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THE WEEK IN East Bristol & North East Somerset

9th November 2022

Issue 755

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‘Are you trying to kill Keynsham?’ There has been a furious response to Bath & North East

Keynsham High Street Heritage Action Zone (HS

Somerset Council’s proposed “big improvements” for

HAZ) programme which aim to make the Temple

Temple Street in Keynsham.

Street area more “vibrant”. The project is led by

Last week we reported on the works coming up as part of the

B&NES Council’s Renewal Team, funded by Historic England, with match funding from the council and Keynsham Town Council. But this week Chris Oliver, who runs Keynsham Hardware, said that the team behind the scheme “do not know or care how Temple Street works” and he branded the consultation that was held as “a sham”. He said: “The 'Kill Keynsham Completely' campaign continues in November with planters, cycle parking and seating on the Riverside side of Temple Street. Then, in January the 'hard Chris Oliver

landscaping' on the other side of the street begins. They say ‘access to businesses will be retained’. It

Temple Street

may be maintained during the works, which I doubt, but despite

18 months ago after successful lobbying of local councillors.

many businesses telling HS HAZ not to take the parking away,

He said the move had kept his business going.

that is exactly what they are going to do.

He said that those affected by the proposed removal of parking

“The reduction will be from 20-odd spaces to eight, plus the

spaces would be customers, especially those with limited

two existing disabled bays, exactly what they proposed before

mobility, visiting local shops and businesses, including

the 'consultation'. They have not listened to us or amended their

tradespeople quickly running into his shop for the job they are

plans significantly at all. They are going to put planters in

on. Also hit will be carriers and lorries trying to make deliveries

between the parking spaces, just like the disabled access group

to Temple Street as the loading bay is going to be outside St

advised them not to do on the High Street.

Keyna Court; and taxi firms picking up “old and vulnerable”

“They are going to 'support' Keynsham town centre with a

residents at the Riverside block.

‘shop local’ campaign whilst taking away facilities that

Mr Oliver said he had discussed the plans with nearly every

encourage people to shop here.”

one of his customers: “They include cyclists, pedestrians and

Mr Oliver managed to get more parking in Temple Street just

people who parked outside. No one was in favour.” In a message aimed at B&NES Council, he said: “You would

Continued on page 2

Also in this week’s issue

Fight to save Stockwood’s post office . . . page 2

Setback for campaigners fighting River Avon sewage pollution . . . page 5

Urgent protection for trees on land in Warmley prior to auction . . . page 6

Wellsway School in Keynsham mourns founding teacher . . . page 8

‘Are you trying to kill Keynsham?’ Continued from page 1 have thought the issues with the High Street scheme would have taught you a lesson but no, you carry on regardless with your grand 'greening' scheme whilst swathes of Green Belt are built on. Presumably we will be told to familiarise ourselves with the lack of parking, plethora of planters and 'spill-out' seating outside The Trout?” Another Temple Street trader, Debbie French, from bra fitting shop Perfect Fit, said: “I am very concerned about the loss of

our parking, I was told that they were going to listen to the

shop/office quickly and making life difficult.

traders but sorry to say they have not.

“We did not as an Access group attend a consultation, we were

“It is extremely hard on traders at the moment with all the taxes

not invited as a group, but made our individual comments,

and bills going up, the least they could have done is given us

pointing out the obstructions for those with mobility issues, just

the parking. We are going to have to put up with all the

the same as Chris Oliver did.”

construction work which will be starting very soon and going

Keynsham councillor Alan Hale, who has been a fierce critic

on for some time. You only have to look at the main High Street

of the High Street changes, told us this week “Both Cllr Brian

to see what problems and chaos it has caused and still ongoing.

Simmons and I have constantly made the point that whatever

“Now it is Temple Street’s time, which I am not looking

happens in Temple Street, there should certainly be no

forward to, as it is yet again going to cause chaos for all the

reduction in the available on-street parking on the west side of

traders and our customers.”

the street. This is a position that I am sure we will continue to

Susan Charles, from disability campaign group Access

hold and promote.”

B&NES, said she was “furious” about the Temple Street

Higher car parking charges in Keynsham, see page 4

proposals and accused B&NES Council of “killing small shopping areas”. In Issue 741 (3rd August) we highlighted that her group had flagged up problems with the design and safety problems with the proposed Keynsham High Street refurbishment prior to the work starting, but had been ignored. Their concerns included the stepped kerb between the cycle lane and the road, where dozens of people have tripped or fallen, with some sustaining serious injuries. The equality group had also been concerned about the difficulties that people who are mobility challenged would have in crossing the road with the different levels, and Susan Charles in Keynsham High Street earelier this year

the hazard of planters. This week Susan Charles said of Temple Street: “This council

Plans for 7 homes An application to change the use of Redwood House on Bristol Road in Keynsham from offices into seven homes has been submitted to Bath & North East Somerset Council. The prior approval application for the three-storey Victorian building is for the creation of three twobedroom and four one-bedroom units. There are no external alterations planned to the outside of the building. The site has parking for 13 cars. The planning reference is 22/04303/CDCOU.

are taking away parking areas where people could pop into a

The Week in • Wednesday 9th November 2022

Fight to save Stockwood’s ‘crucial’ post office A fight is under way to try to save Stockwood’s post office which is under threat of closure. The move follows an announcement by Morrisons that five of its convenience stores in the Bristol area which operate under the McColl’s brand are to close as part of a nationwide restructuring plan. Premises which host, share or provide Post Office services, such as the one at Hollway Road in Stockwood, will only remain open until after the busy Christmas trading period. Now local councillors Graham Morris and Jonathan Hucker are lobbying the city council, Post Office and alternative retailers in an effort to ensure that Stockwood residents are not left without easy access to essential community facilities. Cllr Morris said: “The post office in the main shopping precinct adjoining McColl’s provides many residents, particularly the older members of our community, with essential services. “It is a massive setback to our High Street as businesses try to win back custom lost during the pandemic. Having also secured circa. £150,000 to improve the look and range of activities at Stockwood shops from Bristol City Council, all that work could be undone by the closure of a much-loved and well-used post office.” He added: “There is no bank in Stockwood so this is the last option to deposit and withdraw money from savings accounts, to deposit cheques as well as the other Post Office facilities such as post and parcels. It feels unfair on the staff and also the community which has a large elderly population and the worst bus service in Bristol.” He said that the McColl’s store had been underinvested for

many years: “We hoped a resurgence would come with the change over from McColl’s to Morrisons but Morrisons have made the decision to close the store.” Cllr Hucker said: “We have already contacted the council, the Post Office, Morrisons and other retailers to see if we can find a way forward. It is vital that in the last resort, the local authority takes action to support our part of the city and helps us to find a way of retaining this crucial post office.” A Post Office spokesperson told The Week In: “We regret to confirm that Morrisons have taken the difficult decision to close some McColl’s stores that hosted post offices, due to the unprofitability of the retail in that store, not helped by the difficult high street conditions facing retailers. “Morrisons have confirmed that they will keep Stockwood Post Office open throughout the Christmas period and that it will close in the New Year. We will undertake an assessment of the local area and will be working closely with nearby postmasters to support them with the likely increase in footfall for both their post office and their own retail services and will review requirements for the local community. “There are three nearby alternative post offices that customers can use in the New Year, Knowle and Knowle Park, with Knowle Park open 6am to 10pm Monday to Saturday and 7am to 10pm on Sundays. Loxton Square is a bit closer to

Stockwood and is open 9am to 3pm Monday to Friday.” The other McColl’s stores closing in the Bristol area are Bedminster, Cribbs Causeway, Stapleton and Portishead.

Councillors’ shot across the bows to new owner of car park The 45-space Harden Road car park behind Stockwood’s local centre recently sold at auction for £64,000 and local councillors have this week warned the new owner that any attempt to build housing on it will be opposed. The potential value of the land changed when planning permission was granted in 2012 for four detached houses. However, that permission lapsed. The most recent development attempt for four detached houses was refused

in 2019. At the time the council said that the proposed houses did not meet minimum internal space standards and that the applicant had failed to provide information to show that the homes would not be unduly affected by noise and disturbance. The developer had also failed to provide enough evidence to show that the scheme would not harm the viability of the Stockwood local centre and that the loss of parking would not have a detrimental impact. Local councillors say they have tried to get Bristol City Council to purchase the land. Cllr Graham Morris told us this week: “We are not aware of who the buyer is or their intention. We would be happy to meet with them but we would be very unlikely to support plans to build residential properties as the car park is needed to support the shops and the local economy. “There are other issues regarding right of access to the car park written in some leases, public rights of way across the land and a restrictive covenant in place. What we need is a

Cllr Graham Morris, left, & Cllr Jonathan Hucker

joined-up strategy to enhance the shops and local economy as we look to create a local village where facilities are available.”

The Week in • Wednesday 9th November 2022

Cost of parking in Keynsham rises Bath & North East Somerset Council was due to bring in changes to off-street parking yesterday (Tuesday) including a price hike of as much as 50% in Keynsham. As well as charging people more to use Keynsham’s short-stay and long-stay car parks, the changes also include new seasonal parking charges at The Shallows car park in Saltford. The council has also raised car parking charges in Bath and increased season ticket charges, as well as introduced a new tariff for electric vehicle charging in longstay car parks. Other changes include new charges for parking at the three Park & Ride car parks for those not using the service (£1 for three hours and £2 for up to 24 hours) and the removal of the 10% residents’ parking saver discount in car parks. The council, which consulted on the changes,

has stressed that this is only the second round of increases in 12 years. In Keynsham’s short-stay car parks: • Parking in Ashton Way has gone up from 40p to 60p for two hours and from 90p for four hours to £1.20. • Parking at Ashton Way East rises from 40p to 60p for two hours, from 60p to 90p for three hours and from 90p to £1.20 for four hours. • The Civic Centre car park charges rise from 40p for two hours to 60p and from 60p for three hours to 90p. Keynsham’s long-stay car parks - Bath Hill East, Fox and Hounds, Station Road and The Labbott South – were all 40p for two hours, 90p for four hours, £1.60 for eight hours and £2.10 for 10 hours. They are now 60p for two hours, £1.20 for four hours, £2.40 for eight hours and £3 for 10 hours. Meanwhile at The Shallows car park in

THE WEEK IN Barrs Court, Bitton, Brislington, Cadbury Heath, Compton Dando, Corston, Downend, Emersons Green, Fishponds, Hanham, Hillfields, Keynsham, Kingswood, Longwell Green, Mangotsfield, Marksbury, North Common, Oldland Common, Pucklechurch, Saltford, Staple Hill, Stockwood, St George, Warmley, Whitchurch, Wick, Willsbridge. 16,000 copies are distributed through retail outlets, libraries, pubs, community centres each week. Verified pick-up rate of 97%.

Saltford, charges will apply from 1st April to 30th September (30p for one hour, 60p for two and 90p for three) but parking is free from 1st October to 31st March. A free stay

from October to March still requires a free activation via MiPermit. Parking applies from 8am to 8pm all year with a no return period of four hours.

One of Keynsham’s car parks where charges have gone up this week

Crews tackle chimney fire Crews from Paulton fire station were called out to tackle a chimney fire at a property in Priston Lane, Farmborough last Wednesday afternoon. The cause is thought to be accidental.

£895 5

The Week In Community Ltd, 8 Temple Court, Keynsham. BS31 1HA 0117 986 0381. www.theweekin.co.uk ISSN: 2052-9767 Publisher Editor Contributors

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The Week in • Wednesday 9th November 2022

Setback for clean river campaigners Campaigners have suffered a setback in their fight to tackle sewage pollution in the River Avon after failing to win the support of Bristol’s Mayor Marvin Rees. Last month city councillors debated Conham Bathing Water Group’s 5,200-name petition asking for support for their campaign to get designated bathing water status at Conham River Park and Eastwood Farm Nature Reserve, a bathing spot enjoyed by locals for generations which is also very popular for paddleboarding, kayaking and boating. A byelaw actually prohibits swimming in Bristol’s harbour, including the stretch of river at Conham River Park, despite it being some distance away. The campaigners have been pressing the council to amend the byelaw. They won cross-party support from councillors at a meeting last month and hoped the mayor would be in favour too. A key strategic goal of the council within the council’s ecological emergency strategy is that all Bristol’s waterways have water quality that supports healthy wildlife by 2030. In his response last week Marvin Rees said: “I appreciate the significant amount of work the Conham Bathing group have done and thank them for the way they have engaged with key stakeholders, namely Wessex Water. We support this collaboration and will work with any party interested in reducing pollution in the River Avon.” But he said that to allow swimming, the city’s harbour master would have to give his express consent and, without investing

The Week in • Wednesday 9th November 2022

in significant safety measures, the council would find itself liable should anyone come to harm: “Swimming in open water can present risks including cold water shock, boat strike, hazardous objects under the water, strong currents, and illness and infection. This is why many open water areas in Bristol have byelaws which prohibit swimming. “We have been asked to review and remove the 2009 byelaws that prohibit swimming. This cannot be done in isolation, however the legislation relating to our harbour estate will be reviewed in the next couple of years and I have asked that this be considered as part of that process. “We have therefore listened to people’s requests for a safe swimming space in the harbour and are actively working to make this request a reality with a view to piloting something next year. We have the Conham Bathing group on a list of key stakeholders to keep close to this work and would appreciate their input and support to make open water swimming in Bristol a reality.” Becca Blease, from Conham Bathing, said: “Our urgent call to address sewage pollution and lift the swimming ban in this stretch of the Avon has been kicked into the long grass. The mayor’s response not only ignores the 5,200+ Bristolians who signed, but also the city councillors - from every party who supported us in the debate.” Meanwhile the campaigners continue to flag up alerts from Wessex Water about untreated sewage being discharged into the River Avon. Between 2nd and 5th November there were

Pic credit: Conham Bathing

almost 95 hours of discharging into the river at Keynsham and Saltford via combined sewer overflows.

Urgent protection put on trees as land comes up for auction They say there is “feasible scope” for residential developments subject to consents. The online auction is on Wednesday 23rd November. The lot has a guide price of £50,000. The two strips of land are either side of the Winfield Road junction with the A420. Although planning consent has not been sought, the vendors have a proposed block plan for a detached house on each site and Hollis Morgan point out that a similar development situated almost opposite at Goldney Avenue was approved. However, locals say the Winfield Road side of the A420 is Green Belt and campaigners have put a ‘Save Our Green Belt’ notice on one of the trees. After they raised concerns, Trees on one of the strips of land next to the A420 the council issued the Tree

South Gloucestershire Council has put a provisional preservation order on two trees on land at Warmley which is coming up for auction with the suggestion that it could be a development opportunity. Hollis Morgan Auctions say the two freehold parcels of land at Winfield Road that are being sold as one lot are “potential building plots”.

The strip on the other side of the Winfield Road junction

Preservation Order (TPO) on a silver birch and a maple which both stand on one of the plots. It is understood that the land was part of the original Winfield Road development, having been retained by the developer, although it has been maintained by South Gloucestershire Council. Land Registry records show that the owner lives in St

Austell in Cornwall. This week a council spokesperson told us: “We introduced a provisional Tree Preservation Order (TPO) in October to protect these trees and safeguard them for the benefit of the local community. The TPO will remain in place on a provisional basis for six months while consideration is given around whether to make the order permanent.”

Distinctive part of Saltford skyline will be protected A temporary Tree Preservation Order (TPO) that was brought in to protect threatened woodland in Saltford in the summer has been made permanent. In Issue 745 we reported that a developer had felled some mature trees at the site, which forms a distinctive part of Saltford’s skyline, sitting between the A4 Bath Road, The Folly and Uplands Road. At the time Bath & North East Somerset Council said: “The selling of the woodland and recent activities has resulted in requests for the woodland to be considered for protected. The order came into force, on a temporary basis, on 10th August and will remain in force for six months. During this time the council will

decide whether the order should be given permanent status.” The council’s senior arboricultural officer has now told Saltford Environment Group (SEG) that following the statutory consultation, the order has been confirmed without any modifications.

Concert at church Singers and instrumentalists The Magpies will present ‘Roosting with the Magpies’ at St Mary’s Church in Bitton, on Saturday 26th November at 2pm. There will be tea and cakes. Entrance is free with donations to church funds and the Children’s Hospice South West.

The Week in • Wednesday 9th November 2022

1,000 children take part in Hanham High Street’s Halloween trail Around 1,000 children took part in Hanham High Street’s Halloween Trail, bringing a welcome boost to traders. Every child received a ‘Monster Map’ and set out on a journey around the High Street to find Halloween characters in shop windows.

The event was organised by Nicola Bartlett, who runs Eclectic Gift Shop. She said: “After completing their map, I wrote out a certificate for each child and they received a goodie bag of treats including colouring-in sheets, stickers and sweets.

Hanham salon shortlisted for national award The GlamSquad salon in Hanham has been shortlisted for a national award. The salon, which has been on the High Street for five years, will be representing Bristol in the Best Salon Team category at the UK Hair and Beauty Awards 2023. Salon owner Bex Collier said: “We are a team of specialists, a combination of employed and self-employed, who genuinely love what we do. “I think we have been shortlisted because of the atmosphere we have created in our salon. It’s a welcoming space, a no judgments zone. The best compliment we get from our clients is that they come for the experience and the new lashes or hair etc. is just an extra.

“The trail was far busier than I anticipated, with numbers exceeding pre-pandemic levels, showing that people are keen to get out and about and explore their High Street. “It gave a boost to the local economy as those taking part also supported businesses on the High Street, with many stopping to enjoy something to eat or drink along the way, while others started their Christmas shopping.”

Royal representative attends club’s meeting Some of the team, from left, Ellie, Grace, Bex, Bella, Nicole & Mianna

“We are keeping everything crossed to take home the win but we are so flattered to even be shortlisted.” The GlamSquad team are Bex, Grace, Leanne, Nicole, Mianna, Alex, Steph, Ellie, Jen, Bella, Hollie and Jess. The awards ceremony will be held in Birmingham in April.

The Week in • Wednesday 9th November 2022

The Keynsham and Saltford Probus Club were honoured when a representative of King Charles attended their October lunch meeting. Neil Dowdney is a Deputy Lieutenant of Somerset and spoke to the meeting about the duties of the Somerset Lieutenancy. He highlighted the voluntary nature of the organisation, their royal duties, and their aim of promoting a spirit of co-operation between business, social and benevolent organisations in the county.

Pictured are Keynsham and Saltford Probus Club president Chris Primrose, left, and Neil Dowdney.

LETTERS Putting the world to rights

But for many years I was employed as a

leaves completing their annual cycle descend

A combination of global unrest, financial

Dear Editor

senior housing officer. This job involved

in a kaleidoscope of colour. Seasonal

chaos, climate change and the pace of modern

During the COVID-19 pandemic, and present

working long hours and was sometimes

stalwarts like pansies, violas and hellebores

life is causing mounting social tension. If

cost of living crisis, a regular topic for

stressful. At the end of a long day, it was a

are a godsend in winter months which lack

world society as a whole got more involved

discussion has been about how gardening can

relief to spend times in my modest garden

the multiple range of summer’s spectacular

with

play a huge part in keeping mental health

winding down.

floral displays.

narrative, it could prove the catalyst which

issues at bay. I agree.

I liken gardening to the repertoire of a

My rear garden resembles a mini arboretum,

helps heal our troubled planet.

Gardening has been my great passion since I

beautiful score of music. Gardening has

full of small trees, shrubs and topiaried

Philip Gannaway

was a child. It has helped to mitigate painful

seasons which climax in summer with a

conifers. The different shapes and shades of

episodes spanning my life. I am now retired.

flourishing explosion of colour. Music has

green can be quite pleasing looking through

rhythm and tempo which is also joyous and

the window when it’s too cold and dull to

helps relieve tension.

venture outside.

Bloom award for Magpie Bottom Nature Reserve

The gardening calendar starts with spring

Even if you don’t have a garden, you can still

Dear Editor

snowdrops peeping through, followed by

enjoy this delightful activity by using plant

Magpie Bottom Nature Reserve near Hanham

daffodils and tulips, etc. providing great

pots, hanging baskets and window boxes.

has just been given a ‘Thriving’ award in the

pleasure. It reaches a crescendo in summer

Gardening indoors is also a popular pastime

In Your Neighbourhood section of the Royal

with rose bushes bursting into bloom and

using glass terrariums and earthenware

Horticultural Society’s South West in Bloom

bedding plants adding a rich tapestry to any

containers.

competition. Through your pages we thank

border.

Becoming ‘green-fingered’ can bring huge

the volunteers and anyone who has helped us.

Autumn is a magnificent season when tree

aesthetic, physical and mental health rewards.

The Friends of Magpie Bottom

Philip’s garden

gardening

and

the

environment

Keynsham school mourns founding teacher Teacher Joan Ellison, who notched up half a century at Wellsway School in Keynsham, has died aged 86. She was the last of the five original teachers who were at Wellsway when it opened in 1956, unusually with a secondary modern and a grammar on the same site. Joan Laramy, as she was then, taught PE and games for

eight years until she left to have her family. She returned on supply in 1973 to what had become the comprehensive school and later rejoined the staff team, becoming head of special needs provision. She retired in 2001 but continued supply teaching until after her 50th anniversary. Joan regularly took part in the popular annual maths weekends in the Forest of Dean in the 1980s and 1990s and was involved with foreign exchanges and overseas trips. She was a key participant in the Wellsway School 60th celebrations in 2016. Joan lived in Keynsham throughout her married life. Her husband Fred, a retired primary headteacher, served for some years as a governor at Wellsway. Their daughter Katrina and son David both attended the school. Former colleague Richard May, now head of IT services for Futura Learning Partnership, of Staff in 1959 (Combined Keynsham Grammar School and which Wellsway is part, said: “Joan cared Wellsway County Secondary School) with Joan bottom right deeply about all the children who passed

through her care. While unashamedly ‘old school’ in her insistence on politeness, manners and standards in general, she moved with the times and was, without doubt, one of the most respected and liked members of staff throughout her time at Joan in 2016 Wellsway.” Andrea Arlidge, a former head of Wellsway and chief executive of Futura Learning Partnership, said: “Joan was a wonderful teacher who made a difference to the lives of thousands of young people in the Keynsham area. We are proud to have known her and send our condolences to her family.” Joan’s funeral is at St John’s Church, Keynsham, on Tuesday 15th November at 12.30pm.

The Week in • Wednesday 9th November 2022

Developer appeals to Secretary of State over fence From left, Derek Hooper, Lisa Hooper, Rob Morgan & Richard Allen

The Carpet Barn celebrates 30 years The Carpet Barn in Longwell Green is celebrating 30 years in business. Derek Hooper opened the business at the Old Coachworks on Bath Road on 1st October 1992 after being in the carpet trade since the age of 16. He initially worked at a shop in Bedminster before moving on to become a rep in the 1980s. He opened his first shop, Merlin Carpets in Redfield, and sold it before moving to carpet wholesaler Baker Baker in St Philips before they closed in 1991. He took on Richard Allen and Rob Morgan to help him. The business has grown and now Richard and Rob are business partners along with Derek’s daughter Lisa Hooper. Derek is enjoying retirement and leaves the running to Richard, Rob and Lisa. There are three staff members - Matt, Joe and Ant - and a team of fitters. The Carpet Barn covers Bristol, Bath and surrounding areas and offers a measuring, delivery and fitting service. Find out more at https://thecarpetbarn.co.uk/

The developer wanting to build 22 homes on Green Belt land in Wick has appealed to the Secretary of State after being ordered by South Gloucestershire Council to take down a 2.4 metre high fence. In Issue 746 we reported that Wick Land Ltd had come under fire for starting work on the site to the south of High Street/Church Road even though no decision had yet been taken by the council over the outline planning application for 14 four-bed houses along with three three-bed houses, three two-bed flats and two one-bed flats. The planning application also includes a new car park to help with the management of visitors to the nearby Golden Valley Nature Reserve. A decision is still pending. The council’s enforcement notice said that the wooden fencing, a gate and supporting structure are harmful to the

Spotlight on cost of living crisis On Carers Rights Day - Thursday 24th November – Carers Support Centre Bristol & South Gloucestershire invites people to an event to help them understand and tackle the

difficulties. The event will also give people the chance to meet other carers, mingle, share food, browse stalls and enjoy free

current cost of living crisis. It will take place at the Vassall Centre in Fishponds between 10am and 2.30pm. Carers can go along to the event and find out about where

pampering. Carers can also join the event via Zoom. Book your place – to attend in person or via Zoom - via

and how to ask for support if they run into financial

www.carerssupportcentre.org.uk/events/ or call 0117 9589902.

Fatal collision in Pensford under investigation Police are appealing for witnesses following a collision in Pensford on Friday in which a man in his 30s died. At about 1.45pm, it was reported that a white Citroen Relay flatbed truck had struck a tree in Wick Lane. Despite the

services, the driver died at the scene. If you were travelling along Wick Lane and have any dashcam footage which could help the police investigation into the collision, call 101 and give the

efforts of members of the public and the emergency

reference 5222265927.

Sudoku 1-Easy

character and appearance of the area. Development within the Green Belt is strictly limited and the council said the fencing is “inappropriate and negatively impacts the openness of the Green Belt”. The developer was given until 21st October to act unless they planned to appeal. An appeal is now under way.

SUNDAY CHEMISTS Sunday 13th November

2 -Hard

Boots, Gallagher Retail Park, Longwell Green (10.30am-4pm) Asda, Longwell Green (10am-4pm) Boots, Emersons Green Retail Park (10.30am-4.30pm) Sainsbury’s, Emersons Green Retail Park (9.30am-4.30pm) Keynsham Pharmacy, 15 Station Road, BS31 2BH (10am-4pm) Tesco, Callington Road, Brislington (10am to 4pm) Morrisons, 688-718 Fishponds Road, Fishponds (10am-4pm) Boots, Avonmeads Retail Park, St Philips Causeway (11am-5pm)

The Week in • Wednesday 9th November 2022

Learning lessons from the tragic death of Emersons Green teenager Special training that will help health and social care workers better support those with a learning disability and autistic people was launched nationally last Tuesday. The Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training on Learning Disability and Autism is named after Oliver McGowan, from Emersons Green, who died aged 18 in November 2016 at Southmead Hospital. He had been given antipsychotic medication, despite a warning from both him and his parents that it was unsuitable for him, highlighting a lack of understanding of the needs of people with a learning disability or autistic people. Oliver’s mother Paula successfully launched a campaign to make training on caring for people with a learning disability and autistic people mandatory for all health and care staff. This innovative training has been developed with expertise from people with a learning disability and autistic people, and

their families and carers. The first part is now ready to be accessed following a twoyear trial. Greater knowledge of learning disability and autism will ensure that care and support can be better tailored to suit people’s needs and is expected to lead to better interactions and outcomes and fewer incidents of inequality and avoidable deaths for people with a learning disability and autistic people when they need to receive care. The Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training has been developed in partnership with Health Education England, the Department for Health and Social Care, Skills for Care and NHS England. After getting meningitis as a baby, Oliver was left with mild hemiplegia, focal partial epilepsy, a mild learning disability and later on a diagnosis of high functioning autism. But his disabilities did not hold him back. He played for the England

Bristol’s renters asked to share their experiences People across Bristol are being given the chance to share their experiences of renting from a private landlord or letting agent. A survey is asking renters to share information which will be used to inform the work of the Living Rent Commission which is made up of representatives from across the housing sector. It is exploring the issues facing people who rent and options to tackle the city’s rent crisis, ultimately looking at how Bristol can become a living rent city, without having a negative impact on the quality or availability of rental

Crossword

Oliver McGowan

Development football squads. He was a registered athlete and ranked third best in the country for track 200 metres. He was a member of Team Bath and was being trained to become a Paralympian. Find out more about Oliver’s story at https://www.olivermcgowan.org/

property. The survey runs until Sunday (13th November). Visit https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/BristolRentersSurvey/ Over the past decade the cost of renting in the city has

Fire on common

grown by 52%, whilst wages have only increased by 24% over the same period. Current levels of inflation are far outstripping any growth in income. The spiralling costs

Crews from Kingswood fire station were called to reports of a grass fire at Rodway Common in Mangotsfield shortly after 8am last Wednesday. They found that rubbish had been deliberately set alight. In April we reported there had been four fires in just a few days on Rodway Common. Three of them were believed to have been started deliberately.

mean housing is becoming increasingly unaffordable, pushing many further away from their place of work, family, and support networks.

ACROSS

DOWN

1. Concise (8)

1. Celestial body (4)

5. Musical

2. Swear (5)

composition (4)

3. In the same place (6)

9. Put on trial (7)

4. Flexible stick (4)

10. Main artery (5)

6. Upstart (7)

11. Roman goddess (5)

7. Mariner (8)

13. Cry of discovery (6)

12. Relating to sound (5)

15. Watered silk (5)

8. Worth (5)

13. Mistake (5)

17. Flair (4)

14. Practising abstinence (8)

19. Neither (3)

16. Charged particle (3)

20. Unsullied (4)

18. Forsake (7)

21. Lesser (5)

21. Bishop's hat (5)

23. Very sad (6)

22. Revolve (6)

24. Awaken (5)

25. County (5)

28. Royal house (5)

26. Dull pain (4)

29. Goblet (7)

27. Exploit, deed (4)

30. Join (4) 31. Extremely forceful (8)

The Week in • Wednesday 9th November 2022

Metro Mayor grilled by budding politicians Metro Mayor Dan Norris found himself tackling some searching questions when he attended the 100th meeting of Keynsham’s youth council. He was invited to Keynsham Civic Centre to learn more about the work of the KeynshamNow group as part of UK Parliament Week. Mr Norris was asked tough but fair questions on what the West of England Combined Authority is doing to address challenges on the buses, the cost of living crisis, votes at 16 (and maybe a maximum voting age too!) mental health, and the work the Mayor is doing to tackle the number one issue for Keynsham youngsters right now - the climate crisis. The visit was arranged to mark UK Parliament Week (14th to 20th November), an education scheme to

increase young people’s understanding of politics. Mayor Norris is encouraging all West of England schools and youth groups to take part. He said: “I really enjoyed my opportunity to answer questions from young people from across Keynsham about what it means to be their Metro Mayor. The youth council gave me a good grilling and came up with some great ideas. We had a long discussion on the need for more bus drivers. “It just goes to show how vital it is that we get more of our young people involved in our democracy because when they do, they shine.” Find out more about UK Parliament Week at https://www.ukparliamentweek.org/en/

Creative Rowan makes his school proud Longwell Green Primary School is celebrating a pupil’s winning entry in the highly coveted international Spirited Arts competition. Year 2 pupil Rowan Pedrick was selected as one of the winners in the ‘We Have Far More in Common’ category with his artwork called ‘The Champion Earth’. The competition is run by the

National Association of Teachers of Religious Education (NATRE). Rowan received a certificate and an Amazon voucher and his work is on the NATRE website. Headteacher Darren Brown said: “Hundreds and hundreds of schools take part from around the world so you can imagine how honoured we are as a school and how proud we all are of Rowan.”

The Week in • Wednesday 9th November 2022

Rowan with his certificate

Top rating for Kingswood nursery Little Acorns Day Nursery and Pre-School in Kingswood has received Ofsted’s top rating. The inspector graded Little Acorns in New Cheltenham Road, where there are 42 children on the roll, as Outstanding. She said that children are happy and thrive, developing wonderful relationships with staff. The youngsters’ behaviour is described as “exceptional”. Her report said that staff plan an ambitious curriculum and value and respect children's opinions. All children, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) make exceptional progress. The inspector also highlighted that staff have excellent knowledge and understanding of the wider issues that may affect the safety and well-being of children.

The Community Page

Bitton Parish Council ‘Goodbye dear friend’

Roger Coales

How to contact your Parish:

Councillors were deeply saddened at the sudden

Contact Mrs Kelly Fry, Clerk to Bitton Parish

death of one of our longstanding and esteemed

Council – 01454 868102 or email

Councillors Roger Coales. Roger was a much loved

clerk@bittonparishcouncil.gov.uk

member of the Parish Council and will be a huge loss to us and all that knew him.

Community building for hire

Awards Evening We hosted our Annual Awards Evening where we invited winners from our Photography and Bitton in Bloom Competitions. We were overwhelmed again with entries this year and are thrilled that they continue to be a success. We look forward to seeing what entries 2023 brings.

Our Community Building is available to be hired for birthday parties and also has availability for weekly regular hirers. It is fully enclosed with parking and offers a fully equipped kitchen, a large hall, a smaller hall and a great outside grassed area.

Bitton in Bloom Winners

Please contact the Clerk for more information.

Best Newcomer

Best Natural/Wildlife Garden

2nd Prize: Plot 77B North Street site 1st Prize: Plot 27a North Street site

2nd Prize: 16 Fairway Close, Oldland Common 1st Prize: 72 Malvern Drive, North Common

Best Half Plots

Best Hanging Basket/Container

2nd Prize: Plot 41 North Street site 1st Prize: Plot 80B North Street site

1st Prize: 77 Keynsham Road, Bitton

Best Front Garden

Best Full Plot North Street Site

1st Prize: 1 Verwood Drive, Bitton

3rd Prize: Plot 51 2nd Prize: Plot 22 1st Prize: Plot 4

Best Rear Garden 2nd Prize: 36 Sommerville Way, Bitton 1st Prize: 5 Harrington Close, Bitton

Best Plot Redfield Hill Site Highly Commended: Plot 5

Best Large Garden

Best Small Business

3rd Prize: 15 Pullin Court, North Common 2nd Prize: Trennith, Keynsham Road 1st Prize: 77 Keynsham Road, Willsbridge

2nd Prize: Avon Valley Railway 1st Prize: Oldland Village Club

Best Large Rural Garden

Best Public House

1st Prize: The Oak House, Swineford

3rd Prize: The Hollybush 2nd Prize: The Upton Inn 1st Prize: The Lock Keeper

Photography Winners

Best School 3rd Prize: The Meadows Primary School 2nd Prize: Redfield Edge Primary School 1st Prize: St Anne’s Primary School

James Rigby Donald Ogg Emma Farr Donald Ogg Pamela Booth

1st Rural Primary 1st Urban Over 18’s 1st Rural Over 18’s 2nd Rural Over 18’s 3rd Rural Over 18’s

We also awarded a Certificate of Appreciation to Zac Cooper from Cherry Gardens School, who helped to bring the elderly together during his Summer combat to Holidays loneliness by making cakes Awards Evening

and joining them for coffee mornings.

Zac Cooper

The Week in • Wednesday 9th November 2022

Hongkongers welcomed ‘Frustration’ over ongoing delay to Lyde Green schools to South Gloucestershire The promised autumn update on the longawaited secondary school for Lyde Green is that talks are continuing. In July (Issue 739) we reported that the expected opening of the school – and another primary school to serve the 3,000home estate – had been delayed yet again, with a new anticipated opening date of September 2024. The new schools were approved in outline six years ago but it took longer than planned to secure funding. They had been due to open in September 2022 but building work has yet to even begin after a series of hold-ups including a change of location, builder and one of the sponsors.

The latest update on the council’s website says: “The council continues its engagement with the Department for Education and partners in the preconstruction process. We share the community’s frustration but remain committed to delivering the new primary and secondary schools to meet local demand for places. The process is designed to ensure that the final projects are welldesigned and that they will deliver value for money. As soon as we are able to provide an update and indicate a firm timeline to take these new school projects forward, we will provide further information.”

A welcome event has been held for the approximately 1,000 Hongkongers who have made South Gloucestershire their home over the course of the past year. More than 250 people attended to meet representatives from South Gloucestershire Council, health, police and fire services, the South Gloucestershire Chinese Association, Bristol Chinese Christian Church and

Chinese Community Wellbeing Society. The event, held at Aerospace Bristol, also included arts and crafts activities for children and a tour of the last Concorde ever to fly. In April 2021, the Government opened a route to apply for British National (Overseas) visas to live and work in the UK, following unrest in Hong Kong.

The site of the new schools

Situations Vacant

The Week in • Wednesday 9th November 2022

Sudoku Solutions 1-Easy 4 9 1 7 5 3 6 8 2

2 3 6 8 4 1 7 5 9

8 7 5 9 6 2 4 1 3

1 6 7 4 3 5 9 2 8

Crossword Solution

2-Hard 5 8 9 2 1 7 3 6 4

3 2 4 6 8 9 5 7 1

9 5 8 1 7 4 2 3 6

6 4 3 5 2 8 1 9 7

7 1 2 3 9 6 8 4 5

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