THE WEEK IN East Bristol & North East Somerset
15th March 2023
Issue 772
FREE
Read by more than 40,000 people each week
Council must be held accountable, says fall victim after compensation claim is refused One of the many people who have fallen in Keynsham High Street since the layout was changed a year ago has this week spoken out after her claim for personal injury compensation was rejected. The £1.5m High Street improvement project included widening footpaths and a contraflow cycle lane. Since then there have been numerous reports of people tripping and falling, with some needing hospital treatment for injuries including broken bones. Bath & North East Somerset Council made some changes in the early days, installing signs advising people of the new
Sue Hulbert was in a medical boot for six weeks after her fall
Also in this week’s issue
layout and painting the cycle lane red, but the falls have continued. Sue Hulbert, from North Common, had been shopping in Keynsham last November with her daughter when she fell as they were about to cross the High Street. She ended up “sprawled in front of a car” and suffered a sprained ankle. She was taken to Yate Minor Injury Unit with ligament damage and could not drive for six weeks. Mrs Hulbert contacted us last week after reading the article in Issue 770 in which Keynsham councillor Alan Hale called for immediate action to tackle the ongoing issue and said that his warning at the planning stage that the cycle lane would pose a trip hazard had been dismissed by council officers. She said: “I had a fall on Keynsham High Street due to an ‘invisible kerb’ back in November which resulted in seriously injuring my ankle requiring me to wear a medical boot for two months. I also suffered very bad bruising and cuts to my knees, hands, elbows and shoulders. I suffer from rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia so recovering from these injuries is going to be a long drawn-out process. The pain has been a constant reminder.” She reported her fall to Keynsham Town Council and then to B&NES Council, subsequently sending a personal injury claim to B&NES in January after learning that many others had also fallen, some at the same location as her near Greggs. She has since heard back from the council’s insurance
Kingswood resident slams housing association over ‘shoddy’ repairs . . . page 3
Bomb scare in Saltford . . . page 4
The part of the High Street where Sue Hulbert fell
company who said her claim had been denied because: “The design met all the relevant planning and design requirements”; “The incident occurred in the middle of the day and therefore in daylight”; and “The location of your fall was well maintained”. Mrs Hulbert said: “So this is my fault? I have met and spoken to many people who have either tripped, witnessed or heard of people falling. I am just one of many victims who have fallen and been injured. How can they not see what a hazard the design is? Something needs to be done, they are fully aware and must be held accountable.” The Week In has asked B&NES Council how many personal injury compensation claims have been received to date as a result of falls following the introduction of the new cycle lane. We have also asked how many of those claims have been settled and how many have been rejected. We have yet to receive a response so have this week lodged a Freedom of Information request in an attempt to get answers. Meanwhile Wards Solicitors are taking up victims’ claims against the council.
Fight to preserve paths across threatened land in Hanham . . . page 6
Work starts on new link road and bridge over River Avon . . . page 7
2
The Week in • Wednesday 15th March 2023
Housing association slammed over ‘shoddy’ repairs and for ignoring complaints A Kingswood resident says his complaints to Bromford about the ‘appalling’ work carried out at his home have been ignored. Martin Davies also says that emails he and his MP Chris Skidmore have sent have failed to get the housing association to respond so he asked The Week In to help.
Martin Davies
Mr Davies has lived in his flat in Bellevue Road for 33 years and took over the leasehold 18 years ago. He explained that cavity wall insulation that Bromford installed had made his property’s damp problem worse, creating thick mould, so he got in touch with them just before Christmas 2021. He was told they would sort it in February 2022 but the work had to be delayed as Bromford could not find temporary accommodation for Mr Davies and his family. It was delayed for the same reason in June but around the end of August, he was told that work would start the following week and the family were initially put up in a Travelodge. However, it took 12 weeks - three times as long as expected - so they ended up going into an Airbnb in Wick. Mr Davies, who is in the building trade himself, says some work was carried out at his home without consultation and the Skirting boards don't match or fit
workmanship was "really shoddy", including poor plastering, skirting boards that don't match or fit, while in the bathroom there are loose wall panels, the vanity unit was replaced with a pedestal, and the ceiling needs repairing. The ventilation system doesn't work as it only draws air in and the ducting is unsightly. An electric socket needs resetting. Five of the eight radiators were leaking and Bromford offered to send an emergency plumber who didn't turn up, so Mr Davies had to call one himself which he says he paid for and has not been reimbursed. He says that Bromford offered him a £300 B&Q voucher as compensation but that would be nowhere near enough to cover the cost of putting things back properly, so he turned it down. He said: “I’m appalled not just by their standards but also the fact they agreed a site meeting at my home last November but never turned up. They instead got their liaison officer to contact me through a text message which I didn’t receive until way over an hour after the arranged date and time. They have ignored all correspondence from myself and the MP.” We raised Mr Davies’s complaints with Bromford. In a statement, their associate director of localities Natalie Colfer said: “We’re sorry Mr Davies is unhappy with the quality of the work we have carried out and feels that we have ignored him. “After an in-depth investigation into the causes of the damp in the block we identified significant work to the building to remedy this, including fitting new insulation and ventilation to the flats. We agreed to pay for Mr Davies and his family to stay in a Travelodge until this was completed. Unfortunately after starting work we discovered asbestos which had to be removed and meant it took longer to complete than we originally planned. “At the same time we also carried out additional work to his home as a gesture of goodwill, including providing new skirting boards which were fitted to meet the carpet that was in place at the time, and replacing the bathroom, which would normally have been Mr Davies’s responsibility. We’re sorry that we were unable to provide a like-for-like replacement for the sink. “We are aware that Mr Davies has concerns about the quality of the work and have asked
The Week in • Wednesday 15th March 2023
The ventilation system does not work and the ducting is unsightly
The bathroom ceiling
him to get in touch with our contractor directly to resolve these issues.” Mr Davies this week denied that he had been told to contact Bromford’s contractor and said he’s not heard anything since November’s meeting was cancelled. He told The Week In: “If they wanted to put the matter right, they could pick up the phone
and call me.” He also pointed out that he had purchased the toilet and cistern for the bathroom which Bromford had fitted. • The Trustpilot website, which hosts customer reviews of businesses, has a total of 98 about Bromford and 83% rate them as just one star.
3
Bomb squad called after river find The bomb squad was called out to Saltford
Bristol and Bath Railway Path in Saltford at
last Thursday after a suspected wartime
around 10.40am following reports of a
mortar was discovered in the river.
suspected mortar being pulled from the
The area around the bridge carrying the
river.
Bristol and Bath Railway Path, next to the
"Officers initially attended the scene and a
Bird in Hand pub, was cordoned off while
cordon was put in place. The Explosive
investigations were carried out.
Ordnance Disposal Team later arrived and
An Avon & Somerset Police spokesperson
established it was a false alarm with good
said: "We were called to the river by the
intent."
Appeal after pensioner is robbed Police are appealing for witnesses, dash cam and CCTV footage after a woman in her 70s was pushed and robbed in Oldbury Court car park in Fishponds. It happened at around 9.50am on Wednesday 1st March. The offender stole the victim’s Sony Xperia mobile phone and made off in a black car along Oldbury Court Road.
The victim did not require hospital treatment but has been shaken by the events. The suspect is described as black, with a round face and short, tight curly hair. He was wearing black clothing and had a dog with him, described as a Rottweiler-cross. Anyone with information is asked to call 101 and quote reference 5223049047.
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.
Alert over car crime Police are reminding drivers to ensure they lock their vehicles and remove all property, especially cash, purses and wallets after three recent incidents in Hanham. CCTV recorded a hooded figure come onto the driveway of a home in Samuel White Road at about 2.20am on Thursday 2nd March. The person then made an unsuccessful attempt to break into the family’s vehicle. A bag left inside a car
parked on the driveway at Whittucks Road was stolen during the night of Saturday 4th March. And a man was caught on CCTV entering an unlocked vehicle in Grange Avenue at 3.30am on Wednesday 8th March. The offender stole a few pounds in loose change. If you have any information about any of these incidents call the police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
16,000 copies are distributed through retail outlets, libraries, pubs, community centres each week. Verified pick-up rate of 97%.
The Week In Community Ltd, 8 Temple Court, Keynsham. BS31 1HA 0117 986 0381. www.theweekin.co.uk ISSN: 2052-9767 Publisher Editor Contributors
Stephen Rodgers admin@theweekin.co.uk Becky Feather 07403 273967 Christine Rogers
Advertising
Tracy Broderick 0117 986 0381 sales.theweekin@gmail.com @theweekineditor the_week_in_news
No material in this publication, nor its associated website (www.theweekin.co.uk) may be reproduced without the written permission of The Week In. All rights reserved. The Week In is regulated by IMPRESS: The Independent Monitor for the Press CIC. As such, we adhere to the IMPRESS complaints procedure. A copy of this procedure can be found on our website or can be sent upon written request to the address above.
4
The Week in • Wednesday 15th March 2023
Petition launched to make streets near Ring Road junction safer A retired police officer has started a petition to improve
neighbourhood page and Mr Wakerley says there appears to
Cock Road, where a motorcyclist was seriously injured in a
road safety at Cock Road and at its junction with
be good support for petitioning South Gloucestershire
recent collision, is “desperately” in need of traffic calming
Grimsbury Road and Wraxall Road, near Kingswood
Council to give consideration to traffic calming measures,
measures, including an automated crossing for residents
Remembrance Park.
safe crossings for pedestrians or speed cameras.
walking to the Remembrance Park or to the community farm
Graeme Wakerley says the three roads serve a large volume
Mr Wakerley says that Grimsbury Road does have some low-
at Grimsbury Road where there is a children’s play area.
of traffic to and from the busy A4174 Ring Road close by and
level speed humps and Cock Road has a flashing speed sign
He adds that the driving test centre in Kingswood means that
that vehicles often travel through the highly residential area
but “in truth these do nothing to slow speeds”. He says that
a large number of learner drivers of cars, HGVs and buses
at speeds far in excess of the 30mph limit.
are now using these local roads, adding to the dangers for
This issue of speed and safety has been raised by a large
pedestrians.
number of local residents on the local Facebook
The ePetition is on the council’s website and runs until 7th June.
Praise for nursery In its first Ofsted inspection, Pirates and Princesses Day Nursery in Keynsham High Street has been rated as Good in all categories. There are 78 children on the roll at the nursery which opened in 2020 in what was the old NatWest Bank. Ofsted said that babies and children are happy and form strong relationships with staff. The curriculum is well planned and ensures that children make good progress, and managers show dedication to the nursery and the families that attend.
The Week in • Wednesday 15th March 2023
Low speed bumps on Grimsbury Road
The roundabout where Wraxall Road, Cock Road & Grimsbury Road meet
5
Fight to preserve paths across threatened land With growing concerns about developers’ determination to build on Green Belt land south of Hencliffe Way in Hanham, a local councillor has begun a rights of way campaign. Hanham Abbots parish councillor Chrissie Cushing is planning to plot various permissive paths in the area including two across the fields known as The Batch where developers want to build 149 homes. She will be asking members of the public who have walked the paths for over 20 years to sign oaths confirming this. To apply for a route to be on the definitive map, a minimum of 20 people per path is needed. There are also two official public footpaths that cross the fields which were ploughed
shortly before site owner Ashfield Land and partner Redrow Homes revealed their housebuilding proposals to people living nearby. No planning application has been submitted as yet to South Gloucestershire Council. As we reported in Issue 770, the developers have spent £1.3m purchasing a house in Hencliffe Way which would be demolished to create an access. Parish council chair Cllr Tom Bray told last week’s meeting, which was attended by several local residents and Hanham District Green Belt Conservation Society members, that historically the parish council has been against any development on the Green Belt land known as The Batch. At the suggestion of vice chair Cllr John Goddard, the council voted to continue its
Conservation area improvement plans Hanham Abbots Parish Council has been liaising with South Gloucestershire Council about proposed signage and preservation work in Hanham Abbots Conservation Area. The parish council wants to install entry signs and information boards in the conservation area which runs from Court Farm Road by Sally on the Barn to the bridge in Abbots Road that crosses the A4174 Ring Road. One of the concerns is the poor state of the laybys. The parish council hopes to secure funding from the West of England Combined Authority which gives grants for conservation projects.
The state of laybys are a cause for concern
The Batch
support for the Green Belt and hoped that the new line-up of councillors following May’s
local elections would adopt the same principle.
Safety and heritage concerns A pavement next to a derelict barn in Hanham has been cordoned off because of the poor state of the roof but locals fear the plastic fencing would have little effect in the event of the structure collapsing. The barn is next to Grade II listed Castle Inn Farmhouse in Castle Farm Road. Planning permission to convert two barns on the site into four homes, with a new access via the paddock to the side, was granted in 2017 but has lapsed. The safety risk was highlighted at last Tuesday’s meeting
The building has been cordoned off
of Hanham Abbots Parish Council. Local residents also voiced concern about damage to the historic boundary wall of the adjoining paddock. The 2017 planning permission included demolishing a section of the wall near the barns for access. Hanham Abbots Parish Council has reported the concerns to South Gloucestershire Council as planning and highway authority.
The broken wall
New members welcome at short mat bowls club The short mat bowls club at The Centre Longwell Green is on the lookout for new members. The club has been based at the centre in Shellards Road since it first started over 25 years ago, and some of the founder members are still playing. Indeed, the oldest playing member is 93 while many of the ‘youngsters’ are in their 50s. It’s a friendly, mixed group with a wide range of ability so
6
anyone wishing to start to return to the game will be made welcome. Two-hour sessions take place every Friday and there are three in-house friendly tournaments throughout the year with lunch included. Whether it is for gentle exercise or just to enjoy like-minded company, why not give short mat bowls a go? Just pop in any Friday at 1.30pm.
The Week in • Wednesday 15th March 2023
Nine months of traffic lights as main construction phase of new access begins The main construction phase of a new permanent access over the River Avon from the A431 to Saltford Water Recycling Centre was due to get under way this week. Construction traffic will be controlled by traffic lights for the project which is expected to take nine months. Wessex Water has been doing environmental preparations and enabling work on site since a 100ft stretch of hedgerow was removed from the A431 on the outskirts of Swineford a year ago to make way for the new link road and bridge. A shorter stretch of hedgerow was taken out on the other side of the road to make way for access to a work compound. Saltford Water Recycling Centre at Mead Lane takes sewage from the Bath and Saltford areas. Wessex Water says it needs to improve the approach to the site, which also houses the
The new compound
The Week in • Wednesday 15th March 2023
regional scientific centre, to accommodate projected growth. The existing access along Mead Lane can flood when the river level is high, while a low bridge also affects access for some vehicles. Alternative routes were explored, including a new 1.6 km road to connect to the A4, but Wessex Water said this would have a significant Trees have been removed next to the impact on the Avon Valley landscape, result in A431 to create a new access much greater loss of Green Belt land and have a A431. The lights will be in will be in use Monday to Friday high impact on local ecology. The new vehicular access and bridge will include a footpath from 7am to 5.30pm. Wessex Water says they will generally for pedestrians and a cycle path for Wessex staff. The be green but will be controlled for road crossings. approaches will be on embankments to ensure the access road The plans for the new link road bridge were approved by remains flood-free. Wessex Water says there will B&NES Council at the end of 2021. The access route in be biodiversity gain and environmental Saltford will remain open but not to heavy traffic. improvement at the site which is within the Residents have voiced concern about a predicted tenfold Green Belt and the Cotswolds National increase in HGVs through Swineford and Bitton as a result Landscape, a designated Area of Outstanding but Wessex Water has said that overall the extra vehicle numbers per day will be “minimal”. Natural Beauty. Wessex Water says that there will be an increase To address concerns over the A431 currently flooding in in traffic on both sides of the river during the extreme weather conditions, as it did in January, flood construction work. As part of the work a speed modelling has been carried out and Wessex says the plans reduction to 30mph has been secured on the will not increase flood risk.
7
LETTERS Will Keynsham Road be able to cope? Dear Editor It’s about time that South Gloucestershire Council did something positive to improve the cyclepath along Keynsham Road, but will current proposals turn this vital arterial road into a traffic-clogged, narrow country lane? The cyclepath has been a disgrace, badly maintained, often dangerously overgrown, highly constricted by obstacles and brings users into conflict in narrow sections. Many cyclists prefer to cycle on the road. The proposed traffic-free sections are really good ideas and so is improved linkage between Keynsham and the Bristol and Bath Railway Path. I have one major reservation. Any cyclepath improvements must be designed so they don’t materially affect the road traffic carrying capacity of Keynsham Road. Can you simply chop the odd metre or two off the carriageway width without major repercussions? Is this just a (relatively) cheap fix? Do the job properly. Maybe consider spending
a
bit
more
for
corresponding
widening/alterations on the other side of the road? An alternative, mainly off-road route, admittedly not simple, could connect via Londonderry Farm, across the river to the ring around the Cadbury estate and provide safe access both to Keynsham town centre and Keynsham Station. (Do South Gloucestershire and Bath & North East Somerset Council talk?) Why is Keynsham Road such a vital road? Because it and the A4174 Ring Road provide the only traffic crossings for the 12-mile stretch of river between Newbridge in Bath and St Philips Causeway near central Bristol. Roadworks, maintenance and unforeseen circumstances have
camera readings showed that Keynsham Road
on October 2022 as a partial replacement for
franchise would deliver?
carried the highest total traffic. The figures
routes 5, Y3, Y4 and Y5 but is being taken off on
How can you expect people to ditch private
indicate just how busy this road actually is. It’s
1st April (just six months later).
vehicles in favour of public transport when it's not
unlikely that its traffic has changed significantly
Surely it could have been tried out for at least 12
user-friendly in any sense? There's no decent
since; especially with the subsequent axing of the
months which would then have covered spring
shopping area left in Broadmead to visit and it
18 bus route.
and summer when passenger numbers would
will only get worse once The Galleries complex
Now factor in future West of England Combined
probably
is demolished.
Authority and B&NES plans for post 2026, just
passengers probably don't venture out quite as
I can now no longer access Yate in a time-
three years away. A new multi-modal link road
much in the winter months but take more journeys
honoured, quick, easy and straightforward
from Keynsham Road (via Avon Mill Lane) to the
when the weather is clement.
manner. Some of us do not have the time to make
A4 on the Saltford side of Keynsham will run
I live in Mangotsfield and catch the bus just along
split journeys, resulting in repeat trips over more
across land physically sandwiched between the
the Westerleigh Road from The Huntsman pub,
than one day, and I've never had the option of
railway line and the River Avon. 1,400 new
adjacent to the carwash. From my own experience
being able to get to Cribbs Causeway directly
dwellings will then be connected between two
I have used the 47 on many occasions and found
from Fishponds either.
very congested roads. This will effectively dump
it to be very reliable, unlike the other route which
Mr Norris wants people to shop local. He
even more traffic onto Keynsham Road.
I use (the 48) which appears to be cancelled quite
obviously has no idea of what Fishponds is like
The affected areas of South Glos and B&NES are
regularly.
compared to the thriving area it once was when
semi-rural and not urban. Self-financing buses are
One other point, every time that I have caught the
we had access to everything we needed and had
not available on this route, where most vehicle
47 there have been plenty of passengers and quite
no need to go further afield. Some of us are old
journeys are essential for practical business and
often there hasn't been an empty seat on the lower
school and tactile when it comes to shopping and
social reasons.
deck.
so to that end are not suited to shopping on the
Short-term thinking, solving one problem in
Please, please can we keep the No. 47.
internet and besides which, shopping is a social
isolation and doing things on the cheap, often
Mrs Vina Kennedy
thing. It gets you out and about exercising, unlike
have
increased.
Many
elderly
the unhealthy internet.
results in major repercussions elsewhere. Improvement of the cyclepath connection is essential for both safety and environmental reasons; but this must be done with consideration of wider issues including economic and social factors. Wake up Keynsham and South Glos residents, this affects both sides of the Avon. Search ‘South Gloucestershire Council consultations cycle route’, take a look, and leave your comments before 24th March. Keynsham Road is a vital artery, and unless its capacity is maintained, it will lead to more snarl-ups, significant increases in journey times, and greater emissions. Clive Honeychurch Keynsham resident
Let common sense prevail with public transport
The WESTlink option isn't an option for those of us in Fishponds and it wouldn't be a useful one for me if it were.
Dear Editor On a vote of no confidence basis, it's high time for Metro Mayor Dan Norris to go. There are no merits whatsoever to be had in waiting a few years to see how franchise schemes are performing elsewhere in this country. We desperately need one with immediate effect as one couldn't possibly be worse than the slipshod sorry excuse for a bus service that we're currently being expected to endure. The Number 5 was axed. Then replaced with a Number 47. What a flash in the pan that's turned
too often reduced the capacity of these two roads.
out to be. That too is now being axed.
When disruptions are severe, there is traffic
For goodness sake, you lot. Here's a very good
Being a lifelong non-driver, thankfully I'm currently able to rely on my disabled partner to ferry me around, but for how much longer that may be the case is anyone’s guess. So there'll come a point when I'm stranded at home alone unable to go and purchase any clothing that needs replacing. But never mind because I won't need clothes if I'm not going anywhere to warrant wearing them anyway! Yours, living in hope and faith that one day soon some common sense will prevail for those of us who don't seem to matter. Mrs L Smith
Willsbridge, Oldland Common and a large part of
The 47 bus is reliable – please let’s keep it!
Keynsham.
Dear Editor
which runs to Downend and the 49 which runs to
Support Mary’s Meals this Mother’s Day
A consultant’s report by ch2m for the West of
At last! A bus that I can catch which is reliable -
Emersons Green and have them run twixt the
Dear Editor
England Combined Authority was published in
it doesn't matter that it runs only once an hour.
Centre and Yate/Chipping Sodbury? See, I told
With Mother’s Day this weekend, I’ve been
2018. It included a traffic survey of the five radial
Hang on - it's going to be taken off on 1st April
you, it's a good, sensible and workable idea, or is
thinking about the moments that really matter to
arteries connecting central Keynsham. ANPR
2023? What's going on? Route 47 was introduced
it because it resembles/reflects that of what a
me, as a mum of three kids.
paralysis affecting Hanham, Longwell Green,
8
workable suggestion. So good it's obviously too good. How about extending the routes of the 48
The Week in • Wednesday 15th March 2023
LETTERS Of course, it’s lovely to receive a box of chocolates or a big bouquet from your family. But the most special gift I ever received was simply being able to celebrate my first ever Mother’s Day with my firstborn, Lola, and my own mum. It was a moment I’ll never forget. I now have Kit and Lockie, as well as Lola, and their happiness and healthiness is what matters to me. I believe that, all around the world, all mothers are the same. That’s why I’m delighted to be supporting Mary’s Meals this Mother’s Day. This incredible charity serves life-changing school meals to children living in the world’s poorest countries, so that they can grow up happy, healthy and welleducated. This month, Mary’s Meals is offering a range of Mother’s Day cards that will feed a hungry child for a whole school year – for just £19.15. To treat the wonderful women in your life and help a hungry child this Mother's Day, please visit marysmeals.org.uk/shop Izzy Judd Celebrity mum and Mary’s Meals supporter
Property improvement plans approved in town’s conservation area Plans to improve properties in Temple Street as part of the Keynsham Heritage Action Zone Project have been unanimously approved. The partnership programme between Historic England, Bath & North East Somerset Council and Keynsham Town Council aims to enhance the town’s conservation area to create a more attractive and vibrant shopping area. Keynsham Conservation Area is on Historic England’s Conservation Areas at Risk register due in part to the loss of historic shopfronts, features, poor modern signage and security shutters. At last Wednesday’s planning meeting, general repairs and replacement windows and downpipes were approved for numbers 20 to 30 Temple Street, along with the refurbishment of the shopfronts at 20 and 22. The scheme, which has funding from both the Government and B&NES Council, involves
Temple Street
replacing first-floor contemporary sash windows with a traditional window pattern to match surviving examples within the conservation area, helping to restore some of the original character of these buildings and making the historic street a more attractive retail space, as well as improving energy efficiency. The planning officer told the
Sudoku 1-Easy
committee that although the buildings are not listed, the overall scale of fascia signs will be reduced so they will far look more appropriate in the heritage setting. There is currently 24-hour parking suspension and temporary lights in Temple Street for works involving new paving, planters, cycle parking and seating.
SUNDAY CHEMISTS Sunday 19th March
2 -Hard
Boots, Gallagher Retail Park, Longwell Green (10.30am-4pm) Asda, Longwell Green (10am-4pm) 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 15th March 2023
9
‘Hanham needs more aspiring projects than council is planning’
Hanham High Street
In response to our report last week that to help revitalise the High Street. Detailed Hanham High Street is to get £395,000 of designs are due to put together over the summer, funding from the ‘Love Our High Streets’ with work starting in early 2024. programme, one trader has criticised the But Eclectic Gift Shop owner Nicola Bartlett plans for the money as “hardly inspiring”. said she was surprised that the Hanham Business Tennis facilities at Page Park are among those that would be improved The cash has been obtained by South and Community Partnership and local Gloucestershire Council through the West of councillors were happy about the planned England Combined Authority’s (WECA) Love investment. Our High Streets Fund. The council said the She said: “Maintaining the toilets, a few planters package of upgrades was developed in and improved signage. Hardly inspiring. All of partnership with traders and the local this should already be covered by council tax and community. business rates. The extra funding should be used The council’s plans include refurbishing the for more aspiring projects, such as bringing public toilet block on the corner of Laburnum empty units back into use such as the Lloyds Road, installing new planters and benches, and Bank. Or holding community events on the High improving the bus stops and street signs. New Street, such as a farmers’ market. It should not murals and public artworks will also be installed be used to fund the very basics listed.”
Bristol Children’s Services still need improvement Ofsted’s inspection report of Bristol City Council’s Children’s Services was published on Friday, finding that improvement is needed in three out of five key areas. The report, following an inspection in January, highlights that council leaders have made significant improvements since the service’s previous inspection in 2018, including in the quality of support provided to children in care and for care leavers, but notes that more must be done to ensure that children benefit from consistently good support.
The report noted a number of strengths in the service and praised the work of social workers and support staff to ensure that children and young people feel valued and listened to, and for identifying the needs of disabled children. Bristol City Council and local area partners will now work together to produce an action plan in response to the report which will be submitted to Ofsted by the end of June. Read the report at https://tinyurl.com/2p8z83bd
Crossword ACROSS
DOWN
1. Genuine, earnest (7) 1. Boats (5) 2. Synthetic fabric (5) 5. Close-fitting (5) 8. Prompt (3) 9. Unlawful (7) 10. Fruit (5) 11. Echo-sounder (5)
3. Keenly (7) 4. Cream cake (6) 5. Musical speeds (5) 6. Biblical giant (7)
13. Copy (7)
7. Underground passages (7)
15. Ancient harp (4)
12. Eggs (3)
17. Tropical fruit (6)
14. Small pond (4)
19. Wealth (6)
16. Small fishing-boat (4)
22. At what time? (4)
17. Frolicsome (7)
24. Disciple (7)
18. Part of speech (7)
26. Deadens (5)
20. Team's turn of batting (7)
29. Dental twine (5) 30. More humorous (7) 31. Neckwear (3) 32. Thrust (5) 33. Ribbon badge (7)
South Glos gigabit broadband boost Even more people in South Gloucestershire are now benefiting from high speed internet due to a large proportion of the area’s infrastructure having been upgraded to deliver gigabit capable broadband. South Gloucestershire has exceeded the Government’s 85% Project Gigabit broadband coverage goal, well ahead of the target date of 2025. The coverage figure for the area is currently at 85.09%, much higher than the national average of 72%. South Gloucestershire Council is aiming to reach 90% gigabit coverage by December 2025, and 95% coverage by December 2027 to keep on track to reach the national target of 100% coverage by 2030. Gigabit-capable broadband provides a more reliable connection and makes it easier and quicker to do things like stream television and video services, game online, connect multiple devices, download large files, use social media, keep in touch with friends and family online, host and attend group video conferencing and shop and order products and services online.
21. Recede (3) 23. Young cow (6) 25. Discernment (5) 27. Damp (5) 28. Woollen fabric (5)
Keep in touch, let us know what you think, send us your news www.facebook.com/theweekin
10
The Week in • Wednesday 15th March 2023
Metro Mayor urged to consider bus franchising Bath & North East Somerset Council’s Cabinet last week recommended that the West of England Metro Mayor Dan Norris be asked for a review of options for ‘franchising’ bus services across the region. Franchising would see the current bus system - where commercial services operate on profitable routes and local authorities pay for additional “supported” buses on others – replaced by one where all routes, services and fares in an area are set through contracts with operators.
Demand responsive buses based in Keynsham The company which will be operating the new WESTlink demand responsive transport minibuses (DRT) will be based in Keynsham. E-Zec Medical Transport Services has applied to operate six vehicles from a depot at the Ashmead Business Centre in Ashmead Lane. It has also applied to the Traffic Commissioners to run 15 vehicles from the Avonside Industrial Estate in St Philips as well as setting up bases in Yate, Nailsea and locations in Wiltshire. The DRT network, funded by the West of England Combined Authority, is designed primarily to connect outlying and rural communities with the mainline bus network and is due to go live on 1st April. But concerns have been raised over the lack of information about the system ahead of the launch.
The Week in • Wednesday 15th March 2023
A report to Thursday’s meeting said that bus services are currently unstable and confusing, and that that franchising would provide simple, unified and integrated ticketing in one easy-to-use network with a single point of contact for passengers. Only the West of England Combined Authority, as transport authority, currently has powers to introduce bus franchising.
The report also asks the Metro Mayor consider the adoption of precepting powers. Under the current devolution deal, WECA does not have the power to raise a precept but other mayoral combined authorities do. A majority of Bristol councillors have also backed calls urging Mr Norris to consider bus franchising. See Letters, page 8
New metrobus link to start in April New metrobus stops outside Lyde Green Primary School in Willowherb Road are now in place following a road closure for the works. They are ready for the m3 metrobus to use them in both directions from 2nd April. New kerb stones have been added alongside the bus shelters with seating. The iPoints are due to be installed in the coming weeks, which will allow passengers to buy tickets, plan journeys and view live running information from onward services. The extended m3 route will go from the A4174 to Bristol & Bath Science Park, along Feynman Way and Newland
Lane, then Willowherb Road to serve these newly upgraded stops before continuing onto Lyde Green Park & Ride and Emersons Green.
11
David ‘humbled’ by Lifetime Achievement Award David Phillips of Saltford Golf Club has received the Lifetime Achievement Award for 2023 from England Golf. England Golf is the governing body of amateur golf and the awards ceremony held in Manchester earlier this month was hosted by broadcaster, journalist, and passionate
golfer Clare Balding. David has been involved in the running of Saltford Golf Club’s junior section for the last 34 years with 27 of those years being the lead coordinator. Over this time, the section has grown into one of the most successful junior golf sections in the region with
Charity seeks volunteers The charity Home-Start Bristol is looking for new volunteers. The charity supports families with under fives across Bristol and South Gloucestershire who are going through tough times. Volunteers are needed for
extensions into the local community. England Golf said that under his leadership, young people have gone on to make their careers as professional golfers and, perhaps of more importance, hundreds of young people have gone on to become great members of society equipped, in large part, by the values that David has established and the role model that he has been to them over many years. Speaking after collecting his
award, David said: “It's quite humbling and I'm very honoured to receive this award. It has been many years of work but work that we've thoroughly enjoyed doing and it has just grown each year. “Golf is a great game because it helps young people in so many ways and it teaches them so much, both on and off the course, and I'm very proud to have been given this award as part of that work.”
home visiting or to help at parent groups, for two to three hours a week. The next volunteer training course starts on 27th April. Visit homestartbristol.org.uk, email admin@homestartbristol.org.uk or call 0117 9501170 for more information.
Croquet beginners’ course If you’re looking for a new outdoor sport with gentle exercise this spring, why not think of the increasingly popular sport of croquet. Croquet is for everyone; it’s good for your health, men and women play on equal terms, skill and tactics are the name of the game and age is no barrier.
The beginners’ course at Camerton and Peasedown Croquet Club starts with a free session on 2nd April from 2pm to 4.30pm. No equipment is needed as the club supplies it all. There are club competitions and social play to suit all skill levels, alongside social events. To find out more, phone Mo Boys on 07929 733640.
THE TILE AND BATHROOM WAREHOUSE
David receiving his award from Clare Balding
National Trust Tile Collection by Sarsen Stone Group
A passage through time A remarkable collection of beautiful tiles showcased exclusively in Bristol's largest independent Tile & Bathroom Warehouse
6 Eldon Wall Trading Estate, Bristol BS4 3QQ 12
Web: thetileandbathroomwarehouse.com | Tel: 01179 770011 The Week in • Wednesday 15th March 2023
The Community Page
News from Keynsham Town Council How about becoming a Town Councillor? There are elections on May 4th this year. Councillors serve for four years in this voluntary post. Whilst most of the heavy stuff like recycling, adult and children’s social care, highways and decisions on planning are done by B&NES, the Town Council makes sure that Keynsham’s voice is heard by decision makers with greater power. The Town Council comments on all planning applications and is responsible for the fun stuff, like the new Spring Show on Saturday 25th March. The Town Council also started the Keynsham Music Festival in 1997 which is now a charity and an independent company. The Town Council runs the Winter
Festival, play areas, playing fields and gives close to £40 000 in grants to local community groups. Being a Town Councillor means you learn more about what is happening in the town. There is a simple form to complete, available from the Town Council office on Temple Street where staff there can tell you more about the role. You can represent a political party or stand as an Independent. The commitment can be as little as a couple of meeting a month but with more time, there are many ways to serve the community as a Town Councillor. Cllr Andy Wait Chair of Keynsham Town Council
Keynsham Town Council’s first ever Spring Show coming soon Calling all local gardeners, crafters and bakers! On Saturday 25th March, Keynsham Town Council will hold its inaugural Spring Show, which will feature over 50 classes across horticulture, arts & handicrafts, and cookery, as well as a Children’s category, and will give people the opportunity to put their ‘very best’ to the test. The Spring Show entry form is now open online on the Keynsham Town Council website, with entries due on the day of the show so you have time to perfect your submission. The show will be opened by the Winner of the 2021 Great British Bake Off Giuseppe Dell’Anno, who will also judge the cookery section. There will also be a series of workshops for families to enjoy including ‘make your own’ pottery, flower arranging, crafting and cookie and cupcake decorating throughout the afternoon. “There are trophies to be won based on points awarded in each class of the categories,” said Katherine Sears, Deputy Town Clerk, Keynsham Town Council. “Enter more classes, to earn more points for a chance to win one of the first ever Spring Show trophies.” The full schedule, entry form, show rules and top tips can be found on Keynsham Town Council’s website www.Keynshamtc.gov.uk or visit Keynsham Town Council offices (15-17 Temple Street, BS31 1HF) to collect a schedule. The Spring Show Committee would like to say a big thank you
The Week in • Wednesday 15th March 2023
to all businesses and traders including Avon Valley Adventure and Wildlife Park, Davies and Way, Dyenamix, Europa, Meryton Place, Redfern Osteopaths, Savour Refill & Deli, Small Prints, Snapdragons Nursery, Wards Solicitors, Wild about Flowers and WW Memorials who have sponsored the event. For further information please contact Katherine Sears on 0117 9868683 or email deputytownclerk@keynsham-tc.gov.uk
Downfield Play Park to be updated On Wednesday 12th April and Saturday 20th May Keynsham Town Council welcomes Keynsham residents to the Downfield Play Park to have your say as part of a public consultation. The Downfield Play Park is due for a re-design and update and it’s important to the Council that residents’ opinions are reflected in the final design selected. In total, there are five design styles that the Council would like your opinion on, which will be on display during the consultation. Plans are already in the works to rejuvenate the area around the play equipment as per recent resident feedback. The swing set will remain, but we will be planting a wildflower meadow and potentially more trees, which will not only improve the landscape but encourage wildlife to the area.
MakeSpace in Keynsham now open! The refurbishment of No. 2 River Terrace, next to Keynsham Leisure Centre, is now complete. MakeSpace has been created as a community arts and local business space, with a show-stopping frontage designed by YOU&ME Architects and painted by Bristol-based signwriter Tozer. It is conveniently located four minutes on foot to the nearest bus stop and ten minutes’ walk to Keynsham Train Station and is fully accessible. To share ideas, find out how you or your group can get involved, and learn about grants available for arts and heritage projects from the Keynsham Local Cultural Programme, please contact hikeynsham.co.uk/event/ keynsham-makespace
Coronation Celebrations Come join us in Keynsham Memorial Park on Sunday 7th May from 12 noon to 5 pm, to celebrate the Coronation of King Charles III and the Queen Consort. An afternoon full of live music from local bands and choirs, traditional children’s games and entertainers! Just bring a picnic and come soak up the patriotic atmosphere. For more details, please visit www.keynsham-tc.gov.uk
13
Pétanque Club’s hope of venue reopening The Ship Inn Pétanque Club in Keynsham held its 25th anniversary annual general meeting at the Royal British Legion on Saturday 4th March. Although The Ship Inn is currently closed, new landlords are hopefully awaited. Club president Alan Hulme said: “This is not the first time in our 25-year history that we have had an uncertain future but we will remain optimistic about returning to play our games at The Ship in the near future.” The picture shows Alan presenting medals to a winning team consisting of three generations of the King family - Alan & Julie, daughter Alison, partner John, and grandson Ben.
Crossword Solution
Sudoku Solutions 1-Easy
2-Hard
Service Directory Aerials
Aerials
THE WEEK IN adverts call 0117 986 0381 DEADLINE FOR PLACING DIRECTORY ADVERTS IS FRIDAY 4.30PM 14
Architectural Services
Appliances
Blinds
Car Spares
Blinds
Carpentry
Computers / IT
THE WEEK IN adverts call 0117 986 0381 The Week in • Wednesday 15th March 2023
Service Directory Electrical
Home Maintenance
Plumbing
Roofing
Tree Services
Waste Disposal
Wigs
Flats Wanted Scaffolding Venue Hire
Garden Services
Book a series of adverts and save even more
Sewing Lessons
Adverts cost £4.50 per centimetre (min 5cm)
Oven Cleaning
The more weeks you book the cheaper each insertion
Home Help
becomes
THE WEEK IN adverts call 0117 986 0381
Tree Services
Waste Disposal
Plumbing
THE WEEK IN adverts call 0117 986 0381 The Week in • Wednesday 15th March 2023
1 week - £22.50 2 weeks - £20.50 4 wk - £19.12 6 wk - £18.00 8 wk - £116.88 12 wk - £15.75 26 wk - £14.62 52 wk - £13.50 All prices per week exc VAT Similar percentage discounts apply equally to larger sized adverts.
DEADLINE FOR PLACING DIRECTORY ADVERTS IS FRIDAY 4.30PM
Call us now on
0117 986 0381 15
16
The Week in • Wednesday 15th March 2023