The Week In - Issue 797 - 6th September 2023

THE WEEK IN East Bristol & North East Somerset Issue 797

FREE

6th September 2023

Read by more than 40,000 people each week

Councillors suggest solution to fix dangerous cycle lane Keynsham councillors have launched a campaign to

- have started a petition and will present a motion

address the hazardous High Street cycle lane, warning

to the council’s meeting on 21st September.

that any further “cosmetic changes” won’t stop falls and

The cycle lane opened in March 2022 and people

injuries.

began falling, some sustaining serious injuries.

The six councillors who represent Keynsham on Bath &

Last August, to try to stop the falls, the council

North East Somerset Council have carried out their own

painted the cycle lane red, the width of the solid

investigation to find out why so many people are falling and

white line marking the edge of the lane was

hurting themselves.

reduced, and the number of cycle symbol

As a result they are calling for the cycle lane kerb and islands

markings was increased. However, people have

to go, and for the pavement kerb to be raised.

continued to fall.

The cross-party group - Hal MacFie, Alan Hale, David

In April, a Freedom of Information request

Biddleston, Alex Beaumont, Andrew Wait and George Leach

revealed that 59 people had fallen and injured

Anne Britton from Longwell Green signing the petition pictured left is Cllr Hal MacFie with Cllr Alex Beaumont, right

themselves, including breaking bones, since the cycle lane

Records are not published by the council so Cllr MacFie has

opened as part of the High Street redesign. With that tally

belatedly distributed letters to High Street shops to give to

now even higher, the councillors fear that one day someone

fallers, requesting that they complete a questionnaire

will fall in front of a vehicle. And with road safety and design

detailing where they tripped, their injuries and contact details.

reviews currently under way, the councillors say: “We must

So far 17 falls have been recorded, with prevalent injuries to

ensure that the root cause is removed now, not more cosmetic

the face and wrist, ankles and knees. Falls happened on the

changes.”

stretch from outside the old Buss’s greengrocer to the

Despite the “abundant evidence of falls”, the councillors say

Coventry Building Society and kerb levels vary.

that B&NES has not set up an active recording scheme:

The survey found that eight people fell coming off the

“Fallers are expected to log their fall on to the FixMyStreet

pavement on to the cycle lane. They reported that they did

website (which is not an easy task) but no further details of

not see the change in level and fell forward.

the fall are taken.”

Also in this week’s issue

Gang of bikers tear around Bristol & Kingswood area . . . page 3

Over 100 objections to phone mast in Longwell Green . . . page 5

Continued on page 3

Stockwood nursery rated Inadequate again . . . page 9

Explore local heritage for free . . . pages 10 & 11

2

The Week in • Wednesday 6th September 2023

Councillors suggest solution Up to 40 bikers seen tearing along roads, pavements to fix dangerous cycle lane and green spaces

Continued from page 1

the risk of falling entirely from one kerb

Six fallers fell going from the cycle lane to

and for the other make it the same as in

Police

the road: They did not expect a step at this

thousands of other high streets. We realise

Saturday about a group of between 30 and

the

point and did not perceive a difference in

that we are not road engineers, and it may

40 people riding motorbikes and quad

https://tinyurl.com/2f6ekybc

level.

seem arrogant for us to make these

bikes anti-socially on roads, pavements

You

A further three people said they fell going

proposals, and we will have to get the

and green spaces across the Bristol and

anonymously on 0800 555 111.

from the road to the cycle lane and did not

approval of B&NES officers for these

Kingswood area.

Police said they would review footage

see the step.

actions. However, we do know the

Several of the riders were reportedly in their

submitted by the public as well as that

The six councillors say the challenge is to

difference between a permanent solution

mid-teens and not wearing helmets. Officers

recorded by the drone and helicopter units in

find a prompt solution that will solve the

and a sticking plaster job. B&NES made

on the ground were supported by the drone

order to identify and take action against those

problem and persuade people that an

some cosmetic changes and have waited

unit and the National Police Air Service

involved in the anti-social behaviour.

effective change has been made. Their two

almost a year in the face of mounting

helicopter to safely monitor the group.

One Lyde Green resident contacted The

proposals are to:

evidence and frustration, and we fear

On Saturday night police said they had made

Week In to say they had seen the police

1. Remove the cycle lane/road kerb and the

another sticking plaster job with another 30

an arrest and seized a suspected stolen

helicopter hovering and a group of more than

associated islands so that, apart from the

cracked heads and broken wrists.”

motorbike. “A man in his 20s was arrested in

20 off-road bikes come charging down

crossings, the whole cycle lane is the same

Lib Dem councillors Hal MacFie and Alex

Eastville at about 3.40pm for driving

Howsmoor Lane and onto Lyde Green

height as the road. The bollards will define

Beaumont were in the High Street on

offences and remains in police custody.”

Common on Saturday afternoon: “They

the edge of the cycle lane.

Saturday morning with a paper petition.

Anyone with information about those

circled and then left via the pedestrian path

2. Rebuild the pavement/cycle lane kerb so

Councillors will also be there this Saturday

responsible is asked to call 101 and give the

onto the eastern part of the estate.”

it is the same height all the way up, apart

(9th September) to collect more signatures.

from the crossings. Raise the height to be

The

equal to the standard high street height.

https://chng.it/HfLVnj8g6r

They say: “These two actions will reduce

See Letters, page 8

petition

is

also

online

received

numerous

calls

on

reference 5223212767 or upload footage on police can

also

website contact

at

Crimestoppers

at

Keep in touch, let us know what you think, send us your news www.facebook.com/theweekin

Pub closes to make big changes The Griffin pub at Bridgeyate closed last

Monday to make efficiencies across the whole

week in order to make “efficiencies” and

business to make it sustainable to trade for

other changes.

years to come. In this time, we will take the

In a message to customers, the London Road

opportunity to redecorate, replace some

pub said: “As everyone knows the rising cost

furniture, change our drinks range and

of suppliers, electricity, gas amongst many

introduce a new food offering to improve the

other things have made it a difficult trading

Griffin for our loyal customers.”

year. Being such a large building, our

The post on the pub’s Facebook page also said

operating costs are large all year around.

that the team would be retrained and new

“We will be closing for a period of time from

members would be joining.

The Week in • Wednesday 6th September 2023

3

Police seize two dogs Two dogs were seized from an address in Hengrove on Thursday 31st August as part of an investigation into reports of them being dangerously out of control.

The seized dogs are believed to be a Cane Corso and an XL American Bully. The householders told officers that a third dog had been put down since the complaints were made in June and July.

Sergeant 4522 Chris Downham said: “This action has been taken after members of the public reported issues to us, including being bitten while making deliveries.”

The dogs will be assessed while in kennels and, should the owners be prosecuted and convicted, it will be for a court to decide whether they are suitable to be rehomed.

THE WEEK IN adverts call 0117 986 0381 Keep in touch, let us know what you think, send us your news www.facebook.com/theweekin

New Travis Perkins store planned With demolition work starting on the old Kingswood Industrial Estate in Longwell Green, Travis Perkins builders’ merchant has become the first company to announce its intention to open on the regenerated site at Aldermoor Way. Earlier this year South Gloucestershire Council granted outline planning permission for a mixed development of 161,866sq ft of development in four zones.

The scheme will provide employment, leisure and community opportunities and create some 440 new jobs. Now a detailed planning application by Travis Perkins is being considered by the council for the old Saville’s Freights site where the bulldozers recently moved 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.

Demolition work

Digital drop-in Age UK South Gloucestershire, in conjunction with Leidos Technology, is holding a digital drop-in workshop tomorrow (Thursday) from 10am to noon at The Park Centre in High Street, Kingswood.

It is for anyone aged over 50. For more information call 01454 411707.

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

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 6th September 2023

Proposed phone mast is in the wrong location, say 100+ objectors More than 100 people have objected to Three’s proposal to put up a 16-metre high phone mast and three cabinets on a grass verge at Long Beach Road in Longwell Green.

The Week In highlighted the proposed location of the 5G mast – close to the Willsbridge Mill car park - in Issue 792 which was the first that some people living nearby had heard about it.

Fundraising auction Keynsham Scouts’ annual auction and book sale takes place this year on Saturday 30th September.

All items are donated from the community. It’s a chance to clear out a loft, garage, or cupboards and help the group raise substantial funds, while at the same time giving local people a chance to purchase items at great prices.

There

are

details

on

the

group’s

website

-

https://www.1stkeynshamscouts.org.uk/scout-auction/

-

about how you can donate items. The event takes place at the Scout HQ at the rear of Ashton Way car park. Doors open at 9am and the main auction starts at 10am.

• If you have time and would like to learn more about

volunteering

with

the

Scouts,

scouts@1stkeynshamscouts.org.uk

The Week in • Wednesday 6th September 2023

email

South Gloucestershire Council planning officers are expected to make a decision by 17th September on whether prior approval can be granted.

Concerned local residents attended the recent meeting of Oldland Parish Council’s planning and highways committee to share their concerns about the proposed mast.

They said there had been limited consultation with local The mast would go on the verge near Willsbridge Mill's car park residents, the mast would be higher than nearby trees and that the installation would affect drivers’ visibility. Council, to ‘call in’ the application to be considered by the Objectors also said that local homes already have sufficient planning committee. However, the parish council has since wi-fi and that the nearby Willsbridge Mill car park would be learned that under the terms of South Gloucestershire a more suitable location for a mast as it wouldn’t be so Council’s constitution, it cannot be called in as it is a prior approval application which must be determined within a prominent.

Parish councillors agreed to object, questioning the necessity fixed period and if no decision is made in that time, the mast of a 5G mast which they felt would be better suited to semi- will be deemed to have approval. industrial and retail areas. They said the location would cause Both Cllr Strange and the other South Gloucestershire ward an obstruction to drivers turning right out of Burney Way and councillor Kris Murphy have acknowledged the importance would hinder drivers from seeing pedestrians crossing the of 5G for local residents and businesses but say they don’t road. They felt a more suitable and acceptable location would support the planned location of the mast. Both have suggested be the nearby car park and that other locations such as the that the nearby car park is considered.

This week South Gloucestershire Council’s planning portal community centre in Shellards Road should be considered.

The parish councillors also asked Cllr Carol Strange, who was showing 109 comments against and 18 in favour of the represents Longwell Green on South Gloucestershire mast.

5

Street artists commissioned to brighten up shopping area Street artists Andy Council and Luke Palmer - aka Acerone - have been commissioned to create two murals at Two Mile Hill on the Bristol side of Kingswood town centre.

The aim is to help renew a sense of pride and

identity in the community and follows engagement sessions in which both residents and businesses commented that the A420 Two Mile Hill Road needed a boost of colour and vibrancy to help attract more people to the shopping area.

Plans for phone mast in town centre are withdrawn Cignal Infrastructure UK Ltd, better known as mobile network provider Three, has dropped plans for a 15-metre 5G phone mast in Regent Street in Kingswood.

The

company

had

asked

South

Gloucestershire

Council

whether

prior

The public art programme is being delivered under the City Centre and High Streets Recovery and Renewal programme, funded

by Bristol City Council and the West of England Combined Authority’s Love our High Streets project.

Two gable end walls have been identified but the exact locations have not been revealed.

The Bristol artists are welcoming any thoughts and ideas from the community that might help to inspire their artwork.

In a survey people are asked what buildings or landmarks in the area are most important to them and whether they know of any famous, important or interesting people

connected with Two Mile Hill. The artists also want to find out what kind of wildlife lives in Two Mile Hill, whether there is a particular animal associated with the area, and what colours would help to improve the look of the area.

People are also asked to share any interesting facts, trivia or stories about the area.

Take part in the survey at https://tinyurl.com/2rjze3y7 Meanwhile over the border in South Gloucestershire the council is working on plans for a major regeneration of Kingswood town centre including pedestrianising part of Regent Street.

approval would be required to erect the mast and three cabinets near Iceland. The company had said that the site was the only viable one in the “densely packed residential area” and

6

would not impact on pedestrians or affect the

negative impact upon the Kingswood

safety of passing motorists.

Masterplan’s objectives, which include

However, the council’s transport team said it

creating a more attractive location for

would have a “significant impact” on

shopping and leisure activities, a more

pedestrians and objected.

attractive, accessible place for the whole

Kingswood councillor Sean Rhodes also

community, and strengthening the town's

objected, saying it would have a clearly

cultural and historical heart.

Two Mile Hill Road

The Week in • Wednesday 6th September 2023

Police return pensioner’s stolen mobility scooter The Staple Hill Neighbourhood Policing Team were delighted to return some property stolen – including a mobility scooter - to its rightful owner.

Hugh, 83, had his mobility scooter stolen from the High Street on Saturday 12th August. A short while later a resident reported that it had been abandoned in nearby Upper Station Road.

Officers returned the scooter the same day, and thanks to CCTV were able to identify and interview a suspect - and recover more of Hugh's property - a few days later. Enquiries into the theft continue.

Pictured from the left are PCSO Lawrence Early, PC Joshua Millward, PC Michael Brown, PC Gary Lippiatt, Hugh, PCSO Samantha Norster and PCSO Hannah Young.

The Week in • Wednesday 6th September 2023

New mural planned for public loos As part of its work to improve Hanham High Street, South Gloucestershire Council is commissioning a mural for the public toilets on Laburnum Road.

The council wants local people to provide the inspiration for the design and says that the artwork will be highly visible making it a real opportunity to give a “vibrant welcome” to the area.

The council says: “We believe the style which would be most in keeping with this environment would incorporate local nature and heritage and will have an uplifting design which uses fresh colours.”

In an online survey people are asked to say what they most enjoy about Hanham and to share any stories or memories of Hanham and its High Street, such as local buildings and facilities that may no longer exist, community groups and events, or anything that they associate with the community.

People are also encouraged to suggest any species of plants, trees and wildlife they associate with the Hanham area, and if there are any colours they would specifically like to see included.

The consultation closes on Wednesday 13th September. As an incentive the council will be selecting one respondent at random to receive £30 of local shopping or restaurant vouchers.

Copies of the survey can also be downloaded from the council’s website and submitted in paper form.

Ideas for the mural that have been expressed on The Week In’s Facebook page include coal mining, the Hanham-born comedian, writer, director, actor and presenter Stephen Merchant, local business Kleeneze and the birthplace of Methodism.

7

LETTERS Save the BBC

example of media probity. ‘Auntie’s’ fate now lies

to the roundabout at St John’s Church. There are

the cycle lane, it's unnecessary. It is one-way, as

Dear Editor

in the hands of a review by the Culture Secretary.

often tailbacks throughout Avon Mill Lane and

the arrow clearly shows, which throws up the

A contentious campaign is under way, supported

Let’s hope they decide to keep the current funding

right along Keynsham Road. These will now

anomaly that cyclists going in the opposite

by

commercial

model in place. The Government would be wise

increase (note: McGill’s articulated lorries use

direction have to fend for themselves. No lane for

opportunists, the right-wing media and radical

to ponder the reliable maxim – If it ain’t broke,

Station Road).

them. It just highlights the lunacy and act of sheer

politicians. Their aim is to bring pressure to bear

why fix it?

Why waste money on a 1.6 mile bus lane? Better

folly of the whole scheme.

on the Government to scrap the BBC licence fee.

Philip Gannaway

are a few hundred metres of camera-monitored

But will common sense prevail? I very much

bus/Park & Ride/Keynsham priority lanes on the

doubt it.

approaches to Hicks Gate and Broadmead

John Howlett, Keynsham

prove a huge mistake. The lobbyists’ beguiling

Concern over major changes to the A4

strategy is to present themselves as being on a

Dear Editor

A4174 Ring Road). A bypass cyclepath might be

A thank you letter

mission to free “telly taxpayers” from having to

The West of England Combined Authority

possible. A parkway station east of Saltford will

Dear Editor

pay the annual mandatory TV licence fee.

(WECA) are consulting on major changes to the

take traffic off the whole A4.

On Wednesday 30th August, my wife fell as she

Their dubious rationale is that by supporting the

A4 between Bath and Bristol, based on opinions

These are just a few of the major concerns I have

began to cross at the light-controlled crossing in

prospect of the BBC’s transition to a commercial

in a small survey in 2021.

about one part of the A4. WECA are trying to rush

front of Sainsbury’s at Temple Street in

enterprise, like Netflix, Amazon and other

Let’s just look at the bit about the Keynsham

through major changes on the whole route with

Keynsham.

streaming sites, customers would not only be

bypass. The whole presentation looks like a

minimal consultation, when many people are on

The ambulance crew who attended were very

developer’s publicity - blue skies, idealised

holiday. The online information is not the simplest

helpful and she is now recovering well at home. I

service. However, in reality, this illusive

people, flowers, space, etc. It enthusiastically

to interrogate, the questions are rigged. There

would just like to say a very big thank you to all

undertaking masks a self-serving monopolist

trumpets seven changes to improve cycling, bus

should be permanent, well-advertised, displays

the members of the public who came to our

desire to satisfy their addictive craving to control

journeys

for public scrutiny (e.g. at Keynsham Library).

assistance last week.

the airwaves. They have mounted a campaign that

consequences. In my opinion, the questionnaire is

Make no mistake, current global climate change

Mr R Batt, Keynsham

will benefit themselves more than the cause. If

highly biased with questions leading the

is real and is man-made. Poor air quality damages

these privileged few succeed, they would have

respondent into giving the desired responses.

health. The science and data leave little doubt.

Have your say

helped cause the decimation of an institution

The bus lane along the bypass will cause major

Similarly, we have to ensure that solutions are

Dear Editor

revered around the globe.

tailbacks and long delays (as evidenced by lane

also based on reliable, verifiable traffic data, not

I am sure most people in our community have

For over a century, the BBC has provided a

closures for grass trimming and litter picking).

simply opinions and dogma. If unsure, you must

heard about the A4 Keynsham bypass

multitude of quality entertainment, documentary

Sat-navs will find quicker alternatives including

vote against degradation of this essential trunk

consultation by the West of England Combined

and news programmes. Many of the superb

Bristol Road, Bath Hill, Avon Mill Lane, Station

road. Don’t let WECA wreck Keynsham!

Authority (WECA).

wildlife

been

Road, Keynsham Road, Ashton Way and the High

Clive Honeychurch, Keynsham

I am urging people to take part in this

commissioned without the backing of public

Street as appropriate. Traffic will crawl and air

subscription. And many local radio stations, the

quality will suffer throughout the town.

World Service and Radio 4’s niche programmes,

Bus stops on the bypass? Yes, a major

Will common sense prevail over cycle lane?

like Great Lives, Bookclub and File on 4

improvement in frequency for Keynsham

Dear Editor

Keynsham (Monday 11th September from 3pm

investigations, would never survive in a

residents living close enough to use them.

Once again the cycle lane on Keynsham High

to 8pm at St John's Parish Hall and on Friday

commercial setting.

Unfortunately, this means the X39 will take

Street claims another victim (Issue 795).

22nd September from noon to 5pm at

But the BBC’s pivotal advantage over its rivals is

passengers from bus routes also serving Charlton

Bath & North East Somerset Council have

Keynsham Library)

the absence of those tedious commercial breaks.

Road and the Chandag estates (where the majority

announced that an “additional enhancement”

Cllr Alex Beaumont

Now in my twilight years, I don’t relish the

of Keynsham residents live and endure the worst

design review will be carried out. A sticking

Councillor for Keynsham North (Lib Dem)

thought of the Beeb having to follow suit and

bus services in the area). People will not commute

plaster exercise! It will do nothing to improve

obliging me to watch more of those health issue,

by bus where sparse services don’t get you there

safety. Paint all white markings whiter perhaps?

What B&NES stands for

will-writing and funeral service adverts. Heaven

when needed. Best to drive (at least to the Park &

It's a joke, only those who have taken a tumble

Dear Editor

forbid!

Ride or station)?

are not laughing as the latest victim will tell you.

The constant moaning about Bath & North East

The BBC suffers regular severe criticism from the

Traffic coming up past Keynsham Station will no

Two dislocated bones in her elbow/suspected

Somerset Council seems to ignore reality. When

media. Some of the vitriol has been warranted.

longer have a separate lane to turn right into

fractured wrist. This is the price people are

a shop in Keynsham breaches planning

But, put into context, the broadcaster has during

Somerdale. So, a car waiting to turn right here

paying.

its long history been soundly managed and an

will now block following traffic from continuing

It is all so avoidable. Remove

a

motley

assortment

of

If their invidious quest towards ending the broadcaster’s public funding succeeds, it will

£159 better off but also benefit from an improved

8

series

would

never

have

and

walking

and

roundabouts (plus extra lanes for traffic using the

minimises

consultation and have your say. You can do this by visiting www.haveyoursaywest.co.uk There will also be two drop-in sessions in

The Week in • Wednesday 6th September 2023

LETTERS regulations, B&NES do nothing, citing as an

Replacing a footbridge took more than three years

excuse the eyesore of the gaudy convenience

while houses are stuffed into every available

store up the rank, itself outside the plans for

cranny in order to fulfil Central Government

Keynsham. B&NES allow the expansion of an

demands without impinging on Bath.

entirely inappropriate concrete works, saying that

Don’t people know what B&NES stands for?

it only violates its permissions for 10% of the time

Bath And Nothing Else Silly.

and thus should be allowed to do more!

Alistair Gilroy

No response from First Bus to reader’s query In Issue 795 we carried a letter from Wendy from Longwell Green who asked why the No 45 bus is using Watsons Road as a ‘cut through’ to Shellards Road. She had not received a response to her question from First Bus so on 21st August we asked the company on her behalf.

We did not hear back so last week we contacted them again. We were still awaiting a response as we went to print this week.

Nursery rated as Inadequate for the second time in a row The Stockwood nursery and pre-school

actions raised during the last inspection

rated as Inadequate by Ofsted earlier this

sufficiently, indicating a lack of effective

year has received the same rating following

leadership.

another inspection.

“The manager and staff do not prioritise

In their recently published report, inspectors

children's safety. Their current risk assessment

highlighted a string of failures at Curious

procedures

Hedgehogs in Stockwood Lane, where 147

hazards, such as a blocked fire exit and

children are enrolled.

potential dangers in the outdoor area, to persist.

The previous report, which was published in

Inaccuracies in recording children's daily hours

May, had highlighted “significant breaches”

of attendance and insufficient supervision

meaning children's safety, learning and

during mealtimes leaves children exposed to

development were compromised. That report

potential harm.”

said that staff had demonstrated a poor

The report highlights that leaders are not

knowledge of how to keep children safe and

providing a clear and stimulating curriculum

there was no curriculum in place.

and fail to adequately monitor staff practice,

staff practice.”

safeguarding

After issuing notices requiring the nursery to

therefore limiting learning experiences for

Following the inspection, which was in July,

preventative protocols, confirmed by Ofsted's

carry out safeguarding and welfare actions,

children. Accurate information is not shared

Ofsted has carried out further regulatory visits

follow-up visit. Our comprehensive action plan

Ofsted carried out further regulatory visits and

with parents about their child’s progress.

to ensure that action has been taken to deal with

includes

was satisfied that the necessary actions had

The report continues: “The new manager,

the concerns raised.

enhancements,

been taken.

despite her experience and ambition, does not

Last week Liz Carroll, operations director at

behaviour management and support for

After the first Inadequate report, Just Childcare,

provide adequate coaching, supervision, and

Just Childcare, responded to the report, telling

children with special educational needs and

which runs Curious Hedgehogs, told The Week

support to ensure that staff have the appropriate

us: “We're deeply disappointed by the recent

disabilities.

In that it had made “significant” improvements

skills and knowledge to carry out their roles.

Ofsted rating, which falls far below our

“Our senior leadership team remains committed

and was optimistic about a re-inspection. The

Although the manager intends to carry out

standards. Within the Just Childcare group, 58

to providing consistent support, conducting

company also highlighted the recruitment

supervisions and identify weak practice for all

nurseries - including 10 in the South West -

weekly visits to ensure improvements are

problems facing the childcare sector.

staff, currently this has only been completed for

maintain Good or Outstanding Ofsted grades,

ongoing. We're encouraged by the progress

However, the latest Ofsted inspection has again

staff in the baby room. The manager is aware

setting the benchmark for our expectations.

made so far and are fully dedicated to creating

resulted in the lowest rating. The report says:

of other staff who require support, but she has

“Addressing

this

utmost

a nursery environment that meets the high

“The management team has not addressed the

not yet taken steps to address weaknesses in

seriousness,

we've

rectified

standards we uphold and expect at our settings."

prove

ineffective,

allowing

Sudoku 1-Easy

matter

with

swiftly

staff

concerns

and

training along

instituted

and

with

facility

specialised

SUNDAY CHEMISTS Sunday 10th September

2 -Hard

Boots, Gallagher Retail Park, Longwell Green (10.30am-4pm) Asda, Longwell Green (10am-4pm) 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 6th September 2023

9

Delve into our local heritage for free Local venues are taking part in free Heritage Open Days, the

Community Garden group is

September from 10.30am to

national celebration of history and culture held every

organising hourly guided

3.30pm. See the remains of the

September.

tours

former

surface buildings of a 19th

There’s lots happening in Keynsham. At Keynsham MakeSpace

Fry’s/Cadbury’s chocolate

century coal mine which are in

at Riverside Terrace, there will be an exhibition including

factory on the edge of the

the process of being conserved

displays of artefacts recovered from the medieval abbey and a

town and there is the chance

by Avon Industrial Buildings

scale model of it. There will also be artefacts relating to

to explore the old sports

Trust. The site adjoins Avon

Keynsham’s brass mills.

pavilion which is now used

It will be open today

by the group.

On 16th and 17th September from 11am to 4.30pm you can visit

(Wednesday) and the

On 17th September people are invited to explore the ‘hidden

William Champion's Garden at Warmley, the remarkable

9th, 10th, 15th, 16th and

histories’ of the town’s Durley Hill Cemetery from 10am to 2pm.

surviving Grade II 18th century garden of the brass maker with

17th September from

A Keynsham discovery trail – a free folding map – is also

its giant statue of Neptune and a hidden grotto with a central

10am to 5pm.

available to do at any time. Copies can be picked up from

pool surrounded by six grotesque faces with gaping jaws

The site of the Grade I

Keynsham Town Council’s office, Keynsham Library and

opening into subterranean tunnels. Nearby Kingswood Heritage

listed Keynsham Abbey

Temple

Museum will also be open.

will be open to visitors

https://tinyurl.com/ysmu4wr3.

Meanwhile Frenchay Unitarian

on

16th

As part of the celebrations there is also an exhibition at the

Chapel, one of the oldest

Warrior

Canteen of photographs taken by local people of local scenes.

purpose-built

bishop Heahmund and Jasper Tudor, uncle to Henry VII, were

Another place of interest in Bath & North East Somerset that is

chapels in the country still in

both buried at Keynsham Abbey. The abbey remains in Abbey

taking part in the open days is Saltford Brassmill, an ancient

use, is opening its door on 16th

Park are now laid out as gardens using plants available in

monument and Grade II* listed remnant of the brass industry

September from 1pm to 5pm.

medieval England.

which thrived in the Avon Valley in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Venues taking part in Bristol

The site will be open from 2pm to 5pm on both days, with a talk

It will be open on 9th September from 10am to 4pm, on 10th

include the Grade II* listed

at 2.30pm. People can explore the remains and there will be

September from 1pm to 4pm,

Church

interpretation boards and volunteers on hand to answer

on 16th September from 10am

Evangelist in Brislington. It will be open on 9th September from

questions.

to 4pm and on 17th September

10am to 4pm and 10th September from 11.15am to 4pm. There

Albert Mill at Dapps Hill in Keynsham dates from 1700 and the

from 1pm to 4pm.

will be children’s activities, the chance to visit the tower, see and

mill room is a walk through history with many pieces of original

In

hear the bells, and look at the view.

machinery in place. You can visit on 9th and 10th September

venues taking part in Heritage

Visitors can also wander around the churchyard and look at some

from 10am to 4pm when there will be a display of photographs,

Open Days include Brandy

of the old graves including the one of Thomas Newman, who

a historical timeline, people on hand to answer questions, a quiz

Bottom

was reputed to have been 154 when he died!

Keynsham Abbey

9th

and

September.

for children and refreshments available in the gardens.

of

the

Street

Canteen,

or

Saltford Brass Mill

On 16th September from 11am to 4pm the Somerdale Shed and

download

South

the

trail

at

Gloucestershire,

Colliery

Brandy Bottom Colliery

cycle path 410.

Durley Hill Cemetery

near

of

‘dissident’

St

Luke

Neptune

the

Coxgrove Hill, Pucklechurch.

• Full details of all Heritage Open Days can be found at

It will be open on 9th and 10th

https://www.heritageopendays.org.uk/

Crossword ACROSS

DOWN

1. Exceed (7)

1. Shovel (5)

5. Abyss (5)

2. Lift (5)

8. Downwind (3)

3. Examine (7)

9. Stir up (7)

4. Drowsy (6)

10. Zodiac sign (5)

5. Discontinue (5)

11. Hard mineral (5)

6. Enliven (7)

13. Foreword (7)

7. Advise wrongly (7)

15. Eye infection (4)

12. Cow's sound (3)

17. Beverage (6)

14. Repose (4)

19. Extend, scatter (6) 16. Freshwater duck (4) 22. Tray (anag.) (4)

17. Irritable (7)

24. Heart chamber (7) 18. Portable gun (7) 26. Fruit liquid (5)

20. Sleepwear (7)

29. Caber (anag.) (5)

21. Curve (3)

30. Women (7)

23. Type of jacket (6)

31. Sheep (3)

25. Applaud (5)

32. Raise objection to (5)

27. Eskimo home (5) 28. Follow (5)

33. Make good (7)

10

The Week in • Wednesday 6th September 2023

Spotlight on Victoria Methodist Church Whilst the Methodist Church may not have been part of the

designed to ensure that you did

landscape of this country as long as either the Anglican or

not fall asleep during lengthy

Catholic churches, it nevertheless has a varied and interesting

sermons!

history.

The screen will provide photos of

Why not learn about this by visiting Victoria Methodist Church

the church’s production ‘Down

in Keynsham High Street as it is part of the Heritage Trail in

Memory Lane’ which celebrated the 125th anniversary of the

Keynsham. This wonderful old Wesleyan Church was built in

church and there will be other various archive photographs to

1887 with original features still on show – a beautiful stained

view. We also have some octogenarian and nonagenarian

glass window, and original coloured glass designs on all the

members who will happily talk to you about their years in this

other mullioned windows designed with cathedral glass.

church and their involvement in its journey of vision and dreams

The church will be open between 10am and noon on Monday

through the years.

11th September and Wednesday the 13th and Thursday 14th.

Our Shoppers’ Service at 11am on the Thursday will recall our

The ‘new’ organ was installed a few years after the church was

history with reflections of John Wesley, the founder of

built and each morning at 11am our organist will be playing this

Methodism, and include hymns written by John and his brother

wonderful pipe organ for your pleasure. Visit the church gallery

Charles.

and learn what it is like to sit on the original hard wooden pews

Mike Barrow

Village chapel to close after nearly two centuries After serving the community for 189 years,

more people willing to step forward as elders

Initially the building was known as the

the chapel in Upton Cheyney is to close its

and maintain it, closure has become

Independent Chapel before it joined the

doors this weekend.

inevitable.

Congregational Church and then became the

With a declining congregation, Upton

The chapel opened in 1834, having cost

United Reformed Church.

Cheyney United Reformed Church was

£360 to build. The group of trustees

Last night (Tuesday) Bitton Parish History

scheduled for closure over a decade ago but

and

Bristol

Group was hosting ‘A Night of Reflection

was reprieved largely as a result of the

tobacco importer Wills. A day school was

and Celebration’ at the chapel ahead of the

efforts of elders Muriel Williams and Stuart

added in 1849 which remained until a

last service this weekend.

Turner.

board school opened in the village in the

The final service will be on Sunday (10th

They both passed away last year and without

1890s.

September) at 3pm.

The Week in • Wednesday 6th September 2023

funders

included

the

11

Fete day blessed with crowds and sunshine Bitton’s church fete was blessed with fine weather and hundreds of visitors who helped raise a record amount.

The fete is part of year-round activities to maintain Grade I listed St Mary’s Church and organisers say the provisional profit for Saturday’s event is £11,148 which beats last year’s result – itself a record - by £440.

The afternoon’s festivities were officially opened by villager Marlene Gallop, who has the longest connection with the fete, having supported it for more than 50 years.

The Tatters and Tails Morris group performed on the Glebe Field where there was also a dog show, stalls, a collection of classic cars and a Punch & Judy show. There was music from Oldland Brass, and people could take part in traditional

games and try their hand at the longbow.

Cream teas were served at Church Farm where there was music from the Jazzbeanz. Teas were also served in the church, where visitors could relax to music from St Mary’s Minstrels and view a collection of exquisite eggs carved and decorated by Joan Blake from Willsbridge.

Tatters & Tails entertaining the crowds at the fete Marlene Gallop opened the fete.

She is pictured with fete announcer John Bennetts

St Mary's Minstrels

A fine selection of classic cars

Oldland Brass

Public Notice

Some of Joan Blake's beautiful creations

Professor Hudd performed his Punch & Judy Show

Anyone for tennis?

Close to £1,000 has already been pledged in advance of the tennis festival taking place this Sunday (10th September) in support of the young Keynsham doctor living with incurable bowel cancer.

With the help of family and friends, Dan Money is supporting Cancer Research UK. Several fundraising events have already been held and the total so far, including Gift Aid, tops £36,000.

Dan’s Festival of Tennis is taking place at Bath Tennis Club from 2pm to 6pm and everyone is invited to ‘have a go’ at tennis or just socialise. The event includes a barbecue, bar, cakes, music and a raffle. Find out more and make a donation at https://tinyurl.com/2p9yrjec

12

The Week in • Wednesday 6th September 2023

Plans for nine homes in village There is an outline planning application for nine homes on Green Belt land in Whitchurch Village.

The site is the garden at Oaklea in Sleep Lane and the scheme includes access improvements and off-street car parking.

Previous bids to develop the site have been refused but the most recent – for three bungalows - was granted on appeal last year.

Bath & North East Somerset Council had said it would be inappropriate development within the Green Belt, was outside of the housing development boundary, and had concerns about visibility splays; however, the

planning inspector concluded that the proposals would represent limited infilling and would not harm the Green Belt.

The latest planning application says that the village has seen significant growth in recent years, with large developments constructed near the site. “This has vastly changed the context of the area in which the site is located.”

It also says that the principle of residential development has already been confirmed by the planning inspector’s decision last year.

The planning reference for the latest scheme is 23/02922/OUT. Oaklea in Sleep Lane

How good is your driving?

Bristol Advanced Motorists are holding

experience which is aimed at those who

another free Public DriveCheck Assessment

want to be safer and more confident and

Day to give members of the public an

would like a free and independent appraisal

opportunity to compare their driving today

of their driving skills. If you can read a

against when they passed their driving test,

number plate at 20 metres, are a current full

and to pick up tips on safer, more skilful

driving licence holder and your vehicle has

driving.

both insurance and MoT, you're eligible to

It takes place on Saturday 7th October,

apply.

meeting at the Scout HQ at the community

Places are limited to 40. To pre-book call

centre in Shellards Road, Longwell Green.

01454 619289 or email marlenebaker@iam-

DriveCheck is a 'no pass, no fail' driving

bristol.org.uk

Situations Vacant

Attempted theft of motorbikes A group were disturbed as they tried to steal motorbikes from the front garden of a home in Creswicke Avenue in Hanham.

The offenders had cut off the security chain, which secured the bikes to a fence, but ran off when challenged at approximately 12.30am on Friday 18th August.

If you have any information about this incident, especially CCTV images, call the police on 101, giving reference number 5223199912. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

New parking charges This week sees the start of vehicle emission-based parking charges in council-owned car parks in Bath.

More polluting vehicles, like diesel vehicles, will now pay a higher rate.

The new charges aim to incentivise motorists to use more sustainable alternatives when visiting the city centre, such as Park & Ride, and encourage a shift to public transport, walking, wheeling and cycling.

In a recent public consultation carried out by the council, more than half of the 1,692 responses voiced concerns about air quality and felt the council should do more to tackle air pollution.

Intruders disturbed A home on Chestnut Walk in Saltford was burgled at 3.10am on Saturday 19th August.

The intruders entered through a bathroom window and left the same way after one of the

Vacancy to fill?

Advertising in The Week In is an effective and low cost option.

residents woke up. If you have any information about this incident, especially CCTV images,

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Deadline for Situations Vacant advert bookings is 4.00pm on the FRIDAY

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The Week in • Wednesday 6th September 2023

preceding publication.

13

Crossword Solution

Sudoku Solutions 1-Easy

2-Hard

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16

The Week in • Wednesday 6th September 2023