings and atmosphere created there.

Senior general manager During the visit to Highgrove Gardens | Photo © Darcy Gardens / Barchester Agnieszka Musial said: “We are absolutely delighted to welcome residents the chance to learn are absolutely delighted to our first residents to Darcy more about the gardens’ heritage, welcome our first residents to Gardens. organic management and design Darcy Gardens. From the very “All residents have settled in very principles. beginning, our focus has been well and are already enjoying the Highlights included the Cottage on creating a warm, friendly, and luxury surroundings and warm, Garden and the Wildflower welcoming environment where homely environment we have Meadow, with discussions during people feel truly at home. created. the day touching on topiary, “It was wonderful to see residents “I am incredibly proud of our beekeeping and environmental enjoying their first shared dedicated team, whose hard work stewardship. experience together, and we look and commitment have made this The outing also included a private forward to creating many more opening possible. Together, we afternoon tea, giving residents meaningful moments as our are focused on ensuring every time to relax and enjoy the setting community grows.” resident feels welcomed, valued, together.

She added: “We absolutely love and truly at home.”

Darcy Gardens said the trip being able to take our residents To mark the occasion, residents reflected its aim of offering a out and about, it makes us so were invited on their first strong programme of activities happy to be able to access venues organised outing - an exclusive focused on wellbeing, social like this. It has been a very special visit to Highgrove Gardens, the connection and meaningful day and a fantastic start to the privateOctober residence1/4.qxp_Layout of King Charles 1 experiences from the outset. life enrichment at Darcy Gardens JB Dental 18/10/2024 14:50 Page 1 III. Aga, senior general manager and we’ve all thoroughly enjoyed The 90-minute guided tour gave at Darcy Gardens, said: “We ourselves.”

and loved ones, who couldn’t visit our wards in person.”

Toni said: “Although it was a really tough time, the camaraderie between all the staff was incredible.

“We all came together to support

and look out for each other.”

Despite the challenges, the four said the RUH has remained a place they have wanted to stay.

Toni said: “It’s the people. It’s such a friendly place, it really is a pleasure to work here.”

“It really does feel like a family,” Jackie said.

“Everyone says hello when you’re walking down the corridor.

“The location of the hospital is good too – Bath is a lovely city and we’re lucky to have so much green space around the hospital.”

Nadine said: “There are also lots of opportunities to further your career – you really don’t need to look anywhere else.”

“There really is something special about this place,” added Dana.

“I can’t imagine working anywhere else.”

Worker named finalist in Miss Great Britain A MEMBER of staff at Bath Clinic has been named a finalist in the Miss Great Britain Classic competition, with her campaign also helping raise money for cancer research.

Louise Forster, who works as an oncology administrator at the Bath hospital, has reached the final of the competition, which is aimed at women aged 45 and over and celebrates confidence, ambition and life experience.

Established in 1945, Miss Great Britain Classic will mark its 81st anniversary in 2026. Over the past six years, the wider Miss Great Britain organisation has raised more than £330,000 for Cancer Research UK, something Louise said played a major part in her decision to enter.

Louise has worked in Bath Clinic’s oncology department for more than 21 years, supporting cancer patients and their families.

She said: “In my role, I have witnessed both the profound emotional pain and the extraordinary strength that cancer brings. I have met truly inspiring people who face each day with courage despite immense challenges.

“Supporting them has given me a deep understanding of

Louise Forster | Photo © Bath Clinic

their journey, and I always strive to meet every patient with compassion, empathy, and kindness.”

She added: “Fundraising is very close to my heart. This is my way of honouring past, present, and future patients, as well as my own family and friends who have been affected by cancer.”

Bath Clinic’s executive director said: “We're proud of Louise and her success in this competition so far. Her dedication to fundraising events supporting Cancer Research is commendable and is close to both the Clinic's and Louise's heart, in that the hospital offers oncology services to our patients.”

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Friday 8th May - Thursday 21st May 2026

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Education

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Council approves two new School Streets in Bath to improve safety TWO more School Streets are being introduced in Bath as part of Bath & North East Somerset Council’s efforts to improve safety and reduce congestion outside schools.

The schemes will benefit pupils at St Stephen’s Primary Church School and Widcombe Infants and Juniors’ School, with timed vehicle restrictions planned at the start and end of the school day.

School Streets are designed to cut traffic outside school gates during busy drop-off and pick-up periods, while also encouraging more walking, wheeling and cycling. Essential vehicle access will still be available for those who need it.

The council said the decision to press ahead followed two recent public consultations which showed support for the plans.

Responses also highlighted concerns about congestion and unsafe driving conditions at peak times, with child safety a key factor in the decision.

Councillor Lucy Hodge, cabinet member for sustainable transport delivery, said: “I’m delighted to see Bath’s first School Street launching outside St Stephen’s school in Lansdown during National Walk to School Week.

Photo © B&NES Council

“It is an especially fitting moment, as we take an important step towards creating safer, calmer streets for children and families.

“By helping children learn about road safety, supporting more families to walk, scoot or cycle where they can, and encouraging more considerate driving, we can reduce the risk of collisions and help children arrive at school calmer, refreshed and ready to learn.”

The St Stephen’s scheme will begin on Monday 18th May and will affect a short section of Beacon Road between Richmond Place and Richmond Lane.

Access will be restricted from 8.15am to 9am and from 3pm to 3.45pm on school days only.

The council said the only property within the zone is the

Plans for new zebra crossing are scrapped

The money will be reallocated to a scheme in Odd Down

Becky Feather Reporter

PLANS to install a zebra crossing near King Edward’s pre-prep site in Weston Lane in Bath have been scrapped.

Because the nursery and pre-prep school are now due to relocate to the KES campus at North Road, the need for a crossing will be “significantly” reduced, says a short report on Bath & North East Somerset Council’s website.

Instead, the £50,000 put aside in the Local Active Travel Safety Programme for the crossing will be reallocated to fund the proposed zebra crossing in Odd Down.

The crossing on Bloomfield Road near the junction with Somerdale

Avenue will improve an existing walking route and complement the proposed School Street at St Philips’s Primary School.

The decision has been taken by the council’s director of place management.

KES is selling off the Weston Lane site to facilitate a £3 million investment in new facilities at North Road.

The council is currently considering a planning application to convert the Weston site into a private home. The main school building is Grade II listed and dates from the 19th century.

It was a house until 1950, when it was converted to a nursing home and then a private boys’ pre-prep school in 1959.

The Park School amalgamated with KES in 1999.

school itself.

Temporary barriers will be put in place by trained volunteer stewards, and some groups can apply online for digital permits to enter by vehicle.

The Widcombe scheme will follow later in the summer, after further work with the school community. It will cover the full length of Archway Street and Excelsior Street between 8.20am and 9am, and again from 2.50pm to 3.30pm on school days.

The council said residents on those roads, along with people who have specific needs requiring vehicle access, will be able to apply for exemption permits once the launch date is confirmed.

A School Street outside Newbridge Primary School is also due to launch this summer, while a decision on a proposed scheme for St Philip’s Church of England Primary School in Odd Down is expected in June.

The council said traffic levels and travel behaviour will be monitored so any unintended impacts can be addressed.

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Sponsored walk to Kelston Roundhill

Taking part in the walk

Becky Feather Reporter

CHILDREN at a Bath primary school have raised funds for a charitable project in Bangladesh by taking part in a sponsored walk to Kelston Roundhill.

The walk gave pupils at St Mary’s Catholic Primary School in Weston the opportunity to experience the local landscape together as a school community while working towards raising funds for a global cause.

Kelston Roundhill is a prominent landmark near Bath with panoramic views that stretch as far as Wales and the Mendip Hills.

An ancient barrow topped with a distinctive cluster of trees, it offers a range of popular walking routes, including a section of the Cotswold Way. The school has thanked families

for their donations to CAFOD, the Catholic Agency for Overseas Development. The money will fund a floating garden for a farmer in Bangladesh, enabling him to grow food to feed his family for a whole year.

St Mary’s headteacher Nicole Pecchia said: “We are incredibly proud of our pupils for their enthusiasm, determination and compassion throughout this sponsored walk.

“Not only did they enjoy the challenge of exploring Kelston Roundhill together, but they also demonstrated a real sense of global responsibility by supporting CAFOD’s vital work in Bangladesh.”

The school is part of the Dunstan Catholic Educational Trust.

CEO Helen Taylor said: “This is a wonderful example of faith in action and the power of community. The pupils at St Mary’s have shown great teamwork and commitment, and their fundraising will have a genuine and lasting impact through CAFOD’s floating garden project in Bangladesh.

“Experiences like this help young people to develop empathy, awareness, and a sense of global citizenship that will stay with them for life.”

University startup secures €4.1 million to scale plastic-free material A BATH-BASED sustainability startup has secured €4.1 million in EU funding to support the next stage of its work developing an alternative to microplastics.

Naturbeads, a University of Bath spin-off, has received the funding to help establish and support a production plant in Puglia in southern Italy as it moves towards full commercialisation.

The company has developed a patented cellulose-based material designed to replace tiny plastic microspheres used in a wide range of everyday and industrial products.

Its biodegradable alternative can be used in cosmetics, paints, detergents, coatings, leather and other applications.

The €4.11 million funding will partly reimburse Naturbeads for the cost of constructing the Italian plant and will also support research and development over the next two years.

Naturbeads said the site is currently undergoing stress testing after production successfully began, with commercial output expected to ramp up from June.

Chief executive Giovanna Laudisio said: “Due to its versatility and durability, tiny

The powder being created as an alternative to microplastics | Photo © Naturbeads

microspheres of plastic are a popular ingredient in a range of everyday products.

“For example, they’re routinely found in makeup that stays on your skin for only a few hours … but when you wash your face, they end up in the drain and from there in the oceans where they last for centuries.

“Tiny particles of plastic are found in our food, our bodies – they’ve even been discovered in Antarctica – and are putting at risk both our personal health and the health of the planet.”

Using its patented process, the company refines cellulose, the natural building block of plants, into round microspheres

intended to match the performance of plastic particles.

Laudisio added: “We’ve already reached a key milestone by successfully starting production in our plant.

“Our current focus is to complete the startup of different sections of the plant so that in June we can ramp up production and start serving our customers around that world that are waiting for our product.”

Naturbeads said it is already working with ingredient manufacturers and cosmetic companies, as new EU rules restricting the use of plastics in cosmetics begin to take effect over the coming years.

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Business New dawn for Rising Sun pub as apartments plan given green light PLANS to turn a fire-devastated city pub into homes have been approved by Bath & North East Somerset Council.

The Grade II listed Rising Sun in Bathwick, which has been closed since the blaze in September 2022, will be converted into seven apartments, and a coach house maisonette will replace the rear skittle alley building.

Sixteen guests had been staying overnight in eight letting rooms at the Grove Street pub when the fire broke out. They were evacuated after a passer-by called 999 to report flames coming out of the roof.

An investigation found three safety breaches and in 2023 the ex-landlord Norman Butcher received a suspended jail sentence and was ordered to carry out 150 hours of unpaid work.

Last year, Bath & North East Somerset Council approved plans to remove fire and waterdamaged debris and to re-instate the third floor and roof.

Bedstone Developments Rising Sun Ltd said the works would enable the building to be returned to a “suitable and viable use” that would be discussed with the council.

There was no interest from prospective pub operators, so the developer subsequently applied for planning permission and listed building consent to turn the pub into apartments with a coach house on the footprint of the rear extension.

A report from Savills, which accompanied the application,

Kitty Walters, Claire Pritchard, Jasmin Portnall, Samantha Riddington and Rosie Crocker | Photo © Flourish The former Rising Sun pub on Grove Street

said that although the public house market remained “very active”, interest from licensed operators was focused on the “best quality assets”.

The report said: “Despite the property’s central location within Bath and its proximity to the Bath Recreation Ground, it is situated in a secondary location away from the main commercial thoroughfares and high footfall areas.

“The property offers a small rear trade garden proximate to existing residential properties, which may limit its operational appeal to pub operators. No offstreet customer car parking is available.”

Based on the interest received during the extensive marketing campaign, Savills confirmed a “clear market preference” for redevelopment of the site with all enquiries and offers coming from developers, investors and builders.

Bath Preservation Trust had

Plans to divide office space branded ‘alien’ Becky Feather Reporter

PLANS to insert partitions in the first-floor offices of an estate agent in Bath have been refused.

The application to carry out the work at Grade II listed 7 Princes Buildings, which is home to Allen & Harris, said two smaller office spaces would meet their needs and allow for continued occupation of the commercial unit.

It said that the work would be reversible. The application also mentioned that the upper floors had been sub-divided as part of the conversion into flats.

But Bath & North East Somerset Council planners said that adding glazed and solid walls and a suspended ceiling would be “alien” to the character of the room and erode its simple form

Flourish food hall is named best in country

and symmetrical balance.

They said no evidence had been provided to justify that if the work isn’t done that it will result in the cessation of the use of the building and compromise its long-term conservation.

Regarding conversion work on the floors above, council officers said in their report that listed building applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis and follow the most upto-date legislation. Other factors contributed to the approval of the scheme on the upper floors, but these do not change the harm present in this proposal.”

said it was “broadly supportive of the principle of development, as it will repair and re-use the damaged vacant listed building and add to housing provision within the city, in turn providing evident public benefits”.

The pub will be converted into six one-bed apartments and one with two bedrooms. The coach house will also have two bedrooms. The rear courtyard will include storage for bikes and refuse/recycling.

The coach house will be built as an accessible home but it is not possible for the main building to comply with this standard due to access and internal floor area constraints of the listed building.

Council planners said the scheme would not cause significant harm to the amenities of any occupiers or neighbours.

Bedstone has also been converting the vacant halls and vestries at the neighbouring old Central United Reformed Church into apartments.

THE Farm Shop & Deli Retailer Awards 2026 took place on Monday 13th April in Birmingham, celebrating the best specialist food and drink retailers in the UK, and there was a win for a business near Bath.

The awards recognise the highest levels of service, product knowledge, initiative, innovation and community involvement.

Flourish at Farleigh Road, in Norton St Philip, was a finalist for two categories and scooped the nationwide award for Best Retailer in the Specialist Food Hall category. Flourish was also highly commended in the Newcomer of the Year category.

The judges recognised Flourish as a business that champions British produce, sustainable sourcing and exceptional customer experience.

Finalists were selected following a detailed judging programme, and the final decision was made from a mystery shopper visit in both the food hall and café.

Flourish at Farleigh Road opened in November 2024, the sister site to Flourish at Glenavon Farm which opened in Saltford in 2021.

In March 2025, Flourish opened its own production kitchen at Farleigh Road, supplying both sites with homemade scotch eggs, sausage rolls, sponge cakes, cookies and more using local ingredients.

A people and planet-focused destination to eat and shop, Flourish offers a wide variety of artisan food and drink products plus a kitchen serving freshlyprepared seasonal dishes.

Samantha Riddington, general manager of Flourish at Farleigh Road, said: “This award is a testament to our brilliant team who worked so hard through challenging times to get us to where we are now.

“We’re thrilled to receive this award, especially in our first full year of trading as Flourish, and this achievement is a great boost for the team who go above and beyond every day.”

Bristol brewery to open first Bath pub ahead of popular festival BRISTOL-BASED Good Chemistry Brewing is preparing to open its first pub in Bath, with the new venue due to launch just before one of the city’s biggest live music events.

The independent brewery will open The Hop Pole at 7 Albion Buildings on Thursday 14th May, marking the first time the company has operated a pub in Bath.

The opening comes just ahead of Party in the City on 15th May, placing the new venue in the middle of one of Bath’s busiest cultural weekends.

Good Chemistry Brewing said the pub will bring its established approach to beer and hospitality from Bristol into Bath, with a focus on quality drinks, a relaxed setting and a community feel.

The Hop Pole is expected to centre its offer around a rotating range of Good Chemistry beers, alongside guest pours.

Work is under way at the pub | Photo © Good Chemistry Brewing

A daily happy hour will also form a key part of the launch offer, running from 4pm to 8pm seven days a week, with customers able to buy four pints for £10.

Managing director Mark Armstrong said: “Opening our first pub is a huge step for us.

We’ve always been about creating spaces where people can come together over great beer, and The Hop Pole is the natural next

evolution of that.

“Bath felt like the perfect place to do it - it’s a city with an amazing hospitality scene and a real appreciation for quality. We’re excited to become part of that.”

The brewery said the combination of a central location, the timing of the launch and the venue’s drinks offer should help establish The Hop Pole quickly within Bath’s pub scene.

Issue 129

P21 21

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Politics

Public Notices

Council's retrofit service set to be expanded OWNERS of listed buildings in Bath and North East Somerset are being offered expanded support to help make their homes more energy efficient while protecting their historic character.

Bath & North East Somerset Council is working with Bath and West Community Energy (BWCE) to promote a joint advice service that brings together conservation and energy expertise in a single visit. The Listed Building Energy Assessment & Planning Advice service is designed to make it easier for homeowners to plan sensitive improvements by offering guidance from both a heritage and technical energy perspective.

Under the scheme, residents can arrange a home visit from a council conservation officer, who will provide Service Level 0 preapplication advice, alongside a BWCE energy assessor carrying out a full energy survey.

Properties on The Paragon in Bath | Photo © B&NES Council

Homeowners will then receive a Home Energy Efficiency Plan and a new Energy Performance Certificate.

The expanded approach follows the first phase of the Green Heritage Homes project, which helped dozens of residents consider suitable energy-saving measures for listed properties.

Councillor Sarah Warren, cabinet member for sustainable Bath and North East Somerset, said: “Phase I showed just how much demand there is for clear, trusted advice on improving the energy efficiency of listed buildings.

“By bringing heritage and energy expertise together in one visit, we are helping to remove barriers

and give B&NES homeowners the confidence they need to take the next steps toward sensitive, sustainable retrofit.”

During the first phase, 69 energy surveys were completed, most involving Grade II listed homes.

The council said 26 Level 0 preapps were completed and 27 retrofit-related listed building consent or planning applications were submitted, with 88% of decided applications approved.

The most common improvements included window and glazing upgrades, loft and roof insulation, and micro-renewables such as solar panels and heat pumps.

Phase II is being funded by Historic England, the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority and Curo Group.

The service has also been shortlisted in the Working in Collaboration category at the APSE (Association for Public Service Excellence) Energy Awards.

Appeal after proposed bungalow is refused AN appeal has been lodged with the Secretary of State after plans to build a three-bed detached bungalow in Tunley, near Bath, were refused.

In March, Bath & North East Somerset Council rejected the planning application to build the property with a garage on land south of Blossom Manor.

No information about the site’s ecology was submitted but it was described as an "overgrown garden" with the existing access on Palmers Lane also overgrown.

Blossom Manor is a detached three-bed two-storey house for which planning permission was recently granted for a rear twostorey extension. Permission was also granted for a detached bungalow to the west.

In refusing the proposal for the

latest bungalow, council planners said it would be inappropriate development and did not constitute ‘Grey Belt’ land.

They said there were no very special circumstances to outweigh the harm to the Green Belt.

They said the access would not be suitable based on the current national speed limit, and visibility splays of 215 metres in both directions would be required.

They also noted that applications for self or custom-build homes must now be accompanied by a Section 106 agreement or Section 106 unilateral undertaking, but no such legal document had been submitted.

They acknowledged that if a proposed speed limit change is introduced, any future decision

The site in Tunley was described as an "overgrown garden"

would take account of reduced vehicle speeds. For a 20mph zone, 25 metres of visibility in both directions would need to be demonstrated.

The appeal says the council has incorrectly applied Green Belt policy by failing to recognise

the site’s status as previously developed land and its alignment with the latest Grey Belt national policy.

It also highlights the council’s traffic management team is proposing a 20mph zone for roads in Tunley.

The appellants say they are happy to sign the necessary unilateral undertaking.

The appeal also emphasises that as the council is not currently able to demonstrate a fiveyear supply of housing land, the presumption is in favour of sustainable development as set out in the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF).

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NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR GRANT OF PREMISES LICENCE UNDER THE LICENSING ACT 2003 BATH 12 LTD applied to Bath & North East Somerset Council on 27/04/2026 for a licence to use the premises at Diamond Kebab & Pizza at 49 Moorland Road, Bath, BA2 3PJ for the provision of late night refreshment.

Notification of the application made to the Licensing Authority is available on a register at www.bathnes.gov.uk/ publicregisters Representations should be made in writing to: Bath & North East Somerset Council Licensing Services Lewis House Manvers Street Bath BA1 1JG or by email to licensing@bathnes.gov.uk by 25th May 2026 Representations made will be disclosed in an open meeting should a hearing be necessary.

It is an offence knowingly or recklessly to make a false statement in connection with an application and is subject to a fine of any amount on summary conviction for the offence.

Dated: 06/05/2026

Planning Round-up Works proposed at Sawclose building An application seeking listed building consent for repair works to the clocktower in Bluecoat House in Sawclose has been submitted.

The Grade II listed building, which was originally a Victorian school, was used as offices before being converted into a restaurant with flats above.

The application form says the proposed works include internal alterations for repair works to an internal timber platform within clock tower. The deadline for comments is 5th June. The reference is 26/01572/LBA.

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

T

HE green spaces around us come into their own at this time of year.

Trees bursting into leaf and blooming flowers invite us outdoors. We’re very fortunate to have so many green spaces nearby.

Our green spaces foster community, support our wellbeing and make our area a unique place to live. I was delighted to see Bath at the top of Time Out’s Best Green City list for green space and nature, with a 94% approval rating. The guide also recognised Bath as one of the world’s top 50 cities.

Bath & North East Somerset

Council recognises that we cannot take our precious green spaces for granted.

We think of them as ‘green infrastructure’, a network of diverse green spaces which is just as important as our housing and transportation infrastructure.

They are integral to our commitment to improving residents’ lives and to investing in prevention.

Inclusive and accessible green spaces are vital for healthy, active communities. Our research shows that every £1 invested in green infrastructure delivers £4 of benefits.

We are investing in our Parks

and Open Spaces programmes to improve access and quality for all.

The Council has set out two five-year plans to make places across B&NES greener, while tackling the climate and nature emergencies and making our area healthier for people.

One plan outlines our vision and approach, the other focuses on investment and delivery.

They are guides for our partners, developers, local town and parish councils and community organisations.

We have introduced the Nature Towns and Cities accreditation into our plans. This national

scheme, led by Natural England, National Trust and The National Lottery Heritage Fund, puts nature at the heart of future growth.

We will work closely with our urban communities to create accessible green spaces, streets and neighbourhoods that are good for wildlife, people and climate resilient.

The Bath River Line project exemplifies this approach. It is creating a 10km linear park connecting Bath’s riverside spaces, improving biodiversity and enhancing active travel

routes. So far, we have revitalised areas between Norfolk Crescent and Bath Quays, with more improvements to come.

Finally, a few words about gardening. Whether on a windowsill, a balcony, in your own garden, or an allotment, growing plants brings joy and tremendous health benefits.

There are also volunteering opportunities across B&NES for people to get involved and experience the rewards of tending our green spaces. Visit the council website for more information.

P22

Friday 8th May - Thursday 21st May 2026

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Sport

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Bath fall to Bordeaux in high-quality Avon beaten in final, Champions Cup semi-final Bath Ladies United win Richard Briggs

Richard Briggs

BATH Rugby’s quest for the Investec Champions Cup came to an end in France on Sunday 3rd May, Johann van Graan’s team falling 38-26 to Union Bordeaux Bègles in the semifinals.

In a high-quality match at the sold-out Stade Atlantique Bordeaux Métropole, Bath levelled after the hosts took an early 7-0 lead, only to go 14-7 behind with 15 minutes played.

The visitors added an unconverted try before Bordeaux – who beat Northampton Saints in last year’s final – pulled away to lead 24-12 at the interval.

Bath cut the advantage with a converted try early in the second half but the hosts moved 38-19 ahead to kill the Somerset club’s challenge and maintain their bid to retain the trophy.

Bordeaux scored the game’s first points when Marko Gazzotti charged over from five metres on the left in the second minute, skipper Maxime Lucu converting.

But the Blue, Black & White responded when Will Muir touched down in the left corner after a beautiful kick pass from Ben Spencer in the seventh minute. Finn Russell added the extra points via the right post.

The Top 14 outfit regained the initiative when Louis BielleBiarrey scored from six metres in the left corner following a pass by Pablo Uberti in the 15th minute, Lucu successful from the tee.

But Bath hit back again, Muir shrugging off a challenge from Lucu and touching down in the left corner in the 27th minute after receiving the ball from Henry Arundell 22 metres out.

AVON completed their centenary season’s matches with a narrow defeat, going down 19-14 at Keynsham 2nd XV on Saturday 2nd May. The men from Hicks Field earned a losing bonus point from the Counties 2 Tribute Ale Somerset encounter and finished seventh in the 11-team division.

Keynsham fielded a strengthened side for the match at Crown Fields. But the visitors failed to take advantage of some early territorial dominance and were made to pay as Keynsham broke away to score a converted try.

Two excellent tackles from Arnie Jarvis prevented further scores – and he also threatened in attack with his pace and mazy running, deservedly collecting the manof-the-match award.

With the Avon pack dominating the set scrums and setting up several powerful driving mauls, the guests were eventually rewarded. A massive scrum surge allowed Dave Attwood to control the ball at number 8 before touching down the pushover try.

Matt Thresher converted to level the scores.

Keynsham should have taken the lead just before half-time. They worked the ball wide but their winger dropped the ball in the act of touching down.

However, the town side made no mistake immediately after the interval with their second try to take a 12-7 lead.

As the play continued to fluctuate from end to end, Avon threatened through Zak Harwood and Stu Dilloway in midfield. And the travellers’ solid scrum continued to crank up the pressure.

Reporter

Reporter

Bath Rugby will be looking to put their Investec Champions Cup disappointment behind them when they face Exeter Chiefs here at Sandy Park in the Gallagher PREM on Sunday 10th May | Photo © Richard Briggs

Russell’s conversion attempt went wide of the right post.

Another Bordeaux try arrived in the 35th minute, Lucu scoring from short range under the posts and then booting the two points.

And the France scrum-half increased the advantage to 24-12 when he kicked a penalty from 10 metres out in front of the posts just before half-time.

However, Louie Hennessey jinked past two defenders to touch down from five metres on the right in the 51st minute and Russell converted to leave Bath only five points behind.

But with Charlie Ewels in the sin bin, Bordeaux responded in the 69th minute when Ben Tameifuna forced his way over from close range under the posts, Lucu converting to make the score 31-19.

And the hosts scored again in the 77th minute, Temo Matiu going over on the left after snapping up

the loose ball. Once more Lucu majored.

The last word went to Bath, Tom Carr-Smith scoring on the left – when he seized on the loose ball, dribbled and touched down – and Russell converting.

In the final – to be played at the San Mamés Stadium in Bilbao, Spain, on Saturday 23rd May – Bordeaux will take on Leinster Rugby.

Bath will now turn back their focus to the Gallagher PREM. They will visit Exeter Chiefs in Round 15 on Sunday 10th May (3.30pm).

The Blue, Black & White are second in the table – and Exeter are nine points behind in fourth spot, the last of the play-off places, with Bristol Bears just one point adrift.

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As the ball squirted out from a defensive home scrum, Ben Hurd harried the opposition and seized possession before charging over the line for his 13th touchdown of the season, leaving him top of Avon’s try-scoring charts.

Thresher added the extras to give Avon a 14-12 lead.

Avon spurned two wide opportunities and, although their pack earned several more penalties at the set pieces, they did not take advantage of the subsequent attacking line-outs to add more points to their tally.

Eventually Keynsham settled the match with a converted try from another well-supported counter attack.

An Avon spokesman said: “It was a good match for the season finale with a great deal of flowing, endto-end rugby from both teams until the heavy rain towards the end made handling the greasy ball more difficult.

“After the match, two additional popular awards were handed out to some unsung heroes who have helped out throughout the season – veteran Damien Sawyer in the backs and stalwart prop Chris Mutlow who clocked up his 495th 1st XV appearance.”

On Saturday 9th May, more than 240 people will attend Avon’s centenary dinner dance at the Apex City of Bath Hotel to bring to an end the club’s celebrations.

Bath Ladies United, champions of Women’s NC 1 South West (East), completed their outstanding season by winning 17-14 at Ellingham & Ringwood Ladies on Sunday 3rd May. The result in Hampshire meant they were victorious in 15 of their 16 league fixtures, their only defeat being a 17-12 setback at home to Ellingham & Ringwood in October.

COLUMN | Ben Hicks, Clerk of the Course - Bath Racecourse Photo © Johnny Hathaway

I

T'S certainly been a busy and intense period here at Bath Racecourse, with the season now in full flow and plenty of racedays to keep everyone focused on.

The recent run of fixtures has provided a real test for the team – but it’s been rewarding to see things come together so well on racedays.

Our additional fixture, transferred from Brighton Racecourse, took place on Wednesday 29th April, just two days after racing on Monday 27th April.

It made for a quick turnaround but both meetings were staged on fast ground and produced some excellent racing.

The conditions allowed for some notably quick times – and there

were competitive finishes across both cards, which the crowd gave plenty of cheers for.

The track itself was at full width for both days, and we were able to take advantage of a five-yard strip of fresh ground on the inside line of the home straight.

This is something we had deliberately saved earlier in the season, anticipating these quicker conditions, and it proved to be the right decision.

It allowed us to maintain a highquality racing surface across both days despite the dry spell, and we had good feedback from jockeys and trainers on this.

There was an expected but welcomed shift in the weather as we approached our most recent fixture, on Monday 4th May,

which was our Family Fun Day. After a prolonged period of dry conditions, we received 16mm of rainfall across Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd May. This was a welcome change and left us with good ground on the morning of racing, and increased the moisture levels by 20%.

The day itself began with thick fog and a damp feel in the air early on.

However, as the day progressed, the weather improved nicely.

The fog lifted, the skies brightened, and by the time gates opened we were able to welcome many families to the racecourse in much more pleasant conditions.

It was fantastic to see so many people enjoying the day, with plenty of entertainment on offer alongside the racing.

Looking ahead, there is no let-up in the schedule, with a two-day fixture fast approaching on Tuesday 12th and Wednesday 13th May, the first day being a transferred Chepstow fixture and the latter being an evening meeting.

The forecast in the lead-up suggests a more unsettled spell of weather, so there’s every chance we could see conditions on the easier side by the time we get to Tuesday.

From a grounds perspective, the anticipated rain will allow us to apply another wetting agent to the track, helping to retain moisture as we move into what will likely be a much more drying

spell of weather in June/July.

Utilising any rainfall is very important in line with remedial works at the track, and we try to do this to maximise the benefit in the long term.

We’ll also be welcoming support from the team at Chepstow Racecourse, who’ll be joining us to assist with track set-up across the two days.

It’s always valuable to have that collaboration between courses, and I’m sure it’ll help ensure everything runs smoothly.

All in all, it remains very much all systems go at Bath, and we look forward to delivering another two enjoyable and successful race meetings next week.

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Avon beaten in final, Bath centre Harris thrilled by switch Bath Ladies United win ‘back home’ to Newcastle Richard Briggs Reporter

ODD Down Development won the Bryan Wells Charity Cup when they overcame highergrade Wells City A in the final.

The Down, from Trophies of Radstock Mid Somerset League Division One, emerged 1-0 victors over City, who are from the Premier Division.

However, the sides will be in the same section next season as Odd Down secured the Division One championship just three days before the Friday 1st May showpiece at Shepton Mallet’s West Shepton Playing Fields ground. The decider was a second-half own goal by the Wells keeper.

Captain Tyrone Mulholland was the Devs’ man of the match.

Odd Down followed up their Charity Cup triumph by romping to a 4-1 success against fourthplaced Chew Magna Reserves in a league game at the Lew Hill Memorial Ground on Tuesday 5th May. Kevin Boadi, Edwin

Mazhindu, Mulholland and Abdoulaye Ndiaye notched the home side’s goals.

There is still plenty more action to come for the Devs, starting with a league fixture at home to Pilton United tonight, Thursday 7th May (6.30pm).

The Down will entertain Mid Somerset Premier Division team Westfield Reserves in the Dimmock Green Cup semi-finals on Saturday 9th May (2pm).

The prize for victory is a clash with Wells City A or the Premier Division’s new champions Coleford Athletic, whose last-four encounter will take place tonight.

Radstock Town’s Southfields headquarters will be the venue for the Dimmock Green Cup final.

Pensford are set to visit the Lew Hill Memorial Ground in the league on Tuesday 12th May (6.45pm).

And Odd Down will take on Taunton & District League outfit Racehorse Rovers at Bowdens Park, Cheddar, on Friday 15th May (7.30pm) in the Somerset Intermediate Cup final.

Richard Briggs Reporter

CENTRE Chris Harris will leave Bath Rugby at the end of the season – to rejoin Newcastle Red Bulls. And he is relishing his return to the club where he made his professional breakthrough.

The 35-year-old, a former British & Irish Lion, turned out for Carlisle, Northumbria University and Tynedale before making his Newcastle debut in 2014.

Of his impending switch to the North East, Harris – who arrived at The Rec from Gloucester Rugby last summer – said: “I’m looking forward to returning to where it all started, helping to galvanise this new group of exciting players as we build for the future.

“Newcastle is home to me, and I owe so much to this club.

“I can’t wait to bring my experience, on and off the field, and pull on the shirt once again.

“There’s a clear vision at Newcastle Red Bulls, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to be

part of this new chapter for the club.”

Neil McIlroy, the Red Bulls’ sporting general manager, said: “Chris is a top player who has proven himself at the elite end of the international and club game over many years.

“He will add real steel and experience to a key area in our midfield, and almost equally importantly will help develop the wealth of young talent we have within our ranks.

“Not only that, but he is from our area and cares passionately about our stated aim of getting Newcastle back to the top table of domestic and European rugby.”

A statement from the Blue, Black & White on Tuesday 5th May said: “Bath Rugby can confirm the departure of Chris Harris at the conclusion of the 2025-26 season.

The centre joined the Bath set-up in the summer of 2025 and has delivered a stellar performance in Blue, Black & White, quickly becoming a valuable option in the midfield.

“He made his debut in Bath colours against Harlequins

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in Round 1 of this season’s Gallagher PREM. “With Scotland caps and a British & Irish Lions tour to his name, Harris adds 14 Bath Rugby appearances to his alreadyimpressive resumé.

“Harris returns to the North East of England to join the Newcastle Red Bulls, where he began his Gallagher PREM career.

“The club would like to thank Chris for all he has given to the Blue, Black & White.”

Meanwhile, five University of Bath students were in the starting XV as England Students beat France Universities last weekend.

Max Pearce, Austin Emens, Will Roue, Alfie Griffin – who are all with Bath Rugby – and Iwan Coyle featured in the 55-42 victory.

Hooker Pearce captained England and led by example by scoring a try early in each half, both touchdowns coming from rolling mauls.

Winger Emens bagged a try just before the interval as England rallied from 28-12 down to lead 36-28 at the end of an outstanding first half.

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T20 disappointment for Shootout agony for City Lansdown 1st XI Women in league final Richard Briggs Reporter

LANSDOWN 1st XI suffered disappointment in their West of England Premier League Twenty20 Prem Group 4 (Round 1) double header at Combe Park on Sunday 3rd May. The hosts were pipped by three runs by Old Bristolians Westbury 1st XI in their opener, having been restricted to 94-9 off their 20 overs.

However, Lansdown seemed to have the upper hand when the visitors crashed to 30-5 after electing to bat.

But Jino Jojo stood firm. He smashed 44 off 32 deliveries, his knock including a six and half-adozen boundaries.

The hosts presented Old Bristolians Westbury with 27 extras – and that proved key in the final analysis, the visitors all out for 97 in 16.1 overs.

Josh Smith (3-13 off four overs) and Tommy Henly (3-18 from three overs) were the most successful Lansdown bowlers.

Only Praneel Choughule offered serious resistance in the response, Lansdown having tumbled to 16-3. Batting at number five, Choughule hit a six and seven fours in his 46-ball 48.

Dan Veal (14 not out) was the only other home batter to get into double figures, Vedanta Gadia taking 3-18 in four overs for the old boys.

Lansdown conceded their second match of the day, to Weston-super-Mare 1st XI, after being 17-2 from 3.3 overs.

The seasiders went into that fixture having thumped Old Bristolians Westbury by 180 runs.

Lansdown finished bottom of Group 4.

Rain caused the abandonment of all three of the Lansdown club’s league matches on Saturday 2nd May. Lansdown 1st XI opted to field at Weston 1st XI in West of England Premier League Premier 2 Bristol/Somerset but were given a tough time as the hosts clocked up 282-9 in 50 overs.

The game started very well for the Bath outfit, as Smith bowled Adam Sylvester for a duck to leave the seasiders 10-1.

However, opener Steven Snell and number three Cameron Melly piled on 99 for the second wicket in 14.2 overs to turn the tide.

Melly was the man to go, caught off Matthew Thomas for 54 – with nine boundaries – from 47 balls.

Snell finally fell for 106, having added 95 for the third wicket with captain Ranitha Liyanarachchi (63).

Snell, who was bowled by Choughule, faced 109 deliveries and hit three sixes and 13 fours.

Nobody else scored more than 16, although there were 18 extras.

Sam Pearce was the leading wicket-taker, snapping up 3-43 off 10 overs.

No play was possible in the Lansdown innings, Weston earning 11 points and the visitors bagging 10.

Lansdown 2nd XI were asked to field by Bristol 3rd XI at Combe Park in Bristol & District Cricket Association Division One – but the match was beaten by the weather after the guests were shot out for 182 in 40 overs.

Extras (30) top-scored for Bristol, who crashed from 63-1 to 87-5.

Sam Bowery snared 3-16 off eight overs – and Alex Bindloss picked up 1-10 in eight miserly overs.

Both sides went away with 10 points.

Bath City Women’s Abby Gray – here in action against Corsham Town on Sunday 12th April | Photo © Simon Howe

Richard Briggs Reporter

BATH City suffered penalty shootout agony as they looked to win the Somerset Women’s Junior Cup for the second season running.

The Romans, from Shield Services Group South West Regional Women’s League Division One North, were beaten 4-3 on spotkicks last night, Thursday 30th April, after the final against Weston-super-Mare was tied at 1-1 following 90 minutes’ play.

The result gave the Seagulls – who are members of South West Regional Women’s League Division One South – revenge for their 2-1 defeat by Bath in last year’s final.

Erin Duffy came close to handing the Romans the lead in last night’s showpiece at the Poplar Insulation Stadium, home of Brislington FC, only to be denied by a fine save at the expense of a corner by Weston keeper Jayde Holcombe. Adella Clarke headed in from the flag-kick, but the ‘goal’ was disallowed.

However, Beth Edwards did

break the deadlock before the interval, firing City in front from close range in the 41st minute.

Weston equalised in the 59th minute, Rosie Williams breaking away and drilling the ball past Bath custodian Lucy Clay.

Abby Gray almost ensured a repeat of last term’s scoreline, heading just wide in the closing stages.

But the match went to penalties – and Weston led 4-3 after the first eight kicks, Duffy, Mils Bellotti and Clodagh Moran scoring for City but Jess Evans having her effort stopped by Holcombe.

The Seagulls’ Libby Slater then blazed the ball over the bar, meaning Bath were still in with a chance.

Nell Bloomfield needed to score to force the shootout into sudden death – but she hammered the ball over the bar.

City will return to league action on Sunday 3rd May when they take on Stockwood Wanderers at the Cannon Clarke Stadium @ Twerton Park (2pm).

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