Filtonvoice April 2021

FREE MONTHLY for people and businesses in Filton ... and parts of Horfield

filtonvoice April 2021 Issue 114

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

Covid - one year on

Residents and community figures reflect on 12 months that changed all of our lives dramatically - Pages 3-10

School pupils return - Pages 8-9

Filton misses out on leisure funds Full story on Pages 12-13

ADVERT, page 10

Covid test kits available in Filton

Home rapid Covid testing kits are now available to be collected from six sites in South Gloucestershire, including BAWA in Filton.

This is in addition to parents of young people attending nurseries, schools and colleges being able to order test kits to be delivered to their home and being able to take a test at one of the existing Rapid Testing sites, in Bradley Stoke, Kingswood and Yate.

As well as children being tested at secondary school or college, South Glos Council ise asking anyone over the age of 16 whose household, support or childcare bubble includes children or staff in a nursery, primary school, secondary school, or college, to take a rapid home test twice a week.

These tests are for people without Covid-19 symptoms only. You can order home testing kits on Gov.UK or book a rapid test (lateral flow) online.

To help families and those living with young people access regular, twice-a-week testing, kits are now available for collection from our Local Testing Sites, seven daysa-week, between 1:00pm – 8:00pm (collection is ONLY available between these times as these sites are used to administer PCR testing for symptomatic people in the mornings): • BAWA Healthcare and Leisure 589 Southmead Road, Filton BS34 7RG • Cleve RFC, The Hayfields, Cossham St BS16 9EN • Yate Courtside Carpark BS37 4DQ Kits may also be collected Turn to Page 3

Contacts Richard Coulter Editor and publisher

0777 555 0607 | richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

Ruth Drury Advertising sales

You can find Filtonvoice on Facebook www.facebook. com/filtonvoice and on Twitter @filtonvoice

NEWLAND CONSTRUCTION DESIGN & BUILD MARK NEWLAND

01179 692962 07456 444202

NC

Design & Build

Quality local Filton builder for all your needs

07590 527664 | ruth@filtonvoice.co.uk

newlandconstruction70@outlook.com COMPLAINTS If you have a complaint about anything in the Filtonvoice, contact the Editor using the details below. We take complaints seriously and aspire to follow the Code of Conduct of the NUJ (National Union of Journalists), which holds journalists to a high standard of behaviour.

Further details of the complaints process can be found on the Voice website www.localvoicenetwork.co.uk, or can be obtained by contacting the publisher, above.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Filtonvoice is independent. We cannot take responsibility for content or accuracy of adverts, and it is advertisers’ responsibility to conform to all relevant legislation.

We cannot vouch for any services offered although we have used some of the services. Opinions are not necessarily those of the editor.

Filtonvoice is distributed each month to all Filton residents. If for some reason you do not get a copy, please get in touch or collect one from Filton Library. Feedback is welcomed, call editor Richard Coulter on 0777 555 0607 or richard@filtonvoice.co.uk.

BRUNEL B RU NE L I N DINDEPENDENT E PE NDENT F UNERAL D I REC TORS FUNERAL DIRECTORS “BRISTOL’S AFFORDABLE “ BRISTOL’S A FFORDABLE FU N ERAL”

FUNERAL”

Direct Cremation £999 inclusive Direct Cremation £999 inclusive

The Brunel package £1950 inclusive The Brunel package £1950 inclusive

Personalised funerals DO NOT have to cost a fortune

Personalised funerals DO NOT have to cost a fortune

“We’re here to support you

your “ W e ’through re he re to su p p o r t difficult y o u t h r o ujourney.” gh y our d ifficult j ourney.”

3 Concorde Drive, Bristol, BS10 6PZ

Tel 0117 374 2002 3 C o n c or de D r i v e , Br i s t o l , BS 10 6P Z – T e l 0117 374 2002

Gales Farm Meats

Quality Farm Meats Meats Quality Fresh Fresh Farm Barbecue meats, burgers,

• • • • •

‘Spring Lambsteaks, Now Available’ sausages, spare ribs,

Chicken, Lamb, Beef & Pork • Deli Cheese and Chutney free marinade • of your choice – Homemade Faggots Marinated Meats/Kebabs • Great selection of Homemade • Fresh Vegetables and Speciality Sausages ideal for BBQ Groceries Pies and Pasties Homemade Pies and Pasties • Fresh Vegetables and • Great selection of • Beef, Pork & Lamb Joints Home-cooked Meats and Groceries always Pickles and Chutneys • Sausages & Sausagemeat Cured Bacon available Lunchtime Tel: 0117 969 1232 | www.galesfarmmeats.co.uk Order Tel: 0117 969View, 1232 Filton, | www.galesfarmmeats.co.uk now for 4 Church BS34 7BT takeaway 4 Also Church View, Filton,Park, BS34 Easter Gales of Westbury 317BT North View, Also Gales ofPark Westbury Park, 31 North View, Westbury | Good old-fashioned service Westbury Park | Good old-fashioned service |

menu

April, 2021

E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

filtonvoice

3

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

Covid one year on It has been a year like no other, with life, work, education and relationships affected as we went in and out of lockdown. In Filton, there have been so many examples of community goodwill and support. On this page, residents reflect on the past 12 months while, on pages 4-10, we hear from local politicians, businesses, our schools and community activists Polly Kirby: Lockdown has been incredibly hard mentally. I haven’t seen my dad or family since August 2019 which I find upsetting. Whilst lockdown has felt lonely at times, it has has brought new friends and old and the love and support I’ve had has been truly wonderful.

Whilst there is a lot of negative feeling, there have been some rainbows, too.

family and friends but I’ve really appreciated them more now!

It’s also made me very proud of our community, from the NHS claps to the rainbows in windows, I feel like we have all braved this together

Hellen Arthur: My son has worked on the frontline seeing patients with Covid. I can’t leave the house now, without having a panic attack.

I’ve missed seeing family & friends.

But I’ve learnt to make bread !

Hannah Rudman: I’ve actually loved this time at home with my husband and watching my girls grow! It’s hard not seeing my other

and really shown how caring and helpful people can be.

mentally, physically, financially or emotionally. The toughest has been not being able to see your family and friends. My poor dad has been stuck in Wales living alone and we haven’t seen him since last summer. We’ve only managed to see him twice in over a year which has been very tough on him. Roll on when we can meet our friends and family again safely.

Kath Semple: I think Covid has been tough on everyone in one way or another albeit

Covid testing kits in Filton From Page 1 from the Rapid Testing sites, seven days-a-week, from 8:30am – 5:30pm (to 7.30pm Mon and Weds) at: Bradley Stoke Leisure Centre, Fiddlers Wood Lane, Bradley Stoke BS32 9BS Kingswood Leisure Centre, Church Road BS16 4RH (every day except for Tuesday and Thursday)

Yate Parish Hall, Station Road, BS37 4PQ A South Glos spokesperson said: "No appointment is necessary to collect kits and individuals may collect a maximum of two boxes of seven kits.

"Testing for those without symptoms is a key part of the road map outlined by the Government."

THANK YOU

goto iT

We are open for all your

iT needs

Please call us before arriving for our COVID-19 safety measures

0117 969 8767 www.goto-it.co.uk

Mark Peters: I was lucky enough to work from home but balancing work with home schooling has not been easy and I know this was case for many people.

...your next step in floor covering

from

for your support in these difficult times

Alex Walker: Due to Covid and being in different counties I was unable to see my Na. She died of a stroke last month. Covid stole her final year from her and her family.

▪ Carpets ▪ Rugs ▪ LVT ▪ Linoleum ▪ Vinyl ▪ Laminate ▪ Safety Flooring ▪ Coir ▪ Sisal Bringing twenty-five years of floor covering experience to Gloucester Road, your reliable, independent, local, first-class carpet shop.

We always have full rolls in stock and on display ready for your perusal, roll stock always represents best value. Come in to buy or just to say hi, either way we would love to meet you.

▪ Fully certified and insured in-house fitters ▪ Full 'no pressure' measuring service.

▪ Directly dealing with all the major manufacturers

Let us be your next step in floor covering. THU

WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS SAY...

“Very Friendly and Helpful” “What a find! Completely took the stress out of all my carpeting needs. Selection is huge, staff very friendly and helpful and a local shop!! Highly recommend.”

“Fantastic Customer Service" Very professional and fantastic customer service, a reliable and trustworthy company – I would highly recommend.”

278–280 Gloucester Road, Horfield, Bristol, BS7 8PD (opposite the Post Office)

Call us on 0117 9425 770 conrancarpetsltd@gmail.com www.conrancarpetsltd.com Open Mon–Sat, 10am–6pm

28 Gloucester Road North , Filton, Bristol, BS7 0SJ

Celebrating 20 years of iT support

Work going on at 64 Northville Road

Bishopston Matters

Please call Kerry on 07881 924 059

Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

4

T: 0777 555 0607

filtonvoice

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

April, 2021

Covid one year on - by Debbie Teml of Filton charity FACE

Little did we know what an impact there would be

W

hen I look back to March 2020 I think I was quite naïve as to the gravity of the situation unfolding.

As I sat around the table with other community organisations discussing how we could get though a potential lockdown for 12 weeks, little did I think that we would be still in this situation a year later.

The first few months was quite a lonely time as everyone around me was suddenly was not there – all working from home/shielding/furloughed/trying to keep home lives and work afloat. But equally it was an affirming time – as the community came together.

New volunteers sprung up willing to help and people communicated with their neighbours and made new connections – even despite the difficulties around them. I am proud and humbled to be just a part of the Filton ‘Covid response’ and my life and that of FACE has been enriched through it.

The last couple of months have been really hard and many of us are feeling “done” with this now, but I think it will be quite some time until we can say this is “over” and am now not so naïve to recognise that the aftermath of 2020 will probably be with us for years to come. I just hope that we can cling on to the positive learning from the past year and move forward as a stronger and kinder community, and focus on the good. I hope we continue to look out for the isolated and support our neighbours as we will all continue to have difficult days ahead.

Debbie, front, with Covid volunteers Alison Casson, Kirstie Barnes and Rob Taylor

Join our NHS heroes

Are you ready to take on a new challenge by joining our established Community Rehabilitation Teams (CRTs) supporting the residents of Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire?

Come and build a career within a NHS community healthcare provider with many development opportunities. We have both full and part-time flexible roles to meet the needs of your life.

We have a variety of roles available, find out more on our website.

Recruiting now: •

Rehabilitation Support Worker, Band 3 £19,737 - £21,142 (pro rata)

Location: roles available throughout Bristol, South Gloucestershire and North Somerset More details and to apply:

http://ow.ly/Av9l50D8gH3 Or you can use your mobile phone and this QR code to find out more:

To advertise, contact ruth@filtonvoice.co.uk or Richard on 0777 555 0607 or Ruth on 07590 527664

Covid one year on - Filton's South Glos councillors A testing year but heartened by support for those at risk

A

year on from the introduction of lockdown, it is fair to say that the world has changed and my thoughts have been throughout with those who have been negatively impacted and those who have lost someone dear to them.

It has been a year that has tested us, as individuals, and as communities, and it has been heartening to see the remarkable way in which so many local people and community organisations have come together to support those in our area most at risk – as well as the outstanding commitment from key workers, Council staff and the NHS to be there for us through thick and thin.

I am proud that South Gloucestershire Council has been working hard to help coordinate this effort and has supplied more than £180million in grant funding and support to residents and businesses in our communities through this time as well as providing free school meals and food parcels to support those required to shield.

There is still a way to go

View from Dan Norris, Labour Metro Mayor Candidate

before we are in the clear and lockdown becomes a distant memory. To those who are still struggling, whether it is with mental or physical health, financially or just in readjusting to the evolving condition of the “new normal”, know we are here to help.

With the fantastic rollout of the vaccine taking place and thousands of local people being immunised, it is important now more than ever to show our respect to those that we have lost during the pandemic by following the national guidance and keeping ourselves, and those around us, safe.

Chris Wood

So many people stepped up to help those in need

O

n the anniversary of the lockdown, I think that a great deal of thanks is required, obviously to our key workers.

We saw this with our schools whose staff worked tirelessly either teaching the children of key workers or ensuring pupils had access to online learning.

I personally feel gratitude to all the volunteers who have stepped to help others, such as the people who worked with Debbie Teml at FACE collecting shopping and prescriptions for those shielding.

There were also people who walked neighbours' dogs for those unable to do so - these were small acts of kindness. Community spirit was demonstrated all round.

There are many sad outcomes of COVID and one

What do the Metro Mayor manifestos offer for residents in Filton and Horfield?

of is that 1000s of vulnerable people across South Glos who were identified by the groups providing COVD support who were not previously unknown to authorities/agencies. I am sorry to say that is a consequence of the unseen reality of Tory austerity.

Adam Monk

The coronavirus crisis has been devastating for lives and livelihoods. But it has also shown us what matters most. People have come together through mutual aid groups, our key workers have been heroic, and we have rediscovered the value of local services and local green spaces.

Jobs first. After the economic devastation of the pandemic Dan Norris has pledged to be a 'Jobs First' Metro Mayor. His manifesto includes plans for 23,000 new Green Jobs.

Invest in our local shops. Dan Norris has criticised the current Mayor for leaving millions to support our High Streets unspent.

As Metro Mayor he plans to allocate the much-needed cash as soon as possible.

Valuing what matters. Dan Norris promises a focus on quality of life, so our area is the best place to grow up in and and grow old in.

Labour Leader meets West of England Ambulance Workers Local paramedics received a visit from Labour leader Keir Starmer and Dan Norris to say thank you.

Ambulance workers told the Labour duo about their tireless work throughout the pandemic.

But the one per cent pay rise the Government plan for NHS staff has been called an insult.

Dan Norris said: "I heard about the impact

Labour Leader Keir Starmer and Metro Mayor candidate Dan Norris speaking to ambulance workers

of the pandemic on local workers. Surely now is the time to show we value them? " Promoted by Paul Tucker on behalf of Dan Norris both at 136a Walcot St, Bath BA1 5BG

6

T: 0777 555 0607

filtonvoice

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

April, 2021

Covid one year on - Fruit and Veg Land

Opening a business in a pandemic

by Shane Gibson Opening a greengrocer on Gloucester Road North during the autumn of 2020 put Alaa Othman and his partner Suela, pictured, into an unknown situation.

As the national lockdown reaches its end, they are hopeful for the future of their local community.

He said: “We were busy, but there was not as much footfall as we would have liked when we first opened, which we believe was due to the lockdowns. Simply there was just not as many people around as we would have liked.

"Now, a lot more people are coming out of their homes and walking around. Some people told me that they did not even know we were here, as they had been inside for so long. I have spoken with some customers recently, who had not left their house in a year, so we are really happy to see those that were shielding now out and about.

"One of the things that felt good about this lock down, was giving free deliveries to anyone that was shielding even if they only wanted one item.

“I think things can only get better from here.”

YATE: 01454 837677

MOBILE: 07922 069253

To advertise, contact ruth@filtonvoice.co.uk or Richard on 0777 555 0607 or Ruth on 07590 527664

E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

April, 2021

filtonvoice

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

7

Covid one year on - by Mario Parrinello from The Filton Barber

W

A difficult year but we're all set to reopen

hen we initially locked down in March 2020, little did we know it would be still going on a year later. Obviously business was affected dramatically as we had to close and things were uncertain as to when it would all get going again.

After we got the go-ahead to reopen we incurred lots of extra costs, both financially and in time due to having to install an appointment system, and source and buy PPE as well as all the extra cleaning involved to keep our clients safe.

When we finally did re-open, it was great to see friendly, familiar faces again and being able to discuss the craziness of the situation at the time, but things never fully recovered.

Whether people just carried on doing their own hair or didn’t feel safe going out, it was not the same.

The November “circuit breaker“ was a big blow as Christmas was on its way and that is usually one of our busiest times of the year.

We have now been closed

since early January and we hope to reopen on April 12 according to government guidelines. I am looking forward to getting back in the shop again and I’m hopeful that the business will recover.

We look forward to seeing you again at The Filton Barbers and with the fantastic work by the NHS and the rollout of the vaccine, hopefully this will be the last time we have to lock down.

A WARM WELCOME AWAITS AT FIELD HOUSE NURSING HOME Field House in Horfield offers safe and nurturing care

We also ensure:

Whilst we are taking care to ensure distancing, residents are still enjoying daily activities, and access to our beautiful gardens. We also have the technology to keep our residents in ‘virtual’ touch with their families.

• Strict Infection Control measures approved by Public Health England are fully implemented • Care staff wear PPE at all times and we have ensured a high volume of supply

“Field Field House remains a place of happy daily life and excellent nursing care.” care Dee, Nurse Manager

• Skilled nurses are on site 24/7 and respiratory equipment is at hand • Safe face-to-face visits where possible

We’d love to hear from you and we’d be very happy to give you a virtual tour of the home...

Give us a call on 0117 969 0990 or visit our website at bristolcarehomes.co.uk Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

8

filtonvoice

T: 0777 555 0607

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

April, 2021

Covid one year on - our schools

Testing times as school children return to class

Testing at Abbeywood Community School

by Shane Gibson The full return to school for all primary learners and staff saw a week of lateral flow testing at Filton’s Abbeywood Community School.

Many secondary students have now completed the 3 rounds of supervised testing in school and have been given their home testing kits to conduct tests twice weekly at home.

Secondary students returned to school on Monday, March 15 for induction and then fulltime learning with some adaptations to the arrangements that were in place before Christmas, but many things the same.

The principal change is that everyone in secondary settings will have to wear face coverings indoors, including in lessons, until Easter, at which point the Government is going to review the guidance.

Face coverings are not

required in primary settings and there is no Covid-19 testing for the children. Staff in both primary and secondary phases are now being provided with home testing kits and are encouraged to conduct twice weekly tests until further notice.

A spokesperson for the Olympus Academy Trust, which runs Abbeywood Community School as well as Filton Hill and Charborough Road primaries, said: "Staff did an exemplary job of setting up secondary school test centres and test processing and were on hand to reassure and care for students during the testing process."

At Abbeywood Community School, 94% of students came in for in-school COVID-19 testing and most students have now returned to school.

Headteacher David Howe said: "The students have been hugely enthusiastic to be back

Will Writing Will Writing & & Estate Planning Estate Planning A Will protect your your family’sfamily’s inheritance A Willlets letsyou you protect inheritance and decide youryour assets are shared out – if out you – if you and decidehow how assets are shared don’t make a Will, the law says who gets what. don’t make a Will, the law says who gets what.

WEB-CAM

WILLS

Please feel free Please feel free to call us during call on: us during officetohours

hours 0117office 952 0698

CARAVANS WANTED LARGEST BUYERS OF USED CARAVANS IN THE AREA

on:

or email 0117 952 0698 info@elm-online.co.uk www.elm-online.co.uk

or email

info@elm-online.co.uk We have teamteam of We havea aBristol-based Bristol-based of trained trained Willawriting consultants whocan now We have Bristol-based team Will writing consultants who Mirror Wills Single Or www.elm-online.co.uk can now provide the same personal of trained Will writing consultants provide the same personal face to face face to face meetings via our Couples FROM £99.00 who provide a and, home visiting serviceand, meetings via our Web-Cam-Wills Web-Cam-Wills subject to health and safety, canto take your instructions in can the still subject safety, we and wehealth can stilland provide a homevisiting service to take your instructions in We have ayour Bristol-based team comfort own home. provide aofhomeMirror Wills Single Or the comfort of your own home. visiting service to writing take of trained Will consultants Couples FROM £99.00 your instructions the visiting Making Secure Plansservice for Uncertain Futures who provide a inhome comfort of your own and can take your instructions in the home.

Will Writing & Estate Planning

HIGH STREET, KINGSWOOD, BRISTOL. BS15 4AQ

comfort of your own home.

Will lets you protect your family’s inheritance decide how your assets are shared out – if you ’t make a Will, the law says who gets what.

CALL OR EMAIL NOW: Making Secure Plans for Uncertain Futures 0117 9600 205 / kingswoodcaravans7@gmail.com Please feel free to call us during office hours on: To advertise, contact ruth@filtonvoice.co.uk or Richard on 0777 555 0607 or Ruth on 07590 527664 0117 952 0698

or email

April, 2021

E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

filtonvoice

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

9

Covid one year on - our schools at school and it is clear they are eager to get back to classroombased learning. The students were superbly supported with their learning throughout lockdown with remote live lessons delivered by teachers every day but there is no substitute for learning in school.”

Parents have been supportive of the testing and return to school.

One parent said: "We are really pleased Abbeywood is open to all students again and have been so impressed with how the school has balanced keeping the students safe, running all the coronavirus tests, track and trace, and carried on with teaching and supporting their students.

"My son has been in school throughout the lockdown as I am a key worker, but he is delighted to be with all his friends again in school. I couldn’t fault their care and support for the whole family.”

The Trust CEO Dave Baker also volunteered to help

Pupils at Charborough Road Primary

alongside teachers and support staff.

Reports from Trust primary settings have been positive with lots of happy children and exhaustion all round by the end of the first week back into routine.

Matt Lankester, Head Teacher at Charborough Road

Primary School, said: "The return to school has gone better than we could ever have expected, and we have all enjoyed hearing the school bustle with the excitement of learning once again.

"We are immensely proud of how well the children have engaged with their remote learning over the past few weeks,

and we would like to extend a special thanks to all the parents and carers who helped to make lockdown learning such a success.

"We hope that, by following all safety precautions that we have put in place, we can return to a normal way of life for TeamCRD as soon as possible.”

Head teacher Kirsten Lemming shared her gratitude for the efforts made by parents and careers of the children of Filton Hill Primary School.

She said: "All the staff at Filton Hill were looking forward to welcoming the children back on March 8. The return to school has gone well and the children have really enjoyed seeing their friends and teachers again. The children have settled really well, and our safety procedures are effective. " The majority of children engaged well with remote learning and we would like to thank our parents and carers for their support with this. We know it wasn’t always easy!”

Banana Moon Day Nursery Bristol • Providing a safe and caring environment for children from 0-5 years of age • Open from 7.30am to 6.30pm, 51 weeks a year* • Home-cooked food

CCTV

Fingerprint biometric access

operates throughout our nurseries

Banana Moon Day Nursery Bristol Pinnacle House, 166a Gloucester Rd North, Patchway, Bristol BS34 5BG Call us on 0117 969 1662 or visit bananamoon-bristol.co.uk *

Government funding available.

Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

10

filtonvoice

T: 0777 555 0607

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

April, 2021

Covid one year on - Filton MP Jack Lopresti

J

I was moved by our community's compassion

ust over a year ago, the Prime Minister gave us one simple instruction: stay at home. In response to a global pandemic, we suddenly had to move our lives indoors and online and rapidly adapt to a new way of living.

This has been an extremely challenging 12 months. Many have lost loved ones, and the restrictions which we have had to endure have often made coping with the loss of family or friends even more difficult.

The pandemic necessitated rapid decision-making from Government. The Government would never claim to have got every single decision right; this situation was unprecedented, and decisions which often had to be taken daily had a big impact on us all.

This crisis has touched every single aspect of our lives, and I have been very moved by the displays of compassion and

generosity throughout the last twelve months.

Neighbours caring for neighbours; people taking extra care to check on and look after one another; volunteers delivering food packages to the most vulnerable; the nation coming together to applaud our NHS and key workers.

I would like to pay tribute and grateful thanks to the NHS, people working in care homes, delivery drivers, post office workers, people working in supermarkets and shops and

COME & JOIN US for all abilities Tennis available rformance Beginners to pe viduals Groups & indi niors! e, from tots to se w All ages elcom hip offers available Trial members

le from April for juniors

urses availab Coaching programme co

- Over Book Now Special Offer

everyone else working to keep us all going.

It is a collective effort that will see us through to the other side of this pandemic. Nobody wanted to be back in lockdown, but it was the only option in the face of a resurgent virus that threatened greater loss of life and the overwhelming of our NHS. This time, though, it has been different. The huge success of the vaccine rollout gives renewed hope that life will soon return to normal. But that collective effort places on us all the responsibility to take the vaccine and keep adhering to the guidelines as we gradually unlock.

In the fight against coronavirus, what we do individually matters. We could be out and about, when we can, and whilst we feel fine, we could be an asymptomatic carrier of coronavirus. That’s why, in tandem with the vaccines, rapid testing will continue to be

Mr Lopresti receives the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine at his local surgery in Bradley Stoke

Business for Sale & adults

50s 6 week trial course

for £15

Successful local oven cleaning business for sale. Very simple to run, this well established franchise offers many advantages including: Immediate cash flow with work scheduled in the diary from day one.

Lots of lovely repeat customers with new customers added every week.

Hours to suit: part-time or full-time, one or two people.

Full training and support.

Experience days available.

w available Pay and Play no n members oked online to no Courts can be bo co.uk

dandfrenchay.

see www.downen Downend & Frenchay Tennis Club Common Mead Lane, Hambrook, Frenchay, Bristol BS16 1QQ We are located in the grounds of Frenchay Cricket Club

an invaluable tool in keeping coronavirus suppressed when we go back to something more like normal life.

We mustn’t forget the chain of transmission and continue to be mindful of others, especially those who will take a little more time to adapt to life out of lockdown.

Looking ahead, the roadmap out of lockdown is making good progress. By 12th April, we can get a haircut and sit in a beer garden. By 17th May, we can be back in a restaurant. And, all going well, by June we will be back to something much closer to life as we knew it.

We will never forget the hardship of the last twelve months, but we can now look ahead to a brighter future.

My office is open 9-6, Monday to Friday, so you can call 01454 617783 to speak to the team.

You can also email me on jack. lopresti.mp@parliament.uk

Downend and Frenchay TC @DandFLTC 07928349154 info@downendandfrenchay.co.uk www.downendandfrenchay.co.uk

For more information, call Myles: 07557 110 932 | ovenclean.com

To advertise, contact ruth@filtonvoice.co.uk or Richard on 0777 555 0607 or Ruth on 07590 527664

April, 2021

E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

filtonvoice

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

11

News

Electric car charging points coming to Filton Owners of electric vehicles (EVs) are to get more choice of where they can charge their cars in Filton.

Following a successful bid for more funding, South Glos Council will be installing EV charging points in Church View, where other work is being completed to add cycle lanes and make it one way for traffic.

Across South Glos, further charging points will be installed in Staple Hill, Cribbs Causeway, and Mangotsfield.

These sites are in addition to those previously announced, which included St Mary Street Car Park in Thornbury, Epney Close Car Park in Patchway and our new flagship charge hub at the Bristol and Park Science Park.

Funding to install EV charging points across the region has been awarded by the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) to the West of England

Local Authorities as part of Go Ultra Low West (GULW) project. Approximately 120 EV charging connections will be installed as part of the Revive vehicle charging network, with 42 of these located across South Gloucestershire. To use the charge points, users can sign up

to Revive at www.revivecharging. net.

A spokesperson said: "We are committed to encouraging the uptake of EVs across the region as a more environmentally friendly alternative to petrol or diesel cars. There are a range of benefits to owning an EV, from

air quality to financial gains."

South Gloucestershire Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Environment and Strategic Infrastructure, Cllr Steve Reade said: “The installation of charge points at our car parks in these key areas will make switching to an electric vehicle a credible and attractive option for motorists in the area.”

All of the charge points installed within South Gloucestershire Council car parks will be available to use via the West of England-owned Revive network, which is free to join and will include use of the many GeniePoint charging points across the UK. Residents can use the Go Ultra Low Map to find electric vehicle charging stations near them. www.goultralow. com/ev-charging-point-map/ It is hoped the new charging point in Church Road will be installed by the end of June.

Visit travelwest.info/gulw

NEED AN ELECTRICIAN? CALL 0117 9145400 Electrical Test & Inspections / PAT testing Full and partial electrical rewires Consumer unit upgrade to 17th edition New or replacement switches / sockets / lights Shower installation Smoke / heat / carbon monoxide detector installation & servicing Garden, garage, shed power / security lighting Electric vehicle charging points Free quotations and advice

ERNEST TILL SOUTH WEST & CO LTD THE ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS 5 Lee Close, Patchway, Bristol, BS34 5EH Email: info@tills.biz / www.ernesttillsouthwest.co.uk

Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

12

T: 0777 555 0607

filtonvoice

April, 2021

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

News

Councillors' anger as Filton misses out on share Councillors have hit out after £610,000 of Sport England funding was passed on by South Glos to Circadian Trust leisure centres - but nothing given to Filton Sports and Leisure Centre.

The money was given to help centres reopen after the latest covid lockdown but the money will only be given to the five Circadian Active facilities, such as Bradley Stoke Leisure Centre.

Filton town councillors say some funding should be allocated to Filton Sports and Leisure Centre, which is run by Filton Town Council and which has faced budget pressures in recent years.

South Glos says that because FSLC is run by a town council, it is not eligible for the funding.

This has led to Filton having the highest precept (council tax payment for Filton Town Council services) in South Glos.

Cllr Ian Scott said: "If the

Government has provided money to South Gloucestershire Council to give money to Circadian to provide leisure facilities in South Gloucestershire in places such as

at Bradley Stoke then it is only fair that South Gloucestershire Council uses some of that funding to support leisure facilities in Filton unless Filton

residents are going to be treated as 2nd Class citizens by South Gloucestershire Council."

Councillor Adam Monk, who is also a South Glos councillor,

Alpine LANDSCAPING Established family firm with 25 years experience

25% OF

WITH T F H ADVERTIS

★ Senior Citizens Special ★ Garden Clearance — Regular or one-off ★ Patios ★ Fencing ★ Tree Work ★ Turfing ★ Hedgecutting ★ Planting (Shrubs etc) ★ Organic manure delivered — Also applied ★ Professional and guarnteed work ★ Brick & Blocklaying

CALL JOE FOR A FREE QUOTE

Tel: 0117 959 2143 Mob: 07891 253 122

www.alpine-landscaping.co.uk

To advertise, contact ruth@filtonvoice.co.uk or Richard on 0777 555 0607 or Ruth on 07590 527664

April, 2021

E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

filtonvoice

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

13

News

of £610,000 covid support for sports centres said: "South Glos have been provided ringfenced funds from Central Government to assist with Leisure Facilities, as I understand it. The Conservative Administration of the Council rather than simply passing the funding to Circadian, should pass a small element of that funding to Filton Town Council for the pool. I will be raising this issue at the first opportunity."

A South Glos spokesperson said: "We haven’t been approached by Filton Town Council regarding their inclusion in the bid, nor regarding the funding that was received as a result of the bid’s success. In any event, the Town Council’s model of provision made them ineligible to receive funding through the government’s NLRF." South Gloucestershire Council was awarded £610,000 from Sport England’s National Leisure Recovery Fund to support the leisure centres operated by Circadian Trust to safely reopen, when Covid-19 restrictions allow.

The funding is from the DCMS (Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport) package of £100million to support UK leisure centres.

A spokesperson said: "Like many sectors, our leisure centres have been placed under severe financial strain due to impact of Covid-19. Although they have been closed and most of their staff furloughed, they still have to keep their centres maintained and ready to reopen to members of the public, when it’s safe to do so.

"Circadian Trust were only

able to open for four months in 2020, and restrictions on activities meant that they could only offer limited services to their customers. The independent charity that manages the leisure centres has worked with South Gloucestershire Council to ensure they remain viable and are able to continue offering their facilities and services to our residents."

South Gloucestershire Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities and Local Place, Cllr Rachael Hunt said: “We are delighted to have secured this vital funding to support South Gloucestershire’s leisure centres to reopen their doors to members of the public when restrictions begin to ease following the current Covid-19 lockdown period.”

Mark Crutchley, CEO of Circadian Trust, said: “This funding is a lifeline” said “like many other parts of the leisure industry it has been an incredibly difficult year for us.

"We are so disappointed that we have not been able to open to help people enjoy the fantastic range of services our five centres provide, and we know how frustrating it is for our customers. We are looking forward to a decision from the Government that will allow our centres to reopen again in the near future.

“We are so fortunate to have such a high quality of leisure centres in South Gloucestershire and we are grateful to DCMS for this funding which will help Circadian trust to remain viable.”

Graham Cook Gardener and handyman

Grass cutting, hedge and shrub trimming, weeding, planting, felling small trees, winter preparation, clearing, small painting jobs and other maintenance work.

Please call for a no-obligation chat

"It is only fair that South Gloucestershire Council uses some of the funding to support leisure facilities in Filton."

- Councillor Ian Scott

Sunwear at Lunar Optical Get ready for the spring sunshine with our new sun range at Lunar 291 Gloucester Road Bishopston BS7 8NY

Optical 0117 9420 011 info@lunaroptical.com

Open: Mon 9.30-17.30 • Tues-Fri 9.30-18.00 • Sat 9.30-16.30 • Closed

Call 0117 377 0644 or 07415 658 205 Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

14

T: 0777 555 0607

filtonvoice

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

April, 2021

News

Summer of disruption for Filton rail passengers

by BBC LDRS staff for Filtonvoice Train passengers using Filton Abbey Wood station face a summer of chaos while crucial work takes place to upgrade tracks near Bristol Temple Meads.

Replacement services and closed platforms will become a feature for travellers and commuters over eight weeks from July 10 to September 3.

Services that go through Filton Abbey Wood and Keynsham are affected most but there will be five days when all services are disrupted.

A Network Rail spokesperson said: “This summer we’ll be replacing the tracks at Bristol East Junction, on the approach to Bristol Temple Meads station from London.

“Much of the track and engineering components were laid in the 1960s so are in need of replacement.

“Putting in a brand new set of

tracks will mean fewer faults and less delays.

“We’re also going to change the layout of the tracks and add a new line into the station too.

“This will allow trains to enter and exit the station more flexibly meaning less delays waiting for platforms and the ability for more trains to use the station. It will also ensure that the station is ready to support plans for more train services in the future.”

They said as much work as possible has already been completed to reduce disruption for passengers and residents, cutting it from 12 weeks to eight over the summer.

“While we undertake this engineering work, Bristol will remain open,” the spokesperson said.

“However, some trains will be diverted and others will be replaced by buses and we encourage passengers to plan ahead and check before they travel while this work takes place.”

A GWR spokesperson said the improved track layout would increase the station’s capacity and enable more train services to be added in the future.

They said the operator would continue to run trains where possible although there may be an amended timetable and that bus replacement services would be put on where required.

According to GWR’s website, the disruption will affect the following lines and dates: l Bristol Temple Meads to Filton Abbey Wood – Saturday 10 July to Friday 6 August; l Bristol Temple Meads to Filton Abbey Wood/Keynsham – Saturday 7 August; l All services via Bristol Temple Meads – Sunday 8 August; l Bristol Temple Meads to Filton Abbey Wood/Keynsham – Monday 9 to Friday 13 August; l Bristol Temple Meads to Keynsham – Saturday 14 to Monday 30 August; l All services via Bristol Temple Meads – Tuesday 31 August to Friday 3 September.

To find out more information about Network Rail’s work at Bristol visit the website www.networkrail.co.uk/ running-the-railway/ourroutes/western/bristol-railregeneration/

To advertise, contact ruth@filtonvoice.co.uk or Richard on 0777 555 0607 or Ruth on 07590 527664

April, 2021

E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

News

filtonvoice

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

15

Grant joy for FACE as activities begin to resume South Glos Council has given Filton charity FACE £2,700 for office upgrades as part of more than £50,000 in grant funding for community projects across the area.

The funding comes through the Area Wide Grants initiative as part of the commitment to supporting a thriving voluntary and community sector.

Grants are designed to support initiatives that benefit multiple communities across a wider area of South Gloucestershire FACE director Debbie teml said: "FACE are pleased to have received a grant from the Council’s Area Wide grants programme. FACE is an active and developing charity and is now running youth provisions at 4 different sites across South Glos as well as holiday activities for Bristol Autism Project commissioned by Bristol City Council.

"This year has shown how much it is vital to have an effective “HQ” base and IT systems in place to keep our charity’s smooth operations running. The outdated office and IT systems were in serious need of upgrade and this funding will help us to do that. This will really support FACE to continue to develop and maintain our invaluable work in the future."

FACE reopening: FACE has been working throughout the pandemic to maintain a community presence in Filton whilst many of the community venues have been closed.

Staff coordinated a Covidsecure space with a community store, affordable food boxes, jigsaw loaning scheme, Fareshare food donations, and a community network of volunteers to support with shopping and other help to those unable to go out of their

homes. FACE has also kept up the ‘everyday charity work’ through telephone and text support to members, 1-2-1 work for the most vulnerable, online groups and activity sessions, postal activity packs, Bristol Autism Project, and detached youth work across South Glos.

The charity also had some building work done during a temporary three-month move to the church next door.

Debbie said: "Community learning activities have safely returned to FACE since mid March and we are really pleased that from April 19 we will be reopening our centre-based youth clubs, and clubs for adults with learning and social disabilities across all our venues.

"With the nicer weather we hope to use outside spaces as much as possible to minimise risks through outdoor activities.

"We are reviewing other activities and hirings coming back to the Filton centre when it is safe and reasonable to do so.

"All activities will continue to follow Covid guidance from Public Health England and the National Youth Agency. " Due to our activities all coming back and demand for the store going down, we are going to phase out the community store and we are looking at it finishing at the end of April.

We will continue to get weekly Fareshare food donations when available and put them outside our building. If residents need any support around food/ toiletries we will continue to help if we can and refer to the local foodbank if we cannot. We will also be continuing the ‘shielding helpline’ for residents."

DISCOVER WHAT COLSTON’S CAN OFFER YOUR CHILD Join our

Whole School Virtual Open Morning Friday 30th April from 9.30am To register, visit www.colstons.org/visiting-colstons Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

Filton Town Council Pool ready to re-open

South Gloucestershire Council Timetable of Proceedings for Parish and Town Council By-Elections on Thursday 6 May 2021 Publication of Notice of Election

Monday 22 March 2021

Receipt of Nominations

4:00 pm Thursday 8 April 2021

Withdrawal of Candidate

4:00 pm Thursday 8 April 2021

Publication of Statements of Persons Nominated

4:00 pm Friday 9 April 2021

Last Date for Registration

Monday 19 April 2021

Receipt of Postal Vote Applications

5:00 pm Tuesday 20 April 2021

Publication of Notice of Poll

Tuesday 27 April 2021

Receipt of Proxy Vote Applications

5:00 pm Tuesday 27 April 2021

Appointment of Poll and Count Agents

Wednesday 28 April 2021

First Day to Issue Replacement Lost Postal Ballot Papers Receipt of Emergency Proxy Vote Applications

Thursday 29 April 2021 5:00 pm Thursday 6 May 2021

Last Day to Issue Replacement Spoilt or Lost Postal Ballot Papers 2021 Day of Poll Declaration of Candidates Expenses (Parish)

5:00 pm Thursday 6 May

7:00 am to 10:00 pm Thursday 6 May 2021 Thursday 3 June 2021

Dated 22 March 2021 Printed and published by the Returning Officer,South Gloucestershire Council, Electoral Registration & Returning Officer, PO Box 1953, Bristol, BS37 0DB

We will be re-opening our doors to the pool at Filton Sports and Leisure centre on April 12 from 7.00 am for all things aquatic.

We are currently working on our re opening roadmap using the key dates as set by the Government. We plan to reopen our Centre on Monday April 12 at 7.00am for Dawn Dipper swimming and lane swimming.

Upon reopening, not all activities will be available to begin with and safety measures will still be in place for both customers and staff.

We will be offering COVID safe family swimming sessions as well as our regular lane swimming sessions throughout the Easter School Holidays. We are planning on bringing swimming lessons back on Monday, April 19.

We have been on site in March to take bookings for the 12th April onward and answer any queries.

We ask you to be patient if calling as the phones will be busier than normal. We thank you for your continued support during these unusual times and we hope to see everyone again soon.

– Filton Sports and Leisure Team

Town council meetings April 6th 13th

Staffing Committee Full Council Finance and General Purposes 27th Full Council

May

4th Staffing Committee 11th Full Council Finance & General Purposes 25th Full Council Full Council

Annual Meeting/Parish Assembly

June 2nd 8th 29th

Staffing Committee Full Council Finance & General Purposes Full Council

July

6th Staffing Committee 13th Full Council Finance & General Purposes 27th Full Council Physical council meetings are unable to take place so meetings are being held online via the Zoom platform, with details at www.filtontowncouncil. gov.uk

Council offices Filton Town Council office is now staffed 9am until 1pm Monday to Friday, but due to the current pandemic there is still NO public access. Access can only be by telephone appointment.

Please contact us at office@filtontowncouncil. gov.uk or by phone 01454866698 to arrange an appointment if necessary. Staff are working from home. If you have an enquiry or wish to report a problem email office@filtontowncouncil.gov.uk.

NOTICE OF ELECTION South Gloucestershire Council

Election of Parish and Town Councillors for the Parish and Town Wards listed below

Town Wards Patchway Town Council, Callicroft Ward Filton Town Council, Northville Ward Bradley Stoke Town Council, North Ward Bradley Stoke Town Council, South Ward Siston Parish Council, Warmley Ward

Number of Parish orTown Councillors to be elected One One One One One

1. Forms of nomination for Parish and Town Elections may be obtained from the Returning Officer at Electoral Registration & Returning Officer, South Gloucestershire Council, PO Box 1953, Bristol, BS37 0DB from the Returning Officer who will, at the request of an elector for any electoral area prepare a nomination paper for signature.

2. Nomination papers must be delivered to the Returning Officer, Electoral Registration & Returning Officer, South Gloucestershire Council, PO Box 1953, Bristol, BS37 0DB on any day after the date of this notice but no later than 4 pm on Thursday, 8th April 2021.

3. If any election is contested the poll will take place on Thursday, 6th May 2021.

4. Applications to register to vote must reach the Electoral Registration Officer by 12 midnight on Monday 19 April 2021. Applications can be made online: https://www.gov.uk/register-to-vote.

5. Applications, amendments or cancellations of postal votes and amendments or cancellations of proxy votes must reach the Electoral Registration Officer at Electoral Registration & Returning Officer, South Gloucestershire Council, PO Box 1953, Bristol, BS37 0DB by 5 pm on Tuesday, 20th April 2021.

6. New applications to vote by proxy at this election must reach the Electoral Registration Officer at Electoral Registration & Returning Officer, South Gloucestershire Council, PO Box 1953, Bristol, BS37 0DB by 5 pm on Tuesday, 27th April 2021.

7. Applications to vote by emergency proxy at this election on grounds of physical incapacity or for work/service reasons must reach the Electoral Registration Officer at Electoral Registration & Returning Officer, South Gloucestershire Council, PO Box 1953, Bristol, BS37 0DB by 5 pm on Thursday, 6th May 2021. The physical incapacity must have occurred after 5 pm on Tuesday, 27th April 2021. To apply on the grounds of work/service, the person must have become aware that they cannot go to the polling station in person after 5 pm on Tuesday, 27th April 2021.

Dated Monday 22 March 2021

John McCormack Returning Officer

Printed and published by the Returning Officer, South Gloucestershire Council, PO Box 1953, Bristol, BS37 0DB

Image taken prior to the Coronavirus outbreak. All services undertaken are covid-compliant.

How the Support Hub can help you The Support Hub is a collaboration of local organisations offering free or low cost practical, social and emotional support to people over the age of 50 living in Bristol.

Help available includes: Home support, maintenance and adaptations Advice on benefits and allowances Befriending and virtual activities (online & telephone) Contact us: 0117 929 7537 admin@ageukbristol.org.uk www.ageukbristol.org.uk

April, 2021

E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

filtonvoice

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

19

News in brief Important message for EU, EEA and Swiss nationals: There are fewer than 100 days to go until the June 30 deadline for applications to be made to the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS).

South Gloucestershire Council recognises that local EU, EEA and Swiss nationals are an integral part of the community in Filton and beyond and they are therefore writing to encourage people to apply for the EUSS, if you are eligible and have not already done so or to ask you to encourage others who you may know to apply.

Together with their partners at Southern Brooks Community Partnerships, the council wants to make sure that eligible residents are aware of and supported to apply to the EUSS, prior to the fast-approaching deadline.

EU nationals living in the UK must apply to the EU Settlement Scheme in order to retain their current rights to work, live, study and access services like healthcare here.

EU nationals who do not

apply by the deadline are at risk of losing these rights. The scheme is free and closes on 30 June 2021.

If you are unsure whether the scheme applies to you, your friends or clients, or you would like more information, please get in touch with the EUSS team: euss@southernbrooks.org.uk or call 07929 787 473 / 07971 797 770.

Can you help families?

Volunteers are needed for a support service which helps families in Filton and Horfield.

Home-Start Bristol (HSB) supports parents with at least one child aged under 5 and who are struggling with family life.

The charity’s aim is to work with disadvantaged families and those in difficult situations to give their children the best possible start in life. Never has this support been more vital to families in need than now when they are enduring

lockdowns, isolation, job losses and economic hardship.

HSB staff and volunteers work alongside families, helping them find solutions to their problems, building resilience by boosting parents’ strengths and emotional wellbeing for the ultimate benefit of their children.

If training to do this skilled and rewarding work appeals to you, why not join HSB’s next online Volunteer Preparation

course starting at the end of April? HSB trains volunteers to work with families in need, offering them three hours a week of practical and emotional support, though home-visiting (in normal times).

During the pandemic, family support is being offered over the phone, through doorstep deliveries of children’s activity packs, via signposting to other services and out of doors where restrictions allow between lockdowns.

HSB’s next online Volunteer Preparation Course will start on Wednesday, April 28 and run until Wednesday June 16.

Time: 10-11.30am (term-time only).

For further details email: admin@ homestartbristol. org.uk Telephone 07935 477726 or visit: www. homestartbristol. org.uk

Happy Days Nurseries are recruiting in Bristol!

Happy Days is an established provider of nursery childcare in the South West.

Our mission is to provide high quality childcare, early year’s education and play experiences, which meet the individual needs of all children.

We are looking for Childcare Practitioners for our Bristol Nurseries in Bradley Stoke, Thornbury, Cheswick Village (Stoke Gifford) and Lyde Green • Do you yearn for a new challenge for 2021?

• Are you a L2/L3 Childcare Practitioner looking for the next step in your career or looking to return to the early year’s sector?

• Do you want a career not just a job – we’ll support your CPD you need to succeed • Discover the benefits of working within the early years sector • Happy Days mentor and support their employees along the way • We can offer the choice of permanent or supply roles to suit your lifestyle • Find out what new Apprenticeship opportunities we have - work whilst gaining a Level 2 DfE recognised Early Years qualification

Apply before 30 April 2021 and you will be eligible to receive our £300 welcome bonus* (*Terms & Conditions apply)

Interested in finding out more? Email your CV and your location preference to: hradmin@happydaysnurseries.com

“Happy Days, committed to safer recruitment” Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

20

T: 0777 555 0607

Advertising feature

filtonvoice

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

April, 2021

Creative talent set to blossom with new degrees Bristol educator boomsatsuma is expanding, teaming up with George Ferguson by developing new studios in the Tobacco Factory, to host four creative BA (Hons) degrees.

Work is underway installing the purpose-built education facility, which will welcome students in September 2021.

It will comprise two new film studios, a screening lecture space, computer suite, games lab, darkroom and specially designed creative space, where students can develop and discuss ideas in an 'inspiring' environment.

Mark Curtis, boomsatsuma director, said: “We’re very excited to be located at the Tobacco Factory. What a great place to live, learn and tap into the opportunities afforded by the Bristol Creative industries. This is a significant investment for the future, bringing higher education into this part of the city, which we expect will enrich opportunity

in the area to fuel the next creative generation, for film production with a progressive crossover into virtual production and the games industry.”

The new degrees have all been accredited by Bath Spa University, whose Head of School of Creative Industries, Dr Susan McMillan, who is also a board member of Bristol Creative Industries, said: “I am a huge supporter of boomsatsuma: they are reaching parts that universities and other colleges cannot reach, as well as developing future creative talent in new and exciting ways.

“The creative industries deliver significant economic, social and reputational value to Bristol, the region, and the UK's economy. The pandemic has had a negative effect on education and severely compromised the future for young people. boomsatsuma and their move to the Tobacco Factory creates

a real opportunity to lead on rebuilding our creative sector by nurturing and developing the socially diverse, creative young talent, creative employers will need, post-pandemic.”

Freya Billington, newly appointed course director of boomsatsuma’s two new BA (Hons) Filmmaking degrees – production and post-production – said: “In keeping with boomsatsuma’s ethos, this degree has been designed alongside our industry partners to specifically address where the skill shortages are and help develop graduates that are completely prepared and ready for employment. The two pathways, Production and PostProduction, allow for students to engage with and develop an understanding of the whole filmmaking process but also specialise up to a professional level in their chosen field. Whilst the studios will be equipped with current Industry-standard

equipment and software, capping the intake also enables a focus on each student’s individual career and personal development.”

Alongside the Film degree, the Tobacco Factory will house boomsatsuma’s Games Art VFX BA (Hons) and Documentary Photography BA (Hons) degrees, in addition to the Bristol School of Acting’s new partnership, located in Tobacco Factory Theatres, with its Acting for Screen BA (Hons) and accelerated Acting for Stage & Screen BA (Hons). Freya added: “We will be limiting spaces to 20 per pathway to ensure personalised teaching, attracting students nationally, but are also making sure there are opportunities for local communities.

“We are going to proactively collaborate between the degree courses. The mutual benefits for filmmakers, actors, games VR & VFX developers and

To advertise, contact ruth@filtonvoice.co.uk or Richard on 0777 555 0607 or Ruth on 07590 527664

April, 2021

E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

filtonvoice

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

Pictured left to right, George Ferguson, Mark Curtis and Freya Billington

photographers to work together under one roof is a fabulous plus for these students.

I’m sure the fact that there’s a ground floor café and bar will also be appreciated!”

Building on 13 years of successfully delivering post16 level 3 diplomas in digital and creative qualifications, the new location strengthens boomsatsuma’s partnerships,

adding to course locations with Bristol creative companies at The Royal Photographic Society, The Bottle Yard Studios, Films @ 59, Ashton Gate Stadium and the Engine Shed.

A WORLD OF

Quality

21

The South Bristol location is an important link for education opportunities for the diverse, often overlooked communities of Bristol, into creative industries within the region.

This is an ethos close to the heart of George Ferguson CBE, the city’s first independent Mayor, architect and creator of the Tobacco Factory mixed use project.

He said: “Education and the creative arts are such strong drivers for positive change and the social and environmental benefits that follow, which is more important than ever as we fight our way out of the dire time that we have all been through.

“We are delighted to be part of what we see as a sustainable recovery from this culturally and economically bruising pandemic.

We could not have a better start than giving our young people the chance to grow and meet their full potential.”

Applications are open for courses at https://www. boomsatsuma.education

COVID ith secure w the 5 ent Governm es Guidelin

A WORLD OF

Choice

A WORLD OF

Value

Discover a range of

Carpets • Vinyls Laminates • Karndean Commercial solutions We are one of the first businesses in the UK to offer Google Interactive Virtual Reality Tours

Open: Mon-Fri 9 - 5.30pm | Sat 9 - 5pm | Sun 10 - 4pm The Old Coachworks, Bath Road, Longwell Green, Bristol BS30 6DL Tel: 0117 947 7721 | www.thecarpetbarn.co.uk

Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

22

T: 0777 555 0607

filtonvoice

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

April, 2021

News

Labour leader in Filton to launch election campaign

by BBC LDRS staff for Filtonvoice Sir Keir Starmer launched Labour’s South West local elections campaign in Filton – but made the centrepiece an issue councils can do nothing about.

The party leader and West of England mayoral candidate Dan Norris visited paramedics, crews and staff at South Western Ambulance Service base at Filton, pictured right, as they focused an attack on the Government over a “pay cut” to NHS frontline workers.

Conservatives say the suggested one per cent rise is a “real-terms” increase, while Labour insists inflation means it is a salary drop.

But councils and combined authorities have no power over NHS pay, which is set nationally.

Sir Keir and Mr Norris also admitted the party needed to rebuild trust with the public and highlighted how they were focusing on rural communities and farmers as much as urban issues in the elections on May 6.

Asked to explain why Labour had chosen to kick off a campaign with an NHS issue that no one standing at the polls can change even if elected, Sir Keir told the Local Democracy Reporting Service the pay “cut” was a “real kick in the teeth” for frontline staff.

He said: “If you look across the South West you’ve got 117,000 people and their families who are directly affected by this.

“So wherever you are, whichever community you’re in,

this pay cut absolutely goes to the heart of your village, your town, your city, your rural community, and that is why it’s so important to send that message to Government.

“A vote for Labour is a vote on behalf of our NHS frontline and there is little that many people feel so strongly about.”

Mr Norris said: “We are talking about it because it’s what matters to the people we are talking to in the campaign.

“They want us to say they’re not happy about it and that will reflect all votes for Labour on May 6 because people want fairness to the people who have looked after us so well during the pandemic.”

Sir Keir said: “We are making it absolutely clear that every vote is a chance to send a message against the pay cut the Government is proposing for the NHS frontline – paramedics and nurses who have worked so hard for the last 12 months – and the pay cut the Government is proposing is a real kick in the teeth. So this is a real chance to vote Labour in May and make a material difference to the voice of local communities.”

Mr Norris said: “We hope to win, we are in no way complacent, we know we have to win trust and respect of all those communities in the West of England.”

The other candidates so far announced are the Tories’ Samuel Williams, Lib Dem Stephen Williams and the Greens’ Jerome Thomas.

MONDAY @ St Andrews Methodist Church, Filton BS34 7PS Street Dance 4.15pm 4-6 yrs 5.00pm Ballet Basics, Jazz, Flex & Stretch Under 10 yrs Street Dance Under 12 yrs 5.45pm TUESDAY @ Holy Trinity Church, Broad Croft, Bradley Stoke BS32 0BD Baby Bunnies 9.30am 18 months - 3 yrs Bouncy Bunnies 10.10am 2½ - 4 years

TUESDAY @ Coniston Community Centre, Patchway BS34 5LP Ballet Basics & Modern Jazz 3-6 yrs 3.45pm Intermediate Modern Jazz 7 years & Up 4.30pm 5.15pm Street Dance Under 12 yrs OPEN Street & Teens & 6.00pm Young Adults Commercial Crew SATURDAY @ Coniston Community Centre, Patchway BS34 5LP Baby Bunnies 18 months - 3 yrs 9.00am Bouncy Bunnies 9.40am 2½ - 4 years

3 WEEK TRIAL FROM £12

Tel: 07871436600 www.danceworks.uk.com liesel@danceworks.uk.com

www.filton-central.co.uk

To advertise, contact ruth@filtonvoice.co.uk or Richard on 0777 555 0607 or Ruth on 07590 527664

April, 2021

E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

filtonvoice

23

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

Filton planning applications in March Applications

648 Filton Avenue Installation of rear dormer window to facilitate loft conversion and erection of single storey rear extension and detached garage to create a small house of multiple occupation for up to six occupiers (Class C4). Open for comment 99 Northville Road Internal and external alterations to facilitate conversion of existing dwelling to form 8no bedroom, 8 person HMO (Sui Generis) as defined in the Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order 1987 (as amended). (re-submission).

109 Northville Road Creation of vehicular access onto classified highway (Class C).

32 Stanley Avenue Demolition of existing single storey rear extension and erection of single storey side and rear extensions to form additional living accommodation.

7 Kenmore Drive Erection of single storey rear extension to provide additional living accommodation.

22 Braemar Avenue Conversion of existing garage and erection of a single storey rear extension.

580 Filton Avenue Erection of single storey front extension to form additional living accommodation. Alterations to roofline to facilitate loft conversion.

Creation of vehicular access.

Former Filton Airfield Dishcharge of condition 5 (Design Code), 6 (Tall Buildings), 27 (Remediation) attached to planning permission PT14/3867/O Mixed use

development on 143.73 hectares of land comprising: residential development for up to 2,675 dwellings and apartments; 24ha of stand-alone employment land; 120 Bed Hotel up to 3,800 sqm; Rail Station; Education provision to include a Secondary School (8.31ha), 2 Primary Schools (total 5ha) and 2 Children's Nurseries (total 0.8ha) (all Use Class D1); Community Centre incorporating Library, Built Sports facilities and Doctors surgery up to 3,400 sqm; Dental Surgery up to 800sqm; (Use Class D1); 70 Bed Extra Care Facility up to 12,500sqm; Shops/Financial Services/Food and Drink facilities up to 4,787sqm - comprising Retail Supermarket up to 2,787sqm gross maximum; Business Offices up to 500sqm together with; supporting infrastructure and facilities including demolition, ground works and remediation, highways, utilities, landscaping, sustainable urban drainage system, wildlife water basins and public open space. Outline application including access, with all other matters reserved.

74 Northville Road Extension of existing vehicular access onto classified road).

681 Filton Avenue Creation of vehicular access onto classified road (Class C).

676 Southmead Road Erection of two storey side/rear extension to provide additional living accommodation.

Decisions

92 Northville Road Creation of new vehicular access.

Approve with Conditions 32 Gloucester Road North Non-material amendment to

D. ATTWELL LANDSCAPING & TREE SERVICES All Garden Works Undertaken All Foliage Removed – Roots Destroyed Patios Laid – Slabbing – Decking Block Paving – Graveling – Wood Chippings Fencing – All Clearance Jobs Undertaken General Building – Garden Walls etc Drives & Patios Jetwashed & Resealed

• FULLY INSURED • LICENSED WASTE CARRIER

For a FREE quote call 07960 681 921 d.attwellgardenservices@hotmail.co.uk

Got a story for us - call Rich on 0777 555 0607

planning permission P19/10137/F to include amendments to side elevation windows to allow for external staircase.

Refuse Non Material Amendment 41 Rannoch Road Construction of a hip to gable loft conversion with flat roof rear dormer.

Approve Certificate of Lawfulness 41 Mackie Grove Installation of rear dormer to facilitate loft conversion.

Approve Certificate of Lawfulness 106 Gloucester Road North Erection of single storey rear extension to form additional living accommodation.

Approve with Conditions 118 Northville Road Creation of vehicular access onto a Class C highway.

Approve with Conditions 99 Northville Road Internal and external alterations to facilitate conversion of existing

dwelling to form 8 bedroom, 8 person HMO (Sui Generis) as defined in the Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order 1987 (as amended).

Refusal 34 Ninth Avenue Erection of two storey side extension to form additional living accommodation.

Approve with Conditions 10 Charles Road Erection of 1 dwelling with parking, refuse store, cycle racks and associated works.

Withdrawn 834 Filton Avenue Creation of new vehicular access on to classified road (Class C) and creation of 1 parking space.

Approve with Conditions 109 Station Road Erection of a two storey side extension to provide a 6 person, 6 bedroom HMO (Class C4) with associated works.

Approve with conditions

@ Way-A-Head

Salon & Barber Shop Our friendly team is looking forward to meeting YOU

Selected prices

Ladies

Dry cut Blow dry Shampoo & set Put ups & plaits

OAP

£11 £13

£10 £12

£12

£11

from £20

Tinting from

£29.50

£27.50

Perms from

£40.50

£38.50

Gentlemen Dry cut Wet cut Wash, cut & blow dry Clippers

£9 £11 £16 £5

Extras Conditioners, mousse, setting lotion, gel/wax Complimentary

SENIOR CITIZENS’ PRICES: MONDAYS, TUESDAYS, WEDNESDAYS ONLY 702 Filton Avenue, Filton, Bristol BS34 7JX

Tel: 0117 969 2701

Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

24

filtonvoice

T: 0777 555 0607

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

April, 2021

Horfield news

Leisure centre at heart of city's health strategy

by BBC LDRS staff for Filtonvoice Horfield Leisure Centre is set to become one of Bristol's 'strategic site' leisure centres.

Bristol will have three large leisure centres supported by a range of smaller facilities in future, according to plans being developed by the council.

Easton and Horfield leisure centres will be developed and, together with the Hengrove complex, will form the centrepiece of the city’s leisure facility offer.

The large leisure centres in deprived parts of East, North and South Bristol will be complemented by a variety of smaller facilities run by the council or owned and managed by the community.

Bristol City Council’s intentions for the city’s leisure facilities were revealed in a report that came before the ruling Labour groupin March.

The report, setting out the local authority’s emerging strategy for leisure facilities, said it needed to focus investment on “strategic sites” serving the highest numbers of users and the areas of greatest deprivation, and with potential for expansion.

Hengrove, Horfield and Easton leisure centres are the council’s best used facilities, the report noted.

Mayor Marvin Rees said the council needed to partner with

private operators to ensure the survival of its leisure centres, especially in the face of growing competition from private gyms.

“Public investment needs to be driven by geographical need and particularly by social need as well, to help us tackle those inequalities of opportunity that also find their way into sport and physical activity,” he said.

“And that’s why this policy sets out a future intent to bring public investment to leisure

"Our flagship leisure centres are Hengrove, Horfield and Easton, all three of which serve demographic bases of areas that are at higher levels of deprivation, they are well used, and have opportunities for expansion and investment."

- Mayor Marvin Rees

centres in places of need and high deprivation.

“Our flagship leisure centres are Hengrove, Horfield and Easton, all three of which serve demographic bases of areas that are at higher levels of deprivation, they are well used, and have opportunities for expansion and investment.

“In addition, Bristol South [pool] and Henbury [leisure centre] have good levels of use and crucially also support areas of deprivation.

“We’re going to look to invest in these centres and look at the future of other sites too, including the possibility of community-led leisure centres where there is support.

“We will bring forward a future paper with a plan for investment and modernisation.”

The council intends to develop its leisure centre strategy further before releasing

Looking forward to supporting new members on their 2021 weight loss journey 52 weeks of the year. Here throughout lockdowns or change of tiers.

Southmead

Horfield & Lockleaze

Bishopston

Filton

Southmead Community Centre Monday AM & PM and Tuesdays PM Tel: Nicola 07873 818193

B&A Church Thursday AM & PM Tel: Sue 0117 9243556

The Lockleaze Sports Centre Monday PM New Consultant Tel: Amanda 07850 444306

St Andrews Methodist Church Tuesday AM&PM Tel: Jane 07833381552

Little Stoke

Little Stoke Community Hall Wednesday PM & Thursday AM Tel: Sharron 07947 064711

BOOKING ESSENTIAL

Contact your local Consultant to book into one of our New Member Sessions or a Group Session.

To advertise, contact ruth@filtonvoice.co.uk or Richard on 0777 555 0607 or Ruth on 07590 527664

E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

April, 2021

filtonvoice

25

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

Horfield news it for public consultation in 2021/22.

The report said: “The preferred approach at this stage is to develop two key strategic facilities in Easton and Horfield, serving areas of deprivation and offering mixed modality, accessible water and dry side activities.

“Investing predominantly in Horfield and Easton are the two sites with the greatest need and potential to enhance provision to support a more cost-effective business model of delivery.

“These two key strategic facilities together with a flagship facility at Hengrove, are supported by other council sites and by a range of community owned and managed facilities and activities.

“These include park facilities and older and smaller leisure facilities.”

A decision on the long-term future of Jubilee Pool in south Bristol will form part of the strategic approach, the report added.

• Trusted reputation • Huge choice of doors, worktops appliances, sinks & taps

START THE NEW YEAR WITH A KITCHEN MAKEOVER BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT NOW

FAMIL Y BUSIN RUN ESS

• Free planning & design service • Door swaps to full kitchens – tailored to your needs

20 21

D D 11/12 The Promenade, Gloucester Rd, Bristol BS7 8AL

NEW

0117 944 3223

YEAR ,

N EW K

Call for a free estimate on: BEFORE

ITCHE

N

AVERAGE SCORE

9.8/10

www.dreamdoors.co.uk

®

THE UK’S #1 KITCHEN MAKEOVER EXPERTS

Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

26

T: 0777 555 0607

filtonvoice

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

April, 2021

News

Vaccine rollout continues to gather pace as more than 250,000 people receive first jab

ALL GARDENS

by BBC LDRS staff for Filtonvoice Health chiefs are on track to vaccinate every adult in Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire (BNSSG) from Covid-19 by the summer.

And they expect it to become an annual jab like the flu after local medics found no side effects for the vast majority of people, a council meeting heard last month.

By the end of February, more than 249,446 vaccines had been administered across the area.

Clinical lead for the vaccination programme and deputy medical director at North Bristol NHS Trust Dr Tim Whittlestone said the region was on target for all over-50s to have a coronavirus jab by the end of April.

He told Bristol City Council’s health scrutiny committee: “If you take everyone over the age of 50 together with everyone who is clinically extremely vulnerable or has an underlying health condition then you will be addressing 99 per cent of

the preventable mortality from Covid-19.”

He said the area covered by BNSSG clinical commissioning group had completed immunising all residents over 70 and those most at risk from the virus.

Dr Whittlestone said they were now working through the next priority groups – over-65s and people aged 16 to 64 with underlying health conditions which put them at higher risk, such as asthma and diabetes.

He said: “From the very start in BNSSG we interpreted learning disabilities as being a cohort of patients in that group, so we are not behind the curve regarding recent announcements about learning disabilities.”

Dr Whittestone said everyone in this group should be vaccinated by mid-March.

Asked about concerns over side effects of the Oxford/ AstraZeneca vaccine compared with BioNTech/Pfizer’s, he said: “Locally our vigilance shows us there is no significant difference

www.allgardens.co.uk

DAVE TRIMBY ROOFING SERVICES

SMALL GARDEN SPECIALISTS

25 YEARS EXPERIENCE - BASED IN BISHOPSTON

Phone Pete 0117 9421 685 Email peter@allgardens.co.uk

All Garden Craft DESIGN • Garden clearance and maintenance • Garden make-overs • Patios & Decking • Ponds • New Lawns • Fences/stone walls • Tree pruning

l A family run business with many years experience l High Quality wide range of roofing services l Lead working | All aspects of Slating & Tiling l Flat Roofing | Loft Conversions l Re-felting & Renovations l Roof repairs and renewals l Fascia, soffit and guttering work l No Job too large or Small. All work Guaranteed l Competitive Rates | Private & Commercial

www.davetrimbyroofing.co.uk 0117 904 3656 | 07899 921 338

To advertise, contact ruth@filtonvoice.co.uk or Richard on 0777 555 0607 or Ruth on 07590 527664

April, 2021

E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

filtonvoice

27

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

News between the two. The most “We will do it as quickly as we common side-effect is a painful possibly can.” arm the next day, and there Bristol director of public are one in 10 people who have health Christina Gray said: a low-grade fever the next day “What is almost certain, unless and are required to take some the virus changes dramatically, paracetamol or similar drug to is that the background rate of control that. infection will reduce considerably “But our local reporting shows over the summer as it did last no difference between the two year. and in fact shows a very, very low “There does seem to be a very incidence of moderate to severe clear seasonal effect. side effects.”

“So we can look forward to The meeting heard the rates coming right down in the vaccination programme started summer when the weather is from scratch on December 8 better.” and had been an “extraordinary “If you take everyone over achievement”. the age of 50 together with Nightingale Hospital Bristol chief everyone who is clinically operating officer extremely vulnerable or has an Claire Thompson told councillors: “The underlying health condition plan is to vaccinate then you will be addressing all adults.

99 per cent of the preventable “The date is not specific but it has mortality from Covid-19.” been circulated as the end of the summer, - Deputy medical director at North and that is what we Bristol NHS Trust Dr Tim Whittlestone are aiming for.

Quarry Court

North Bristol NHS Trust (NBT), which runs Southmead Hospital, is one of eight National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) supported sites across the UK where a new coronavirus vaccine trial - referred to as the COVID-19 Heterologous Prime Boost study, or ‘Com-Cov’ - is taking place. The trial is backed by £7 million of government funding and will recruit over 800 volunteers and among those taking part is the Lord-Lieutenant for Bristol Mrs Peaches Golding OBE. The aim of the vaccine trial is to determine what happens when two different vaccines are given to the same patient, in addition to looking at the differences between 4 week and 12 week intervals

Adelaide Place, Fishponds, Bristol BS16 2FX

between doses. Patients do not know whether they will receive the Oxford vaccine manufactured

by AstraZeneca first or the Pfizer BioNtech vaccine or whether they will receive the same vaccine during both injections. However, the results will have global implications.

"I have absolute faith in the safety of the vaccines being studied and in the professionalism of the team carrying out the trial here at Southmead Hospital," said Mrs Golding. In the UK, over 120,000 people have died within 28 days of being diagnosed with COVID-19.

Mrs Golding’s first jab took place on Saturday 20 February at the Learning and Research Building at Southmead Hospital.

PRICES FROM:

£195,000

2-BED APARTMENTS WITH CARPETS INCLUDED FROM

£250,000

Luxury Independent Living Apartments with the reassurance of extra care on site

One or two bedrooms, lounge/ diner and kitchen, balcony or patio with most apartments

Stylish restaurant with terrace and garden view, and hairdressing salon

0117 965 3003

For more information or to book a viewing of our stunning apartments, please call: Email Ross.Vickerman@taylorsestateagents.co.uk | www.quarrycourt.co.uk Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

28

T: 0777 555 0607

filtonvoice

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

April, 2021

filtonvoice

What's On

Calling all clubs and community groups Is your sports club, children's activity or community group getting ready to return as we head out of lockdown restrictions?

You might be planning a musical activity or offering a hobby-based class in and around Filton and Horfield. Or it could be a regular event which will soon be open again.

If you are, WE WANT TO KNOW! Get in touch by emailing richard@filtonvoice.co.uk or call us on 0777 555 0607 and we'll make sure everyone in Filton knows about it.

Deadline for May issue is April 17th

To advertise, contact ruth@filtonvoice.co.uk or Richard on 0777 555 0607 or Ruth on 07590 527664

filtonvoice

E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

April, 2021

29

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

PUZZLES for all

The FIEND 6 2

Each row, column and square (9 spaces each) needs to be filled out with the numbers 1-9, without repeating any numbers within the row, column or square.

1

7 6

8

For younger readers Colour in this lovely card to wish someone you love a Happy Easter. You could try using some pretty spring colours like yellow, green and lilac, perhaps?

4 8 5 9 1 7 8 7 4 5 5

1

8

6 3 8 9 3

9 6 2

6

D

P

R

U R

D

I

T

O

U 7

N

C 4

1

L

8

L

T

E 5

D O

E

Y

R

H

I

2

E E

U

H

T

T O 3

M

3

9

10

1

T

9

2 3

E

8

T

7

Down 1 73267337 (8) 2 96335 (5) 3 66838 (5) 6 38753 (5) 8 5883 (4)

R

Across 1 749846 (6) 4 843 (3) 5 3838 (4) 6 37663 (5) 7 5458 (4) 9 5433 (4) 10 3738 (4)

6

Txtpert F

5

10

4

Solution D

3

E

2

Each row, column and square (4 spaces each) needs to be filled out with the numbers 1-4, without repeating any numbers within the row, column or square.

R

1

Easier suduko

I

Theme: Music

L

Use the phone keypad to decode the clues.

For example: 2 could be A, B or C ... and 5678 could be LOST

E

Txtpert

A Breath of Fresh Air for FILTON

Jerome Thomas

Planning homes, jobs and transport needs to be done with the future in mind. We all know that future needs to be green.

Only a Green Metro Mayor can be trusted to make this happen.

But it needs to happen with communities at the heart.

west of england

I will listen to you.

metro mayor

I will work to fund your town and parish councils to take green action in your area.

I’m on your side.

jerome4metromayor.co.uk

Promoted by Marian Tucker on behalf of Jerome Thomas and Bristol Green Party, 28 Cliftonwood Road, Bristol BS8 4TW

Photo: Simon Sumner

Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

30

T: 0777 555 0607

Filton Avenue News

filtonvoice

Shops to benefit from £5m pot

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

April, 2021

Stones Grass Cutting Service

For friendly and professional grass cutting services within Bristol. Fully insured for regular/one-off jobs, both domestic and commercial.

For more information call 07867 484360

terrystone1964@hotmail.co.uk www.trimandstrim.co.uk

Filton Avenue will be at the heart of a £5million recovery package being launched to help Bristol’s high streets and the city centre to recover from the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The cash boost will help to spearhead the regeneration and recovery of the city centre and 47 high streets throughout Bristol.

In total, £2 million of funding has been earmarked from the Mayor’s Capital Recovery Fund, with £3 million coming from the West of England Combined Authority (WECA) completing the recovery package.

The funding will be finalised by both the city council’s Cabinet and WECA as part of a full business case this summer.

Nine high streets in Filton Avenue, Stockwood, Church Road, Shirehampton, Filwood Broadway, Stapleton Road, Brislington Hill, East Street and Two Mile Hill will be the focus of initial support, the money being used to improve their look and feel, reduce the number of vacant premises by providing financial support to open new businesses, including hospitality or creative spaces, and boost footfall.

Working closely with businesses, residents, community groups, the creative and events sector and other stakeholders, Bristol City Council say they will focus on making sure that grants and improvements match the challenges facing each high street.

The support package also contains a new £1 million high street grant fund, which includes funding for capital and revenue costs and will be available across all 47 of the city’s high streets to support new businesses.

The authority is aiming to bring 150 vacant properties back into permanent use, increasing the diversity of their use across the existing sites in a bid to drive footfall, with businesses being able to apply for funding later this year.

Councillor Nicola Beech, cabinet member for Strategic Design and City Planning, said: “Investment in our high streets and city centre is needed more than ever. During 2020 many of us have relied on our local shops but a number of our high streets have increasing vacancies and are in serious need of some tender, loving care."

To advertise, contact ruth@filtonvoice.co.uk or Richard on 0777 555 0607 or Ruth on 07590 527664

Trade ROOFING services AERIAL SERVICES

To advertise in our trade services section from as little as £15 per month contact Richard on 07775 550607 or Emma 0117 9082121.

Ruth on 07590 527664 GARDENING SERVICES

Robin Home & Garden www.theaerialman.co.uk

CALL TODAY FOR A FREE QUOTATION

We offer full range of gardening service, build, restore and regular maintenance Hedges, Lawns, Trees for small to large gardens.

We are Horticulture qualified and have plenty of experience and also specialise in wildlife gardens, small gardens, office or indoor plants, and garden tutoring service.

We also cover household DIY/decorating etc

Call Rob 07438495584 LOCKSMITH

AERIAL SERVICES

H&P Aerials Digital, Freeview and Freesat Specialists

• TV, FM & DAB • Radio Aerials • Extra Points • Fully Guaranteed • OAP Concessions

PLUMBER

GARDENING SERVICES

Taps, Washers Toilets, Cisterns Leaks, Blockages Tanks, Overflows Lead Pipes, Stopcocks….etc…

OAP DISCOUNTS and NO VAT

0117

957 5092 PLUMBER

NIGHT & DAY

LOCKSMITHS 24HRS Contact Dave Staynings

0117 925 6828

For a free quote

Mobile:

Tel: 0117 908 7232 or Mobile: 07815 029775

07765 208690

CLEANING SERVICES

OVEN CLEANING SERVICES

ROOFING





DAVE TRIMBY ROOFING SERVICES



l All Roofing Work Undertaken l Professional | Friendly | Local l Independent family business l Well established l Roof repairs and renewals l Fascia, soffit and guttering work

    

0117 904 3656 | 07899 921 338 www.davetrimbyroofing.co.uk PAINTING AND DECORATING

SJM DECORATING Professional Decorating Local Qualified tradesmen Internal & External Decorating Fast, reliable & friendly service Fully insured

Free Quotations

Call Scott 07515 523 623 0117 3824411

www.sjmdecorating.freeindex.co.uk

RUBBISH CLEARANCE

RUBBISH CLEARED

Registered upper tier waste carrier licence no CBDU225074

We load and clear rubbish/junk from houses Flats, Sheds, Attics, Gardens etc etc No job too small - we even clear single items Cheaper than a skip and we load no VAT Contact Stuart or Sue

Freephone 0800 0234 995 Mobile 07770944727 anytime inc. weekends

If you or someone you know is being hurt, controlled or scared by a partner, ex-partner or family member, help is available.

Next Link provides support services and can help arrange emergency accommodation for women and girls.

0117 925 0690 | 0800 4700 280 | www.nextlinkhousing.co.uk

Victim Support provides confidential advice to men experiencing domestic or sexual abuse.

0300 303 1972 | 07432 504 692 | bristolmens.dasupport@victimsupport.org.uk