South Bristol Voice, April 2016

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southbristolvoice April 2016 No. 11

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LOCAL NEWS FOR LOCAL PEOPLE

MAYOR ELECTION SPECIAL P13 | LETTERS P22 | PLANNING P36 Human trafficking raid arrests Page 3 Generators plan is back again Page 4 Arena scheme on edge over travel plan Page 8 Are we ready for Temple Quarter expansion? Page 10

Totterdown pioneer gives bridge name SHIRLEY and Jan Packer help mayor George Ferguson name the new bridge to Arena Island after their great-great grandfather, Totterdown Victorian engineer William Brock.

Story: Page 9

WIN A Bristol Blue Concorde memento

Page 20 When Blitz bombs fell on Knowle

Pages 30-32

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Paul Breeden Editor and publisher

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Editorial team: Beccy Golding and Giles Crosse

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Next month’s deadline for editorial and advertising is April 21st

Intro

DO WE care about having a mayor? The Voice hopes you do, because we’ve devoted several pages to giving you the views of all the mayoral candidates in the May 5 poll.

Turnout was poor – just 28% – in 2012, in the vote which saw George Ferguson elected.

Have we moved on?

Whether we approve of Mr Ferguson or not, do we think a single figurehead as city leader is a good idea? The election on May 5 will tell. It seems certain that voters are

far more aware of the contest than they were four years ago.

It’s not just about the mayor; for the first time, all 70 councillors are being elected too, plus the police and crime commissioner.

We’ll cover these elections in the next issue.

Whatever your views, do you know if you have a vote?

If you’re not on the electoral roll, you can’t vote. Check our Briefly column (right) to find out how to register.

Finally, do you know about the neighbourhood forums?

They are local democracy in action. We’ll list meetings on this page every month.

www.southbristolvoice.co.uk

Briefly ... l TOTTERDOWN has been

named one of the trendiest places to live in Britain by the Times. Its report praised the “affordable multi-coloured homes on the hillside” and added that it “seems the chosen spot to open a new business”. The article praised the artisan bakery Baked, Southside bar, and vintage clothing store and café Copper and Corduroy.

The paper said two-bed terraces in need of work are available for £265,000 – a price some locals may not think is “affordable”.

l THE elections on May 5 will

be the biggest in the history of Bristol, with votes for the mayor, police and crime commissioner and all 70 councillors. If you are not registered to vote, visit this website before April 18: • gov.uk/register-to-vote

l A JUMBLE sale is being held

at Totterdown Methodist Church on Saturday April 23 from 10am to 12 noon. Donations of items for sale (not electrical) can be brought to the rear entrance of

April, 2016

the church from 2pm on Friday April 22. Details 0117 987 0521.

l SWINE flu has been afflicting

schools across Bristol, with many suffering scores of absences.

Hillcrest primary in Totterdown has had up to 60 children ill at once. Parents are asked to make sure children are not infectious by keeping them home for 24-48 hours after symptoms disappear.

l CONSULTATION on the

Malago Quietway cycle route takes place on Thursday April 21 at Marksbury Road open space from 4.30-6.30pm. The route runs from Hartcliffe Way to Marksbury Road, Windmill Hill and the bottom of Victoria Park.

• www.travelwest.info/malago

l THE WINNERS of the Voice

competition for tickets to see Radio 4 comedian Mitch Benn at the Comedy Box in Southville are: Vince Wise; Simon West; Laura Sharp; Marilyn Henry.

Congratulations to all.

How do I get in touch with ...

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My MP? Karin Smyth MP Labour Email: karin.smyth.mp@ parliament.uk Post: Karin Smyth MP, House of Commons, London SW1A 0AA Phone: 0117 953 3575 In person: Surgeries on Friday April 15 and 29 at Knowle West Health Park, Downton Road BS4 1WH, 9.15-10.45am.

Appointments on 0117 953 3575.

My councillor?

Christopher Davies Lib Dem, Knowle Post: Brunel House, St George’s Road, Bristol BS1 5UY Email: christopher.davies@

bristol.gov.uk Gary Hopkins Lib Dem, Knowle (Lib Dem leader) Email: gary.hopkins@bristol. gov.uk Phone: 0117 985 1491 or 07977 512159 Deborah Joffe Green, Windmill Hill Post: Brunel House, St George’s Road, Bristol BS1 5UY Email: deborah-mila.joffe@ bristol.gov.uk Phone: 07469 413308 Sam Mongon Labour, Windmill Hill Email: sam.mongon@bristol. gov.uk Phone: 07884 736112

USEFUL NUMBERS Bristol City Council www.bristol.gov.uk 0117 922 2000 Waste, roads 0117 922 2100 Pest control and dog wardens 0117 922 2500

NEIGHBOURHOOD FORUMS Windmill Hill May 11, 7pm, Windmill Hill Community Association, Vivian Street, Windmill Hill BS3 4LW Knowle May 24, 7pm, Knowle Community Centre, Crossways Road, Knowle BS4 2SS Neighbourhood partnership Bringing together the area’s 3 forums: March 29, 6pm, Knowle Community Centre, The Square, Bristol BS4 2SS

Council tax

0117 922 2900

Housing benefit 0117 922 2300 Social services 0117 922 2900 Police Inquiries 101 Emergency 999 Fire

Emergency: 999 Inquiries: 0117 926 2061

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

Feedback is welcomed: call editor Paul Breeden on 07811 766072 or email paul@southbristolvoice.co.uk.

All stories and pictures are copyright of South Bristol Voice and may not be reproduced without permission in this or any other plane of the multiverse.

South Bristol Voice Ltd | 18 Lilymead Avenue, Bristol BS4 2BX | Company no. 09522608 | VAT no. 211 0801 76

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Car washes raided in trafficking probe

SEVEN people were arrested and an estimated £40,000 cash and several cars were seized in raids in south and central Bristol by police and other agencies investigating human trafficking allegations.

A 35-year-old man has appeared at Bristol magistrates court charged with identity document offences.

A further six people who were also arrested were released on police bail.

During the multi-agency operation on March 11, seven homes were searched along with two car washes in South Bristol and Temptations nightclub in Old Market.

Police have not named the car washes but they are believed to be the Five Star car wash in Hartcliffe Way and another in Brislington.

Five of the seven men were arrested at their homes in South Bristol, with a further two detained at Gatwick airport.

The investigation was looking for evidence of human trafficking, money laundering,

MODERN SLAVERY THERE are thought to be 13,000 people in Britain who are being held or coerced in conditions of modern slavery.

Police are appealing to anyone who thinks they may know someone who may be a victim. Are they living in poor conditions? Do they appear to have restricted freedom of movement? Do they seem reluctant to speak?

For information call the helpline 0800 0121 700 or visit modernslavery.co.uk cannabis production and document offences.

Officers from Home Office Immigration Enforcement, the National Crime Agency and national anti-slavery charities were all involved.

Detective Inspector Chris Saunders, speaking about modern slavery, said: “One of the biggest issues which we face is that often victims don’t see

themselves as such. It takes time to establish their individual circumstances and what their experiences have been. Building their trust is crucial.

“We’ll always act when we believe people may be at risk and our over-riding focus is on identifying, rescuing and supporting victims, as well as bring perpetrators to justice.

“The crucial message to get across is that modern slavery is happening in the UK today and it’s closer than you think.

“This is a hidden crime and has a massive impact for victims.

“I’d urge people to know and recognise the signs of modern slavery and report anything suspicious to us.

“Your call to the police could help safeguard and protect a really vulnerable person.”

• Sander Lika of 16 Clinton Road, Bedminster, was charged with two counts of possession or controlling identity documents with intent and making a false statement to obtain a driving licence. He was remanded to Bristol Crown Court on April 8.

Children vote for their top teachers PRIZES have been presented to teachers and pupils alike after a competition to find the city’s most awesome teacher.

Two of the winners were from South Bristol, in a campaign by tutoring service Kip McGrath Education Centres to reward exceptional teachers and the youngsters who nominated them.

The overall winner came from Hillcrest primary school in Totterdown – Year 1 teacher Ciaran McIntyre.

He was nominated by Betty Johnson, aged 6, who wrote, “I think my teacher is awesome because he tells us we are awesome!” Betty won an Amazon Kindle tablet.

Mr McIntyre said: “I’d like to thank Betty for the nomination,

Popular choice: Mr McIntyre with pupil Betty and Seonaid Birkett she’s a great student. It’s nice to be able to make a difference.”

Seonaid Birkett, director of the recently-opened Kip McGrath Education Centre in Redcliffe, said after presenting the prizes at

a Hillcrest assembly: “There was a fantastic response from the children so I think Mr McIntyre was a very popular winner! “ The best primary entry was by Sam Hennessy, 7, of St Mary

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Community fixes it after Arnos break-in RAPID support from the community has saved the day for children’s holiday sessions at Arnos Vale cemetery.

A break-in at the cemetery’s woodland activity centre on March 2 not only damaged the building but the facilities inside.

But staff at the centre were overwhelmed when a spontaneous fundraising appeal broke one target after another.

A crowdfunding appeal announced by Brislington woman Ruth Drury on Facebook at first aimed to collect £200 to help repair the damage.

But the response was so swift that Ruth upped the target to £600, until eventually the £1,000 barrier was broken.

A spokeswoman for Arnos Vale said: “As saddening as this has been for staff and volunteers, we have been overwhelmed by support from the community.”

Local companies donating to the appeal included estate agents Greenwoods and Wild Goose, and electrician John Griffin.

For details of holiday activities at Arnos Vale go to arnosvale.org.uk Redcliffe primary, who named Year 3 teacher Miss Cameron.

Sam’s winning entry reads, “I think my teacher is awesome because she works hard to make lessons fun. I hated school before, now I love it.”

The Kip McGrath Bristol Central Education Centre in Redcliffe provides after-school tuition in English and maths for students aged 6-16.

Seonaid said: “Making the final decision was difficult as there were so many great entries which expressed the importance to children of having teachers who are caring, inspirational, patient, positive, fun, engaging and motivating.”

Winner in the secondary school section was Yann Deplechin of Mangotsfield School.

All the teachers received a certificate as well as some bubbly and M&S vouchers. The competition will be run again next year.

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Fury at new generator plan A REVIVED proposal to site diesel generators a few hundred yards from homes at Paintworks and Arnos Vale has brought a tide of objections.

London firm Plutus Energy last year withdrew an application to put 48 generators on the same site at St Philip’s March, off Feeder Road. The plant was designed to provide back-up to the National Grid.

Many residents assumed that the application was halted in December because it aroused a storm of protest.

But the new plan makes clear that Plutus believed it would fail to win permission unless it cut emissions from the site.

It has now come back with a proposal to use a bio-diesel called Green D+, made mainly from rapeseed oil, which it says will reduce dangerous NOx emissions by almost 30 per cent.

But residents and their

Plutus says using biofuel diesel will reduce emissions

Box: One of the proposed generator units

representatives from all around the site are furious. Around 250 objections have been sent in, many pointing out that the St Philip’s nursery school is within 200m of the site.

Children are particularly susceptible to the health effects of NOx particles in diesel exhaust and limits are already breached in several parts of Bristol.

Prospective Green councillors for Windmill Hill, Eleanor Vowles and Rosa Targett, said:

“We are very disappointed to hear that a further application for a diesel power station at St Philip’s Marsh has been submitted. The proposal is close to a nursery school. It is also very close to residential areas.

“Burning diesel, including bio-diesel, is particularly dirty, producing particulate pollution as well as other substances, that have a serious impact on lung development and health.

“In many areas, especially

near busy roads such as Wells Road, Bath Road and St John’s Lane, annual air pollution levels are already at twice the EU limit.

Children are particularly vulnerable as they get a bigger dose per unit of body mass.”

Tresa, the Totterdown residents’ group, made a detailed objection.

“This is a serious concern to local people and families that use the nursery,” said Tresa. It queried the way Plutus made its noise assessments.

The group added: “There are wider concerns about bio-diesel generators that encourage the planting and harvesting of crops for fuel rather than for food, contributing to changes in land use and even the destruction of the rainforest. This would seem to contradict much of the good work that Bristol city council is doing in relation to sustainability and climate change.”

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Decision near on Park St homes plot

Back in business: A social night saw the constitutional club packed out

Club’s future looks brighter after punters flock in for social night THE future of Knowle Constitutional Club looks a little more secure after more than a dozen people applied to be members at an open evening.

The historic social venue in Wells Road, Totterdown, was packed out on March 18 as locals trooped in to see one of the area’s best-kept secrets. So many came the bar was almost emptied.

The club has been run down for years but had thrived for

almost a century, as reported in the last issue of the Voice.

Members are planning a complete renovation, to include the spectacular snooker room.

The club usually opens on Friday, Saturday and Tuesday – details on Facebook. The next social evening is on April 15.

Renovation sessions take place most Wednesday evenings.

• www.Facebook.com/ KnowleConstitutionalClub

Will Stanley Hill scheme be axed?

RESIDENTS in and around Stanley Hill are baffled at continued delays to proposals to restrict rat-running.

After community group Tresa found wide support for banning access from Bath Road to Angers Road, the idea appeared to have won council support.

A spokesperson told the Voice in June that the council would carry out its own consultation. But that has not happened.

Now it has emerged that the council wants to run a survey to see how much traffic uses the Stanley Hill route.

Some residents fear it may be argued that the backstreet route is a “safety valve” which prevents any worse congestion on the A37 and A4 – meaning the rat-running will continue.

A council spokesperson said: “The city council is keen to support residents in the Stanley Hill area, but it is important that we fully understand the impacts of restricting through traffic.”

TOTTERDOWN residents are hopeful that they will be able to persuade the council to drop its plans to sell off a popular piece of open space for housing.

The patch of land at the bottom of Park Street, near Bath Road, used to be a playground but it fell into disrepair about 15 years ago and the council took away the play equipment.

For a time it was derelict, but in recent years residents have been tidying it up, cutting vegetation and using it for events such as picnics and Playing Out sessions.

Community group Tresa has urged residents to write to the council objecting to the sell-off plan, and it has gathered 500 names on a petition.

Simon Hobeck, a director of Tresa, found people eager to sign the petition at the BS4 street market on March 6.

“Do we really want the council selling off these community spaces?” he said. “It’s not

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derelict, we have been clearing it up gradually by doing things like cutting back the buddleia. It is being reclaimed and it is being used by the community.”

Future ideas for the plot include barbecues, playing basketball, and a herb garden.

Tresa is hoping the council will agree to lease out the land for a small rent – as it does with the adjacent community orchard.

Tresa believes that it is the community spirit that has created spaces like this that has made the area such a popular place to live. As reported on page 2, the Times named Totterdown the fifth trendiest place to live in Britain.

The land is an oddly-shaped plot on a steep hill with difficult access, big enough for perhaps a block of 10 flats.

Council officials were due to meet to consider the public views and the options for the site on March 25, but it is not clear what the next steps will be.

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Youth crack the secrets of code KNOWLE West Media Centre is offering youngsters the chance to learn the basics of computer coding in weekly sessions called Control Alt Delete starting on April 13.

Youngsters aged nine and over can work on apps, websites and their own creative projects.

The sessions will start with a Minecraft programme to recreate the local area as it stands today.

Then they will turn to envision the area 20 years ago when KWMC first began, followed by plans for a dream community 20 years in the future.

“Spaces are limited for this very popular group so please book in advance,” says the centre.

Sessions are in term time only from 4.30-6pm. For further details contact Sandra on 0117 903 0444.

• kwmc.org.uk/events

Bedminster Green: How the Urbis plan might look from Malago Road, with the energy ce ntre to right. The greenhouse shown on the roof of the energy centre is no longer part of the plan, though it may be relocated

Residents in talks on £100m Green ideas

Meetings with developer find common ground

MEMBERS of the Windmill Hill community are working with developer Urbis as proposals inch forward for a £100 million new centre for around 800 homes and businesses around Bedminster Green.

The next few weeks will see regular meetings continue between Urbis and members of Windmill Hill and Malago planning group, or WHaM. The first working group discussed a district energy centre, proposed for Malago Road near the railway bridge. It would be powered by gas – part of it ecologically-produced biogas – and would provide heat and electricity for hundreds of homes.

WHaM chair Howard Purse said the group had done its own research and found that the gas plant – which Urbis says is many times more efficient than ordinary domestic boilers – may not be a bad option.

Mr Purse stressed that WHaM has not agreed a view on the plant but said: “I don’t think it’s a terrible idea.”

Urbis had hoped waste carbon dioxide from the plant could be used to help grow plants in a greenhouse on the roof – shown in our illustration.

The greenhouse can no longer be fitted on the roof but Urbis hopes to include it elsewhere in the scheme.

A planning application for the energy centre is now expected to be made in June.

The site could be producing power by February 2017 to serve the rest of the site, although this

would be from a temporary facility.

Urbis managing director Richard Clarke said he is looking forward to working with WHaM and other local groups including Windmill Hill City Farm and the city council to produce proposals that satisfy everyone as far as possible.

More meetings are planned on transport, housing and green spaces. The Urbis vision is to build green areas into the design and open up the Malago river with an attractive walkway.

Residents have called on Urbis to reduce the height of the tower blocks in the scheme – some could be up to 12 storeys.

Urbis has not revealed exactly how many homes it proposes – though Mr Clarke promised more information would be available soon.

Mr Clarke said he was happy to work with Create Streets, a partner suggested by WHaM, which has expertise in building high-density housing in low-rise blocks.

Mr Clarke warned, however, that more low buildings could mean less land is available for community use.

But he stressed that Urbis is happy to work with local people in any way possible – for example on the revamped Bedminster station, which will have a new entrance on a green on the Bedminster side of the tracks.

WHaM also wants to explore how roads can safely be shared with cyclists and pedestrians.

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Arena

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April, 2016

Will councillors be satisfied DEFERRING the arena project in order to obtain a detailed travel plan would take a long time and could kill the whole plan, mayor George Ferguson has said.

If councillors do not quickly revisit their decision to delay approval of the arena, it will cost the city up to a million pounds and risk the whole showpiece development, the mayor said.

He accused councillors on the development control committee, who shelved the arena scheme citing transport worries on March 2, as politically motivated.

“It’s a perfect example of why it takes so long to get anything done in this city,” he told the Voice.

Mr Ferguson denied the arena scheme was being rushed through without major questions on travel being worked out.

Councillors were worried at the lack of detail on extending

Arena Island from Bath Road, with the former PO sorting office on the left and Brock’s Bridge to its right public transport, park and ride, installing residents parking schemes, the dangerously narrow footway on Bath Road, and several other points.

They deferred an application for the arena building, and another for outline permission for 19 000 sq m of development on Arena Island, to include shops,

offices, leisure, homes, a hotel and student accommodation.

Mr Ferguson said it was perfectly normal for these details not to have been worked out yet.

All the councillors’ concerns could have been satisfied if they had set strict planning conditions, he said.

“The professional advice, and

my knowledge of architecture and development, is that this could have been dealt with by conditions,” said Mr Ferguson.

It is not clear how long it will take for the travel plan which councillors asked for to be produced.

To provide detailed answers might take months. Mr Ferguson

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Arena

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9

by changes to arena plans? is hoping that councillors will be satisfied with extra information which will be given to the next development control committee on April 6.

Each week the arena is delayed costs the developer – the council – £80,000 a week.

Conservative Cllr Peter Abraham, who chaired the committee which decided to delay the arena plan, said he was hopeful that enough detail could be added to the plan to satisfy councillors on April 6.

“I’m as confident as I can be that if they can come back with the assurances that we are looking for then I think that members will support it,” he said.

He denied strongly that members had been playing politics – public safety and getting robust transport arrangements were important concerns, he said, which had to be put ahead of a quick planning decision.

He criticised the idea of a multi-storey car park on the Kwik Fit site, saying he did not see how it could work. The multi-storey does not form part of the planning application, and Mr Ferguson appeared to rubbish the idea almost as soon as it was suggested, but it is unclear what parking will be provided on the site.

Cllr Abrahams said: “If you put an arena in the centre of a city which already has its transport problems, then you have a duty to address those problems.”

Guarantees that trains would

Brock’s Bridge hails a local unsung hero THE new bridge which gives access to Arena Island has been named after Totterdown resident and Victorian railway engineer and all-round entrepreneur William Brock.

The name was suggested by Knowle and Totterdown local history society in a competition run by the council, the Homes and Communities Agency which built the bridge, and the Evening Post.

The bridge will be known as Brock’s Bridge after a plaque was unveiled on March 16 by mayor George Ferguson and two of William Brock’s greatgreat-granddaughters, Shirley run later and public transport would be able to cope with arena visitors would be needed, he said.

Liberal Democrat leader Gary Hopkins said his party had not voted for a delay and would rather set strict conditions.

“We will be happy to see it back on the agenda on April 6,” he said.

He doubted that a comprehensive travel plan could be prepared in a short time.

“We need to have the proper conditions put in, and a clear plan for when some of this stuff that can’t be answered now, will be taken forward,” he said.

and Jan Packer.

Mr Ferguson said: “We had more than 200 suggestions, and we had some debate over whether we should pick one connected with Brunel, or Temple Meads, or the Great Western Railway, but William Brock shone out.

“What’s brilliant about it is that it enables people to learn something about Bristol history that they may not have known.”

William Brock, who was born in 1830 and died in 1907, lived on the Totterdown ridge in Bellevue House, overlooking Temple Meads. Ironically, the

house had to be knocked down to make way for the railway.

He had a hand in St Philip’s bridge, Bristol bridge and Bedminster bridge – as well as designing station buildings in Somerset, including Westonsuper-Mare and Taunton.

He employed 250 people in a factory in St Philip’s, near the current Dogs’ Home, where he invented much of the machinery.

Jan and Shirley are proud of their ancestor, who despite his achievements is not well known.

Jan lives in Brislington and Shirley in Whitchurch.

Jan said: “We are quite a small family and we are very interested in our family history.

“We are really delighted to have this bridge named after our ancestor.”

• The Voice will have a feature on William Brock in a future issue.

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Temple Quarter

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April, 2016

Thousands of jobs – but will AMBITIOUS ideas for a 25-year regeneration of the area around Temple Meads are open for consultation.

Residents have until April 14 to comment on the Temple Quarter spatial framework – not a blueprint, but a guide to how the area could be transformed to bring 17,000 hi-tech and creative jobs, a new public waterfront and leisure facilities.

Temple Meads At th e heart of the plans is Temple Meads station, which needs redevelopment to cope with an expected 40 per cent rise in passengers within 10 years.

Network Rail has yet to come up with specific plans, but they are certain to cost tens of millions, to create new platforms and better access, including new entrances to the north – towards Temple Quay – and to the east to link to the arena. It has been suggested the scheme could be

WHAT IS PROPOSED? THE TEMPLE Quarter enterprise zone will be developed over 25 years and could accommodate: • 2,000 homes; • 240,000 sq m workspace; • A 19,000 sq m conference centre and hotel; • A multi-storey car park for the station on Plot 6 with 500 spaces – which Network Rail says is not enough; • A multi-storey car park at 1-9 Bath Road (the Kwik Fit site) of 400-500 spaces – though the mayor is not a fan of this. funded by selling the station to private developers.

A new car park will be needed on Plot 6, the site next to Temple Circus roundabout. The spatial

framework says this could take 500 cars – but Network Rail is already saying this is not enough.

The Voice asked how this early warning of a parking shortfall would be dealt with.

A spokesperson for Temple Quarter said: “As the enterprise zone develops the parking requirements will continue to be assessed against existing parking policies.”

Transport Improving transport is key to the whole plan – for pedestrians, road users and cyclists – in an area that is already congested.

The framework document says: “The transport network is operating very close to capacity during the day and couldn’t cope with the additional load generated by 17,000 jobs in the zone – estimated at 8,000 to 9,000 extra trips – plus whatever other increases in movements occur through the zone.”

HOW TO FIND OUT MORE – AND HOW TO COMMENT

THE Spatial Framework is open for comment until April 14. The full proposals – which aren’t a blueprint, only a guide to what might be possible – can be viewed at the website below, along with a 3D ‘flythrough’ of the area.

• www.bristoltemplequarter. com/spatialframework Currently 43 per cent of those who work in the zone drive there.

The scheme will have to encourage more people to walk, cycle and use public transport.

Workplaces will be expected to have more cycle racks and possibly showers for cyclists, shared cycle facilities and electric cycle hubs. Metrobus and local train improvements will help;

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Temple Quarter

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the infrastructure be ready?

5

Temple Quarter aerial view

6 4

3 1 2

9 8

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1. The Arena; 2. Second phase buildings on Arena Island; 3. Buildings on the Kwik Fit site (aka Fish Dock); 4. Buildings

around Bristol & Exeter House; 5. Bath Parade (former Temple Gate House, Holiday Inn); 6. Temple Circus & the Island;

7. Totterdown Basin; 8. Sorting office site; 9. Temple Meads station; 10. Hotel & conference centre

and a Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan (SUMP) aims to reduce car use by five per cent, cut singleoccupancy cars by three per cent, re-time five per cent of commutes outside peak hours, and re-route two per cent of journeys away from Temple Gate.

This is to be achieved by 2020 – when 4,000 of the new jobs are expected to be in place.

Road changes will include removing Temple Circus roundabout and making it a lightcontrolled junction – work starts this summer and will last a year.

There are no proposals to redesign the Three Lamps junction, as many South Bristolians would like to see. But Three Lamps and the Bath Bridge junctions are to be examined to see if they could be improved.

Bath Road Promenade A crucial part of the transport plan is for a broad pedestrian and cycle way along Bath Road from Temple Meads to Three Lamps.

The framework admits that Temple Quarter has a “severely compromised” pedestrian environment, and cyclists “are disadvantaged and forced into conflict with vehicle traffic”.

The Bath Road Promenade would be “a generous pedestrian and cyclist promenade”.

However, this seems impossible to achieve without new bridges over the River Avon and the railway. These bridges

have not been planned or costed – and no funds identified.

And the Promenade would cross the entrance to any car park on the Kwik Fit site.

Yet the framework envisages the Promenade in place by 2020, ready to help cope with the arena and the 4,000 jobs expected to be created in the zone by then.

The Voice asked the enterprise zone team if the Promenade could realistically be funded and built by 2020.

A spokesperson said the framework document will help support funding bids.

“The upgrading of the Bath Road pedestrian and cycle route has been identified as an important link to the south of the city but is unfunded at the present time,” she said.

“Feasibility work will be undertaken and funding opportunities identified. 2020 is an estimated date at this stage but will be dependent on agreeing funding.”

Totterdown Basin Currently a deserted stretch of water in front of the derelict sorting office, the basin could be transformed into a vibrant waterfront with a marina, cafes and leisure facilities.

Flooding Much of the zone is at risk of flooding, posing a danger to housing, which will have to be designed with “provision for safe

access and escape in the event of a flood.” This is admitted to be a challenge in parts of the zone.

Energy and broadband One or more district energy centres would use biomass, geothermal technology or gas to produce heat and perhaps electricity. The arena is to get solar panels and a “containerised” energy centre. Ultrafast broadband to link to the city centre will be laid in service trenches.

The buildings The aim will be to create vibrant neighbourhoods that have life outside of office hours. Design will encourage active, interesting frontages, with private areas at the rear of residential blocks.

Several tall buildings of nine storeys and above are envisaged.

One might replace the ageing concrete block opposite Temple Meads – currently containing a Holiday Inn – which has just been bought by the council.

Another tall building might be on the sorting office site. But the ‘island site’ of the former George and Railway hotels would be no more than eight storeys.

A “focal structure” is mooted opposite the arena, where the service road loops under Bath Road, beneath the Totterdown ridge. This would be a “wayfinding signifier for the arena”.

Avon Riverside The enterprise zone includes a strip along Bath Road as far as Paintworks. Buildings are envisaged on the south bank of the river on both sides of Totterdown Bridge.

Reactions Gary Hopkins, the council’s Lib Dem leader and a councillor for Knowle, welcomed the vision.

But, he said, “they need to get the structure right first.”

“Part of the problem is that the mayor will not admit the real cost of the arena and the stuff that’s got to go along with it.”

It doesn’t mean that the plans will cost too much, but they must be properly funded, he said.

Cllr Sam Mongon, Labour councillor for Windmill Hill, said: “It’s exciting to have a vision for an area that hasn’t had a lot of investment.” But he said, development had to respect the fact that it is on the edge of a residential area.

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April, 2016

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southbristolvoice

Elections: Bristol Mayor

W

HAT are the big issues that will affect Bristol in the next four years – and what can a mayor of the city do about them?

South Bristol Voice asked readers what they wanted to ask the mayoral candidates, and overleaf you can see the answers they gave.

Meanwhile, there have been meetings throughout the city where voters get the chance to meet the candidates and quiz them face to face.

As usual, Totterdown decided to do it slightly differently. Tresa, the Totterdown environmental and social group, hosted a well-attended meeting at Hillcrest primary school where the candidates took part in speed dating – each given eight minutes to converse with small groups of residents as they moved around the room.

Most candidates agreed it was a good format which allowed for more reasoned discussions than a large-scale debate.

South Bristol Voice was there, listening to what all nine of the candidates had to say. Charles Lucas, the Conservative candidate, was the only one unable to be present, but he sent a statement which was read out.

O

ne national proposal which could change the face of politics in the city was contained in the Budget. Chancellor George Osborne proposed a measure of devolution for the West of England – if the four councils in the area accept it. Bristol’s current mayor, George Ferguson, who has been negotiating the

www.southbristolvoice.co.uk

– Totterdown hustings

Meet the nine who would be mayor proposals, is in favour. It would give power to a single metro mayor, elected separately, to plan transport strategy across the Bristol and Bath region.

He told the Totterdown meeting that accountants KPMG estimate it will deliver benefits of £1 billion every year for the local economy. “It is going to transform the lives of people in Bristol and transform our economy,” he said.

Kay Barnard, the Liberal Democrat candidate, also backed devolution. “A new transport authority for the four councils around Bristol will at last give us control over the buses.

“I’m a bus user and I find it rather annoying when I stand at a bus stop, waiting for a bus that doesn’t come,” she said. But Tony

LATEST ODDS George Ferguson Bristol 1st...........................1/2 Marvin Rees Labour.................................7/4 Charles Lucas Conservative....................16/1 Tony Dyer Green................................33/1 Kay Barnard Liberal Democrat...........100/1

Dyer, the Green candidate, cautioned that a new system of local government must be democratic.

“Whatever process is followed, it’s important that it does not throw away the rights of local people to have democratic scrutiny. I believe the city does need to change and that needs to involve everybody,” he said.

Labour’s Marvin Rees, seen as the main rival to Mr Ferguson, preferred to focus on inequality in Bristol and the city’s desperate need for housing.

“Our politics is dominated by the seven per cent of people who went to fee-paying schools,” he warned.

“I want to see aspiration in Bristol and prosperity for my children, but it must be a source

Paul Saville Independent...................100/1 Paul Turner UKIP................................100/1 John Langley Independent....................200/1 Christine Townsend Independent....................200/1 From Ladbrokes.com

of agony for us when we hear that the inequality gap in the city is increasing.

“We need to build homes for people. We built four [council] homes last year. We want to build 2,000 homes a year by 2020. We can shape our own approach to housing. I am talking to a number of people in development who want to have social impact.”

Independent candidate Christine Townsend is also concerned about inequality but is focusing on one issue – what she sees as divisive selection in Bristol schools.

“We need to close the gap of inequality, and we need to start with our schools. We have a two-tier education system, in a way that only London does.

“If the schools that currently have a tiny number of pupils entitled to free school meals were taking a fair cross section of society, it would go a long way to close the inequality gap,” she said.

The Conservatives’ Charles Lucas said he would would work to attract investment from across the world to Bristol, and provide support and investment for cultural facilities.

Like all the candidates, he promised action on Bristol’s congested streets and transport network.

“Transport issues are fundamental to delivering a better Totterdown for all of you.

Congestion in St John’s Lane and around Three Lamps [means] this whole area needs a review,” he said.

Mr Lucas would aim to Continued on page 14

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southbristolvoice

Elections: Bristol Mayor

www.southbristolvoice.co.uk

April, 2016

– Totterdown hustings

The candidates line up at the Totterdown hustings – in alphabetical order, though our picture makes it look as if they were arranged by size!

Continued from page 13 improve traffic flow by “detrunking” the M32 – transferring it to council control – and focus more attention on the city’s rail network.

Also in common with several candidates, he said the council “has failed to address the transport issues associated with the arena.”

Kay Barnard, Marvin Rees, UKIP’s Paul Turner and Tony

Dyer also argued that the arena travel strategy needed more work. (More on the arena transport issues in the readers’ questions on page 15.)

Most of the candidates had plenty to say about transport.

Kay Barnard said: “You [Totterdown] are going to be in the front line of all the problems.

You should not be bearing the costs of any of the problems [caused by the arena].” On

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incentives to use public transport in Bristol, she added: “We have had an awful lot of stick and not much carrot.”

Tony Dyer said: “There are too many cars on the roads and not enough alternatives. Traffic pollution kills nearly 200 people a year in the city.

“How do you persuade car drivers to get out of their car? It’s not about forcing people to use any particular type of transport.

At the moment there’s no ticketing system that allows people to hop on and off public transport.”

For UKIP, Paul Turner said he would look at removing certain bus lanes and traffic lights to see if it would improve traffic flow. If current transport systems can’t be made to work, he would consider an underground network.

Mr Ferguson tackled criticism that he is anti-car, saying “I don’t hate cars. But anyone coming from outer space seeing 50,000 cars coming into the city, many with just a single occupant, would think we were mad.”

He strongly defended residents parking schemes and the widespread 20mph limits he introduced.

“Leadership is about making brave decisions and showing people that it can be so much better when you get to the other side, and I’m determined to carry on doing it.”

If re-elected, he could demonstrate more benefits, he said. “I need another four years [as mayor] to be able to get to 2020 and deliver all the housing and all the transport, and the arena.”

Several candidates questioned the level of real democracy in the city. Mr Lucas said he would provide a veto over the mayor if

75 per cent of councillors vote to block a mayoral decision.

Independent John Langley went further, telling Mr Ferguson: “You have taught me a lot over the past few years – demonstrating how not to run a city.

“There’s absolutely no reason why people shouldn’t be included in making major decisions that are made in the city. But we have to be on the same page and work together, and it is not right that as soon as someone is voted in, you are ignored.

“I promise that if I am voted in there will be real democracy.

My worry is that the major parties have their diktats from head office. They don’t want to lose their grip.”

Another independent, Paul Saville, said: “People should be more involved in decision making. My idea for being mayor is to encourage participation.

People are interested in what’s going on and they do care about this city.

“I trust in humanity and in people make their own decisions.

“I’m in favour of having more referendums. They give us a gauge of public opinion. You could have booths in supermarkets where people press a button.

“Bristol city council has to be reminded that they work for the people and not the other way round.”

And Mr Turner attacked Bristol’s glossy image. “I’m constantly being told that Bristol is a vibrant city,” he said. “Yet tonight there will be nearly 200 people sleeping rough on the streets.

“I grew up in Hartcliffe, and there’s not a lot of vibrancy in the areas around there. Many people feel let down.”

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April, 2016

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southbristolvoice

Elections: Bristol Mayor These are your questions, suggested on Facebook.

Some candidates supplied much longer answers than others. Responses have been edited. The full replies can be found online at www.southbristolvoice.co.uk

Q

HOW would you provide a return on investment on your wage as mayor (£65,738, the same as an MP)? What would you do that the council shouldn’t already be doing?

Kay Barnard, Liberal Democrat There are many ways that the services the council provides could be improved. In particular I will improve services to older people provided by the council by much closer working with the NHS. Bristol lags behind other local authorities in this.

Tony Dyer, Green Each assistant mayor receives £31,796 and I believe this is more suitable. Any increases should be pegged to increases in the average salary across Bristol. I will publish targets and objectives, allowing members of the public to measure how well I have delivered on my manifesto.

George Ferguson, Bristol 1st I shall continue to give away 20 per cent of my salary to good causes. However that pales into insignificance compared with the tens of millions a year I am saving the city through helping to eliminate waste, streamline administration costs, introduce an entrepreneurial approach while minimising cuts to services.

Charles Lucas, Conservative Bristol needs strong leadership and to get strong leadership of the required quality, you have to pay the going rate.

Marvin Rees, Labour I don’t believe a city is run from the council chamber, so I’ll earn my money by connecting people in a City Office, bringing together leaders in health, education, business, unions, the voluntary and community sectors to make the city run better for everyone.

Paul Saville, Independent Take a pay cut and donate part of my salary to a homelessness and housing fund to help some of Bristol’s poorest people. I want to make sure that prosperity is

shared among all of the city, not just pockets.

Christine Townsend, Independent I would look to earn the mean income in Bristol, which I believe to be around £25,000. The money left could be used to support services for the most vulnerable. The mayor needs to fight the ideology of austerity from Westminster – this has been lacking under the current administration.

Paul Turner, UKIP I believe the role of mayor is very important to promote the city of Bristol both nationally and internationally, for culture as well as business. To also fight for the whole of Bristol at Westminster, to bang on doors to get the recognition and funding Bristol deserves. Locally, to break deadlock in the council chamber.

www.southbristolvoice.co.uk

– your questions answered

planning that has accompanied the proposal. To ensure the arena does not add further congestion and air pollution, I will make the best use of Temple Meads station as a focus for integrated transport, accompanied by a review of park and ride sites to reduce the number of cars in an area already suffering from poor air quality.

George Ferguson The Bristol Arena will be the finest arena of its type in Europe. There has been huge exaggeration regarding the transport implications, which have been thoroughly addressed for a project of this size. It is less than a sixth the capacity of Cardiff’s Millennium Stadium that is sited bang in the middle of the city without any dedicated parking. The plans, apart from

Your questions to the people running to be Bristol mayor Transport, air pollution, the arena, parking zones – plus, what will a mayor do that nobody else can do?

Q

HOW will you ensure that the long-hopedfor arena is an asset to the city without becoming a transport nightmare for Bristolians?

Kay Barnard All the estimates are that there will be a significant number of people coming to arena events by car.

There should be adequate parking in existing car parks linked to ticket sales, with frequent shuttle links. I want people living near the arena to be offered residents’ parking, free of charge, paid for by the arena.

Tony Dyer I am surprised at the relatively poor transport

15

on-site disabled parking, include distributed parking in a variety of car parks in walking distance.

The 12,000 capacity will only be reached about 20 times a year.

Charles Lucas We all want to see the arena built but it has to work for the people of Bristol and the region. Arena Island is the right site due to its proximity to Temple Meads and the city centre. However, public transport does not suit a lot of people. We have to provide a large car park adjacent to the arena. We also have to ensure adequate train, bus and park and ride facilities.

This will help to encourage people not to use their cars.

Marvin Rees I want to see the arena going ahead, but it has to be properly planned to protect the residents whose streets would

be gridlocked during events and those visitors who would be forced to walk to the arena from the city centre. I will ensure we work with communities, business and the key city institutions to drive forward a transport plan.

Paul Saville “Long hoped for?” that depends on who you ask! I’m not in favour of an arena at all – especially in its current location.

Lots of people I speak to about the arena tell me that this will be of great detriment to the lives of Bristolians living in the area and in Bristol more generally.

Christine Townsend I would seek a corporate responsibility clause so not-for-profit and community groups can take advantage of the asset this arena will bring to Bristol. Employment opportunities should remain within the city. There needs to be access to the arena from the back of Temple Meads. Bus and train operators need to be involved in designing routes and times. I would also like to see more use of the waterways, rather than just being used as a pleasure route.

Paul Turner It is essential for the arena to be a success.

The only way it can be is for as many people as possible to attend, which means we have to have an effective and practical way of getting large numbers of people there without adding to an already overcrowded road network. At the very least a park and ride area should be built along the M32. I would also look to negotiate lower rail/bus prices.

Q

WHAT are you planning to do about public transport in Bristol?

Kay Barnard I want a transport authority which can deliver better bus and train services around Bristol. We need legal contracts over where and when buses drive, and better ticketing. At the moment the bus companies have complete control over that. We also need investment in the train lines and new stations to help commuters get around the city more easily. I will fight at a national level to get a fair share of investment.

Tony Dyer The Green Party is committed to bringing the railways and bus services back Continued on page 16

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southbristolvoice

Elections: Bristol Mayor Continued from page 15 into public hands. We also need greater public investment in public transport to provide fairer fares. I will have to work within the framework in which our “public” transport is provided by private companies. Nevertheless I can make improvements – speeding up smart ticketing, and franchising of bus services particularly where current provision is lacking. I will look to invest in the re-opening of railway lines, additional stations such as Ashton Gate, and better partnership working to reduce fares and improve services.

George Ferguson We are delivering an improved Metrobus, have negotiated reduced bus fares, invested to improve vehicle, cycling, and pedestrian access, and, with Bristol University, are developing the “Bristol Brain” to provide real-time analysis of traffic and pollution. Major investments have been made in South Bristol, including Metrobus and the South Bristol Link. We are helping bring in low or zero emission buses. Devolution will help us deliver a more integrated system including smart ticketing across the city region.

Charles Lucas I will work with bus operators to improve the efficiency and frequency of services. I disagree with nationalising bus services – just look at the disaster that was the Bristol Bus Company. I will open up our internal rail network and re-open stations right across the city including at Ashton Gate.

The Henbury Spur is under way but this must be part of completing the Henbury Loop.

Marvin Rees I will develop an integrated transport plan, including buses, taxis, trains, walkers, cyclists and car-users, to help get Bristol moving. I want to see a single Bristol travel card across all bus and train companies, as well as having a single Bristol fare. I will also look into the financial viability of setting up a Bristol Bus Company owned for common good.

Paul Saville Aha. Transport – the bugbear of Bristolian life.

First have had a stranglehold on our transport system for far too long – let’s bring the transport network back into

public ownership for the good of Bristolians, not for rich shareholders at First.

Christine Townsend I would work with providers to devise integrated ticketing to allow for multi-transport use, and a discount scheme for children, young people and students, in line with those in place for disabled users and older people.

Look at the viability of bringing unused railways back into use such as the Portishead route and the line across Ashley Down.

Paul Turner Public transport is a mess in Bristol. I would like to bring it back under public control. My reservation is that the city council has the reputation of not being able to run an egg and spoon race; major changes would be required at City Hall. I would also look at re-introducing a tram network.

Q

WOULD you reverse part or all of the residents parking schemes? Will you exempt community nurses and carers from the £198 annual charge they now have to pay to visit patients who live in RPS areas?

Kay Barnard Where there is clear unhappiness with an RPS I will complete real consultation with local people about removing areas from the scheme. I would definitely work with the local NHS funders and council staff to make sure that community nurses and carers can park free of charge when they are working.

Tony Dyer Given the capital costs so far in residents parking, I doubt if any serious mayoral candidate is prepared to write off those costs. I do think consultation on many of the schemes has been less than satisfactory. There has to be a greater level of community involvement in how the schemes operate. I am already committed to revoking charges for blue badge holders; I believe that community nurses and carers should also be exempted.

George Ferguson Residents parking schemes have been so successful that many areas that asked to be left out are now asking to be included. I am always up for reviewing boundaries, hours, conditions,

www.southbristolvoice.co.uk

April, 2016

– your questions answered

and costs including special categories such as carers and disabled provision. Having delivered the essential core, future areas will be considered on a more consensual basis.

Charles Lucas RPS schemes work. If the scheme is wanted by the residents it must be retained.

If the majority of residents do not want an RPS then I would consider repealing it on a zone by zone basis. In the same way, if an area needed and wanted a RPS zone (eg Totterdown) then I would introduce one. Nurses and carers need to be able to visit patients [without] a direct cost to the carer as part of their work.

Marvin Rees I will exempt all blue badge holders and essential workers from parking charges, as well as giving local traders a discounted rate. I will review the whole RPZ system to ensure they work well for businesses and communities.

Paul Saville We as a city owe £10m [for setting up the RPSs].

Once the debt is paid off (RPS made £1.2m last year) then residents get to park their cars for free. Carers and blue badge holders should be exempt. I would halt all further rollout.

Christine Townsend No – the money and time has already been spent.

If other areas wanted RPZs, this would be a matter for local councillors, community groups and the neighbourhood partnership. There is no need for the mayor to be involved in this.

[I would exempt from charges] carers, blue badge holders and others in essential services such as nurseries, schools and libraries.

Paul Turner I will review all RPZs so they are for the benefit of local residents and businesses rather than just an additional tax. In some parts of Bristol RPZs have worked well; however in many areas they have not helped at all. It is in these areas that I would look to make the greatest change and potentially reverse the schemes. Community nurses and carers will be exempt.

Q

ARE you happy that the Green Capital money was spent with the interests of all Bristolians at the fore?

Kay Barnard Spending public money through an arms-length

company has meant that details of how the money was spent are extremely difficult to find. I am optimistic that money spent in Bristol schools and local social enterprises will mean a better future for Bristol but we need more detail on whether expensive trips overseas will actually benefit Bristol in the future.

Tony Dyer I believe that spending by Green Capital Ltd should be published. However, this important debate is in danger of overshadowing the hard work done [in] Green Capital year that raised the profile of green issues across the city. Too many Bristolians tell me that they feel that many projects and events are not designed with them in mind – people with disabilities, living on the outskirts, and from disadvantaged communities.

George Ferguson Ours was the most successful European Green Capital to date. For example, Bristol is now home to the largest Green Tech sector in the UK. We made a single investment of £1m which I believe has been returned 100fold to the city’s environment and economy. The Bristol 2015 company has been the subject of greater scrutiny and audit than any other company with which we do business.

Charles Lucas I do not understand why the council is withholding these accounts. I cannot comment further as we do not know what they are trying to hide, if anything. The whole situation over the spending of the £8m makes me very uncomfortable.

Marvin Rees I don’t know because the mayor won’t tell us how the money has been spent! I would open the books and so should he, so Bristolians can see where every last penny has gone.

Paul Saville Bristol Green Capital. What a load of Greenwash. As a keen environmental activist for nearly 10 years, I was saddened by Bristol Green capital year. A great opportunity squandered.

What is now rubbing salt into the wounds of many Bristolians is the highly secretive accounts which they won’t release.

Christine Townsend I expected to see the money spent

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April, 2016

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Elections: Bristol Mayor on sustainable projects to reduce energy costs for local people or enable essential services to access renewable energy. Too much focus was on arts projects, websites, wages and promoting Bristol on a national and international stage, making very little difference to the lives of most of us. Public money needs to be open to public scrutiny.

Paul Turner The mayor and city council should be independently audited, the full results to be made public. Bristol 2015 Ltd should never have been set up in the way it was; I will investigate why.

Q

WHAT will you do to improve the quality of Bristol’s air? In many places pollution exceeds WHO safety limits.

Kay Barnard Walking is not a pleasant experience in the centre of the city. I would introduce a low emission zone which means that the most polluting vehicles

would have to pay a daily fee.

The bus companies are already introducing buses which are much cleaner and this will provide a real incentive to do that. We need to improve public transport and cycling space.

Tony Dyer I have made a commitment to introduce a Low Emissions Zone to cover the city centre by 2020. I will work to provide low emission alternatives to single occupancy cars – improved facilities for walking and cycling, investment in public transport such as rail and buses (especially low emission vehicle types), and infrastructure to support electric cars. I will also look to expand the use of freight consolidation to reduce the number of HGVs on city roads.

George Ferguson Our record over three years is resulting in cleaner vehicles and lower building emissions. I have been prepared to take unpopular measures such as 20mph which has encouraged more walking and cycling, and residents parking which, with lower bus fares, has resulted in a reduction

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– your questions answered

in commuter cars and increased bus use. We have created Air Quality Areas. The next objective is Low Emission Zones.

Charles Lucas We must ease congestion, a major contributor to air quality. I want to promote electric vehicles as well as other more energy-efficient means of powering our vehicles. We must maintain as many of our green spaces as possible and improve these by continuing to plant trees.

Marvin Rees Traffic congestion is a major cause of pollution and I have already detailed how I will tackle that problem. I want all council-owned buildings to be run on renewable energy by 2020, introduce a low emissions zone with the aim of Bristol becoming carbon free by 2025.

Paul Saville Provide Bristolians with public transport that is easy to use, cheap and reliable. Only with carrot before stick can this be achieved. Also, I will produce an in-depth investigation into widespread allegations of pollution in Avonmouth.

Christine Townsend If people

drive in Bristol they will notice a remarkable difference during school holidays – far too many children are being transported across the city to school. Local children should be accessing local schools. Some secondaries allocate places for children who live beyond the Bristol boundaries while turning away local applicants - this must stop.

Paul Turner The quality of air in Bristol is at a dangerous level.

Some cities are trialling rooftop air purifiers with some success but I would like to work with the city’s two universities to establish an effective and practical way in which Bristol can clean its air.

We do not have cost-effective efficient public transport, which we would need in order to entice motorists out of their cars. I’d like to introduce a car sharing scheme as well.

John Langley (Independent) did not supply responses by the time of going to press.

Cooke Painter Ltd Solicitors

Make us your friendly local solicitors for your legal needs We offer specialist expert advice on: • Conveyancing – Domestic and Commercial Property matters • Wills, Trust and Probate matters • Lasting Powers of Attorney • Divorce, Separation and Family Law • Employment Law www.cps-sols.co.uk Cooke Painter Ltd Solicitors Knowle branch: 314 Wells Road, Knowle BS4 2QG 0117 977 7403 Email: knowle@cps-sols.co.uk Other offices at Whitchurch and Brislington Regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority

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VOTE FOR A LABOUR TEAM WORKING FOR YOU IN BRISTOL

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News Be prepared and learn to ease the pressure of exam season

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E DEAL with a lot of change in education but one trend is clear – more emphasis on examination.

There is less and less coursework demanded by GCSE subjects and from next year English will be marked entirely by examination.

This year at Bedminster Down we have 116 students sitting 56 papers between them over eight weeks. That’s a lot of effort

focused on a short period of time so it’s no surprise that we try to make the process as stress-free as possible. The key to this is good preparation and planning for chunks of revision with space for some down time.

Most schools will invite parents and students in for a briefing before exam time. I find that parents are always keen to know what they can do to help support their children through revision. Some techniques such as mind maps and flash cards will be familiar to those who took their GCSEs or O levels many years ago, but we’re now able to point students to a collection of subject-specific websites too.

If you know a young person sitting exams this year here are a

School Report Assistant headteacher and maths teacher at Bedminster Down School, Laura Campbell explains how to help prepare for exams few practical ways you can help: • Encourage preparation. Do they know the dates and times of all the papers, and do they know what they need to do to be ready?

• Revision works well with little but often. Pulling an ‘all nighter’ is not beneficial.

• Routine: keep to your regular mealtimes if at all possible.

• Don’t underestimate the power of proper rest and nutrition. Some time outdoors for sport or a family walk will boost mood and stamina.

Boost for Knowle teams as Bristol becomes European City of Sport A KNOWLE venue has been given a grant to boost its sports facilities – at the same time as news broke that Bristol has been named as the UK’s European City of Sport for 2017.

The two moves are not connected. But being European City of Sport next year will bring welcome attention to improving sports provision throughout the city – especially in areas that don’t receive a lot of funding.

One theme of the year will be women and girls in sport, an area where Bristol is active, with a campaign called This Girl Can. Bristol City Council has awarded The Park centre in Daventry Road a £5,000 grant to update equipment used by teams playing basketball, football and netball. Work was due to start by the end of March.

Director at The Park, Emma Hinton, said: “Sports provision in this community is vitally important and it can be difficult for a charity like ours to pay to enhance facilities. So many people of all ages will benefit.

“Our vision is to enrich and develop the local community by supporting good health and enjoyment of life and this money will really help us to do that.”

Jim Hodgson from Lazyboys Basketball Club, which uses the hall every week, said: “We are

delighted! Club members including young people and adults are over the moon. We have been fundraising to pay for some improvements and have been able to add over £900 to the council grant. We can’t wait to start playing with new backboards, scoreboards and rings!”

The Park centre provides a range of facilities including a gym, sports hall, conference and meeting facilities, training and education, café, and space for a range of organisations supporting the underprivileged and disabled.

Cities competing to be City of Sport are judged on their sporting facilities, residents’ level of participation, the success of local teams and sporting events.

Bristol is one of several European cities to be awarded the title.

The award was secured by the

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new Bristol Partnership for Sport and Active Recreation, with the support of Bristol’s professional sports teams including Ashton Gate-based Bristol Sport as well as other sporting bodies and the city’s universities.

• www.theparkknowle.org.uk

Laura Campbell • Know where to find help if anxiety becomes overwhelming.

Your school will have contacts.

Well before exam season, schools will aim to equip all students with a firm idea of what they need to do, and the extra steps they can take to go for the grade above. We all look forward to happy faces on results day and secure college or apprenticeship places for all our students – all achieved with the support of family and friends.

Senior service from WhiSe WINDMILL Hill Seniors or WhiSe, the new group for seniors or retired people, will meet on April 7, and the first Thursday of each month at Windmill Hill Community Centre, Vivian Street, at 2pm. The group is making plans including possible speakers and ideas for outings. Call Christine on 07901 87437.

CHANGE YOUR MIND CHANGE YOUR LIFE • Stop stress and anxiety before it takes over.

• Ditch your demons.

• Find your compelling future!

Sue Naughton-Marsh (DPH, DSFH) is an experienced coach and psychotherapist and gets results fast.

Delighted: The Bristol Lazyboys

www.suenaughton-marsh.com 07967 703545 STOP THINKING AND START DOING!

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WIN a very special Bristol Blue Penny to celebrate Concorde

E

VERY year, the craftspeople at Bristol Blue Glass create a special penny – a collector’s item to mark an important event.

This year they have chosen something that is close to many Bristolians’ hearts – the 40th anniversary of the first commercial flight of the world’s first supersonic airliner, Concorde.

The British Concorde made its first and last flights from Bristol, and much of the plane was designed and created here.

Bristol Blue Glass have got together with the Voice to make readers a special offer. The voucher below gives readers £5 off the normal price of a Bristol Blue Penny if they use the special order code. And we have a

historic Concorde penny to give away to the reader of the South Bristol Voice who can tell us, in 50 words, why their connection with Concorde means they would treasure this Bristol Blue gift.

Email your entries to paul@ southbristolvoice.co.uk, or post to SBV, 18 Lilymead Avenue, Bristol BS4 2BX, to arrive by April 15.

SAVE £5!

Tunnel vision: Volunteers make the willow landmark Picture: DAVID SMITH

Willow wonder in Victoria Park VICTORIA Park has a new attraction – a tunnel 20 metres long and made of willow.

It’s not just an ideal place for hide-and-seek – its creators say it has a serious purpose too, as a natural attraction that is brilliant for wildlife.

“Many of these willows will support pollinators and many other invertebrates, and in turn other wildlife”, said Alex Morss, from the park’s wildlife group.

The willows were donated by Energy4Crops, a company run by Knowle resident Kevin Lindegaard. Kevin also gave scores of willows to create two willow groves in Perretts Park.

The tunnel was constructed in a few hours over two weekends by volunteers from Victoria Park Action Group, plus local residents and members of Good Gym, who combine running with community work.

Gardening is for all!

PLEASE ALLOW 2-3 WEEKS FOR COLLECTION/DELIVERY OFFER REDEEMABLE ONLINE (at checkout) CODE: Penny 25 www.bristolblueglass.co.uk OR MAKE CHEQUE PAYABLE & RETURN TO: Bristol Blue Glass Ltd 357-359 Bath Road, Bristol BS4 3EW 0117 972 0818

Also available at 47 High Street, Bristol BS1 2AZ

ORDER FORM

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PLEASE ENCLOSE CHEQUE FOR £25 + P&P (optional)

THE gardening club for older people, those with dementia and their families is open for spring.

The group meets on Fridays from 11am-1pm at the Let’s Grow Community Allotment in Springfield Road, Knowle.

All are welcome to join in with gentle gardening activities and green crafts or simply to enjoy a cup of tea and a chat. The beautiful views from the allotment are something of a hidden treasure for Knowle.

No gardening experience is necessary and help is available for those who need a little extra support to take part.

If the weather is bad, activity moves to the allotment’s new cabin. The group is free to attend and sometimes there is fresh

Growing easy: The gardening club produce available to take home.

Contact Dale Cranshaw for more information on 07581 281578, email dalec@ growingsupport.org.uk or just drop in. Springfield Allotment is behind the green gates in Andover Road, Knowle BS4 1AJ.

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German Bierfest Bristol

6 1 0 2 y a M 5-8

e r a u q S m u i n n e l Mil

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Calling all the printmakers

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I AM a Bristol artist and printmaker working on a project called Bristol Set in Print. This investigates the role of industrial print in Bristol, exploring how it has shaped our city and acknowledging all those involved.

I am especially interested in the workers and printers who were on the shop floor, in letterpress primarily.

Bristol was once a key player in the print industry, tied into tobacco, trade and transport. As the demand for letterpress printing diminished, its skilled workers felt the change, with a huge reduction in numbers.

So far I am working with a few printers from Bedminster – ES&A Robinsons was very prominent in that area, and a printer in Stockwood. I am based at Spike Island.

Nowadays only a couple of printing houses and workshops remain. But the traditional craft is growing in popularity as many artists and graphic designers turn

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to a more tangible approach of traditional typesetting.

The aim of the project is to share skills from previous forms of printing, to connect these current practitioners with those who worked in industry. I am looking for participants to share their skills with a new generation of printers.

Alongside this I am working to promote the history of this industry, something which many people today have little knowledge of.

So if you, or anyone you know, may be of any assistance, please do not hesitate to get involved.

Charlotte Biszewski bristolsetinprint@gmail.com www.bristolsetinprint.com

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April, 2016

• It would be good if the trains ran later than the concerts will finish. For example, the last train from Temple Meads to Montpelier is 10.15pm. They also need to run more than twice an hour. Think about how packed Wembley gets with the amazing public transport on offer. This needs sorting before an arena is built, or it will be a disaster from the outset.

CM

Have you got strong views about what’s happening in South Bristol? Email paul@ southbristolvoice.co.uk, post to Letters, South Bristol Voice, 18 Lilymead Avenue, Bristol BS4 2BX or call us on 07811 766072. Please keep letters short. We may edit your letter.

Arena views The delay by councillors to the arena planning application aroused much comment when the Voice posted the story online.

Here are some of your comments • The application was complete.

What happened was councillors playing power games that will cost residents tens of thousands, if not millions. I think councillors were more concerned with their positions in May. All the extra details could have been added, no need to cost the taxpayer tens of thousands or millions, or risk cancellation. How long will it take now? At £80k a week, I dread to think.

KA

• Shame it isn’t next to a major train station. Then no one would need to drive. Just build it already. All you nimbys should get over it. It’s good for Bristol and good for the area.

JM • I was not aware that we were not going to be able to cycle through Arena Island. What a wasted opportunity. It was one chance to come up with an alternative to the crazy Bath Road cycle lane. AS • The arena is an outmoded 90s idea, a vanity project by various windbags. And rip-off RPS can go the same way – a large annual fee to *not* guarantee you a parking space.

CS

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Before you speak to anyone else about your damp and roofing issues, speak to the experts at Copingcovers.com We guarantee to keep you dry and damp free MY name is Steven Rimell. I have lived and worked in Bristol for the vast majority of my life and am the proud proprietor of Copingcovers. com ltd.

We are a small local business based in Bristol but our business is expanding throughout the U.K. We have completed projects as far wide as London and Sutherland, Scotland.

Copingcovers.com has received so many enquiries countrywide that we regularly supply our Do It Yourself ‘Kits’ to clients for easy self installation or for fitting by your local roofer/builder.

The customer always comes first with Copingcovers.com. Once a project is completed, we don’t

expect to return to it other than to start new work. Throughout our 25 years of experience within building, roofing and construction, we have never been called back due to poor workmanship and work very hard to keep it this way. We have spent a great deal of time over the years discussing damp related issues with many of our clients. We therefore decided to investigate damp related problems more thoroughly and came up with the concept of Copingcovers.com. Most of our new clients have previously accepted different solutions to their damp issues. We are fully aware as to how most of these solutions continue to only mask the damp and not resolve

it. We continue to feel saddened that they have not come to us first as our product is a guaranteed solution.

My business is my passion.

Thousands of houses throughout the country are built with Parapet Walls and all suffer with damp related issues due to the original poor design. If you own a Victorian house with Parapet Walls and suffer with damp, we guarantee that Coping Covers will stop water from entering your walls and will allow them to fully dry out, thus resolving all your damp issues. You will be amazed as to how inexpensive and effective Coping Covers are and just how simple they are to fit.

Take a look at this before and after picture of a complete roof reconstruction and coping covers, our modernised solution which is 100% water tight and looks fantastic

We also undertake all types of building work such as loft conversions and extensions etc.

These days, due to the very nature of our business, we specialise in all aspects of roofing/chimney/parapet wall projects. Our clients become our friends as they have full trust in our honest advice, our approach and the quality of our workmanship.

We continue to strive to give the best possible service to all our clients along with excellent value for money. Our aim is to become a nationwide business within the next five years.

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Bristol Dogs & Cats Home Time to take a walk on the waggy side

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F YOU love dogs, walking, and raising money for animals in need, then we have the perfect event for you!

Put your best paw forward and join us for our annual Mutt Strut on Sunday May 1!

This special sponsored dog walk is a rare opportunity to take one of our four-pawed residents out for a three-mile tour of some of the historic sights the city has to offer, including St Mary Redcliffe church and Castle Park.

Last year, our supporters raised a whopping £1,800 for the animals in our care. Help us make 2016 even more successful, by asking your family and friends to sponsor you to take one of our gorgeous pooches on a stroll around Bristol.

The money raised from this event goes towards the cost of

Our doggy residents are ready to take you out for walkies ...

caring for the thousands of animals every year who rely on us to provide them with vital veterinary care and a rehoming service, to help them have a second chance at a happy life, free from pain and neglect.

Once again, our event will be featured as part of Bristol Walk Festival, which aims to encourage people to stretch their legs and appreciate the beautiful walks that Bristol has to offer. Our walk will

Police update

O

F ALL the crimes we attend and investigate, burglary is probably the one people fear the most.

It touches thousands, is often totally opportunistic and it invades the place we should all be able to feel safe, our home.

You may have heard about the burglar who was jailed last month after he left a helpful trail of floury footprints from the victim’s flat to his own. He’d stepped in a bag of flour. Sadly, the task of catching burglars is rarely made as simple as they are often adept at minimising any forensic clues left at the scene.

The key is in prevention.

Many recent cases have involved burglars targeting car keys either left on view or that they can get by fishing through letterboxes.

Please remember to put your car keys securely away out of sight – never leave them in the back door or within view through a letterbox or window.

We’re also continuing to see a trend for ‘easy’ break-ins through UPVC doors with paddle or stub handles that homeowners are

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Best paw forward: Chance to enjoy Bristol’s landmarks with a canine friend be one of the first events kicking off the month-long festival.

Places are limited on our walk, so to secure your place please visit our website to download an application pack.

Alternatively, you can pick up a pack from Bristol Dogs & Cats Home reception. Don’t delay,

With Sgt David Deakin, Broadbury Road police station

It takes a lot of confidence to say ‘No’ to devious people at the door unwittingly leaving unlocked.

Don’t fall in to the trap of simply pulling the handle up, hearing the clicks, and thinking it is locked. You must still turn the key to lock the door, otherwise the only thing securing it is the small latch next to the handle, which is easy to slip. Burglars are on to this, so if you or family members or neighbours have such a door, please help by sharing this advice.

With the return of the annual Rogue Trader Week this month, we’re also looking for people to help spread the word, particularly to elderly and vulnerable relatives and neighbours, that “If you’re not

sure, don’t open the door.”

We’ve all heard the horror stories of pensioners conned out of life savings and, sadly, there are criminals out there who finance a very nice lifestyle by stealing from the most vulnerable in our society.

It takes a lot of confidence to say no, especially when confronted by someone with a convincing story. We spend a lot of time giving the advice that legitimate callers will have made an appointment and certainly will not mind waiting while you check them out or, even better, return when you have someone with you. The same applies for people claiming to be collecting for charity– don’t be afraid to ask them to leave details through your letterbox. Please ensure your elderly neighbour or relative knows what to do when confronted at the door by someone they are not expecting, whether a man, woman, or child.

There is lots of advice on our website.

Sgt Dave Deakin • www.avonandsomerset.police.uk

register today! We would love for you to join us and support the animals in our care. Our dogs will be very grateful for the walk too.

Please visit our website for more information or contact Harriet on 0117 300 3968 or harriet@rspca-bristol.org.uk.

Raid discovers cannabis plants under the bed POLICE acting on a tip-off discovered a small cannabis factory in a studio flat in Totterdown.

The raid in Green Street on March 7 uncovered a nursery for cannabis plants in a cupboard – as well as a bed which had been constructed to house a mini cannabis factory underneath. In total 16 plants were seized.

A 39-year-old man from Totterdown was arrested on suspicion of production of cannabis. He is on police bail.

Totterdown Beat Manager PC Sue Coates said: “Cannabis factories can range in size and although this one is fairly small, its dismantling and the seizure of the drugs is good news for local people.”

Signs to look out for are: • A strong vegetable smell • Windows covered from the inside with plastic or polythene • Condensation on windows • Curtains always drawn • House appearing unoccupied, or tenants who do not engage with their neighbours.

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School in Africa plea STUDENTS at Bedminster Down School are appealing to the community to help them raise funds to complete a new school building in Arusha, Tanzania.

In partnership with Ashton Park School, 18 students in their final years at Bedminster Down have been raising money all year to pay for their trip to Africa in July.

Students and teachers last visited Arusha in 2014 when they started work on transforming an old brick factory into a new building for Suye Secondary School. They will also be renovating orphanage bedrooms.

Now pupils have organised a raffle to help support the project with prizes including an HP tablet and a television. Tickets are available from the school office until Monday May 30.

Teacher Ben Wills is returning to Arusha. He said: “We hope to continue with our conversion of

Could you meet and greet the care givers?

Hard at work: Bedminster pupils at the Tanzania school back in 2014 old factory rooms into useful classrooms, therefore increasing school spaces available for

children to be educated.

“We are also looking at renovating some of the living quarters where some of the orphaned children who attend the school currently live in squalid conditions.

“Our plans will have to remain flexible to the needs of the community, but whatever work is undertaken we really do have the chance to make a significant difference.”

Tree promise

We provide training and a high level of support to our foster carers, and pay excellent fees.

To find out more, call 07979 394793 or 01823 491010, or email info@fusionfostering.com.

Or come for a chat at our open evening: Thursday 21st April 6-8pm City Academy, Russell Town Avenue, Redfield, Bristol BS5 9JH.

Pic credit: BBC and Henry Iddon

Have you ever thought about fostering?

Do you live in Bristol, Bath or South Gloucestershire?

TREES on the corner of Alfred Road, Windmill Hill, will be replanted once work on Polden House has finished, the council has promised. The trees were destabilising a wall.

April, 2016

WHO looks after the carers? A project that supports people who look after the unwell, disabled or elderly is asking for volunteers.

People are wanted who could visit GP surgeries in Bedminster and Knowle to meet, greet and give information to carers.

Full training is given, and the visits would be for just two mornings per month.

Volunteers will not be working at their own GP surgery.

To fnd out more call GP Carer Link volunteer Mike Hatch on 07503 577830 or e-mail mikeh@ carerssupportcentre.org.uk If you look after someone, and would like information about services for carers – or would just like to talk about caring – call the Carersline on 0117 965 2200 or visit www.carerssupportcentre.org.uk

A short walk through history A WALK around Totterdown looking for traces of its history is on offer on April 24, organised by Knowle and Totterdown Local History Society. It will take in the hills within the wedge between the Bath and Wells roads behind the Three Lamps junction. Meet in the park in School Road, behind Holy Nativity church, at 1.45pm for a 2pm start.

• www.knowleandtotterdown history.org.uk

Wednesday

13 April 7:00pm

‘The Art of Life’ with Clemency Burton-Hill

An evening with author, musician and TV presenter Clemency Burton-Hill

Open to the public £3 Students £5 Adults from ticketsource.co.uk/theredmaidsschool

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April, 2016

News

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How can we help our employers train their staff better, asks MP SOUTH Bristol’s MP Karin Smyth has challenged the Prime Minister to make good his pledges to recruit three million high-quality apprentices, partly funded by a levy on big businesses.

But the MP says she does not want to play party politics and wants to hear from local businesses about the challenges they face in providing training.

Ms Smyth used National Apprenticeship Week in March to make an open call to small and medium size firms to set out their ambitions for apprenticeship schemes over the next decade.

She wants firms to write to her saying how official bodies can help them provide quality training.

South Bristol lacks many large employers – though there are hopes that if the arena is built, hundreds of jobs and training opportunities will be created for local people.

The Labour MP wrote to David Cameron expressing her strong support for the Government’s ambitious target of three million apprenticeships by 2020.

“Over recent months I’ve met lots of business owners and staff who are keen to play their part in offering training and

Karin Smyth: Firms want to know what Govt pledges will mean apprenticeship opportunities,” she said.

“Like me they hear the pledge for three million apprenticeships by 2020, they welcome it, and they are keen to get involved, but many of them are unclear about how to go about it, and how best to equip their own firms with the tools to ensure they can offer good quality training openings that meets local need.”

Previously she challenged the Prime Minister in the Commons to reveal his delivery plan for apprenticeships, or if he was “making up this policy as he goes along”.

The next day she asked skills minister Nick Boles a similar question. The minister responded: “We do have a lot of questions that we need to

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answer,” but promised details will be revealed during April.

In the Commons exchange Ms Smyth said: “We do still await the details of the new apprentice levy, how targets will work in practice and indeed how colleges and other providers will be supported to do the important work they need to do.”

Owners of small and medium-sized businesses in south Bristol – and staff with responsibility for training – are invited to give their views by email to karin.smyth.mp@ parliament.uk or to write to Karin Smyth MP, House of Commons, London SW1A 0AA.

Walk through Crimean war DISCOVER brave deeds, tragic mistakes and inspiring bravery from the bitter conflict in the Crimea more than 160 years ago at Arnos Vale cemetery.

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It was the only major European war involving Britain between 1815 and 1914.

Glenn Fisher of the Crimean War Research Society will lead a tour of several of the last resting places of Crimean War soldiers and marines.

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southbristolvoice www.southbristolvoice.co.uk Reports from your councillors – Knowle 26

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T

HE recent deferral of the arena planning application was not good for Bristol. The Gary application itself Hopkins, was a total mess Lib-Dem, and completely Knowle failed to address travel and parking issues.

Having said that, I asked for the application not to be delayed and Liberal Democrat colleagues on the committee voted that way.

The reason for avoiding delay is that, however unwise the decision, financial commitments have been made which we are all paying for as Bristol tax payers.

The Labour and Tory councillors who voted for deferral had every right to do so and the mayor’s attack on the committee chair and those who voted that way was unjustified.

Liberal Democrat members on the panel actually proposed a more positive way out of the mess, namely some extra

conditions, including protection for the local area and relooking at roads and road layouts, that all conditions should be subjected to a timetable, and checked off by the committee over coming months. We do not know how long the delay might actually be, but it certainly would not be sorted by intransigence or abuse on either side.

I welcome the new pedestrian access to the arena planned from Three Lamps, but was disappointed that the mayor felt it was all right to appropriate green space for it – which is classified as park land – without compensation to the community.

There has recently been a sale agreed of open space for social housing in Knowle and this is generating £1 million for parks, £650,000 of which is available to be spent within our local area.

This is a win, win, win and we look forward to the mayor realising that he must comply with the parks and green spaces strategy which protects the Three Lamps land for local benefits.

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How to get in touch with your councillors – page 2

T THE most recent cabinet I put down questions for the mayor regarding the arena. The Chris cabinet met the Davies, day before the Lib-Dem, planning meeting Knowle where Labour and Conservative councillors opted to defer the decision.

I was allowed only two questions. My first one asked why there was not a clear transport plan in the planning application, as it clearly stated in the papers that there was no transport plan. The mayor’s response – that there was one – was clearly a little confused.

Whether or not you agree that the arena can function without additional parking, it is absolutely clear that a robust plan for public transport is essential. The failure to acknowledge the reality is extremely worrying. The second question concerned parking issues as they stood some years

ago, before the mayor was elected. Liberal Democrats, at the request of residents, introduced the first residents parking scheme in Kingsdown. It was cheap, popular and has become more so, and was not used for raising tax. The mayor has unfortunately broken the promises made to Kingsdown residents and is using it, and other schemes, as a cash cow.

Whatever has been accepted elsewhere, Knowle and Totterdown residents were very clear two years ago that they did not need an RPS, and IF they now decide they need one as a result of the arena, this should be run on a not-for-profit basis by the local neighbourhood partnership, and not for profit by the mayor. A recent report to the scrutiny commission unearthed the amount of operating profit being made by these schemes. I am determined that any schemes that residents accept – and they must be fully consulted – will be for local protection and not for finance exploitation.

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To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Paul on 07811 766072 or Emma or Hollie on 0117 908 2121.

www.southbristolvoice.co.uk southbristolvoice Reports from your councillors – Windmill Hill

April, 2016

27

E: paul@southbristolvoice.co.uk

M

ay 5 will be a historic day for Bristol, with the chance to elect a new mayor and council for Sam the next four years Mongon, for the first time.

Labour, It will have a huge Windmill impact on the Hill future of our city and how we cope with the latest round of Tory cuts. The last date to register to vote is midnight on Monday April 18. If you haven’t already registered you can do it online: www.gov.uk/register-tovote – it only takes five minutes.

I have loved being a councillor because it has allowed me to work with people in my community to try and solve individual and local problems together. However, as you may know by now, I’m standing down as a councillor for that political cliché; to spend more time with my family. Balancing the demands of political office with a full-time job and being a dad has

been one of the hardest challenges I’ve faced.

I’ve always tried to represent the voice of local people first and I’m particularly proud that engagement in local democracy has improved since I’ve been elected. Two years ago our neighbourhood forum was attracting between one and three attendees. By focusing on what matters to residents, such as transport, planning and the environment, we’ve increased those numbers to over 30 people at each meeting.

I’m really pleased to be handing the baton to two great, local Labour Party candidates; Jon Wellington, who lives in Totterdown, and Lucy Whittle, who lives on Windmill Hill. The message we’re getting on the doorsteps when speaking to residents is that they love where they live but are worried about the future of local services. I know Jon and Lucy will do a great job championing the ward in the council and being the voice of local people.

T

HIS is my last Voice column, as I stand down at May’s election. I have had a very interesting year Deborah and met some Joffe, wonderful people Green, who live and Windmill contribute to the Hill ward and to the city.

In my final month as a councillor there are still many local issues to attend to. The traffic schemes to reduce rat-running in the Stanley Hill and Cotswold Road areas have both hit difficulties and I will do all I can to assist them. The most important thing is to keep these problems in the limelight and ensure resources are kept ring-fenced to resolve them.

I am anxious to see the proposed sale of council land at the bottom of Park Street abandoned in favour of continued community use. We definitely need more housing, but the focus should be on large scale

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brownfield developments where affordable and social housing can be included, and not on these small parcels of land on which a developer is likely to cram a few flats. Green community spaces are vital to wellbeing in the city.

We are also hoping to see improvements to the green area around Holroyd House, including a proper footpath to Holmesdale Road and better access for people in wheelchairs or with buggies.

There are some terrific ideas around improving that space.

Citywide, I am working on race equality issues, a subject which should concern everybody.

Not only is it deeply unjust that your race should affect your educational attainment and economic prospects, but the increasing inequality in Bristol feeds into greater social tensions.

I would like to see these issues as a much higher council priority.

I hope that the two Green candidates for the ward, Rosa Targett and Ellie Vowles, will succeed me so that they can carry on much of this work.

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April, 2016

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News WILD PARK

29

News from the Wildlife Group of Victoria Park Action Group

Nature makes its own streams

O

VER the latter half of the winter the southern slopes of Victoria Park gradually became wetter and wetter, until eventually there were four distinct ponds each about a yard wide, muddied by dogs, with water gently seeping out to create miniature bournes, or seasonal streams, trickling through the grass only to mysteriously disappear again a few yards further on.

Before long - unless we have a very wet few months ahead – these upwellings will simply vanish, leaving nothing more than slight depressions (albeit getting deeper each year) in the mown grass. Nature may know this is a park, but it chooses to do its own thing.

On the rougher, steeper meadow slopes towards town,

the grass (now cut only once a year) is gradually forming into little tufts. Patches of competing buttercup leaves seem to come and go, but apart from the flowering daffodils and tiny but equally yellow lesser celandines, everything else that may come up to surprise us is as yet keeping itself hidden below ground.

Most of our recent conservation work has been confined to thinning the top copses a little, to let in more light. For a few days a small flock of Scandinavian thrushes – fieldfares - were in noisy occupation. Work has now ended as bird nesting season officially started on March 1.

Unfortunately, most of the cut wood ‘goes for a walk’. Which is a shame, because it’s needed for

several reasons: to create ‘dead hedges’ to help reduce trampling; to provide homes for lichen and beetles; and as construction kits for the local Forest Schoolers.

We had help from a dauntless band of GoodGym runners who swiftly dug over our two successful annual wildflower beds while they were

Picture: ALEX MORSS

passing (all we did was provide the spades); soon those sites will be reseeded in another attempt to establish perennial wildflower patches. This year, it may work! Join in, via the Victoria Park Action Group website; and why not enjoy a welcome break at Mrs Brown’s reopened coffee stall.

• www.vpag.org.uk

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Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Paul on 07811 766072 or email paul@southbristolvoice.co.uk

30

T: 07811 766072

History

southbristolvoice

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April, 2016

When the sirens went off in

S

PRINGLEAZE is a quiet road in upper Knowle, a stroll away from Wells Road, a peaceful collection of 1920s semi-detached houses.

But even though Knowle Park is more than a mile from the city centre, like so many other residential districts of Bristol, it still proved a target for Luftwaffe bombers.

Some bombs were no doubt dropped at random. Some were probably jettisoned as the bombers turned for home, perhaps unable to get near the real targets in the city centre and the harbour. Some, perhaps, were aimed at the former Bristol Airport, just up the road at Whitchurch.

Whatever the reason, the death toll in the suburbs was terrible, and Springleaze is just one example.

In the same area during Bristol’s first great raid of November 24, 1940 there were fatalities in Knowle West in Ilminster Avenue, Connaught Road, Melvin Square, Minehead Road and Newquay Road.

Not far away, the other side of Airport Road, 10 were killed in Hengrove Avenue. And closer to Springleaze, people were killed in Broadfield Road, Kingshill Road and Queenshill Road.

Cecil Forster can remember that night clearly. He was nine, and he recalls how the air raid sirens made his mother even more nervous than she might have been, because her husband was often still at work. Frederick

Wartime bombs didn’t just batter the city centre: every area had its death toll.

Here we record the impact on Knowle Park Bristol Blitzed Recollections of Bristol under fire in the 75th anniversary year of the worst bombing raids on the city Forster was an engine driver – one of the important occupations that was “reserved” and meant he was exempt from military call-up, so he was often on shifts in Temple Meads, driving the vital goods trains full of coal from South Wales.

The raid on November 24 devastated the city centre but also much of South Bristol.

Cecil, his mother Mildred and his older brother John and sister Audrey – plus Aunt Kathleen

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Incendiary: Cecil’s bomb showing the dent from where it hit a washing line. This spun it over; if it had landed on its nose cap – removed here to show the detonator – it would have exploded, starting a raging fire who was also living with them – all crowded in to the Anderson shelter in the garden.

These shelters were often cold, dark and draughty, but Cecil’s father had made theirs more welcoming, with electric light and a primus stove.

That was where the Forster family were when No 1 Springleaze was hit by a bomb.

Maria and William Greddy were killed, probably instantly.

“There were stories that they were found in the street, still sat on their sofa – but that was ridiculous,” said Cecil. “My brother in law Terry remembers seeing people carrying out a door from the house with a bundle of rags on it. That was them.”

The war was a breeding ground for rumours which Cecil is eager not to condone. “There were stories that No 1 was hit by a landmine. [The Luftwaffe did drop mines from its planes.] But if it had been a mine, every house within 100 yards would have been flattened.” [Streets destroyed by landmines included Almorah Road, Windmill Hill, and Willway Street, Bedminster.]

As it was, No 3 next door was also damaged, but habitable.

But this was just the start of Springleaze’s war. The bombers returned in force in early December, in January 1941, and throughout the spring, culminating in the Good Friday

raid of 1941 which was to be the last of the major raids on Bristol.

In one of the later raids an incendiary landed on No 29.

These bombs were small – about a foot long – but designed to start fires and maximise the damage: the house was burned out. The Nunn family, who lived there, escaped and rushed next door to their neighbours at 31, the Bilks (related, as it happens, to Acker Bilk, the great clarinettist from Pensford who died in 2014).

The arrival of the Nunns meant there were 13 people in the Bilks’ Anderson shelter. Mrs Bilk was just telling Mrs Nunn, “Don’t worry, we can put you up for a while,” when a tremendous explosion took out not only No 31 but No 33 as well – leaving three families without a home.

Like many other families, the Bilks decided they would be safer outside Bristol, and they decamped to Stanton Drew. Mr Bilk was a docker and had a car, a small Austin 7, which meant he was able to join the family each evening in their country digs.

Then it was decided the children would be safer if evacuated to Exeter. But like many of the well-meaning wartime partings of children from their parents, it was not a success. The Bilks’ son Terry started off with a welcoming family but was then moved to another home where he was

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April, 2016

History

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31

Knowle, we knew what to do

Tin hat: This one has a faint red band and Cecil (also known to friends and family as Cyril, or Nobby) thinks it may have belonged a firewatcher strictly forbidden from touching any belongings of the boy who lived there. Daughters Marjorie and Peggy found themselves in another strict household where they didn’t feel welcome either.

In the end a compromise was found; the children went to Frome to stay with their grandmother.

After the war the council rebuilt No 31 and No 14, which had also been damaged. The Bilks were offered the chance to return to their old home – but at a higher rent, as it was judged to have been improved!

Meanwhile young Cecil had stayed put. Near the Bilks’ home the fire brigade had erected a giant canvas tank to hold thousands of gallons of water, as an emergency supply for firefighting. Cecil and some other children thought this was a great place to play, but adults didn’t agree, and they were told off.

Parents couldn’t keep their children out of bomb sites, though – there were too many of them.

“We used to play in the wreckage, making dens and things like that,” recalled Cecil.

“Then the council came to demolish the ruins to stop this.”

In another raid a bomb fell on two more of the Springleaze semis, numbers 32 and 34. Mr Johnson at 32 was injured, and his house made uninhabitable.

Mr Griffiths at 34 was also hurt, and lost some fingers, but survived.

“My dad, who happened to be home, went down to see what he could do,” said Cecil. “He told Mr Griffiths that we could put three of his family up in our house.

“And while he was there he found an incendiary bomb which hadn’t exploded. He called in the Royal Engineers, who defused it, and my dad gave it to me!”

Cecil still has the bomb – in our picture on page 30.

It was sheer chance that the bomb didn’t go off. Mr Griffiths worked for the electricity board, and had made a clothes line from some heavy wire. The bomb hit this wire, spun and landed on its tail. If it had landed on its nose, the detonator would have set it off.

“We were always picking up bits of incendiary bombs,” recalled Cecil cheerfully. His

father, always practical, realised that the bombs contained magnesium, which burns in a shower of sparks. “He used to put it in his lathe and turn it – it was like a firework!” he said. This was’t an entirely safe entertainment, though – the first time they tried the trick, father and son melted an old saucepan!

The raids kept coming. The two boys weren’t evacuated – Cecil thinks this may have been

because his brother John, two years older, had heart problems and his parents wanted to keep him near the city’s hospitals.

Sister Audrey, however, was sent away, supposedly for safety, to Weston-super-Mare. But she returned only two days later.

Weston, which had an aircraft factory, became a target too, and Audrey was bombed out.

So it was back to the Continued on page 32

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Evacuations and a half-mad dog Continued from page 31 Anderson shelter yet again. One day the family emerged to find that the back door of the house was open and odd sounds were coming from inside. It was a dog sent half mad by the bombs. “It frightened us to death,” said Cecil.

When he was home, Cecil’s father would not stay in the shelter for long, preferring to patrol the street watching for fires. This did not make him popular: on one occasion he ducked into the shelter but dropped his tin hat, which hit Mildred hard on the head. Harsh words were said, recalled Cecil.

At school, Knowle Park primary, there was an air raid shelter big enough for all the pupils, but without provisions.

The children were requested to bring a penny each, with which were bought tins of biscuits – a real luxury in wartime.

“To our annoyance we were

Knowle Park primary school, circa 1940. Cecil is fourth from right at the back. The school air raid shelter was stocked with tins of biscuits never in the shelter long enough, so the biscuits were never opened!” said Cecil.

The Bilks’ son Terry was luckier. Children were told that if the air raid siren sounded when they were out, they should knock on the nearest door and ask for refuge. Terry picked a door and

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was delighted when the woman who lived there not only gave him shelter, but biscuits and lemonade. From then, this was the first door children headed for when the siren went off!

The Forsters’ home escaped serious damage. But 10 houses were destroyed in Springleaze alone. The box on the right shows only the fatalities in Knowle Park – there were many more nearby.

Note that of the 20 people killed in Knowle Park, six were children. Bombs would often tear apart families. Sometimes husband and wife would die together, like the Greddys at 1 Springleaze.

Sometimes death would come to those away from home: 11-year-old Mavis Bryer lived in Somerdale Avenue, Knowle, but died at 19 Queenshill Road – visiting friends, perhaps, or forced to seek shelter. Bristol had the fourth highest loss of life of any British city in the Second World War, after London, Liverpool and Birmingham.

C

ecil was too young to be called up during the conflict. After the war he volunteered for the army, serving in Suez, and later returning to his first occupation as a mechanic.

He rose to become a foreman.

He married Marjorie Bilk; they had three children, Martin, Andrew and Alison. Sadly Marjorie died in 2009, but Cecil still lives in Knowle. He has another story to relate, about the Forsters’ centuries-old involvement with the railways – and hopefully the Voice will tell that tale before long.

April, 2016

KNOWLE PARK WAR DEAD November 24-25, 1940 At 143 Broadfield Road: DAVIS, Ethel May, 59, widow of Ernest Daniel Davis.

GEDDES, Ellena Marion, 29, daughter of Ernest Daniel and Ethel May Davis. Wife of Frederick Jasper Geddes.

GEDDES, Frederick Jasper, 32, husb. of Ellena Marion Geddes.

At 77 Kingshill Road: DREWETT, Henry John, 62, husband of EF Drewett.

At 1 Springleaze: GREDDY, Maria, 55, wife of William H. Greddy.

GREDDY, William H, 54, husband of Maria Greddy.

At 19 Queenshill Road: BRYER, Mavis, 11, of 19 Somerdale Avenue, Knowle, daughter of Henry and Florence May Bryer.

December 6-7, 1940 At 43 Crossways Road: JACOBS, John Phillip, 12, son of Frederick TW and Nellie Jacobs. Died 12/12/40.

At 11 Queensdale Crescent: BAKER, Arthur Harold, 40, son of Walter and Elizabeth Baker.

At 29 Kingshill Road: RANDALL, Annie, 57, wife of George Rowland Randall.

RANDALL, Dorothy, 28, daughter of George Rowland and Annie Randall.

RANDALL, George Rowland, 57, husb. of Annie Randall.

At 42 Kingshill Road: WEAVER, Roy, 15, son of Sidney Percival Weaver.

WEAVER Percival, 37, husband of S Weaver.

April 11-12,1941 At 66 Stockwood Crescent: FLOWER, Robert Alfred, 14, son of Alfred Francis and Irene May Flower.

At 70 Stockwood Crescent: COCKRAM, Ernest, 37, fire guard, husband of JM Cockram. Died 12/4/41.

SIMMONS, Alfred, 63, of 136 St Peter’s Rise, Headley Park.

Husb. of Emma Simmons.

At Salcombe Road: BULL, John Raymond, 14, of 132 Salcombe Road, son of John J Bull.

DAVIS, John Charles, 56, firewatcher, of 141 Salcombe Road, husb. of Lily Rose Davis.

BRENNEN, Patricia Victoria, 17, of 141 Salcombe Road, daughter of Mr FG and Lilian Rose Davis (formerly Brennen).

Information compiled by John Penny, from fishponds.org.uk

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News

Windmill Hill’s new road ideas

PEOPLE in Windmill Hill are being encouraged to come up with new ideas to reduce through traffic on their crowded streets.

Last month the Voice reported that the council had dropped plans to restrict access to Windmill Hll – by banning right turns from St John’s Lane, and making several roads one-way – because many residents had objected.

Windmilll Hill neighbourhood forum on March 9 heard several ideas which might be possible without major work, including: • Community speed watch on Cotswold Road with police and residents; • Reduce visibility on roads; • Narrowing of roads; • Increased signage, including Vehicle Activated Signage (VAS); • Severance of Cotswold Road; The forum may help set up a working group to look at plans.

Comments can be sent to traffic@bristol.gov.uk

www.southbristolvoice.co.uk

House planned next to flats in Goolden Street

Proud of their parks

We’re all winners: from left, Teresa Henstridge, Sue Davies and Marian Dinham of the Friends of Redcatch; Laurie Burn of Copp; Lucy, Sam and Shaun Hennessy and Alex Morss of Victoria Park Action Group VOLUNTEERS from three South Bristol parks met to celebrate a year of success in the South West in Bloom awards.

In Knowle, Perretts and Redcatch parks each won five stars in the Pride in Parks section – a standard achieved by only three other Bristol parks.

Victoria Park won three stars.

An alliance of Redcatch and

Local services

ELECTRICIAN

Perretts and Knowle West Let’s Grow at Springfield Road allotments, together called Knowle Community, took a silver pennant in the It’s Your Neighbourhood awards.

As if that was not enough, the Friends of Redcatch and the Community of Perretts Park (Copp) were both rated Outstanding in It’s Your Neighbourhood.

THE developer of a vacant site at the corner of Goolden Street and Bathwell Road, Totterdown, has put in a new planning application to build a house next to its already-permitted eight flats and two maisonettes.

Bath-based Crossman says the three-storey house next to the flats will be “traditionally detailed” (see Planning, p36).

Crossman withdrew a controversial application for nine flats with a coloured facade in December, reverting to a more traditional scheme which was granted permission in 2005.

Bristol city council said it was checking to make sure planning conditions from 2005 had been met. The Voice understands that Crossman will start work soon on the flats, and details will be checked by planners as the work progresses.

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Planning applications 97 Somerset Road BS4 2HX Application for a Lawful Development Certificate for an existing use as three selfcontained dwellings. Pending consideration 10 Bantry Road BS4 1JU Erection of a detached annexe building to the rear. Refused 26 Almorah Road BS3 4QQ Application for a Lawful Development Certificate for a proposed rear dormer extension.

Pending consideration Land at School Road, Totterdown Proposed demolition of domestic garage building and the development of new 3 storey dwelling, 4 bedrooms or more. Pending consideration 5 Fitzroy Street BS4 3BY Erection of mansard roof extension to add additional storey; Erection of two storey rear extension with upper ground floor terrace and steps into garden. (NB: There are similar applications for 7 Fitzroy Street.)

Pending consideration 7 Fitzroy Street BS4 3BY Mansard roof extension to add additional storey; two storey rear extension with upper ground floor terrace and steps into garden. Pending consideration Junction of Goolden St & Bathwell Road, Totterdown Construction of 3-storey, 2-bed

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town house with linked garden room. Pending consideration

roof and full width canopy.

Pending consideration

Scout Hut, Goolden Street, Totterdown BS4 3BB Former scout hall demolished and land excavated to road level for construction of six 3-storey family dwellings for shared ownership. Pending consideration

The Park, Daventry Road BS4 1DQ Single storey building for use as ‘youth space’ and replacement of existing ‘muga’ with astroturf pitch. Pending consideration

285 St Johns Lane BS3 5AZ Two bedroom dwelling (Use class C3) over two levels. Withdrawn 8 Greenleaze BS4 2TJ Single storey and two storey side extension and single storey extension to front. Granted subject to conditions 316 St Johns Lane BS3 5AY Lawful Development Certificate for single storey rear extension, roof light and window. Granted 40 Marston Road BS4 2JW Rear extension. Pending consideration Bristol Jamia Mosque, Green Street, Totterdown BS3 4UB Two storey rear & side extension. Pending consideration Land to rear of 17 Stoneleigh Road BS4 2RH Erection of a 2-bed, detached house on land fronting Stoneleigh Crescent.

Pending consideration 16 Oxford Street, Totterdown BS3 4RQ Extension of front bay window

17 Broad Walk, Knowle BS4 2RA Internally illuminated fascia with descriptor text either side of an internally illuminated pod. Non illuminated projection sign. Pending consideration 294-296 Wells Road, Knowle BS4 2QG Change of use of ground floor unit from use class A2 for a tanning studio with staff accommodation. Pending consideration 47 Jubilee Road, Knowle BS4 2LR Conversion of single-dwelling house into two 1-bedroom flats. Pending consideration 5 Broad Walk BS4 2RA Change of use, vacant retail unit (Class A1) to hot food takeaway (A5); extraction/ventilation equipment and external alterations.

Pending consideration 78 Rookery Road BS4 2DT Proposed lower ground floor rear extension. Granted subject to conditions • The status of these applications may have changed since we went to press. Check for updates at planning online.bristol.gov.uk

How can I help my pet to lose weight?

CCORDING to recent research, one in three dogs, one in four cats and one in four rabbits in the UK are overweight. Much like in humans, obesity in pets can lead to many debilitating health issues such as diabetes, heart and kidney disease, arthritis, high blood pressure and even forms of cancer.

It doesn’t have to be difficult to help your pet lose weight.

Here are some of our top tips for weight loss: • Weigh out your pet’s food Rather than guesstimate how many kibbles to put in your dog’s bowl, weigh it instead so

you can monitor how much food they’re eating.

• No more tit-bits Your dinner is for you and your pet shouldn’t be sharing it. Many high fat foods will lead to painful pancreatitis and certain foods Fat cat: It’s not fair on a pet to let it get overweight

can’t even be digested by animals.

• Tactical treats If you are going to give treats to your dog, why not use treats that are good for them? There are plenty designed to be low-fat or to help their health in other ways, for example to clean their teeth.

• Regular exercise A quick walk around the block is better than nothing. Long leisurely walks at the weekend will also be fun for both you and your pet.

• Use a weight loss food There are many pet food diets that are proven to help your pet lose weight without them going hungry. Speak to a vet or nurse

April, 2016

Briefly ... l

THE MUCH-praised community spirit of BS4 was once again at work in St Martin’s Road when the community book box set up by a resident was cleared out by a thief overnight. After much outrage and sympathy expressed on Facebook, the box was full of donated books within 24 hours. The creator of the box, Traceydawn White, said: “BS4 – what a fabulous community!”

l MARKSBURY Road library

will be looking different on Saturday April 9 after community members start yarn-bombing the railings to brighten them up.

There will also be arts and crafts sessions to highlight the revamp of the library and publicise its new opening hours from April 4. Knitters and crafters of all ages and skill levels are welcome to join in. Details from danielle. manby-clarke@bristol.gov.uk.

l MEMBERS of Knowle and

Totterdown Local History Society will learn about the restoration of iconic ferry boat the Severn Princess on Friday April 8.

Expert Tim Ryan will speak at 7.30pm at Redcatch community centre, Redcatch Road.

• www.knowleandtotterdown history.org.uk • The status of these applications may have changed since we went to press. Check for updates at planning online.bristol.gov.uk

Rebecca Forrest-Jones MRCVS Veterinary Surgeon at Highcroft Veterinary Hospital, Whitchurch to find out which foods are most suitable for your pet.

If you’re struggling to help your pet lose weight, sign them up to one of our free weight clinics with a veterinary nurse.

The nurse will tailor a diet and exercise plan to your pet and can schedule regular weigh-ins.

To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Paul on 07811 766072 or Emma or Hollie on 0117 908 2121.

April, 2016

E: paul@southbristolvoice.co.uk

Karin Smyth Getting behind with the bills?

Help’s at hand

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I

N communities across South Bristol word of mouth can be a far more effective way of getting important messages across than glossy and expensive marketing campaigns.

With its very localised focus, the Voice plays a key part in generating these conversations.

So I wanted to use my column this month to highlight some useful money-saving schemes that came to my attention when I held my community financial entitlement event last month.

It’s my hope that people who read this article will – even if they can’t directly benefit themselves – share the information with those they know who perhaps can.

Many people in our city struggle with household utility bills, and so in my discussions with Bristol Citizens Advice I was pleased to learn about the good work they’re doing in collaboration with Bristol Water and Wessex Water to offer practical help.

The MP’s view Each month Bristol South Labour MP Karin Smyth gives her perspective There are a number of plans that enable people to lower their water bills, spread the cost of them, and repay debt they may have built up – so they can get back on track with their finances. More people need to be aware of what’s available.

The Watersure scheme, for example,

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reduces bills for vulnerable households which meet specific criteria, while Restart can write off arrears that have built up – after a period of consistent payments have been made.

Meanwhile, Assist creates a lower tariff for households facing severe financial hardship.

There’s not enough space here to go into great detail, but as applications for some of these plans can only be made through a recognised advice agency, I recommend Bristol Citizens Advice (0117 946 2588) or South Bristol Advice Service (0117 903 8358) as the best starting point. Advisers on those numbers can explain exactly how it all works and can make an initial assessment about whether you are eligible for help, based on your own money situation. Both organisations also hold drop-in sessions for face-to-face help.

Please share this information with a friend, family member or neighbour who you think might appreciate it. You might even be able to make the initial call on their behalf to save them the cost.

I’d be interested to hear how useful Voice readers find this type of scheme, so if you have any thoughts or comments please don’t hesitate to get in touch, as ever, by email to karin.smyth.mp@parliament.uk or by post to Karin Smyth MP, House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA.

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With summer almost here, why not keep active and make new friends using our superb green, club facilities and year-round social programme.

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Beginners or experienced bowlers of all ages are welcome. Why not have a try and see how much fun you get? Free coaching and use of equipment.

Please contact either of the secretaries:

Ladies Sandra Broome 01179 407929 Men Bill Broome 01179 776913

CLEVE HOUSE! Knowle Bowls Club, The Green, Knowle BS4 2QN

We are opposite Broadwalk shopping centre and parking is available in the cricket club car park.

Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Paul on 07811 766072 or email paul@southbristolvoice.co.uk

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What’s on

Friday April 1 All’s Well That Ends Well

by William Shakespeare, at the Tobacco Factory theatre. Part of the Shakespeare at the Tobacco Factory season (until April 30) to celebrate 400 years since the Bard’s death. “A young woman, using skills bequeathed to her by her father, saves the French King’s life and is rewarded with the right to choose her own husband. But what if the chosen one won’t play the game?”

Hamlet also plays until April 30. Tickets £16-£24.

• www.tobaccofactorytheatres.com South West Graduate Photography Prize exhibition 2015, Knowle West Media Centre, Leinster Avenue, Knowle. 9am-5pm until April 6. Featuring new work from the finalists of the 2015 prize, Joseph Ball, Caitlin Chescoe, Simeon Meinema, Remy-Mitchelson, Jessica Leonard, Dominic Till.

Work from recent graduates of institutions in the South West.

• kwmc.org.uk/events Yola Carter + Harry and the Gondalas + Newton Country + Duncan Stagg and the Threadbare band, Thunderbolt, Bath Road, Totterdown. Bristol-born Yola Carter has worked for many years with acts from Massive Attack to the McCrary Sisters, James Brown and the legendary Staxx Band. This tour is in advance of her debut album Orphan Country. 7.30pm. Tickets £5 on the door.

• www.thethunderbolt.net Saturday April 2 Barron Brady at the Saltcellar Folk Club, 7.30pm.

“Si Barron & Ros Brady, talented writers and performers, are firm favourites at the Saltcellar.”

Totterdown Baptist Church, entrance off Cemetery Road, Totterdown.

• www.barronbrady.com • www.saltcellarfolk.org.uk Sunday April 3 Totterdown Tabletop Sale come and grab a bargain in Totterdown Square, opposite the Oxford. If you want a table to sell your stuff, please visit the link below. Only £10 per pitch with all money being donated towards the Rainbow Centre for Children in Lilymead Avenue.

• Facebook.com/Totterdown Tabletop Sale Joe Lycett: That’s the way, a-ha a-ha, Joe Lycett at the Tobacco Factory theatre. “The

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Ideas come at rapid speed MORE exciting ideas will be examined by enthusiastic experts at the Tobacco Factory on April 21 as 5x15 gives five people the challenge of speaking unscripted for 15 minutes each.

This time, Ronald Hutton, professor of history at Bristol University, explains why witchcraft works. He’s one of the world’s foremost authorities on ancient and medieval paganism and the global context of witchcraft.

Grace Gelder talks about marrying herself and the media spotlight she endured when she made her unusual betrothal in 2014.

Dr Michael Mosley, well known as a TV doctor, will be discussing the diabetes epidemic that’s threatening to overwhelm UK society and his new book, The 8-Week Blood Sugar Diet. self-proclaimed ‘absolute lad’, and Edinburgh Comedy Award nominee, returns to Bristol on his current tour owing to the huge demand for tickets.” £14, 8pm.

• www.tobaccofactorytheatres.com Monday April 4 Akhanda Flow yoga course starts at Arnos Vale cemetery.

“Breaking news: you don’t need to be bendy to do yoga! All you need is an open mind and an interest in this ancient discipline, which has been proven over millennia to lead people to happiness, ease and positive physical transformation.”

Monday evenings 6-7.15pm in the Anglican Chapel. £8 per class or £48 for 7 classes.

Call 07938 889028 or email communityyogabristol@gmail. com • www.arnosvale.org.uk Meeting of VPAG, the Victoria Park Action Group. At the Bowling Club, 7.30pm, everyone welcome.

• www.vpag.org.uk Wednesday April 6 Forest Sunday at Arnos Vale cemetery, 10.30am-2.30pm.

Children of eight and over can learn how to build and safely start fires and cook over an

Prize-fighting: Anna Freeman Clare Morpurgo will explain the role of her educational charity, Farms for City Children, for which she and her husband Michael were awarded an MBE. And Anna Freeman – novelist, poetry slam champion, creative writing lecturer and a producer for Bristol Old Vic – will explore the world of female prizefighters and their patrons in Georgian Bristol – the subject of her first novel.

These events usually sell out; more details from bristol@5x15stories.com open flame. They will find and taste some wild foods, then create snacks to eat in the woods. Session led by learning coordinator Janine Marriott, a qualified forest school leader, first aid trained, DBS checked.

Adults welcome to join in.

Booking essential, tickets £20.96.

• www.arnosvale.org.uk Easter Sessions 14:19 – Working in Theatre Taster Day at the Tobacco Factory.

Kicks off three days of events for 14-19 year-olds. On Thursday April 7 the session is on Theatre Design and on April 8 it’s Acting: Audition Preparation. £15 per day or £40 for all three.

10am–4pm • www.tobaccofactorytheatres.com Thursday April 7 Bug hunting workshop, 10.30am at Arnos Vale cemetery.

“Go on a worm hunt, discover some critters, find out about what hides in the woods and then make a clay creature to take home.” Suitable for 4+ (babies and toddlers go free when accompanying older children).

Children must be accompanied by a parent/carer.

• www.arnosvale.org.uk Friday April 8 The Commotion Club at

April, 2016

the Thunderbolt, Bath Road, Totterdown, with DJ Kev Regz and live band Underground Frets “who are heavily influenced by all good things Mod and Britpop and will bring a number of original tunes (think Weller/ Kinks/ Small Faces/ Liam and Noel!) and the odd cover or two!”

7.30pm, £5.

• www.thethunderbolt.net Saturday April 9 Spring tree tour at Arnos Vale cemetery, 11am. “Join our ecologist in this atmospheric tour of meadow and woodland habitats in search of spring species in all their glory.” Tickets £5.

• www.arnosvale.org.uk Sunday April 10 Louis Pearl, the Amazing Bubble Man, performs three shows at the Tobacco Factory theatre. “Louis Pearl is the world’s leading Bubbleologist.

Fabulously entertaining, Louis explores the breathtaking dynamics of bubbles and combines comedy and artistry with audience participation and spellbinding bubble tricks. £9; shows at 11.30am, 1.30pm & 3.30pm.

• www.tobaccofactorytheatres.com Romesh Ranganathan: Irrational at Tobacco Factory theatre, presented by the Comedy Box. “Irrational will see Romesh examine the issues close to his heart, and explain why everybody else is wrong about them.” 8pm, £14.50.

• www.tobaccofactorytheatres.com Friday April 15 Arnos Vale after dark tour, 7.30pm. “A tour revealing the darker side of Arnos Vale at dusk, in an atmospheric exploration of tragic tales, folk customs and funeral etiquette of Victorian society. You’ll travel along paths overhung with creeping branches, descend into the mortuary crypt and listen out for things that go bump in the night.” Tickets £8.50 but sold out at time of going to press.

• www.arnosvale.org.uk Saturday April 16 Spring clean and bench mending in Victoria Park. Meet at 10am by Mrs Brown’s café.

• www.vpag.org.uk Sunday April 17 Jazz night with Mark Randall Six, Windmill Hill Community Centre, Vivian Street, Windmill Hill. Every third Sunday of the month, 8.30-10.30pm.

• www.whca.org.uk

To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Paul on 07811 766072 or Emma or Hollie on 0117 908 2121.

April, 2016

E: paul@southbristolvoice.co.uk

What’s on

Wild Outdoors Day at Windmill Hill City Farm, with live music, a bar, and Farmer Tim’s barbecue, plus plenty of outdoor fun for the kids, including nature activities, outdoor cooking, bug hunts, pond dipping and more! £3 entry, kids go free. Plus opening of new garden. From 12-4pm.

• www.windmillhillcityfarm.org.uk Wednesday April 20 Painting and drawing for all at Windmill Hill City Farm, 10am-12.30pm. “This art course explores a variety of approaches to drawing and painting, helping you to develop your own personal artistic expression. It is suitable both for beginners who wish to learn basic techniques and for those with more experience in art who would like to refresh their skills and build a creative portfolio.” 10 sessions cost £120.

Free for those on means-tested benefit; materials fee payable by all. Course provided by the WEA; call 0845 458 2758.

• www.windmillhillcityfarm.org.uk Thursday April 21 Silver and copper jewellery making for beginners at Windmill Hill City Farm, 10am12.30pm. “Learn about the basic skills involved in making silver and copper jewellery and produce wearable pieces of your own design. Techniques include soldering, sawing, basic forming, texturing and finishing.

10 sessions cost £120. Free for those on means-tested benefit; materials fee payable by all.

Course provided by the WEA; call 0845 458 2758.

• www.windmillhillcityfarm.org.uk Project-based silver and copper jewellery making at Windmill Hill City Farm, 1-3.30pm. “This course will allow you to improve existing skills. Produce a wearable piece of jewellery of your own design using techniques and processes already learnt. Please bring a sketch pad.” 10 sessions cost £120. Free for those on means tested benefit; materials fee payable by all. Course provided by the WEA; call 0845 458 2758.

• www.windmillhillcityfarm.org.uk Course in Adobe InDesign, which can create sophisticated digital documents and page layouts. Two-day beginners’ course at Knowle West Media Centre with an experienced tutor covering setting up documents, formatting text, working with images, and managing colours

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39

Provocative: This nerw production of Irvine Welsh’s cult book shocked even its author when he saw it

Tunnel vision for the provocative Trainspotting PREPARE to be shocked: Trainspotting is coming to Temple Meads.

No, it’s nothing to do with locomotives: the Edinburgh Fringe production of Irvine Welsh’s cult novel is to be performed in the depths of the Temple Meads tunnels.

Described as “punchy”, the production claims to and objects. Tea and coffee provided; bring your own lunch. £225 for two days, April 21 and 22, from 10am-4pm. Details from Rachel on 0117 353 4609.

• kwmc.org.uk/events Friday April 22 Yoga for everyone at Windmill Hill City Farm, 1.15-2.45pm.

“This safe and effective yoga class will include easy movement, stretching and breathing.

Suitable for everyone, including complete beginners. Come along and experience how yoga can help relax and improve a sense of wellbeing.” 10 sessions cost £750. Free for those on means tested benefit. Course provided by the WEA; call 0845 458 2758.

• www.windmillhillcityfarm.org.uk Sunday April 24 Andrew Lawrence: Uncensored at the Tobacco Factory theatre. “One of Britain’s best and most subversive and intelligent comedians, Lawrence, has been lauded with many awards including the BBC New Comedy Award, and twice nominated for the Edinburgh

recapture the passion and the controversy of the famous novel and the successful film.

It is repackaged into a stage show which may be challenging for some, as the audience are part of the event, including the notorious ‘Worst Toilet in Scotland’ scene. Even Comedy Award. Absolutely no concessions made to political correctness.” 8pm, £15.

• www.tobaccofactorytheatres.com The Vintage Furniture Flea at Paintworks, Bath Road, 10.30am-4.30pm. Homeware and furniture traders celebrate the styles and palettes of midcentury living. “Furniture and homewares from the 1950s and on, featuring everything from Ercol to cocktail shakers, textiles and prints; sideboards and book cases, glass and ceramics, crockery and fabrics, radios, record players and posters.”

Entry £3 before 11am; £2 after 11am. Children under 12 free.

• www.paintworksbristol.co.uk Tuesday April 26 Pattern cutting for everyone at Windmill Hill City Farm, 7-9pm. “For anyone who would like to be able to make their own dressmaking patterns. You will learn some easy pattern cutting techniques and there will be a chance to copy an old favourite garment.” 11 sessions cost £105.

Free for those on means tested

author Welsh described it as “shocking… and I wrote the ****ing thing!”

With scenes of nudity, drug use, violence of a sexual nature, claustrophobia and very strong language, it takes place at the Loco Klub under Temple Meads. Tickets are £14, £10 concessions. www.tobaccofactorytheatres.com benefit; materials fee payable by all. Course provided by the WEA; call 0845 458 2758.

• www.windmillhillcityfarm.org.uk Wednesday April 27 Last Rockers: The Vice Squad Story – book launch at the Thunderbolt, Bath Road, Totterdown. Punk band Vice Squad formed in Bristol in 1979, attracted the attention of Radio 1 DJ John Peel, and toured the world with the likes of UK Subs, Black Flag, Anti Pasti, Discharge, Exploited and scores of others.

The book is penned by the band’s drummer Shane Baldwin, now a music journalist and regular writer for Vive Le Rock and Record Collector. Free entry.

• www.thethunderbolt.net The Battle of the Ones, the annual production by Bedminster Youth Theatre at Acta theatre in Gladstone Street, Bedminster.

Members of the youth theatre “take us on a magical sci-fi journey, in a quest to prevent the creation of the Ultimate Being”.

Tickets £2.

• www.acta-bristol.com

Got a story or any other inquiry? Call Paul on 07811 766072 or email paul@southbristolvoice.co.uk

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April, 2016

New ranges now in store

brockley painted with oak bedroom

keynsham painted with oak bedroom

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oakdale oak dining & occasional

branches Opposite Temple Meads Station | Bristol | BS1 6PL Opening Times: Mon - Sat 9.30am - 5.30pm | Sun 10.30am - 4.30pm Free parking at rear | Tel 0117 934 9200 | www.branchesofbristol.co.uk