Filtonvoice November 2021 by Richard Coulter

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FREE MONTHLY for people and businesses in Filton ... and parts of Horfield November 2021 Issue 121

SOUTH GLOUCESTERSHIRE COUNCIL ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT

Have your say on new Council budget South Gloucestershire Council wants local people to have their say on its new draft budget for 2022 to 2023. The council provides hundreds of services from looking after vulnerable people, keeping the streets clean and collecting our waste to maintaining the road network and investing in our schools. The total net budget is more than £360 million in 2022/23 and proposals include increases to children’s services funding worth more than £10 million over the next four years. There are also proposals for continuing financial support for those hit by the impact of Covid-19, and investing in facilities and infrastructure to improve communities and travel. The moves are part of the council’s focus on supporting residents as the country emerges from the pandemic.

Social care

The budget includes a 1.99 percentage point rise in general Council Tax, and a two-percentage point Adult Social Care Levy. This will specifically help contribute towards the increasing demand for social care services. These services include helping older South Gloucestershire residents live safely and well in their own homes, or recover from a hospital stay.

Savings

The council is committed to making savings and ensuring it delivers value for money services to residents. It aims to make savings of £18 million over the next four years by: · Adapting to different ways of working, building on what the council has learned by working flexibly over the past two years.

· Adopting new technologies and automating systems where this can improve the way it works and improve its online offer, for example, so that more residents can access the support they need at any time. · Ensuring council charges reflect the cost of delivering services and are comparable with other local authorities’ charges, for example how it charges utilities companies to compensate for disruptive roadworks on commuter routes. · Implementing improved cost recovery, where the council can charge to cover the cost of providing some services, such as recovering its full overheads against pre-application planning fees on large developments.

View from the Leader of the Council, Cllr Toby Savage

Help to thrive South Gloucestershire Council Leader Cllr Toby Savage said: “These budget proposals outline in considerable detail how we will work to ensure that young people in South Gloucestershire get the best start in life; how we will work with communities, the voluntary sector and individuals to help them to help themselves to thrive; how we will promote sustainable, inclusive communities, supported by the infrastructure and growth they need; and how we will do this while continuing to demonstrate that we can deliver value for money. “We aim to do all of this while tackling the biggest challenges of our time, namely responding to the climate and ecological emergencies and to playing our part in eliminating the inequality gaps that exist in our society.”

WELCOME - We’re proud to partner with The Voice, a great local publication, for an autumn special edition that brings you our latest news. You can read about our new draft budget and how you can have your say, the work of our fantastic StreetCare teams, our record school buildings investment programme, and other important council news. We are looking forward positively to a post-pandemic future where we continue to support local residents, businesses and communities across the district. The draft budget is a significant part of planning how we will meet the needs of people in South Gloucestershire in the years ahead, so your feedback is important. Last year, residents’ comments made through our budget consultation also informed our new Council Plan priorities. We will continue to ensure that we fulfil our Council Plan commitments and work towards the priorities that you helped to shape, in ways that represent value for money. Please let us know what you think.

How to have your say on the draft budget: View the budget at www.southglos.gov.uk/ budget and then send your comments by 9 January 2022: • By email: consultation@southglos.gov.uk

• By completing an online survey or download from the council website: www.southglos. gov.uk/budget • By writing to: Freepost RTXL-YJXJ-BXEX, South

Gloucestershire Council, Corporate Research & Consultation Team, Council Offices, Badminton Road, Yate, Bristol, BS37 5AF • By telephoning 01454 868009.

SOUTH GLOUCESTERSHIRE COUNCIL SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT

Sprucing up our streets Progress on potholes South Glos Council’s StreetCare teams have filled in almost 12,000 potholes in the last year. Thanks to quieter roads, they were able to fill in more than ever during the pandemic. Of the 11,868 potholes filled in 2020, nearly 3,000 of these were completed as a priority, in 24 hours, with around 6,000 filled within 14 days Local resident Pete meets and thanks the South and the less urgent Glos Council StreetCare team who fixed potholes in his area within 24 hours. within 12 weeks. Speedy potholes work has impressed local people. Pete from Patchway said: “I was delighted after reporting two potholes very recently that they were both fixed within 24 hours. I had spotted them while walking around Patchway and was concerned particularly for cyclists.” A pothole in the road needs to measure at least 300mm by 300mm and be 40mm deep to be considered in need of attention. The council is investing a record £174m in highways over the next four years.

Council StreetCare services: value for money It’s official! An independent study has found that the council’s StreetCare services provide ‘value for money’. The report also highlighted the resilience of the services which adapt to residents’ needs. The research, by the Future Highways Research Group, included analysis of StreetCare’s activities, compared Cabinet Member for Comwith other local authorities, along munities and Local Place with an independent peer review. The Cllr Rachael Hunt litter picking in Kingswood Park. group was especially impressed with the ‘one team’ approach and close collaboration with partners. Cabinet Member for Communities and Local Place Cllr Rachael Hunt said: “I would like to send a big thank you to all of our StreetCare staff for their ongoing efforts across South Gloucestershire which have resulted in these positive findings. We constantly strive to deliver high quality services at the very best value for money for our residents, so it’s fantastic to see that our StreetCare division’s hard work has been recognised as helping deliver such a well-respected, effective and proactive service.”

Keeping our communities clean and tidy From overgrown to gleaming, Tower Road South in Cadbury Heath gets a makeover! Cleaning up the little roads is a really positive step for local residents. The council has a Clean Team dedicated to keeping South Gloucestershire’s neighbourhoods and major routes neat and tidy.

A path on Tower Road, Cadbury Heath: Before and after.

First ‘through-about’ opens up South Gloucestershire’s first ‘through-about’, the conversion of the Wraxall Road roundabout on the A4174 Avon Ring Road, is opening up to traffic. The through-about (a round-about with three lanes for traffic through the middle), will reduce congestion and increase traffic flow at the busy junction, helping to reduce delays at peak periods by managing the volumes of traffic. It will also improve air quality near the roundabout and future proof the roads network for the additional housing and development schemes coming forward in the area. Work started on the £5.9m project in summer 2020. Both approach roads have been widened. There are also additional traffic lights, a resurfaced junction with new road markings, safety barriers and acoustic fencing. The council will pause to monitor the performance of the new junction layout before deciding whether to roll-out these improvements to more areas.

Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Environment and Strategic Infrastructure, Cllr Steve Reade at the new ‘through-about’.

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

filtonvoice November 2021 Issue 121

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ADVERT, Page 30

HMO landlord fined £7,000 Pages 4-5

Church re-opens to community Page 11

Dad calls for pool booking system

Council tax rise of 4% expected Page 13

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Anti-social behaviour fears over plans for bandstand in garden Pages 8-9

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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

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Shane Gibson Editorial

shane@filtonvoice.co.uk 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.

News

Filton HMO landlord fined £7k after house 'unsafe and unlicensed' by Rich Coulter A Filton landlord has been fined over £7,000 for renting out an unsafe and unlicensed house in multiple occupation (HMO). South Gloucestershire Council’s Private Sector Housing Team issued the landlord a Civil Penalty Notice after a number of HMO offences were identified at a three-storey semi-detached property in Filton housing five people. The ruling comes after several months of controversy over HMOs in Filton after a Filtonvoice investigation discovered nearly half of all large HMOs in South Glos were located in Filton.

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Applications for larger HMOs in the town have recently been rejected by councillors but the decision then reversed on appeal. Filton residents say the town has become dominated by HMOs, leading to a loss of community atmosphere. The Private Sector Housing team were first alerted to the Filton property in January 2021 when council tax searches indicated that it was occupied by five people as a HMO although no HMO licence had been applied for. The team carried out an inspection which confirmed that the property was being occupied as a HMO and also

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Northville Road has seen a rise in numbers of HMOs. (The location of property in the story has not been revealed)

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Lunar welcomes our newest Eco friendly glasses ranges identified a number of potentially dangerous defects. Council officers additionally discovered that the attic room was being used as a bedroom, which was particularly hazardous due to the steep ladder style stairs which provide access to the room and inadequate smoke detection in the premises. An assessment using the Housing, Health & Safety Rating System under Part 1 of the Housing Act 2004 confirmed that there were Category 1 hazards for Fire and Falls on Stairs, so a Civil Penalty Notice including a financial penalty of £7,018 was progressed by the Private Sector Housing team. Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Environment and Strategic Infrastructure Cllr Steve Reade said: “I’m very pleased to see this penalty and fine issued to the landlord, who showed no regard for the safety of the people who rented this property. “The licensing of HMOs enables the Council to check conditions and take action where housing and management standards are not met. In addition, checks are made to ensure licence holders and persons involved in the management of the properties are fit and proper to do so. "Failing to licence a property, as in this case, can put the health and safety of tenants at risk.

“Where we identify unlicensed HMOs our Private Sector Housing Team will look to prosecute or use Civil Penalties against the owners or managers. Our message to the landlords of HMOs is simple; license your properties before we find them.” South Gloucestershire has approximately 520 licensed HMOs which are 'well managed and provide good quality accommodation for professionals and students'. Any property that is occupied by five or more people in two or more households (including students or a group on one tenancy agreement) requires a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) licence. If you think a property you own or a property you live in should be licensed, please report it to the Private Sector Housing Team by emailing psechousing@ southglos.gov.uk Tenants of privately rented properties in the South Gloucestershire area can also report issues of disrepair that are not being addressed by their landlord by contacting the Private Sector Housing team by emailing psechousing@ southglos.gov.uk or visiting their local One Stop Shop. More information and advice on the licencing requirements and how to apply can be found by visiting www.southglos.gov. uk/hmo

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News

Filton dad - Covid limits mean I was turned away from pool seven times A Filton dad has called on Filton Sports and Leisure Centre bosses to reintroduce a booking system for swimming after being turned away seven times from the pool. Rob Miles said Covid restrictions mean only 26 people can be in the pool at any one time, meaning families are turning up for sessions but being told they must wait until others leave the pool. Mr Miles said the problem is exacerbated by the limited number of sessions available for public swimming. He told Filtonvoice that with so many lessons and club bookings, the only times suitable for families are Saturday 11.15am to 1.30pm and Sunday 10am until 2.30pm. Filton town councillors debated the matter at the October finance meeting and decided to ask leisure manager

Scott Fessey to give a response to Mr Miles's concerns. Mr Miles said: "The council needs to reintroduce a booking system at the Dolphin pool. "As a local resident there are only two sessions that the pool is open when we can go with our children and these are Saturday 11.15am to 1.30pm and Sunday 10am until 2.30pm. "Therefore, to go swimming we have to arrange our weekend around these limited times. "Having done that and arranged childcare for my little one you can imagine my frustration and anger that I have when I arrive to find I cannot swim as the meagre 26 places are full. "This is a recurring pattern and I have been turned away from the pool on at least seven occasions over the last few years. "Whilst I was there at least 10

other families were turned away, all frustrated and annoyed. "The receptionist had to deal with upset and disappointed people and this was visibly making her stressed." Mr Miles said it was ironic that some families' only choice was to wait in the foyer without social distancing when the reason for the limited numbers in the pool was Covid restrictions. He added: "My children desperately need more swimming time because of Covid and I feel that this local resource should be working for the local community, not frustrating them, especially since we all contribute towards it. "Please reintroduce the booking system, take payments upfront if needed to stop time wasters and this will benefit the local community as well as your staff. "I would also ask that more

times are available for the local community."

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Comments on Filton News and Views l Not sure why we pay for the pool in our council tax, when there’s hardly any time we can actually go and use it for lane swimming!

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l Not everyone can afford to pay for their kids to have swimming lessons, so those kids need a slot to come with their parents too. It doesn't have to be all or nothing, just a reserved slot ideally on Saturday or Sunday for the residents who have the Filton payment on their council tax only. l There used to be a public session after 4pm while lessons were happening. The pool was effectively split in two.

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News

Councillors raise fears bandstand could lead to anti-social behaviour but press on with plans Filton could still get a bandstand at Elm Park but no decision will be made until councillors speak to the Community Garden committee and local musicians. Councillors were presented with various options at the September full council meeting, with prices ranging from £4,249 to £16,000, pictured. The idea of a bandstand had been suggested by Councillor Ian Scott earlier this year. The full council heard concerns from councillors that a wooden structure would be a fire hazard and there were also worries that the structure could be a focal point for anti-social behaviour. Cllr Andy Robinson said: "My concerns are that if it was wooden, there would be the risk of fire. I also wonder where it would go and if it is in fact big enough to accommodate a band."

£12,229 Cllr Alex Doyle said he was unsure if it would be used and raised fears it could become a 'white elephant'. Cllr Dan Boardman said: "It's a nice idea but is this what we

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want? Is it adding value to the community or might it just be used for kids to smoke." Cllr Anne Kenyon, a member of the Community Garden team, said she felt the garden

was too small for a bandstand and councillors were told that Community Garden chairman Dave Mikkelson had been approached. Cllr Robinson told councillors that Mr Mikkelson was concerned anti-social behaviour could arise. Community garden members had given a mixed reaction to the plans but were agreed that if it was going to happen, the community garden was the best location at Elm Park. Cllr Scott said that it would be worthwhile inviting representatives from Filton Concert Brass Band to the next meeting. Councillors also agreed to approach the Community Garden committee to give views on the appropriate size and location. A proposal to delay the plan was rejected by councillors.

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News

Filton Asda to offer one-hour delivery service Asda has today announced that it will extend its one-hour* Express Delivery service to 96 stores - including Filton - to provide customers with speedier and more convenient delivery options. The service gives customers access to Asda’s full online range of more than 30,000 grocery products for delivery within one hour if they live within a three-mile radius of an Express Delivery store and order up to 70 items. Express Delivery was trialled at Asda’s Halifax, Poole, Rotherham and St Matthews stores in June and has exceeded expectations, with the number of initial orders higher than projected. The move to extend Express Delivery to more stores comes as the retailer looks to bolster its immediacy proposition to give customers more flexibility in how they shop, after recently

extending its rapid delivery partnership with Uber Eats to more than 300 stores. Customers using the Express Delivery service can also take advantage of a new feature that enables them to track their order from the store to their door in real time. Delivery slots are charged at a flat rate of £8.50 with no minimum spend requirement. The supermarket expects to launch Express Delivery in more stores, if the latest rollout proves to be popular with customers.

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Simon Gregg, Asda’s Vice President of Online Grocery, said: “We are rolling out our Express Delivery service to almost 100 stores after a trial showed there was a clear gap in the market for a speedy delivery service offering our full online product range for delivery within one hour. “As the only grocer to offer this service, we have seen a significant number of customers access this option, with slots regularly selling out at our pilot stores. We anticipate more

demand for this flexible service now that many of our customers have returned to their place of work and children are back at school.” The retailer was recently named Online Supermarket of the Year for the second year running by industry trade bible The Grocer, at this year’s Grocer Gold Awards. Asda beat major supermarkets to the accolade for its dedication in helping customers to shop the products they love more quickly and easily online, as well as the rapid growth of its home shopping operation throughout the pandemic. It also recently announced it would be the first to commercially test a new type of technology to power driverless vans in partnership with Wayve, as it seeks to find new and innovative delivery options for customers.

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Church open to community after £396k refurbishment St Andrew’s Methodist Church in Filton, near Bristol, received a £25,000 grant from Enovert Community Trust to fund renovations that have transformed it into an energyefficient, multi-purpose space suitable for use by the whole community. The refurbishments have sought to future-proof the building by installing a false ceiling to improve the hall’s insulation and reduce the church’s heating costs. An electronic public address system and coffee bar have also been introduced, which will increase the church’s ability to host community events. These changes, along with the introduction of an accessible ramp and toilet, will allow the church to expand its events and accommodate a range of community groups, including services for senior citizens and children.

A number of groups combined to contribute to the £396,000 cost of the project, with Enovert Community Trust providing its grant through the Landfill Communities Fund.

This is a tax credit scheme that enables Landfill Operators to contribute money to a wide range of community and environmental projects in the vicinity of landfill sites.

Pauline Emmett, a member of the Church Council, said: “We are hugely grateful to Enovert Community Trust for its support for this project, which has transformed the church from an underused place of worship into a meeting place for the whole community.” Angela Haymonds, Trust Secretary of Enovert Community Trust, said: “The church’s renovations have the ability to help boost the community by providing a space for local groups to gather in pleasant surrounding with modern facilities. "The Trustees were thrilled to help the project and look forward to seeing the impact that it will have.” For more information on Enovert Community Trust, please contact Angela Haymonds on 01753 582513 or ahaymonds@enovertct. org or visit the wesbsite www. enovertct.org

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St Andrews Methodist Church Tuesday 9.30am Tel: Sharron 07947 064711

Little Stoke

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

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News

Council tax bill set to rise for Filton residents by Filtonvoice and BBC LDRS staff Council tax could rise by four per cent in South Gloucestershire next year. This would mean a rise of around £65 per year for a Band D property but does not take into account police, fire and Filton Town Council precept amounts, which have yet to be set. The local authority has released its draft budget for 2022/23 and its proposals factor in a 3.99 tax hike, comprising a 1.99 per cent general increase plus a two per cent precept to pay for spiralling adult social care costs due to rising demand. Residents will be able to comment on the proposals in a 12-week public consultation, before the final budget is agreed by full council in February of next year. Containing more detail than usual for this time of the year, the draft budget sets aside £112million for building projects

What it might cost Last year, Filton residents in Band D properties paid £2,243 which covered the South Glos element, the Filton Town Council element (£318) the Police element (£241), the fire element (£76) and £8 special expenses. The meant a monthly payment of £224 over 10 months. A 4% increase across all elements would mean a monthly rise of around £9. and £731million for day-to-day services such as bin collections in 2022/23. Spending promises include a £10million boost for children’s services over the next four years. South Gloucestershire Council’s social care services for children were judged ‘inadequate’ by Ofsted in 2016

and are yet to reach a rating of ‘good’, five years later. The investment in children’s services includes a retention payment for social workers to address an “urgent and immediate need to stabilise the workforce”, according to the draft budget papers approved by South Gloucestershire Council’s Conservative ruling group. The council has also promised its ‘community resilience fund’ will continue to help those most in need as the country emerges from the Covid-19 pandemic. Building projects earmarked for capital investment in the draft budget include the completion of the Whitfield Tabernacle restoration in Kingswood and the replacement of Frenchay and Elm Park primary schools. Cash to improve pedestrian, cycling and public rights of way links in the Emersons Green East area is also included in the

proposals, along with funding for other projects linked to the climate and nature emergencies, such as decarbonising the way the council operates. The draft budget also includes £19.7million in savings that the council hopes to achieve by 2025/26 through a mix of measures it says does not include cuts to frontline services. The savings were identified in a major review. Head of financial services Nina Philippidis said the review meant the council would no longer have to rely on its risk reserves to balance the books after 2024/25. Council leader Toby Savage said it also meant the council was in a position to “achieve a level of transparency at this point of the budget cycle that this council has not been able to manage in any previous year since the council started”.

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November, 2021

News

It's all change at Filton Community Garden Helen Johnson, Filton Community Garden Secretary, says the garden needs new volunteers and thanks outgoing chairman Dave Mikkelson

ur community garden has been described as the best thing about Filton by many. Any time you go there you will find people passing through, sitting and having a chat with friends, children running to the pond and fairy tree, workers having a lunchtime picnic or visitors just walking around and enjoying the peace and nature it offers. It is there because volunteers have made it and cared for it. Since the garden’s creation in 2013 we have made and planted up the beds, adding new features every year, from rockery to bee friendly area to rose garden and orchard to name a few. ‘Community beds’ have been given over to local schools and groups to do their own

thing in and we have seen some amazing creations. The wonderful place has been awarded in the distinguished category by the RHS ‘It’s your neighbourhood’ scheme for successive years. The funding for the garden has been raised by the committee from applications for grants, through local businesses and from the well-loved annual fete where cakes, plants, tractor rides and punch and judy have featured. For all this we are truly grateful. We have now come to a point of change. Our Chair Dave Mikkelson and his wife Sylv are moving away so sadly will not be able to continue their involvement. Their contribution to the garden is greatly appreciated and will be missed. In addition, a

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News Remembrance in the garden

On Thursday 11 November at 11am we will be holding a short service in the Community Garden with local veteran Bill Knight reading the oath. Following the two minutes silence the Last Post will sound out in remembrance of those who have died in wars. Look out for the poppies display on the garden fence.

number of our committee and key volunteers are stepping down due to health issues and life changes. Those of you who visit the garden are sure to have met and chatted with our volunteers, always cheerful, always welcoming. We are immensely grateful to all these now dear friends who have given so much to the garden in time, effort and loving trowelwork! Of course the garden must live on whatever and so we now welcome new volunteers to join up

with the handful who remain. As well as hands-on help with the gardening we are looking for people who can take on some of the admin roles of fundraising and events, volunteer management, PR and maintenance. We invite you to our AGM on 20th November at 10.30 am to be held at the FACE premises (by St Andrews Church), Elm Park where you can find out more about the running of the garden and voice your interest in being part of its future.

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“I never imagined it would be so rewarding” As a care and support worker, you can help change people’s lives for the better and promote independence, equalities and diversity. You’ll form meaningful bonds with the people you work with and support, in their homes, supported living, care home or nursing home. If you’re thinking of a career change, returning to or starting your working life, find out about the variety of roles, hours, training & development opportunities, qualifications and career paths and apply today: visit www.proudtocaresouthglos.org.uk or email: proudtocare@southglos.gov.uk South Gloucestershire Council supports our local providers to raise the profile of caring as a career, through the Proud to Care campaign.

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Filton Town Council Enjoy a cuppa at our new café

We would like to introduce 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. -------Please be aware that as of 1st November there will be changes to the way the centre operates. Access to the pools and softplay will be through our temporary reception area, located round the back of the Leisure centre. We look forward to seeing you soon. For more information please visit our website www.filtonleisurecentre. co.uk or call our reception team on 01454 866686

Litter picking COMMUNITY LITTER PICK SUNDAY 7TH NOVEMBER 2021, 11:30 AM

On Sunday 7th November 2021 Filton Town Councillors will be conducting a community pick. We are extending the invitation to your colleagues, scouts, parents and any other volunteers who may wish to participate to aid us in our effort to keep our streets clean. The meeting time and location are as follows: Location Meeting Point Time Conygre Ward McColls, Filton Avenue 11.30 am We see this as a fantastic opportunity for Filton residents to take ownership of their local area and to engage our young people to become involved in their community. If you have any interested parties please contact office@filtontowncouncil.gov.uk and we can coordinate with our councillors who will welcome them with open arms. ALL EQUIPMENT IS PROVIDED!

Filton Town Council meetings October 26th 7.00pm Full Council October 9th 7.00pm Full Council Finance & General Purposes 30th 7.00pm Full Council Council meetings are again 'in-person' meetings at the town council halls at Elm Park. Details at www. filtontowncouncil.gov.uk. Office Opening Hours The council offices are open to the public Monday to Friday 9.00 am-1.00pm and appointment only 1.00pm – 5.00pm Please contact us at office@ filtontowncouncil.gov.uk or by phone 01454866698 to arrange an appointment if necessary. If you have an enquiry or wish to report a problem email office@ filtontowncouncil.gov.uk.

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November, 2021

News

Wonderful Windows arts trail is back for 2021 The Wonderful Windows Art Trail launched last October and saw over 50 homes across Filton brightly displaying creativity and positivity for all to see. From films, to wildlife, to affirmations of thanks and hope, there were some truly amazing window displays. This year’s event will take place Friday 12th - Monday 15th November, 5.308.30pm. Some homes this year will be offering refreshments stops with hot chocolate and sweet treats on offer to those who enjoy the display! (A donation to charity would be appreciated) The first 30 homes to get registered are shown on this map, next page, but there will be an interactive online map for the trail which will be shared on local social media pages and the FACE website www. facecharity.org.uk from November 8th, or printed copies may be collected during the week leading up to the trail November 8-12th from FACE 10am-2pm or 7-8pm. It’s not too late to sign up your home/ business for a window display! You can contact FACE on 0117 9691938 or sign up

online from the Google link on the poster left or find the event on Facebook by searching for “Filton Wonderful Windows”. If you need some help creating your window display, FACE will be offering some free workshops, and also resources bags may be purchased for just £3 each with tissue, black paper and a glue stick as well as a few ideas for creating your design! These have been very gratefully supported by a grant from local councillor Adam Monk. Organisers Debbie, Hattie, Helen, Jane, Nikki and Polly say they are looking forward to the community coming together to brighten up Filton again this year! They said: “Last year’s event was a real display of creativity and hope that cheered everyone up during a miserable year – we hope this year’s event will be just as good, if not better! "We really hope people in Filton will enjoy walking around the area over the long weekend of 12-15th November and seeing the amazing creativity we have! "It is a great chance for people to explore Filton and come together safely!” "Why not get involved?"

DO YOU HAVE A CHILD DUE TO START SCHOOL IN SEPTEMBER?

If so, please let us show you around our wonderful school! Open afternoons every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday

Contact the school office on 01454 866 750 or email elmparkprimary@sgmail.org.uk to book an appointment

Reception Open Events

Is your child due to start school next September?

We would love to welcome you to Elm Park Primary School. Come along and enjoy a guided tour led by our Head Teacher and Reception Class Teacher. See our wonderful school and let us show off the amazing learning opportunities we provide. We offer personalised tours every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 4pm – 5pm. If you would rather come when the school is in action, we would love to invite you to our open morning on Tuesday 19th October at 9:30am. ‘Elm Park is a happy and friendly school. Pupils love learning because teachers make it fun. The Early Years is a welcoming and interesting place for children to learn. Staff care deeply about their pupils and are sensitive to their needs. Leaders and teachers share a passion for igniting pupils’ enthusiasm and nurturing talents.’ OfSTED November 2019 Please contact us by phone 01454866750 or email elmparkprimary@sgmail.org.uk to book a place for one of our open afternoons or to join us at our open morning. If you are unable to make the days/times above, please contact us and we will find an alternative time to show you around.

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Regional sponsor:

Join us at Ashton Court on Sunday 5 December 2021 Raise festive cheer in your Christmas gear!

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filtonvoice

20UKULELE FILTONT: 0777 555Over 0607 30’s 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

Dance Party

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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.

SATURDAY

13th Nov 2021 3.30 – 5.15pm Crafts, fun and food for all the family Come and join us. Entry is FREE! ** Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times **

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Climate change advertising feature

Choose local produce, avoid supply chain issues and help our planet

hortages of HGV drivers; stories of animals being culled and food going to waste; threats of pigs-in-blankets disappearing from the shelves at Christmas. These kinds of headlines are increasingly familiar and expose our reliance on complicated supply chains to deliver the food we eat every day. However, such short-term issues pale in comparison to the negative impacts long supply chains have on the climate. As world leaders gather in Glasgow for the COP26 climate change conference, we want to shout about one solution that is right in front of our eyes (or just down the road). Local food. Short supply chains avoid many of the issues behind those headlines. Choosing to eat locally also minimises transportation, packaging and waste: substantial contributors to climate change. The UK simultaneously imports and exports millions of tonnes of milk each year. Some food travels hundreds of thousands of miles to get packaged, only to end up on the shelves in the area it was produced. These are two examples

which highlight just how nonsensical the global food system has become. Here in the South West, we are blessed with so many amazing producers, and delicious, local food. Check out your local farmers’ market; pop into a greengrocers; buy from a local veg box scheme! You won’t just be helping out a local business-owner, you’ll be helping to do your bit in fighting the climate crisis, too. Visit our website to find out more about the climate benefits of local food and how some of our favourite local producers are fighting the climate crisis; just a few miles from where you are sat reading this. The Community Farm delivers climatefriendly food in Bristol, Bath and the surrounding area. Our veg boxes are local, seasonal and organic and we work hard to minimise packaging and food waste. Visit thecommunityfarm.co.uk

BECOME THE BEST VERSION OF YOURSELF Join us at our Whole School Open Morning

Friday 19th November

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November, 2021

n NEWS FROM THE METRO MAYOR

Learning new skills for the future

WHEN I was growing up my grandfather and uncles were miners, my aunt was a factory worker, and my uncle worked on the railways – and that was that. In those days many people spent their whole life working in the same job, for the same employer. It was how it was. Over the years that’s changed. I had a range of roles before becoming metro mayor: a child protection officer, an environment minister and a scaffolder’s assistant. For children growing up today it will be even more varied, so it is important they always have the opportunity to reskill and retrain. A child born today will have seven or eight different careers in their lifetime, and two-thirds of children entering primary school this year will ultimately work in completely new types of jobs that simply don’t exist yet! Skills and training are an exciting part of my metro mayor role. Recently I opened two fantastic new facilities with funding from the West of England Combined Authority that I lead: the Brunel Centre on the SGS WISE Campus in Stoke Gifford and the City of Bristol College Advanced Construction Skills Centre. The Brunel Centre is a particularly stunning £7 million building, with a great name. I know the next generation of world leading engineers, scientists, technicians and creatives are raring to

Dan Norris with Owen at the City of Bristol College Advanced Construction Skills Centre

go there – I could sense everyone’s enthusiasm as I cut the ribbon. Meanwhile in Bristol I met Owen, who is doing a carpentry course, learning what’s needed to build a better future – literally! He is getting equipped with skills to build new homes and retrofit existing ones in our cities, towns and villages. But it’s not just about young people. I met MakeUK, the manufacturers organisation, as they launched their plan for skills. They explained to me how the average age of people working in manufacturing is over 50 – but they also need to reskill as new manufacturing techniques and machinery emerge. Lifelong learning matters. Here in the West of England we’re at the forefront of innovation, and we need to keep it that way. Our brilliant locally-based scientists, researchers and engineers hold so many of keys to meeting important challenges of tomorrow.

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writes for the Voice That includes those working in highly skilled unionised jobs at Airbus in Filton who I met earlier this month and whom Labour Leader Sir Keir Starmer gave a shout-out to in his recent conference speech. We have just passed a significant landmark on skills funding. We have a special scheme here in the West of England to stop money raised by local companies via the “apprenticeship levy” disappearing up the M4 and being banked by the government. Instead we are keeping it local, with bigger firms passing their unspent levy money to smaller local ones. We’ve just passed £1 million – a great collective effort. So thanks a million to all involved!

Are you over 50? Do you want to meet local people and do things in your community? It's now more than ever we need to reestablish our local connections as we come out of lockdown. Give me a call I would love to hear from you.

For more info contact Sato, Community Development Worker 07971 670880 satoblack@southernbrooks.org.uk

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News

Patients who missed blood tests face delays by BBC LDRS staff for Filtonvoice Patients in Filton and Horfield who missed a routine blood test due to a national shortage of blood tubes may have to wait up to two more months for one, a local health boss has warned. Jenny Bowker, right, from the NHS Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) for Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire, said a temporary suspension on routine and non-urgent blood tests in general practice has been lifted. But general practices have been advised to tackle their backlog over eight weeks so as not to cause “undue pressure” on supplies, she told a public meeting recently. Non-urgent blood testing in England and Wales was scaled back in August following a shortage of blood tubes supplied by US company Becton Dickinson. Since August 26, blood tests

have been reserved for highpriority patients, including those with conditions with a risk of death or disability. But NHS England told GP surgeries and other primary care

services last week they could resume normal testing from Friday, September 17, following a delivery of nine million tubes. Ms Bowker, who is the CCG’s head of primary care

development, told South Gloucestershire Council’s health scrutiny committee: “Nationally, the suspension has been lifted. “But in addition to the lifting of that suspension, practices have been supplied with additional guidance about how to manage the supply and ensure that we are prioritising blood testing. “Practices have been advised as well to ensure that they bring in that backlog, in terms of the people who had their missed blood test during that period, over a course of eight weeks so as not to cause undue pressure on supplies, so we will see that that will improve but we will see a sort of gradual improvement over the next couple of months. “And we will need to ensure that we monitor our local stock supplies as well to ensure we are resuming that safely and that we have the stocks available locally.”

Investing in council homes

Help shape our 30-year plan for council homes We know we have a housing crisis in Bristol, and we want to be part of finding solutions to that crisis. As a public sector landlord, the money we receive from our council housing rents and service charges is kept in a separate account called our Housing Revenue Account – HRA. This money is exclusively for building and maintaining council housing. We can borrow money to build more homes, or to refurbish or regenerate existing homes.

What do you think should be our priority for spending and raising the money that we need? How do we get the right balance between investing in the standard of our existing homes, investing to reduce carbon emissions, and investing to build new homes? We need your view to help shape the plan for delivering council homes across our city.

● Investing in council homes – we need your view www.bristolhousingconversation.co.uk

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November, 2021

Filton MP Jack Lopresti

So important to get jabs ... and don't forget boosters

ealing with this pandemic over the last eighteen months or so has been an incredibly difficult time for all of us. I must again pay tribute to our fantastic NHS, care workers and key workers, as well as everyone across our communities who has worked incredibly hard and have been inspirational. Now, thanks to the incredible rollout of the vaccines, we live in one of the freest societies in Europe. We can go about our business; children are back in school and we can socialise as normal. However, to continue with the progress we have made and to minimise the prospect of another lockdown, the message is simple. We all need to get our jabs, either our first two or a booster jab if we are eligible. Currently, those eligible for a booster jab in England include those living in residential care homes for older adults, all adults aged over 50,

frontline health and social care workers, all those aged between 16 and 49 with underlying health conditions that put them at higher risk of severe Covid-19 and adult carers, and adults who live in the same house as people who are immunosuppressed. I absolutely support the decision by the Health Secretary, Sajid Javid, that all Care Home staff should be vaccinated by 11th November and I echo his words that if you want to with

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the most vulnerable people and you cannot be bothered to get vaccinated, then you should get another job – that shouldn’t be controversial. The flu season will undoubtedly add strain to the system this winter. Normally, flu kills on average about 11,000 people every winter in England. This normally leads to more than 1,000 hospital admissions a day. Research suggests that those infected with the flu and with Covid are more than two times as likely to die as someone with Covid alone. The flu jab programme this year will be the biggest ever, so make sure you’re as protected as you can be. I know a lot of people have been frustrated that they haven’t been able to meet their GP face-to-face since the pandemic. I share that frustration. I have been meeting with GPs over the past few months encouraging them to restart face to face

appointments as normal, just like before the pandemic, though there is still work to do. I am delighted that the Health Secretary has just announced £250m extra in funding for the NHS. To access this additional funding, GP surgeries will have to provide more face-to-face care. Our health services have been stretched by the pandemic. That’s why I welcome the Government’s commitment to provide another £34 billion pounds in funding up to 2023, as well as their bold decision to introduce the Health and Social Care Levy. We will continue to work together to protect our communities and the NHS. I know we have the fortitude and compassion to do so, and my office team and I stand ready to support you in this. 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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Filton planning applications in October Visit: beta.southglos.gov.uk/search-planning-applications

Applications 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. 14 Pilkington Close Erection of a single storey rear extension to form additional living accommodation. (resubmission of P21/03080/F) Land at Gipsy Patch Lane, Hatchet Road and Station Road, Stoke Gifford Non-material amendment to planning permission PT18/0987/ R3F to reconfigure a stop platforms detailed design. 676 Southmead Road Erection of a single storey rear extension, which would extend beyond the rear wall of the original house by 6m, for which the maximum height would be 3m, and for which the height of the eaves would be 2.7m.

676 Southmead Road Non material amendment to P21/01042/F to alter the internal layout and to install 1 no. door in the side elevation. 678 Southmead Road Erection of 1 attached dwelling with parking and associated works. 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). 33 Braemar Avenue Erection of a two storey side and single storey rear extensions to form additional living accommodation. Erection of front porch. 26 Holmdale Road Removal of front garage door and installation of window and dwarf wall. 18 Gayner Road Demolition of existing porch and erection of new front porch.

Decisions 849 Filton Avenue Erection of single storey side elevation to provide additional living accommodation. Refuse Certificate of Lawfulness 627 Filton Avenue Change of use from dwellinghouse (Class C3) to a small house of multiple occupation (Class C4). Installation of hip-to-gable roof extension and rear dormer to facilitate loft conversion. Approve Certificate of Lawfulness 34 Rodney Crescent Installation of hip to gable roof extension to facilitate the installation of a window to the side gable elevation to form additional living accommodation. Withdrawn

Country Planning (Use Classes) Order 1987 (as amended)(retrospective) Approve with Conditions 774 Filton Avenue Erection of a single storey side extension, installation of hip-to-gable roof extension and 1 no. rear dormer to facilitate the change of use from residential dwelling (Class C3) to a large house in multiple occupation for up to 7 people (sui generis). Widening of vehicular access onto classified road. Approve with conditions Church House, Church Road Alterations to external elevations and erection of cycle and bin storage buildings in rear car park. Approve with Conditions

Dalveen, 5 New Road Stoke Gifford Erection of a single storey side extension to form enlarged garage. Approve with Conditions

42 Mayville Avenue Erection of a two storey side extension to form additional living accommodation. Approve with Conditions

2 Braemar Crescent Change of use from a small house in multiple occupation (Class C4) for 3-6 people, to a large house in multiple occupation for up to 7 people (sui generis) as defined in the Town and

Charborough Road Primary School Creation of external sports facility including installation of multi use games area (MUGA), recreation areas and landscaping. Approve with Conditions

Housing Forums

for Bristol council tenants – get involved! Evening:

Afternoon:

Monday 22 November 2021, 6–8pm

Wednesday 24 November 2021, 1–3pm

Your opinions help us make decisions! If you’re a council tenant, you can have your say on how the housing service is run and can make suggestions about improvements. For winter 2021, we’re hosting online meetings focussing on issues we know matter most to tenants. ● Come along and take part in our big housing conversation. Help us shape our business plan and find out more about how we are developing our long‑term proposals for investing in council housing.

● Places must be booked, you can do this online at: www.bristol.gov.uk/LocalHousingForums ● If you are not online but would like to take part, there is also a free dial‑in option which you can join using your phone. For more information about how you can access the meetings contact Tenant Participation 0117 352 1444 or email tpu@bristol.gov.uk

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

filtonvoice

T: 0777 555 0607

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

November, 2021

n MESSAGE FROM AVON & SOMERSET PCC

Challenge male violence against women and girls or cybercrime than any other crime. Ultimately, we need to get a grip of it and protect vulnerable people from harm. Over the coming months, I will be working closely with regional and national partners to improve the police response to this everevolving and complex area of crime. I also wanted to discuss a matter that I know has been of great concern to many local people, more so in recent weeks: male violence against women and girls. The threat of abuse, misogyny, intimidation and violence that women face every day has become wrongly accepted in communities as the ‘norm.’ Following the appalling murder of Sarah Everard, I have read with absolute horror on social media and in the news, the precautions and preventative steps that women and girls take every day of their lives to protect themselves and, still, such actions

AS I mentioned in my last column, I am pleased to announce that I have taken on the role as national lead PCC for the Economic and Cybercrime portfolio. As the new lead, I will spearhead the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners’ (APCC) work to ensure the police are tackling online crime, fraud, harassment, hacking, economic crime and identify theft. One in ten people fall victim to fraud and one in three become a repeat victim. It is because of such figures that I was inspired to take on this role as I feel it is an area of work where I can make the most difference to the lives of local people in Avon and Somerset and beyond. Cybercrime and fraud are two of the most fast-growing crime types in the country, almost doubling every year. In fact, both crimes are growing so quickly that according to the Office for National Statistics, people are more likely to be a victim of fraud

do not always keep them safe. A change is needed. Now is the time to put the onus back on the offender and actively challenge their behaviour. Collaboration of statutory agencies and partners is essential to tackle the attitudes, behaviour and, ultimately, criminal activity of perpetrators who are violent towards women and girls. Change is also needed within the police and criminal justice system and that is why I am supportive of the Home Office’s inquiry into issues raised by Wayne Couzens’ conviction. Sarah’s murder has rightly already raised some difficult questions and discussions for all police forces and the Home Office’s inquiry will continue to do so. Sustained change is desperately needed and I firmly encourage Avon and Somerset Police to face these questions head-on, reflect and set actions to ensure officers and staff are upholding the highest standards

With Police and Crime Commissioner Mark Shelford

of policing for our communities. I understand that this is a complex, societal issue but this is not an excuse. We need to start somewhere and the police and criminal justice system need to be leading the way to deliver real change.

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

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November, 2021

The FIEND 8 5 9

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.

3 1

P A

I 6

A A

N N T

O S

T E

Down 1. 62766738 (8) 2. 273 (3) 4. 3337 (4) 5. 8245 (4) 7. 769 (3) 9. 228 (3)

6 8

Across 1. 6262833 (7) 3. 763368 (6) 6. 277 (3) 8. 6936 (4) 9. 2529 (4) 10. 8768837 (7)

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: Animal world

Easier sudoku Solution T

Txtpert

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

6 7 4

PUZZLES for all For younger readers

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

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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

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News

www.filtonvoice.co.uk

Trade services AERIAL SERVICES

Council staff would not be reimbursed if car falls foul of city clean air zone rules by BBC LDRS staff for Filtonvoice Concerns have been raised about “ambitious” plans to get Bristol City Council’s 6,000 employees, including many living in Filton and Horfield, to stop using cars. Bosses are consulting staff, managers and trade unions on proposals to encourage much of the workforce to switch to public transport and active travel to help meet 2030 carbon targets and reduce the annual £500,000 taxpayer bill for mileage expenses. But owning a car is a requirement for many City Hall jobs, yet over a quarter of employees’ private vehicles are not compliant with the forthcoming Clean Air Zone, a council meeting heard. Head of HR Mark Williams told the human resources committee that proposed reforms to the authority’s staff travel policy included not reimbursing daily CAZ charges for these older, more polluting vehicles from either day one or 12 months after the zone is introduced next summer, unless there were exceptional circumstances. Labour group leader Cllr Steve Pearce said: “I have some concerns. We want to avoid hurting the people who can least avoid it and avoid hurting the people who have been doing essential jobs. “We are clearly requiring staff to undertake a significant expense at a time when they may not be able to and when the cost of living is going up substantially, as it will be this winter. “We are requiring people to own their own vehicles, which they may have recently bought on finance, and now we are going to require them to change them again.” Green group leader Cllr Paula O’Rourke told the meeting: “These are challenging aspirations and targets and it will be difficult to transition but it’s what we need to do with the targets we have set ourselves. “My understanding is that if you have a non-compliant vehicle, you probably haven’t just bought it for a lot of money quite recently. It’s quite an old vehicle.” Cllr Pearce said: “In which case it may be all you can afford.” Cllr O’Rourke replied: “True but they’re giving you a year to change it and if you have a strong reason to pay the daily charge then there are exceptions for that.” She said a proposed CAZ in Leeds did not have to be introduced in the end because people knew it was coming and so changed their travel habits, which meant it was no longer needed. Councillors were told trade unions feared the changes, first proposed in July, could

November, 2021

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lead to “hardship”, make the authority a less attractive place to work and that it was not feasible to travel long distances by bike or spend hours on buses. They were also concerned about an initial suggestion about only allowing mileage claims inside the city boundary, although bosses were now looking to extend this to an area including South Gloucestershire, North Somerset and Bath & North East Somerset. Mr Williams said: “There are fair comments made around some of those issues. “We have had productive conversations with trade unions about adjusting the proposals.” Green Cllr Lorraine Francis said there were many barriers to making cars the last option. “We do not have a CAZ or adequate buses or adequate walking places to enable people to get around the city without bumping into cars. “That is not embedded into the infrastructure at the moment. “As a longstanding social worker, we have been battered over the last 30 years having to buy and maintain our own cars. “It is impossible to do our jobs without a car. Social workers travelling out of the area is quite normal. “There are lots of issues to consider, not just the fact we want to stop people driving.” Mr Williams said he agreed and that discussions had taken place with council services that would be most directly affected by the reforms, set to come into force next April. A council officer told the meeting on Thursday, September 23: “Not for one moment have we been suggesting that everyone must sell their car for a bike or bus unless it is appropriate for their role to do so.” Committee chairman Green Cllr Tim Wye said: “We should unequivocally say it’s great the council is tackling this issue and it can give a template to other organisations in the city, but the devil is in the detail.”

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Trade ROOFING services

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

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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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SOUTH GLOUCESTERSHIRE COUNCIL SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT

Celebrating almost £3 million of school building improvements

Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Employment Cllr Erica Williams visits Blackhorse Primary School.

Children at the new entrance of Frampton Cotterell Primary School.

The council is carrying out more maintenance improvements to school buildings than ever this year, with an investment of just under £3 million. Work has been completed at a number of primary and junior schools across South Gloucestershire over the summer holidays. This is part of our record £78 million investment into

schools over a four-year period. Projects already completed include: Blackhorse Primary School in Emersons Green: Replacement of existing lighting to LED and the installation of a solar photovoltaic (PV) system as part of the Public Sector Decarbonisation

Integra Kitchen Unit Manager at Manorbrook Primary School with new dishwasher Scheme. Frampton Cotterell Primary School: Refurbishment of the main entrance canopy and replacement of various windows. Manorbrook Primary School in Thornbury: Brand new electric catering appliances which have replaced older gas models.

A stronger voice for your community

Housing completions

New parish and town councils: Have your say

South Gloucestershire saw a record 1,650 new homes built during 2020/21, despite the impact of the pandemic on the construction industry. This success means that more individuals and families in the district will now have homes to rent and buy. Of these new homes, 403 are classed as ‘affordable’, including 305 for social renting, eight for affordable rent and 90 for shared ownership schemes. This represents over 40 per cent of the total number of affordable new homes completed in the last year across the entire West of England region. The new homes are on both large and small-scale developments. Both the overall number of new homes and those which are affordable completed in the past year are above the council’s targets. Construction in the district has remained resilient. Not only does this keep people employed locally, but offers the prospect of housing being available for the next generation of South Gloucestershire residents close to where they grew up. The growth in available housing supports local businesses to attract and retain staff who contribute to the local economy and strengthens the community. The council works closely with housebuilding companies, large and small, to help ensure their schemes fit with its aspirations for high-quality, sustainable new homes, which provide a good choice to meet the needs of everyone in our communities and create good, safe and inspiring places for people to live and work.

Did you know that being part of a parish gives you a stronger voice regarding what happens in your community? South Gloucestershire residents now have the chance to comment on proposals on changes to town and parish councils, including the creation of four new parish councils, through a Community Governance Review consultation. The deadline for responses is 31 December. The review will look at how things currently work locally and examine how they can improve to meet communities’ rising expectations. Among the consultation proposals, this includes: • A new Town Council for Kingswood • Staple Hill & Mangotsfield, Charlton Hayes, and Stoke Park & Cheswick to be Parish Councils • Oldbury-on-Severn Parish Council to have additional councillors • Tytherington Parish Council to have additional councillors and name change to Tytherington and Itchington Parish Council • A name change for Westerleigh Parish Council to Westerleigh and Coalpit Heath Parish Council. You can have your say through the council’s website: www.southglos.gov.uk/consultations

Record new homes: providing ownership and affordable housing choice

SOUTH GLOUCESTERSHIRE COUNCIL SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT

Calling community heroes

Do you want to celebrate an unsung community hero? Why not nominate them for the South Gloucestershire Council Chair’s Community Awards? The annual awards recognise and celebrate the valuable contribution that local, unpaid volunteers and community groups make to life in South Gloucestershire. You can nominate anyone in South Gloucestershire who gives up their time for a good cause, such as those who help keep our parks clean and tidy, the befriending volunteers who brighten people’s days, or the helpful neighbours who have supported those self-isolating. The next celebration of community work and volunteering takes place in January. The Lord Lieutenant of Gloucestershire, Mr Edward Gillespie, will attend the awards ceremony and select one of the winners to receive a special Lord Lieutenant’s Award. You can nominate your community hero up until 19 November on the website: www.southglos.gov.uk/communityawards or email communityawards@southglos.gov.uk

Keep in touch Sign up for our weekly enewsletter at  www.southglos.gov.uk/newsletter If you are not online and would like a printed copy, please call us on  01454 868009 Follow our social media channels at  southglos.gov.uk/twitter  southglos.gov.uk/facebook Or contact us at  southglos.gov.uk/contactus or call  01454 868009 www.southglos.gov.uk

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