Filtonvoice January 2022 by Richard Coulter

FREE MONTHLY for people and businesses in Filton

filtonvoice January 2022 Issue 123

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

Banana Moon Day Nursery Bristol • Providing a safe and caring environment for children 0-5 years of age • Open from 7.30am to 6.30pm, 51 weeks a year • www.bananamoon-bristol.co.uk

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Nativity plays in our primary schools Pages 22&23

Seasonal message of hope Page 2

Fears for my mum, 95, over plans for HMO Pages 6&7

Secondary school gearing up for expansion plans

'Large and frightening' Accountant's description of budget as Filton Town Council set to borrow £4.45 million to outsource leisure centre - but precept could be REDUCED after years of rises. Pages 3&5

Pensioner's pleas for disabled bay Pages 12&13

A merry Christmas and a Happy New year to all of our readers!

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Contacts Richard Coulter Editor and publisher

0777 555 0607 | richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

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

Shane Gibson Editorial and Advertising sales

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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.

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A seasonal message of hope

’m sure like me, many of you have struggled untangling a string of Christmas lights this year - the set we have on the Christmas tree in church seems to be the longest set I have ever encountered! As I was struggling to untangle them I couldn’t help but smile to myself at how accurately they seemed to represent life. We have seen another difficult year, but as we welcome a new year I think we have all realised that the new ‘normal’ has arrived. After almost two years, the realisation has dawned that we are in a post-pandemic era. Life has forever been changed…but that doesn’t have to be a bad thing. Moments of joy, demonstrations of love, glimpses of light can be seen all through last year and will continue to be seen, I’m sure, in the year to come. Yes there will a few bumps along the road, there may be a few knots in our string of lights, but that doesn’t prevent the lights from working. Only one thing can prevent that - us. In order for those lights to work, we ourselves need to switch them on. Blessings are all around us but we need to choose to see them. Will we allow the biggest blessing of all, the light of Christ that comes at Christmas to shine brightly in our lives? Or will we choose to ignore the switch and remain in darkness? It is up to us. The light of Jesus comes in abundance at Christmas. If we want to see it, all we need do is look.

by Revd Lizzie Gregory, St Peter's Church, Filton

January, 2022

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'Large and frightening figures' Accountant says precept could be REDUCED as Filton Town Council prepares to outsource leisure centre to Active Nation and outlines healthier financial position for authority 'The most challenging budget in 25 years of working with parish councils, involving large and frightening figures.' That is how Filton Town Council's accountant Derek Kemp described the 2022 budget as he outlined the options faced by councillors setting the parish precept (the part of council tax paying for the town council). The town council, having faced several challenging years financing the loss-making pool, is now outsourcing responsibility for running the sports centre to leisure provider Active Nation. Funding for a wholesale revamp of the Elm Park facility is coming from a £4.45 million loan, taken out by the council. Once Active Nation are up and running, revenue will be returned to the council to service the loan. This means that a combination of lower wage bills during the pandemic, a building up of council reserves and the outsourcing of the facility to Active Nation means councillors could offer residents a REDUCED precept in 2022/23 after years of increases, including a 35% increase in 2020 then a 0.95% increase last year. Mr Kemp told councillors that his favoured strategy was to continue to build reserves as a

contingency fund to pay the loan 'if something went wrong' with the Active Nation arrangement. The council will be repaying £220,000 per year for the loan. Mr Kemp said a prudent strategy would be to freeze the precept at the current rate which would help build a contingency fund of around £0.5 million. He said this could lead to savings of £400k which ultimately could be used for new projects or be 'returned' to the taxpayers in the form of a precept reduction in future years. He said: "This was the most challenging budget in 25 years working with parish and town councils, due to the massive changes in the council's financial position and future arrangements. "The council has borrowed £4.45 million to finance the future of the pool and leisure centre. "Assuming the partnership is successful, the picture will be different in future years. "But I have to take a jaundiced view of the possibilities of the future. What happens if something goes wrong? There would be massive financial consequences. "Because of the Doomsday

Filton Sports and Leisure Centre

Turn to Page 5

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News Cabot Probus Club Are you looking to widen your social life? The Cabot Probus Club offers good fellowship with regular social gatherings and outside excursions for members and their wives and partners. Bristol Cabot Probus Club is an established club and will celebrate it’s 25th anniversary in 2022. The Club is pleased to announce that there are now vacancies for new members. Meetings are held regularly on the third Wednesday of every month at the BAWA club on Southmead Road, Filton. The meetings consists of a three course lunch followed by a local speaker. Wives and partners are invited throughout the year to a series of Sunday lunches. Bristol Cabot Probus Club is friendly, very welcoming, and offers comradeship in a convivial atmosphere. Please come and join us. For further information contact George Eland on 0117 9790260.

Plan B Covid restrictions in South Glos: what you need to know

Since December 10, residents in Filton and across South Glos have been legally required to wear face coverings in most indoor settings, including in all libraries and One Stop Shops. In South Gloucestershire, around 40 venues - nightclubs and premises with late licences, dance floors or live music - are required to ask for a Covid pass or proof of a negative lateral flow test before entering. The council licensing team is working with those affected to make sure they are aware of the legislation and how to put these measures in place. To help support local businesses and give shoppers confidence to continue shopping on our high streets, South Glos are reinstating Covid engagement marshals during the busiest shopping period of the year. Marshals were previously a regular sight on high streets during periods of tighter restrictions but were stepped down earlier this year as we emerged from the steps of the Government’s roadmap. They are now being introduced temporarily over Christmas and into the January sales when shops and high streets will be particularly busy. Eight marshals will be out and about in high streets and shopping centres across South Gloucestershire handing out face coverings, hand sanitiser and information about testing, vaccination and how to keep ourselves and each other safe. Marshals do not have enforcement powers but will report back any premises that are not complying with the legal requirements. We have guidance on celebrating this Christmas at https://beta. southglos.gov.uk/guidance-for-events-and-celebrating-occasions/ Information and advice, including financial and wellbeing support, is available on www.southglos.gov.uk/coronavirus

Cash for groups Filton's South Glos councillors want to help local groups with funding. Each year, Filton's councillors - Adam Monk and Chris Wood - are given Member Allocated Funding to support groups in their local area Cllr Monk says that the Covid pandemic means members were allowed to carry over unused monies into this financial year. He said: "This year I have £4,175 remaining funds to allocate. I provided funding this year to the Windows Project from FACE and in the past I have supported the Guides, Scouts, Men in Sheds and Filton Ladies. I would like to hear form local groups that could use a small donation." Cllr Wood made a recent appeal on Facebook. He said: " If you're a local organisation looking for funding, you can apply directly through my Members Award Funding." Contact adam.monk@ southglos.gov.uk or christopherj. wood@southglos.gov.uk

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Precept could go down - but council tax bill will rise From Page 3 scenario, we need to have certain safeguards and we need to set funds aside, and I am suggesting £0.5 million over two years." Mr Kemp said that in the event of problems in the future, the council would still own the (newly refurbished) facility and could run it itself but the loan would still need to be repaid. Councillor Andy Robinson said he would back a £65/ year reduction in the precept, describing it as an 'excellent opportunity after the pandemic to reduce the precept'. Cllr Adam Monk said he favoured a smaller reduction of £30 but noted that the overall council tax bill - standing at around £220/month for Band D households - would still rise due to likely increases in the South Glos, fire service and police elements of the tax.

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My worries for my mother, 95, as HMO by BBC LDRS staff and Filtonvoice A daughter has expressed “dread” over a developer’s plans to create eight bedsits right beside the home of her 95-yearold mother. Sonia Hughes has objected to Samuel Padbury’s plans to convert the semi-detached house adjoining her mother’s home in Filton into shared flat for eight people. She said the thought of eight students living next door to her widowed mother filled her with “dread”. “With the best will in the world, young people like to enjoy themselves and for a 95-year-old to endure this in her final years is unthinkable,” she said. “I am greatly concerned for her mental health and wellbeing.” Mr Padbury’s company Kasa Real Estate Ltd has applied to

turn 15 Braemar Crescent into an eight-bedroom house of multiple occupation (HMO) for a maximum of eight people. It comes after residents of nearby Northville Road campaigned to stop the tide of HMOs flooding their street, which lies to the west of the University of the West of England Frenchay campus. Ms Hughes said the three-bedroom 1940s house adjoining her mother’s house is currently rented to a young family with a toddler, who are typical of the “lovely” and “family oriented” community in Braemar Crescent. Her mother has lived in her home for more than 70 years, she said. “When my mother was widowed some 30 years ago it was her sole objective to stay in the house she lived in with my

father,” Ms Hughes said. “She just wanted to stay and remember. She has a lovely garden, albeit small, and this is where she goes when times are hard for her. “She is now 95, lives independently and is still determined to stay put. “I just can’t imagine what living next door to eight students would be like. "She is a quiet person, enjoying her garden and her immediate neighbours looked after her in the recent pandemic. “Her life will change dramatically with the noise and disruption that students create.” Plans for a seven-bed HMO at 2 Braemar Crescent were approved last month. Ms Hughes said she worried another large HMO would change the character of the small 33-house street and worsen an

existing “major” problem with parking. Parking problems were also cited by two other residents who have objected to the plans since the application was lodged with South Gloucestershire Council last week. Mr Padbury has not responded to a request for comment from the Local Democracy Reporting Service. But the proposal includes the minimum amount of parking for an eight-bedroom HMO, with four off-street parking spaces and covered cycle stores for eight bikes. Ms Hughes said Filton used to be an area for firsttime buyers but its character is changing as developers “snap up any properties that come on the market, out-bidding young people who have a limited budget”.

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developer plans to create eight bedsits Since May this year, permission has been granted for several large HMOs in the area including one in Braemar Crescent, five in Northville Road, and two on Gayner Road. Three of the consents granted for Northville Road were won at appeal, after the council rejected the plans and a planning inspector overturned the decisions. The property at 15 Braemar Crescent can legally be converted to a small HMO for up to six people without the need for full planning consent under permitted development rights. The planning application argues, therefore, that turning the family home into an eightbedsit shared flat is a “modest change” and that it “adds to the variety of housing types available in Filton”. HMOs that are occupied by

five or more people must have a licence issued by the council. The application says this requirement “will ensure that the property is well managed, and that the amenity of neighbours is not prejudiced”. It also argues that any issues with noise and disturbance “can be dealt with through environmental protection legislation if they arise”. South Gloucestershire Council is in the process of putting more rules in place to control the growing number of HMOs in the district and their impact on existing residents. Its ruling Conservative administration is set to adopt a supplementary planning document that would prevent more than 10 per cent in a “locality” and 20 per cent within 100 metres of a property. The new policy would also

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ban three adjacent bedsits and any conversions that would leave family houses “sandwiched” between them. But until it is adopted as official policy, the applicant argues, the supplementary planning document should only be given “limited” consideration by decision makers. It is not known yet whether the application will be decided by council officers or by a planning committee. Announcing their intention to control the growth of HMOs in South Gloucestershire in September, the local Tory group said: “Recent years have seen an increase in HMOs, properties rented out to at least three people who are not from one household, across certain areas in South Gloucestershire such as Filton and Stoke Gifford, with the concentration of cases in some

areas having raised concerns around anti-social behaviour, parking pressures, waste and recycling management and noise complaints. “In an effort to stem the tide, South Gloucestershire Council’s Conservative Administration is set to approve a new Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) which will help to ensure new HMOs meet planning policy requirements with further guidance for councillors, developers and local residents on the impact on the likes of housing diversity, residential amenity and parking standards to prevent negative impacts on the character of the surrounding area and nearby properties.” Filton planning applications and HMO Watch: Page 27

“One day I’ll explore the Amazon” Slow their short-sightedness not their ambition

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£5 million funding now in place to increase Abbeywood Community School could be welcoming 240 new Year 7s permanently from 2023. South Glos Council is making available £5 million which would lead to an overall expansion over the next five years of 300 students. In welcoming the news, leaders at the Olympus Academy Trust school say the expansion must be done without undermining the current 'brilliant' building. They are now working with architects on creating plans, with the options including: • A new block of classrooms • Conversion of the sports hall to classrooms and build a new sports hall • Add classrooms to current corridors Olympus chief executive Dave Baker told Filtonvoice he welcomed the 'positive' news but said it was important the right

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numbers at Abbeywood Community School

plan was in place before trustees would sign off the expansion. The school managed to create an extra 30 places for this year's Year 7 intake, with a further 30 for 2022-23, by moving some 6th Form classes to the next door BTEA Academy. If the expansion goes ahead as planned, successive Year 7s will also have 240 students on the roll until each year group from 7-11 has 240. This follows discussions between the Council’s administration and Olympus to increase from six-form entry to eight-form entry in order to meet the local demand for secondary school places as more new homes continue to be built in the area. The proposed expansion comes as part of a record £78 million capital investment by South Gloucestershire Counciltowards building new schools and maintaining and

improving existing buildings across the district. Work has commenced to develop the scheme with the aim to have the new places available for the 2023/24 academic year. Mr Baker said: "I am heartened to see the aim of this being in place by the 2023-24 year but our trustees will only agree to this once the right plans are agreed. "The news is all positive and we now need to see what the £5 million will create as the school, while in a good financial position, is not sitting on large sums of money. "More students will bring in more revenue but we will also need to employ more teachers." Mr Baker said the plans would particularly help families in Cheswick's 'no man's land' near the Bristol border who have been struggling to find school places due to high demand.

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Cllr Erica Williams, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Employment, said: “I am delighted that we are set to continue our record investment into local schools with these proposals to expand Abbeywood Community School. Raising school standards is the council’s number one priority and it is great that we are in a position to help the school grow alongside the communities it serves to provide local children with quality learning environments to give them the best start to their school life.”

Cllrs Brian Allinson, Ernie Brown and Keith Cranney, who represent the Stoke Gifford ward, said: “With our local communities continuing to grow and more families coming to the area, there is a greater need than ever to have enough places in schools like Abbeywood. We have continued to press the Council for more investment into the services that local people need and are delighted that the Administration has listened. "We look forward to seeing the school’s expansion completed.”

Cllr Erica Williams outside Abbeywood Community School. Above left, Olympus Trust CEO Dave Baker

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Charity planning for 2022 after anniversary lunch Filton Chest & Heart Committee celebrated 76 years this November with a wonderful lunch, well attended by their members, at the BAWA Club in Southmead Road. The group specifically supports Filton residents with a lung or heart condition. We were very lucky to have both our President Professor Nick Maskell and Vice President Dr John Harvey in attendance at the lunch, sparing time from their busy schedules which includes caring for patients with Covid 19. Members and supporters raised £230 on the day. The origins of the group began in 1945 when TB was the killer disease, affecting many people. By the 1970s the organization was renamed Chest, Heart and Stroke Association when the focus was more on heart diseases and in the 1990s again saw a change of direction to Filton Chest & Heart Committee, incorporating lung

The Chest and Heart Committee with Professor Nick Maskell (centre)

patients as well as heart. Now in 2021 the society is supporting Filton residents who are registered with us, from the latest serious lung

Southmead

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condition. So from TB to Covid, our society tries to change with the times. Over the years thousands of

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pounds has been raised to pay for medical equipment for the local doctor’s surgeries & clinics and now more urgently, the Respiratory and Cardiology Wards at Southmead Hospital. We organize coffee mornings, quizzes, talks, lunch outings and other social events to entertain our members as well raise funds. Plans for the New Year start on February 14th, 2022, with a 'Romantic Coffee Morning' and will follow with further social events yet to be decided. If you know of, or are someone who is resident in Filton, has a lung or heart condition and would enjoy mixing with a lively group then please get in touch with us Clare Hayward 07864 721230 or Brian Smith 01179759126 or email us at b.smith.filtonchestandheart@gmail. com. We will be pleased to welcome you to join us. Clare Hayward

Filton

St Andrews Methodist Church Tuesday 9.30am Tel: Gerry 07808 802145

Little Stoke

Little Stoke Community Hall Wednesday 5.30pm & 7.00pm Thursday 9.30am & 11.00am Tel: Sharron 07947 064711

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Charlie, 83, in appeal for disabled bay as drive is by Shane Gibson Charlie Martin has lived on Station Road in Filton for over 50 years. He is 83 years old and in ill health due to lung, skin, and throat cancer. He also has a tracheotomy and finds it difficult to communicate over the telephone. Charlie shares a driveway with a neighbouring property which this year was converted into a 5-bedroom HMO. Charlie suffers stress and anxiety which was made worse when he was unable to access his part of the driveway to park on due to the numerous construction trucks that were parked on the pavement whilst work was conducted. Charlie applied to South Glos Council for an advisory disabled persons parking bay to be allocated to his space on the road, allowing him to access his car without the anxiety of having

to pass other vehicles who would now potentially have access to the driveway, and allow him

to secure a place where the car would be visible from his living room.

Charlie has shared with the Filtonvoice his personal statement that he attached to the application. “Due to the large number of HMOs in Station Road, parking has become a very big problem, people working from home has also not helped. I have a shared drive and the house I share

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often inaccessible it with is being converted at present into a five person HMO. This will no doubt add to the parking problems. "If I park on the drive, I find cars blocking my exit and due to the narrowness of the road pulling out is very dangerous as vision is impaired by parked vehicles. "Hence, I leave the car on the road. Also, I have had a disabled blue badge for 13 years.” Andrea Bonomi from Traffic Management (Assess & Decide) at South Gloucestershire Council, refused Charlie’s application for a disabled bay on the grounds that off street facilities were available. Charlies’ daughter-in-law Heather said: “They have rejected Charlie's claims because he has a driveway and a garage even though he hasn't been able

to access it for the past 6 months! "We are also aware of other properties in neighbouring roads that also have these "off street" facilities, but nevertheless have been granted disabled bays. "Exactly how do the Council pick and choose who gets what?” Heather informed us that earlier this year Charlie was hit by a motorist whilst trying to get down off his driveway. “There is a severe lack of street lighting, but motorists still choose to use it as a rat run to avoid the appalling traffic on the ring road and tear down it all speeds to get to their destinations,” she said. Filtonvoice has spoken with district councillor Adam Monk who said: "This sounds like policies gone mad. I will see what I can get done.”

Right, Charlie outside his house; left, the letter from South Glos explaining their decision; and opposite top, Charlie's house on the left

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January, 2022

News

Consultation as masterplan for Brabazon revised YTL Developments has launched a public consultation to help shape the future of Brabazon – the new neighbourhood for Bristol being built on the former Filton Airfield. YTL Developments already has planning permission – granted in 2018 - to transform this historic local landmark into a new urban community. Under the existing consent, YTL Developments would build 2,675 new homes, 62 acres of commercial space to support 10,000 new jobs and new community facilities including three new schools, a library, doctor’s surgery and sports facilities, all surrounded by landscaped public squares and parkland. In 2020, the company also received consent to re-imagine the iconic Brabazon Hangars – where every UK Concorde was built – into a 17,000 capacity arena for Bristol. Seb Loyn, Planning & Development Director for YTL Developments said: “In Bristol and South Gloucestershire we face a housing crisis, and the region needs to build over 100,000 homes in the next 10 years to meet demand. “We also face a climate crisis, so it is not enough just to build homes: we must build them in the right places. That means on brownfield land along existing transport corridors, rather than on green fields in out-of-town locations. “And we have the opportunity to build back better following Covid-19, creating the space, the connectivity and the opportunity for local businesses across the region to drive prosperity for the next generation. “Brabazon is perfectly placed to help Bristol and the wider region tackle the challenges we all face.” YTL Developments intends to submit an updated Masterplan application for Brabazon in February 2022. The key elements of the revised proposals are as follows: More green space The proposals include plans for the largest new urban public park in the South West for 50 years. At 15 acres - equivalent in

size to Castle Park – Brabazon Park, based around a three-acre lake, will feature walking routes, water gardens, exercise areas and children’s playgrounds, crisscrossed by wildlife corridors planted with native species. More jobs and opportunities Brabazon already has consent for enough commercial space to support 10,000 jobs. The revised proposals include space to support up to 30,000 jobs. More homes The West of England region needs to build over 100,000 new homes in the next 10 years to meet demand. Brabazon is a constituent part of the CribbsPatchway New Neighbourhood (CPNN), which will deliver 5,700 new homes across North Bristol. Under CPNN, the land occupied by Patchway Trading Estate was earmarked for 1,000 new homes. However, that project is no longer expected to go ahead. The revised Masterplan for Brabazon seeks to transfer those 1,000 homes to Brabazon, increasing its allocation to 3,675 homes, without increasing the total number of homes being built in North Bristol. The revised plans will also include a flexible framework to allow the number of homes built

at Brabazon to increase in stages beyond 3,675 up to a maximum of 6,500 should the frequency and capacity of public transport services and active travel routes (e.g. cycle paths) increase sufficiently to accommodate additional homes. More sustainable living Building more homes on brownfield sites like Brabazon eases pressure on the Green Belt. If we don’t maximise the potential of brownfield land, the region’s demand for new homes will mean more development on green fields in unsustainable outof-town locations. To be more sustainable, Brabazon is designed to be a 15-minute neighbourhood where every daily essential – where families do their food shopping, where kids go to school, where people go for an evening out - is a short walk or cycle ride away. Under the existing planning consent, over £100m is being invested in new infrastructure, designed to encourage public transport usage and minimise the need for private cars. Seb added: “Nowhere in the West of England is better placed than Brabazon to build the new homes, offices, schools and community facilities we need, and to do so in a way

that is environmentally and economically sustainable. Our revised masterplan will ensure Brabazon can do more to help the region tackle the housing shortage and climate change. “By putting the right framework in place now, we can evolve the plans for Brabazon as future demand dictates. "The revised planning application will also ensure we can only build at the same pace as new infrastructure and transport connections come forward." YTL Developments is inviting residents, local businesses and community groups to share their views, helping to shape the future of Brabazon and ensure the plans live up to the legacy of the Airfield’s pioneering past. To take part in the consultation, please share your views either: Online via the website https://www.ytldevelopments. co.uk/brabazon-planning In person at one of three consultation events taking place at YTL Developments’ Site Operations Centre, Gloucester Road North, Bristol, BS34 7QD: • Saturday 8 January 2022: 11am to 4pm • Tuesday 11 January 2022: 10am to 12 noon • Thursday 13 January 2022: 6pm to 8pm

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Wishing you a happy home this Christmas.

Filton Town Council Enjoy a cuppa at Elm Park Café

Come and enjoy our latest venture, Elm Park Café. The cafe is situated opposite the play area at Elm Park. Open daily from 10am, we have indoor and outdoor seating as well as our bouncy castle for the rainy days!

Filton Town Council Sports & Leisure Centre A warm welcome to Filton Sports & Leisure Centre. We have swimming lessons available, public swimming, Aquafit, dinky dolphins, softplay and softplay parties. We also offer parties on our pool inflatable. -------Since 1st November there have been changes to the way the centre operates. Access to the pools and softplay are through our temporary reception area, located round the back of the Leisure Centre. We look forward to seeing you soon. Filton Town Council meetings Council meetings are again 'in-person' meetings at the town council halls at Elm Park. Details at www.filtontowncouncil.gov.uk

Council office change

The council offices have moved temporarily to the snooker hall while refurbishment takes place at the Elm Park site. The council is unable to have visitors to the office at the moment but appointments can be made or enquiries made at the Leisure Centre reception – which is now situated at the rear of the building. Please contact us at office@ filtontowncouncil.gov.uk or by phone 01454866698/01454 803918 to arrange an appointment if necessary. If you have an enquiry or wish to report a problem email office@filtontowncouncil.gov.uk.

UKULELE FILTON We are back together after a long break, and we would love to welcome new members to join us on Monday evenings at Filton. No experience neeeded. We always have a spare ukulele for you to try.So, if you have Monday evenings free, come and join us. For further info, contact Sue Lonsdale: Tel: 0750 4561 831; email: itchyfeet49@hotmail.co.uk

BRISTOL MALE VOICE CHOIR

Bristol Male Voice Choir has returned to regular rehearsals and is looking for new members in its tenor, baritone and bass sections. You don't need to be a reader of music, but if you can hold a tune, and enjoy singing , whatever the style of music in our wide-ranging repertoire, then come along to our regular Thursday rehearsals held from 7 till 9 at St Andrew's Methodist Church, Elm Park, Filton, Bristol BS34 7PS. 07941 040472 We are a sociable and we are looking forward to two concerts before the end of 2021. For more information go to our Facebook page, our website - www. bristolmvc.org.uk - or contact 07941 040472.

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January, 2022

News

Comedian and writer Stephen gives his support FREE Events at Filton Library in January Every week:

This month:

Story & Rhyme Time

Wednesdays 10.30 – 11am Rhymes & stories for pre-school children with musical instruments! Advanced booking essential To book your place and for more details email: filton.library@southglos.gov.uk with your name and contact phone number.

Open (Staffed) Hours:

Monday: 10:00 - 17:30 Tuesday: CLOSED Wednesday: 10:00 – 17:30 Thursday: 10:00 - 17:30 Friday: CLOSED Saturday: 09:30 - 13:00 Sunday: CLOSED

Lego Club

Saturday 15th 10am – 10:45am OR 11am – 11:45am Join us for theme-based creative building fun for primary school aged children. All children must be accompanied by a grown-up. This is a popular activity, so we are running two sessions to fit everyone in: book early to avoid disappointment. Advanced booking essential To book your place and for more details email: filton.library@southglos.gov.uk with your name and contact phone number.

Did you know that you can reserve and renew books online? You can also download eBooks, eAudiobooks and digital magazines & eComics. Find out all that’s on offer at www.librarieswest.org.uk South Gloucestershire Libraries: the space where people, communities and ideas grow www.southglos.gov.uk/libraries You can use the library 7 days a week at times when it is unstaffed By registering for Open Access* Find out more and how to book your one-off Open Access induction at www.southglos.gov.uk/openaccess Or ask us during Staffed Hours on Mon/Weds/Thurs 10-5.30 & Sat 9.30-1.00pm. All *T&Cs apply, min. age 16 yrs.

South Gloucestershire Council’s Library service has teamed up with locally born international film and TV star Stephen Merchant, whose TV series The Outlaws is currently on BBC, to record some bespoke audio content. Stephen, who is originally from Hanham, has kindly recorded a number of announcements for the libraries’ Open Access service which enables users to visit Filton (in the Shield Retail Park) and other libraries seven days per week, and has also recorded a video where he highlights the importance of libraries. Stephen said: “I was more than willing to support South Gloucestershire Libraries. "The service has so much to offer – access to computers, a meeting place to connect with your community, somewhere to

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January, 2022

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to South Glos libraries study and if you want to find out anything then the library is the place to go. But above all these great services it’s their power to change lives through reading. I would encourage everyone to use their local library.” Cabinet Member for Communities and Local Place Cllr Rachael Hunt said: “It was really kind of Stephen to record the announcements and the video, we want our libraries to be welcoming places and having a well-known friendly voice with a very recognisable local accent is brilliant. "Hearing his voice will bring a smile to our users' faces – even when he tells them that the library hours are ending for the day! “South Gloucestershire has one of the highest number of opening hours of English public libraries due to our use of technology which allows the libraries to be open for registered users when there are no staff present. Since we introduced Open Access, over 100,000 visits have been made during these hours with all of our libraries being open seven days a week.” During lockdown South Gloucestershire libraries provided a lifeline to residents – staff visited over 450 people in their homes, 500,000 books

were issued, and 12,000 hours of IT were used, providing people with digital access which was so important for those without IT at home. The service went virtual to deliver online story times through Facebook, with some sessions reaching over 5,000 people, and the use of eBook, eAudiobooks and online magazines increased by 60 per cent. Things are now slowly returning to normal, and the public can visit libraries during usual staffed and Open Access opening hours, and whilst there can also pick up Lateral Flow test kits. Parents and carers have welcomed the return of story times, for many children this is the first time they have sat down with other children to listen to a story and sing rhymes and for parents it’s an opportunity to network with each other. To hear Stephen, just visit a South Gloucestershire Library and ask the staff about registering for the Open Access service to use the libraries seven days a week. To view the video, visit https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=BGpI7ApzsqI For more information visit www.southglos.gov.uk/libraries

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A job that matters

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Join our teams of amazing local care workers Whether you are looking for a fresh challenge or a job to fit around other commitments, a role in care could be for you. A range of local jobs are available:

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Casey visits people’s homes as a domiciliary care worker. She’s also studying for her NVQs in health and social care.

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Glenn works in a residential home. After 10 years of office work, he loves the difference he’s making to people’s lives.

To find out more, get in touch with our Proud to Care Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire teams. We work closely with care providers across the area and can help you explore your options, explain the opportunities available and introduce you to employers. Everyone is welcome, with or without experience, as we’ll offer all the relevant training and support.

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January, 2022

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News

Choir backing singing in 2022

St. Peter’s Ladies' Group

Filtones Choir is back in action and, although we are sorry that we haven’t been able to do our usual Christmas Crackers concert this year again, we are hopeful that we can meet up with all our kind supporters at an annual charity concert in the summer of 22. This is yet to be arranged and, as always, is subject to Covid, of course. We start up again for our first rehearsal on Wednesday afternoon, 5th January, 2022 from 1.453.45 at St Teresa’s Community Centre, 71 Gloucester

In January, Mary Naylor, one of our Ladies, is volunteering to have all her hair shaved off to raise money for the Breast-cancer Unit Support Trust (BUST). This charity uses the newest treatments to help save lives and is run by a committee of former Road North, BS34 7PL and welcome new members of patients and volunteers. 99p in every all voice ranges who might like to give us a try. There pound goes directly to them. are no auditions and for your first four weeks there is Mary said: "I received wonderful no charge. Just drop in, or for more information please treatment there and I would now like ring Dot on 07870 984760 or Janet on 0117 924 1534 to try and repay them. I am looking or email Dot on dorothy.bryant@btinternet.com. You can also find us on our web site www.thefiltones.weebly. for sponsors. If you would like to sponsor me, I can be contacted on com 0117 950 5560. Your support would We look forward to meeting you, and can assure be very much appreciated." you of a very warm welcome.

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January, 2022

Nativity plays in our St Teresa's Primary

Shield Road Primary To advertise, contact shane@filtonvoice.co.uk and on 0770 674 1200 or Richard on 0777 555 0607

January, 2022

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primary schools

Charborough Road Primary Key Stage 1, top; EYFS (early years) middle; and nursery, left Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Richard on 0777 555 0607 or email richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

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January, 2022

Advertising feature

What you need to know about myopia in children What is Myopia? Myopia (short-sightedness) is the eye condition where near objects are clear, but objects farther away are blurred. It is caused by the eye ball growing slightly too long. The traditional answer was glasses, but at Lynne Fernandes Optometrists there’s more we can do. Myopia in kids tends to get worse throughout childhood, and higher levels of myopia are associated with higher eye disease risks in adulthood. If your child already wears glasses, you can do something to stop their vision getting worse. If they don’t, you can assess their risk of developing myopia Why should you be concerned Myopia is becoming more common in children around the world The average age for developing myopia is reducing: young onset means faster and increased eye growth, increasing the likelihood of high myopia and an increased risk of retinal detachment, myopic macular degeneration, glaucoma and cataract. Money: the average cost of glasses and contact lenses over a lifetime is much higher for higher myopic patients. High myopia reduces quality of life What causes Myopia Myopia is multifactorial: this means that there are many causes. The pandemic has forced us all inside more, to use screens more, our ethnic

origin and genes, having one myopic parent increases our risk by three times, having two myopic parents by six times. Under correcting vision has been shown to stimulate the onset and accelerate myopic progression What can I do? Request an assessment of your child for myopia as early as 6 years old. At our Gloucester Road practice we will measure the length of the inside of the eye with specialized instruments, look at how the eyes work together and compare a prescription with standardized growth curves. If we feel your child is at risk we will recommend joining our Myopia Management program where we reassess and give advice every 6 months. We can treat with specialized lenses and lifestyle plans. Why Lynne Fernandes Optometrists? We have been innovators in the UK in Myopia Management. Our optometrists are key opinion leaders nationally in this field and are very experienced in caring for the children we treat. We look after you and your child. Lynne Fernandes Optometrists 75 Gloucester Rd, Bishopston, Bristol BS7 8AS 0117 942 6843 See advert on Page 7

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January, 2022

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Filton MP Jack Lopresti

It's so important to protect others by getting boosted

hope that you are all enjoying a very merry Christmas period and are taking the chance to spend this truly special time of year with family and friends. With the final few days of the year upon us, I’d like to reflect on what has been a challenging year for us all and offer praise and thanks to all of those who, despite the festivities, have remained as committed as ever to ensuring our country continues to move forward during the pandemic. Christmas Day isn’t a day off for everyone. My thoughts are with the doctors, nurses and admin teams at our local hospitals; the call handlers and response teams for our emergency services; the lorry drivers a long way from home ensuring our supermarket shelves remain full; and the charity workers and volunteers who make themselves available to support those of us who may

find this time of year particularly difficult. My grateful thanks to you all. At the time of writing, more than 20 million of us have rolled up our sleeves and received the Covid-19 booster jab, and I encourage everyone to step forward and get boosted when they are called to do so. Just like the vaccination roll-out earlier this year, none of these jabs would have been possible without the thousands

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unable to sit down with their families for Christmas this year. One very close friend of mine, a Royal Navy reservist, will have spent the Christmas period in the rather hotter climate of Bahrain. Deployment can be a lonely experience at the best of times, not least at Christmas, and we should remain thankful to all of those who serve and pay the ongoing price for us to live in a free and democratic country. I wish you all a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year. To get in touch, call 01454 617783 between 9am-5pm, Monday to Friday, or email me on jack.lopresti.mp@ parliament.uk.

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of dedicated staff and volunteers across the country making it so. From the scientist in the lab to the elderly volunteer in the GP waiting room, this is your success and I thank you for your service. The Covid-19 infection rate has risen sharply this winter, and the uncertainty surrounding the latest Omicron variant will no doubt bring further anxiety and concern to many. However, the correlation between infection rates and subsequent hospitalisations and deaths has thankfully been significantly less pronounced than it was this time last year, which tells us all one thing: these vaccines work, they save lives. We should continue to do all we can to protect the vulnerable among us and relieve the pressure on our fantastic NHS. As well as our heroic key workers playing their part here at home, please spare a thought for the thousands of servicemen and women on deployment, who were

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n NEWS FROM THE METRO MAYOR

New Year heralds a greener future THERE is still much uncertainty about the worrying Omicron covid variant spreading among our communities. It remains hugely important to take up booster jabs when offered them, and to continue to wear masks in shops and on public transport. Here in the West of England I am proud we have led the country in this sensible approach since last summer and I believe it has saved countless lives locally. In the best traditions of our wonderful region and nation, let’s continue to look out for each other in 2022. January is a time to make plans and New Year’s resolutions but, importantly, also a time for us to think about our own well-being. This month is ‘National Walk Your Dog month.’ If your dog is anything like my working cocker spaniel, Angel, they will implore you for long walks on at least a daily basis! It’s a great way of getting exercise, fresh air and doing something that’s really good for our

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mental health. Across the West of England there are some fantastic forests, woodland and open spaces to go for walks – my personal favourites being around the beautiful rail viaducts in both Winterbourne and Pensford. On the subject of green spaces, I was delighted that the flagship £50 million Green Recovery Fund that I pledged in my manifesto was finally voted through in December – and without any strings attached. This was my green promise to you in last May’s election and it is key to our region meeting our ambitious target of net-zero by 2030. It’s going to deliver key projects like retrofitting homes to make them more energy efficient, installing more charging points for electric cars and creating biodiversity schemes to help bees and other pollinators. So my New Year’s resolution to you is to continue to be the strong champion our region needs and deserves – from backing our worldclass food and drink producers, to our creative

Metro Mayor

Dan Norris

writes for the Voice

industries and our thriving tech and aerospace sectors. I want to deliver a public transport network that our region can be really proud of, and to that end I was delighted to launch half-hourly rail services between Severn Beach and Temple Meads, and am proud to promise there are more transport improvements across our region further down the track this year. So whether you’re doing dry January, ‘Veganuary’ or taking up a new hobby, I wish you and your loved ones a very safe January and 2022.

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Visit: beta.southglos.gov.uk/search-planning-applications

Filton planning applications in December Applications 13 Elm Park Installation of rear dormer to facilitate loft conversion. 53 Cropthorne Road Erection of a hip-to-gable roof extension and installation of rear dormer window; erection of two storey side/rear extension and single storey rear extension to facilitate a change of use from a residential dwelling (class C3) to a large house in multiple occupation for up to 9 people (sui generis) as defined by the Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order 1987 (as amended). 53 Cropthorne Road (2nd appl) Erection of a hip-to-gable roof extension and installation of rear dormer window; erection of single storey side and rear extensions to facilitate a change of use from a residential dwelling (class C3) to a large house in multiple occupation for up to 7 people (sui generis) as defined by the Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order 1987 (as amended). 62 Conygre Grove Erection of a two storey side and rear extension and a single storey rear

extension to form additional living accommodation. 33 Braemar Avenue Erection of a single storey side and rear extension to form additional living accommodation. Erection of front porch. Creation of vehicular access. (Resubmission of P21/06410/F). Former Filton Airfield Non-material amendment to application P20/10471/RM to include two doors on the 5th floor of block J. 37 Wades Road Erection of single storey rear extension to form additional living accommodation. 103 Station Road Change of use from a small house in multiple occupation for 3-6 people (C4) to a large house in multiple occupation for up to 7 people (sui generis) as defined in the Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order 1987 (as amended) Decisions 849 Filton Avenue Erection of single storey side elevation to provide additional living

accommodation (Resubmission of P21/06249/CLP). Approve Certificate of Lawfulness 28 Glebelands Road Installation of a hip-to-gable roof extension and 1 no. rear dormer to facilitate the change of use from residential dwelling (Class C3) to a small house of multiple occupation for up to six unrelated people (Class C4). Approve Certificate of Lawfulness 52 Gayner Road Erection of a hip-to-gable and rear roof extension, a single and twostorey rear extension, and the change of use from a residential dwelling (C3) to a large house in multiple occupation for up to 9 people (sui generis). Refusal Application P21/06303/F also refused 4 Kenmore Drive Installation of rear dormer to facilitate loft conversion. Approve Certificate of Lawfulness

storey rear extension. Approve Certificate of Lawfulness 42 Mayville Avenue Change of use from C4 HMO to a nine-bedroom large house in multiple occupation (Sui Generis) for up to nine people. Erection of single storey side and rear extensions and installation of rear dormer to facilitate loft conversion including vehicle parking, bin storage and cycle parking. Approve with conditions 25 Warren Road Erection of single storey rear and side extension to form additional living accommodation. Approve with Conditions 9 Stanley Avenue Erection of Single Storey rear extension to form additional living accommodation. Approve Certificate of Lawfulness

watch

35 Third Avenue Installation of rear dormer to facilitate loft conversion and erection of single

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n MESSAGE FROM AVON & SOMERSET PCC

How much more should we pay for policing? officers as part of Operation Uplift but this is not enough to manage inflationary pressures, like pay rises for police officers. The Government has told PCCs that they can raise the precept next year by £10 for an average band D household. A £10 increase, approximately 83p per month, would mean any savings that still need to be made would be less likely to impact frontline services. If the policing part of the council tax is not increased, the force would have to make significant savings, resulting in a reduction of services that would impact our communities. As your PCC, I have to balance the challenges facing policing with local people’s views in order to best resource an efficient and effective police service that can keep people safe. However, I know that any increase in household bills is

AS your PCC, I am responsible for setting the amount of money that residents – you – contribute to local policing through the council tax, known as the precept. It’s that time of year again where PCCs up and down the country will need to make a decision whether or not to increase the precept, and the impact this will have on local people. Before making this decision, I want to hear from communities and find out your views about this potential increase. So, I have launched a survey asking if you would be willing to pay an increase in the policing part of the council tax. Why is an increase needed? Local policing is funded by a combination of Home Office and other grants, as well as council tax contributions. In 2022/23, the Home Office grant funding is increasing to fund additional

felt by local people. This is why I want to ensure everyone has the opportunity to tell me their thoughts and opinions before I make any decision regarding an increase. The survey can be completed via the PCC website at www. avonandsomerset-pcc.gov.uk/ about/police-tax-survey/ If you need a paper version please contact the team on 01278 646188. I’m sure many of you will be shopping online over January to make the most of the New Year sales. I want to take a moment to remind you to take extra care when shopping on the internet and ensure you do not fall victim to online shopping fraud. We need to ensure that criminals do not take advantage of our online shopping habits and, if a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is. There are numerous ways

With Police and Crime Commissioner Mark Shelford online shoppers can protect themselves online including: using a payment method that offers protection such as a credit card, using a strong separate password for your email account and watching out for phishing emails and texts. More advice on how to stay safe online can be found on Action Fraud’s website.

A WARM WELCOME AWAITS AT FIELD HOUSE NURSING HOME Providing top quality, best value, holistic care Field House in Horfield offers safe and nurturing care

We also ensure: • Strict Infection Control measures approved by Public Health England are fully implemented

We are now enabling close • Care staff wear PPE at all contact visits in the home, times and we have ensured a every resident is able to have an high volume of supply essential care giver, and there is no isolation required for new • Skilled nurses are on residents from the community. site 24/7 and respiratory We still have a varied activity equipment is at hand schedule which keeps life • Safe face-to-face visits interesting and happy. where possible

BEST BEST IN CLASS BEST IN CLASS FOR

IN CLASS FOR

VITIES IFOR ACT I IES TIIV VIT TIES AC ACT

BEST BEST IN CLASS BEST IN CLASS FOR

IN CLASS FOR RING E FOR CAT ATER CA RING C TE ING

BEST BEST IN CLASS BEST IN CLASS FOR

IN CLASS FOR PLAN REFOR CA RE PLANSS CA RE PLAN S CA

BEST BEST IN CLASS BEST IN CLASS IN CLASS FOR

RING E FOR CAT R CATERING CATE ING FOR

BEST BEST IN CLASS BEST IN CLASS IN CLASS FOR

FOR PLAN REFOR CA RE PLA SS CARE PLAN NS CA

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

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E: richard@filtonvoice.co.uk

January, 2022

The FIEND

filtonvoice

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

PUZZLES for all 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.

For younger readers

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

5 7

6 8

6 1

R H

A 7

I I

R 4

Word Scramble answers Clock, goals, party, holiday, balloons, midnight, countdown, fireworks, celebration, resolutions

1 3

Down 2 67426 (5) 3 729 (3) 4 8746 (4) 6 7378 (4) 7 72873 (5) 9 2742 (4)

7 8

Across 1 24647 (5) 5 247 (3) 6 724 (3) 7 767 (3) 8 766282 (6) 10 729 (3) 11747273 (6)

3 5

Txtpert

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.

Theme: Music

Easier sudoku Solution

Use the phone keypad to decode the clues. For example: 2 could be A, B or C ... and 5678 could be LOST

Txtpert

8 7

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

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

T: 0777 555 0607

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News

£230,000 cash injection for Filton aerospace museum

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

January, 2022

Trade services AERIAL SERVICES

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Cllr Toby Savage, Leader of South Gloucestershire Council during a school visit to Aerospace Bristol More than £230,000 of Government funding support for Aerospace Bristol has been welcomed by South Gloucestershire Council. As part of a national announcement, the Filton-based aerospace museum and home of the last Concorde to ever fly has been unveiled as a recipient of a £233,870 grant through the third round of the Government’s Culture Recovery Fund, supporting arts, heritage and cultural organisations across England to stay afloat throughout the Covid pandemic. To date the fund has already provided £1.2 billion to around 5,000 organisations and sites across the country – including more than £1.7 million across South Gloucestershire – with the latest £107 million wave of Government grants providing a lifeline to the likes of regional theatres, local museums and independent cinemas.

   Cllr Toby Savage, Leader of South Gloucestershire Council, said: “I am delighted to see the ongoing support for the nation’s proud culture sector and that the Government has identified Aerospace Bristol in this latest round of the Culture Recovery Fund, providing vital aid to this standout local attraction which showcases South Gloucestershire’s incredible aviation history.” Culture Secretary Nadine Dorries said: “Culture is for everyone and should therefore be accessible to everyone, no matter who they are and where they’re from. “Through unprecedented government financial support, the Culture Recovery Fund is supporting arts and cultural organisations so they can continue to bring culture to communities the length and breadth of the country, supporting jobs, boosting local economies and inspiring people.”

  

To advertise, contact shane@filtonvoice.co.uk and on 0770 674 1200 or Richard on 0777 555 0607

Trade ROOFING services

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Stones Grass Cutting Service

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

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