South Bristol Voice Bedminster December 2016

southbristolvoice December 2016 No. 14

www.southbristolvoice.co.uk

LOCAL NEWS FOR LOCAL PEOPLE

FREE EVERY MONTH in Bedminster, Southville & Ashton Govt cuts risk NHS reforms from the start AMBITIOUS NHS plans to save money and shift care into the community have come out just after huge cuts were revealed to one of the main planks in the improvement drive – community pharmacies.

In what some are seeing as a cynical move, the Government this autumn agreed cuts to community pharmacy funding of six per cent from December 1.

Now the NHS is revealing its regional plans – called STPs – which lean much more heavily on community facilities to take the pressure off GPs and hospitals.

But the cuts to pharmacies mean they arebeing forced to think about doing less for communities, not more, said Ade Williams, owner of Bedminster Pharmacy. Already he is considering cutting back delivery of medicines to all except housebound and disabled customers.

The cuts of six per cent in the annual budget have been squeezed into four months of the year, meaning the impact is even greater, said Mr Williams.

It is feared that up to half the pharmacies in South Bristol Continued on page 3

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• How to have a green Christmas Page 11 • Great gifts from Bristol Pages 12-13 • Great seasonal food locally Pages 14-15 AND ON THE NEWS PAGES ...

Free run: The 4.5km South Bristol Link opens for a pre-Christmas ride THE NEW South Bristol Link road is set to open in December – hopefully taking pressure off congested roads including Parson Street.

You can help celebrate the opening of the road, which runs from Bishopsworth to Long Ashton, by dressing up as Santa and joining a family-friendly bike

ride on Sunday December 18.

The ride starts at 11am from the Gatehouse Centre in Bishopsworth and ends in Ashton Court where all cyclists will get a mince pie and a drink.

The new road will open to motorists in the New Year.

Register for the bike ride here: • betterbybike.info

One false alarm, one shock to come for the NHS Pages 2-3 Get ready for a year of traffic jams Page 4 www.facebook.com/ southbristolvoice Twitter: @sbristolvoice

Wishing you a cosy and festive home this Christmas from all at Ocean oceanhome.co.uk

southbristolvoice

2

Planning a move

this Autumn?

You’ll be

Paul Breeden Editor & publisher 07811 766072 paul@southbristolvoice.co.uk Ruth Drury Sales executive 07590 527664 sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk Editorial team: Beccy Golding, Alex Morss & The Wicked Witch Deliveries: Greg Champion

Intro

THE SEASON TO BE WATCHFUL TIMES have changed. It used to be that the police didn’t want to get involved in cases of domestic violence. Except for the worst cases, they thought it a private matter that was more or less above the law.

Now, dealing with violence and abuse within the home is a major part of police work, and officers take it seriously.

In the year to November 1, officers from the Avon & Somerset force were called to 12,459 incidents of domestic abuse. That’s a staggering number, and shows that this now makes up a major part of police work. Of the 4,352

December 2016 You can find South Bristol Voice on Facebook and Twitter facebook.com/ southbristolvoice Twitter: @sbristolvoice Co. no. 09522608 | VAT no. 211 0801 76

Next month’s deadline for editorial and advertising is December 12th

people arrested, most were men, but one in eight was a woman.

There were 1,646 people charged with domestic abuse offences, and 59 of them were under the new coercive control powers – which makes it an offence to control someone’s life even if violence is not used.

Almost 500 protection notices and orders were issued to help keep people safe.

What does this all prove?

That no one should have to put up with violence or severe coercion in their home.

Police say they will make a point of taking all claims of domestic abuse seriously, and will protect any victims.

Domestic abuse is a problem everywhere – but it’s worse in South Bristol. Read our feature on page 26 to find out more.

How do I get in touch with ...

...on our service 0117 953 5375 165 East Street, Bedminster, Bristol BS3 4EJ

My MP? Karin Smyth MP By email: karin.smyth.mp@ parliament.uk By post: Karin Smyth MP, House of Commons, London SW1A 0AA By phone: 0117 953 3575 In person: Surgery on Friday December 9 at Knowle West Health Park, Downton Road, BS4 1WH, 9.15-10.45 am.

Call 0117 953 3575.

My councillor?

All councillors can be reached by post at Brunel House, St George’s Road, Bristol BS1 5UY

Celia Phipps Labour, Bedminster By phone: 07469 413312 By email: Cllr.celia.phipps@bristol.gov.uk Mark Bradshaw Labour, Bedminster By phone: 0117 353 3160 By email: Cllr.mark.bradshaw@ bristol.gov.uk Stephen Clarke Green, Southville By email: Cllr.stephen.clarke@ bristol.gov.uk Charlie Bolton Green, Southville By email: Cllr.charlie.bolton@bristol.gov.uk By phone: 07884 736111

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

Fire Inquiries 0117 926 2061 Emergency 999 Greater Bedminster Community Partnership The local forum that brings the public together with councillors, police, council officials and other bodies.

Next meeting Monday January 16, 7pm, Windmill Hill City Farm, Philip Street, Bedminster BS3 4EA

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. We strive to conform to the NUJ Code of Conduct for journalists: • nuj.org.uk/about/nuj-code 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 Co. no. 09522608 | VAT no. 211 0801 76

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December 2016

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n NEWS

NHS wants us to look after ourselves

PHARMACIES AT RISK WHEN NEEDED MOST

PEOPLE will be expected to take more responsibility for their own health under plans to save money and improve NHS care over the next five years.

The STP, or Sustainable Transformation Plan, for the Bristol region attempts to square what looks like an impossible circle – coping with rising demand for health services, greater numbers of old people, and reduced funding.

The answer proposed is to prevent ill health as far as

Continued from page 1 could be at risk – and it will be independent shops that will suffer, said Mr Williams.

“A multiple like Boots can run a loss-making store for a couple of years – but we cannot run a loss-making store for a day,” he said.

In the short term, most pharmacies are expected to carry on their health prevention work such as stop-smoking and anti-obesity projects.

Longer-term, pharmacies will look at scaling back what they offer. “The logic of the whole thing falls apart,” he said.

Lisa Fisher, a pharmacist from Whitchurch and chair of the Avon Local Pharmaceutical Committee, thinks that chemists will now be looking at how they can save money.

She said: “Savage funding cuts could see closures of pharmacy businesses, along with the potential for a reduction in the services from the remaining pharmacies.”

Karin Smyth, MP for Bristol South, said: “Thousands of people across South Bristol see their local pharmacy as an easily accessible first source of healthcare help or advice.”

She recently told the House of Commons that her constituency already can’t recruit enough GPs. Yet if pharmacies close, up to 80 per cent of people who seek health advice at a chemist’s might seek a GP appointment, she said.

“We risk ending up in a situation where these illogical cuts may fall in the wrong places,” she told fellow MPs.

possible. The STP authors quote an African proverb: “Health is made at home; hospitals are for repairs.” The STP calls for: • A 30% reduction in certain hospital admissions • Cut hospital stays by 20% • Cut outpatient appointments 15% • Reduce GP appointments by passing less urgent cases to “multi-disciplinary teams” • Training for better treatment of personality disorders • Support for care homes to keep more frail people out of hospital

All staff who deal with patients will be asked to “Make Every Contact Count” or MECC. This will mean offering advice about smoking, alcohol use, healthy eating and exercise – four areas where people can improve their own health.

The STP says that GPs “are bearing the brunt of pressures to meet increasing and changing health needs”. Surgeries need to host larger teams of health staff to provide “integrated service delivery”, it says.

Report of NHS Bristol beds axe is not true, Voice is told A REPORT in a national newspaper stating that Bristol was set to lose almost a third of its NHS hospital beds is not accurate, the Voice has established.

If it was true, South Bristol community hospital would have faced losing 20 of its 60 beds.

The Guardian’s lead story on November 19 said that health trusts all over England were facing major cutbacks as they draw up Sustainability and Transformation Plans, or STPs, for each region.

Examples were cited of hospitals in Devon and Cumbria closing their A&E units, leaving patients more than an hour away from a casualty ward.

In the West, the STP would remove 30 per cent of all hospital beds in Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire, the Guardian claimed.

The STP report for Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire (BNSSG), released last week, contains no

plans to close any hospital beds in Bristol.

The Bristol STP does call for a reduction in hospital admissions, through a greater focus on healthy living and a reduction in obesity and addiction. It also talks about a £400 million funding shortfall over five years.

Consultation over the STP has involved councillors and Bristol South MP Karin Smyth, a former health service manager, who is sceptical about how the NHS can make the savings called for. In a recent article for the Huffington Post, she said one hospital alone has a £50m annual deficit.

“Where can BNSSG find £80m-£100m worth of further savings? It doesn’t take an accounting genius to work out it can only be done by cutting staff, continuing the pay freeze, dissuading people from attending A&E, crude rationing of services to cut demand, reduction in attendances and admissions to hospital, and the recurring talk of prevention. None of these have

Sit-down query Festive market THE Dame Emily Park Project is seeking the opinion of park users about replacing the two missing benches at the top of the park.

The park, off Dean Lane, used to have three benches in a row – the concrete bases are still visible. If you have a view on whether it is worth replacing the benches, email the address below.

• dameemilypark@gmail.com

THE SouthBank Club holds its Christmas Market on Saturday December 10. From 11am-4pm the Dean Lane venue will be full of Christmas cheer, gifts, stalls and entertainment from local musicians. Free entry and families welcome. Café and bar open all day. If you would like to run a stall, or play music, email: • admin@southbankbristol.biz

worked before,” she said. The major problem with the NHS for many South Bristolians is getting a GP appointment, she said.

“GP recruitment to South Bristol, with its high levels of health inequality, has long needed support, and sadly in the current world of GPs having the pick of more convenient or lucrative placements, it is hard to see prospects of improvement.

“This problem cannot be solved by reducing hospital activity to save money. So from the perspective of my Bristol South residents, the STP is missing the point,” wrote Ms Smyth. Her full article is at • http://huff.to/2bXBmjs The STP plan can be read at • bristolccg.nhs.uk/aboutus/sustainability-andtransformation-plan/

A Happy Christmas to all our clients from CLEVERLEY BUILDERS

07971 683458 @cleverleybuildersltd Leigh House, Whitchurch Lane, Bristol BS13 7TA

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

southbristolvoice

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December 2016

n NEWS Hartcliffe Way – it’ll be one way for 10 months

travelling inbound will travel along Hartcliffe Way as normal.

• Light vehicles outbound will be diverted along Novers Hill and Novers Lane.

• A bus gate on Hartcliffe Way will let outbound buses reach Vale Lane and on via Headley Lane.

• Residents will have access as far as Wimbourne Road, from where it will be buses only.

• Vehicles will be able to get to the Vale Lane Industrial Estate.

• Novers Hill will be one-way outbound between Lynton Road and Novers Road.

• HGVs over 7.5 tonnes travelling inbound (towards the city centre) will be diverted from Hartcliffe roundabout via Hengrove Way, Whitchurch Lane, Whitchurch Road, Church Road and Bishopsworth Road to the A38 Bedminster Down Road.

• HGVs outbound will be diverted from the Parson Street/Bedminster Road gyratory the opposite way to the above diversion.

• Light vehicles and buses Metrobus Metrobus vehicles will look like ordinary buses but will cut journey times dramatically from South Bristol. Services are due to start in 2017 – but no operator has yet been found to run them.

Get ready for traffic jams galore throughout 2017

The South Bristol Link This new road runs from the Long Ashton bypass to Hengrove Way. It is due to open by the end of 2016 and will become the new A4174, replacing Parson Street and Hartcliffe Way.

SOUTH Bristol is set for a perfect storm of road closures and traffic jams in the next 12 months, the Voice can reveal.

A combination of roadworks for Metrobus, the South Bristol Link road and redevelopment

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around Temple Meads will see lanes closed and diversions throughout 2017.

Winterstoke Road in Ashton will be closed for the first weekend in December so the beams for a new bridge for MetroBus can be lifted into place.

MetroBus says it is working with Bristol Sport to ensure football and rugby fans are kept informed – but residents who already suffer traffic and parking woes on match days will fear even worse disruption.

More disruption will follow when the junction of Sheene Road and Cannon Street, Bedminster is remodelled from January 17. Vehicles will not be able to pass from the East Street direction south onto Sheene Road for about 11 weeks, with diversions in place. It’s possible buses will be diverted from East Street – we hope to have more details in the next Voice.

Work will start on digging up

Can it be true – an A37 Park & Ride?

A LONG-TERM vision for the next 20 years could see radical transport changes along the A37 corridor, including a Park & Ride.

Consultation has started on the Joint Spatial Strategy and an allied Joint Transport Study for the West of England.

South Bristolians will be drawn to the idea of a Park and Ride somewhere near Whitchurch (no site is specified). Such a scheme was a major demand from many who fear that visitors to the arena will need more options to deter

Temple Circus roundabout “early in the New Year”, according to the council. The roundabout will be replaced by a traffic-lightcontrolled crossroads. Work is likely to take most of the year.

Details will be unveiled in the next few weeks.

The land occupied by the roundabout will become a public square and provide easy pedestrian and cycle access to and from Temple Meads.

Meanwhile, Hartcliffe Way is set to become one-way for 10 months next year. It will become inbound (or northbound) only from January – though no date has been announced.

This will allow a Metrobus lane along the outbound, or eastern, side of the road.

It is hoped the South Bristol Link, due to open by the end of the year, will take some pressure off Hartcliffe Way. More on all these schemes at • travelwest.info/metrobus them from parking near the venue.

Also proposed are 3,500 homes to the south east of Whitchurch Village. But this could only happen with new transport links, such as an orbital Metrobus linking the A4 and A37 from Hicks Gate to Whitchurch. Ordinary bus routes would also need to be upgraded.

The proposals are a joint effort between councils in Bristol, Bath, South Glos and North Somerset to identify sites for 39,000 homes, and provide £7.5 billion in transport improvements.

Consultation is open until December 19 at: • www.jointplanningwofe.org.uk

To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Ruth on 07590 527664

December 2016

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n NEWS

Metrobus and the council say they will listen to fears over road safety PUBLIC meetings will be held for residents living near Parson Street to discuss their fears on road safety over the Metrobus works, which will bring major disruption to the area next year.

Cllr Mark Bradshaw, who represents Bedminster and is also the cabinet member for transport, is arranging a meeting at Parson Street school.

More than 750 parents signed a petition at the school protesting at plans to move a Pelican crossing on Parson Street, next to Highbury Road, further away from the school.

A wave of protest emerged after Metrobus put a yellow sign on the crossing in September, saying it was to be moved.

Parents and the school, including its head, Jamie Barry, objected to the plan, saying they had heard nothing about it.

In the ensuing debate several other concerns emerged, including worries about traffic being diverted down Highbury Road, which is one way and already has issues with speeding drivers.

Now Metrobus has said that it will arrange a separate meeting for people concerned about Highbury Road, at which it will suggest measures that could be taken to slow motorists and make pedestrians safer.

Mr Barry is very concerned

about risks to the 500 children at the school, which is effectively on an island surrounded by fast-moving traffic.

It is one of only a few Bristol schools that is not in a 20mph zone, he told the Voice, but discussions about lowering speed limits have so far got nowhere.

“I have emails from [former mayor] George Ferguson saying it is going to happen. Then we were told it has to be part of a wider scheme,” he said.

The dangers were exposed recently when a car crashed, out of control, into the florist’s on the corner of Highbury Road, he said.

Mr Barry and the school’s chair of governors, Jackie Smith, are adamant they were not consulted on the crossing changes.

Metrobus said the previous head of the school was shown the plans in 2012 and 2013.

Parents do not want the crossing moved further from the school, and are worried that it will have an island in the middle of the road with no barriers.

Metrobus told the Voice that the position of the new crossing is fixed, and planning permission has been granted for it, but other changes such as installing barriers could be discussed.

No date had been set for either meeting as the Voice went to press.

More Metrobus works ...

Sheene Road junction from January 16, 2017 • Junction of Sheene Road, East Street and West Street realigned to improve traffic flows, with new pedestrian islands and crossings.

• Traffic banned from Cannon Street/East Street onto the Sheene Road junction for around 12 weeks. Diversion routes will be advertised.

West Street from February • Outbound bus stop (outside Jobcentre on West Street) upgraded to a MetroBus stop. Loss

of some parking spaces.

• Outbound stop (outside Halfords on West Street) upgraded.

Bedminster Parade from April • Inbound bus stop (outside Asda) and outbound stop (outside Taunton Leisure) upgraded with new MetroBus shelters.

• The original plans included proposals to remove the footway outside the Imperial Arcade and to ban the right turn out of Asda car park onto Bedminster Parade.

Following concerns raised, these changes are no longer part of the scheme.

Quality personalised care in your home Help with washing & dressing Shopping & meal preparation Prompting with medication Support with daily routines Overnight support Socialising and leisure activities Accessing the community

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

southbristolvoice

6

n NEWS Herbert St flats plan is revived PLANS have been revived to build a block of nine flats between Herbert Street and East Street in Bedminster.

Developer Edgehill has applied for permission for a three-storey, redbrick block MAYOR Marvin Rees should forge an alliance between Britain’s 10 core cities to resist the Government drive to slash council income and cause drastic cuts over the next few years.

That was the call from several questioners at a public meeting in South Bristol held to debate the £92 million funding gap which Bristol city council faces between 2017 and 2022.

The mayor should also increase council tax on home owners who have enjoyed huge rises in property values and are sitting on million-pound properties, said one questioner.

“Lots of people are doing very well in Bristol – can we make sure they pay their fair share?” she said.

Yet the meeting – held at Oasis John Williams academy school in Hengrove on November 17 – gave Mr Rees a relatively easy ride, given the scale of the cuts he says are needed.

Among the savings detailed in a consultation document, the Bristol Corporate Strategy, the council proposes: • Asking community groups to run parks • Ending paid lollipop patrols

between 86 East Street and 37 Herbert Street.

Edgehill said the application is similar to one previously approved for the site, so it does not intend to conduct any community involvement activity – though residents do have the right to make comments to the council.

The block would have five single-bedroom flats and four of

two bedrooms. The block would have no parking spaces. A cycle store will be provided and a fire escape passage will be provided from the rear of 86 East Street.

A similar planning application

by Edgehill was withdrawn earlier this year.

The site was given planning permission in 2012 for a larger, four-storey block of 11 flats, but this has expired. The plot is now

December 2016

How the new block would look vacant but until the 1940s Herbert Street was lined with terraced houses.

‘Why can’t we just say no to £92m cuts?’ mayor is asked Council faces tough choices – but how many are aware of them?

• Cutting adult day services • Slashing meals on wheels • Cutting £1.1m from libraries The mayor was not asked about any of the above cutbacks – which represent only a fraction of those proposed. The meeting was attended by about 50 people. and was the last of four councilrun consultations held in each corner of the city.

Mr Rees accepted that the cuts run counter to his pledges to make Bristol a more equal city.

But the council has no option but to balance the books, otherwise government commissioners will be sent in to take over, he said.

The council needs to look at

alternative sources of money for some services, he said, adding: “Crisis is sometimes the driver of the changes we need to make.”

As an example, he cited the promise of a school breakfast for all who want one, which resulted in churches offering to help schools where there are no breakfast clubs.

Private developers are now taking about including social housing in their plans where they didn’t before. Four big proposals for housing are on their way, he promised.

The council is trying to ensure every young person in Bristol can get good quality work experience.

And Mr Rees is fronting a Clean Streets drive across the city.

“We face cuts, but there are things we can mobilise the community around to deliver,” he said.

Whether Mr Rees can persuade Bristol to accept that

lollipop patrols should be unpaid volunteers, or that volunteers should be running libraries and parks, remains to be seen.

One resident said he thought many people were unaware of the scale of the cuts. “We need to work out a way to get the message out there,” he said.

Just to balance this year’s budget, the council is shedding one in six of its workers to meet an immediate £31m shortfall. A further £92m cuts come in the following five years.

Many on the left argue the mayor should refuse to make cuts and stand up to the Government – see Letters, page 19.

Consultation on the spending plans is open until January 5.

The website includes a budget simulator which shows the effect of choices on boosting or cutting department budgets.

• Google ‘Bristol Corporate strategy’

ASK A VET: How can I help my pet lose weight?

W

E’RE all guilty of piling on the pounds during the festive season, and this is equally true for pets. Here are some top tips to keep your pet trim: • Weigh out their food – don’t guesstimate how many kibbles to put in your pet’s bowl, weigh it instead so you can monitor how much they’re eating.

• No more tit-bits – your dinner is for you, don’t share it with your pet.

High fat foods can lead to painful pancreatitis, and certain foods can’t be digested by animals.

• Tactical treats – if you are going to give your pet treats, give them healthy ones. There are lots of

healthy treats available – low-fat, or designed to help their health in other ways, for example to clean their teeth. Ask us for advice.

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

• Play with your cat to help them exercise and set up a place indoors where they can romp and climb – cat trees and scratching posts are ideal.

• Use a weight loss food – there are many pet food diets that are proven to help your pet lose weight without going hungry. Speak to

your vet or nurse to find out a suitable food for your pet.

According to recent research, one in three dogs, one in four cats and one in four rabbits in the UK are overweight. 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.

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 be able to tailor a diet and exercise plan to your pet and can schedule regular weigh-ins to monitor their progress.

Rob Parry-Hall MRCVS Ashton Veterinary Surgery Contact Ashton Veterinary Surgery on 0117 953 0707 for advice on helping your pet lose weight.

To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Ruth on 07590 527664

December 2016

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n NEWS

Arena delay is pushing back consultation over parking CONSULTATION on residents parking zones for those living near the arena has been put back, the Voice has been told.

Councillors were expecting to begin work on asking residents what they wanted from parking restrictions – or whether they wanted them at all – from January 2017.

However, with the arena now delayed until 2019, two years later than planned, the council appears to have decided there is no need to start the consultation.

The council is bogged down in talks with contractor Bouygues UK on the cost and specification of the £93m stadium.

A detailed agreement on the timetable and costs is now six months behind schedule. A spokesperson said: “Once a position has been agreed this will go to Cabinet, which is now likely to take place next year.”

Even the council appears to be unclear how far the timetable has slipped. In a statement to the Bristol Post on November 9, a council spokesperson is quoted as saying: “The original aim was to take a report to council this autumn but that is more likely to happen in the New Year.” This implies that a deal between the council and Bouygues is around three months behind schedule.

However, the report was not due in the autumn, but in the summer. A statement on the Bristol Temple Quarter website on February 18, when Bougues

No sign of a deal with contractor but arena could be vital to council’s future finances was appointed, spoke of agreeing a final package of works and “awarding a building contract, following Cabinet approval, in the summer.”

This reveals that the timescale is slipping in a serious way. Each year of delay with the project costs the council £2m.

Some are speculating that the project will be scrapped, like the last arena plan for the same site, cancelled by the South West Regional Development Agency in 2007. It had spent £20m on clearing the land, a former diesel depot for Temple Meads station.

Mayor Marvin Rees has made

The train on Platform 7 is delayed by eight years THE Government is delaying the electrification of the railway line from Temple Meads and Bath to London until possibly 2024.

The Parkway line to London and Wales will be electrified, but Temple Meads passengers will have to wait longer for a service that will be up to 22 minutes quicker to London. Bristol South

no secret that the talks with Bouygues are about the cost of the scheme. But he insists the arena will go ahead in 2019.

He sees the arena as the jewel in the regeneration of Temple Quarter, which will bring 17,000 jobs in the next 25 years, and transform a derelict waterside into a vibrant riverbank area.

But there is another reason why he sees the arena as vital to Bristol’s future.

As explained on page 6, the city council is facing a £92m shortfall from 2017-2022, as the Government slashes funding of town halls.

The council is not allowed to hike council tax on residents by more than 1.95 per cent a year.

But it is allowed to keep all the extra business rates it can scoop from encouraging non-residential development.

The Temple Quarter could become a source of cash which will help keep the council afloat.

MP Karin Smyth said passengers will be “mystified” at the decision, which is blamed on a £2bn rise in costs for the project at Network Rail. Plans to rebuild Temple Meads are also likely to take many years.

Will Metro mayor help?

A NEW mayor with powers over major issues for Bristol, Bath and South Glos will be elected in May 2017. It is hoped the new mayor can unlock funding and influence transport plans for the region.

Good clean fun: Harry, 6 months

Making a mess in a good cause TODDLERS and babies did their bit for Children in Need – all by having a really messy time.

Lynsey Abbott runs Splat messy play sessions every week in Hengrove, where she raised money for the BBC appeal by selling home-made play-dough and cakes.

Her sessions allow children to explore new sensations without parents worrying about making a mess. They play with play-dough, all kinds of food, balloons and paint – all non-toxic.

“You couldn’t do this at home,” said Lynsey, “you can’t just let them play with paint!

This is a way for them to explore different kinds of foods and experience different textures.”

The group at Hengrove community centre is the only one in the area, but Lynsey is keen to open more. If you would like to see a Splat session in South Bristol, email lynsey@ splatmessyplay.co.uk

Bex’s Exercise Classes Monday 7-8pm @ The Gatehouse Centre, Withywood BS13 9JN Wednesday 7-8pm @ Ashton Vale Community Centre BS3 2QV

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

December 2016

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n NEWS

Get ready for the Lantern Parade!

WATCH OUT FOR… The Girl, the Moth & the Light (special animated lanterns); Time for Tea Southville Centre Monday Club & Nursery; Stone Age Parson Street primary school; James & the Giant Peach Ashton Vale Primary; Divali Southville Primary; Alice in Wonderland Luckwell primary; Pokemon Ashton Park School; George & the Dragon Ashton Gate primary; Bemmy Mix; Anniversary Schoolgirl Holy Cross primary; Vikings St Mary Redcliffe Primary; Phoenix Compass Point primary; Tropical Rain Forest Victoria Park primary.

Heidi, 7, and Aaron, 8, with the Stone Age man

CHILDREN and community groups all over Bedminster are putting the finishing touches to their latest creations for the Winter Lantern Parade, which takes to the streets on Saturday December 10.

The Voice caught up with some of the Year 3 pupils at Parson Street primary, where Heidi, 7, and Aidan, 8, were making paper “stone clubs” to go with their giant cave man.

“We are learning about who are the greatest builders – we have done the Egyptians and now we are doing Stone Age people,” said Heidi, explaining the choice this year.

Nine other primary schools

will be talking part, and for the first time Ashton Gate secondary school will be joining in too.

There will be a giant teapot made by members of the Monday Club at the Southville Centre. Parade

goers will also be able to enjoy special animated lanterns – a girl, a giant moth and a light – funded by the Arts Council and made in Bedminster, and already road-tested at carnivals in Radstock and elsewhere.

There will be some brand new parade musicians, and other surprises along the way.

Roads will be closed to keep the thousands of spectators and hundreds of participants safe.

North Street will be closed from the Southville end to Dean Lane at 3pm, along with Cannon Street, British Road and South Street.

The event gets going at 4pm, the parade starts at 4.30pm and finishes with fireworks at Compass point school, South Street, at 6pm.

Only those with an official wristband can march in the parade for safety reasons.

Anyone else is welcome to make a lantern and bring it along, but they must stay with the spectators.

• bwlp.org.uk • Facebook: BemmyLanterns

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www.newlifeclasses.com To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Ruth on 07590 527664

December 2016

southbristolvoice

9

n NEWS

Residents to quiz mayor over tall buildings policy MEMBERS of the group trying to stop tower blocks being built on Bedminster Green have won a meeting with mayor Marvin Rees to explain their concerns.

WHaM – the Windmill Hill and Malago planning group – got the chance to talk to the mayor after an intervention by Labour councillor Jon Wellington.

No date has been set for the meeting, but WHaM will want to discuss Mr Rees’s intention to change the city’s policy on tall buildings.

Currently the policy is only to allow tall buildings of nine storeys or more in the city centre – with exceptions such as St Catherine’s Place, next to Malago Road, which has permission to be rebuilt at 16 storeys.

“We are very interested in how this policy is going to impact on all of Bristol,” WHaM chair Dianne James told the Voice.

“It was noticeable that as soon [as the mayor announced his intention to change the policy] the plan for a tower block at Redcliffe went up by four storeys to 22 storeys.”

Members of WHaM fear the Green, and the Victorian terraces next to it on Windmill Hill, will be overwhelmed by “canyons” of tall buildings if developers are allowed to cram in as many homes as they want.

Developer Paul O’Brien has still not announced when consultation will begin on his plan to build a 10-storey block on Plot 1 of the Green, containing 217 flats. An announcement was

LET’S CELEBRATE THREATENED TREES RESIDENTS living around Bedminster Green are gathering on Sunday December 4 from 2-4pm to highlight the plight of the trees there, as part of National Tree Week.

The green area between Malago Road and Whitehouse Lane is home to several mature trees which provide shade in

Redcliffe Quarter Tower; now raised to 22 storeys. If agreed by planners on November 30, it will spark controversy, both as a precedent and because it is close to historic St Mary Redcliffe church expected within the last few weeks but the Voice has been unable to find out when it will be made.

It is also unclear if progress is being made on a district energy centre, set to be the first new building on the Green.

The Voice was unable to speak to Urbis managing director Richard Clarke before going to press. Mr Clarke had said several weeks ago that a planning application had been submitted for the energy centre. However, so far no application has been publicised on the council website.

Residents are also anxious to hear the results of bidding for the right to redevelop St Catherine’s Place, which was due to end on November 4. summer and a habitat for wildlife.

Campaigners from WHaM fear that the redevelopment of the area will see them cut down and replaced by saplings – though no detailed plans are available yet.

The afternoon will be a celebration of the trees, which will be decorated with fairy lights and colourful yarn bombing. There will be carol singing, live music, food and mulled cider and wine.

Candles will be lit. All are welcome to join in, says WHaM.

Fitness and yoga: have a go for free at open day Free taster sessions are on offer for anyone who wants to try out Pilates or yoga and help charity at the same time .

Bristol South Pilates, which has just opened a new fitness studio, has joined forces with Flow Yoga Bristol for a joint Open Day on Saturday January 7.

The studios are not too far apart – Flow Yoga is in Whitehouse Street, Bedminster and Bristol South Pilates in Smyth Road.

Raffle tickets will be on sale in aid of the Matthew Tree project,

which works with people and families in crisis in Bristol because of addiction, poverty, homelessness and other factors.

Raffle prizes will include free monthly membership to Flow Yoga, a massage, and several free classes in Trigger Point Pilates and AerialFit Pilates.

Yoga sessions on offer will include mum and baby yoga, family yoga, beginners yoga, restorative, yin and general yoga.

To arrange a session at either studio email: • bristolopenday@gmail.com

Trees on sale

Station meeting

CHRISTMAS trees will be on sale at the Tobacco Factory at Ali & Joe’s seasonal stall, along with other festive treats. Sales are on Saturday December 3 and 10 from 10am-4pm, and on Sunday December 4 and 11, 10am-3pm.

THE FIRST meeting of the Friends of Parson Street Station will take place on Tuesday January 17 at 6pm at Parson Street Primary school. For details email: • info@way-out-west.org

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

December 2016

southbristolvoice

10

n NEWS

Mayor in new drive to clean the streets

CHILDREN at Parson Street primary school helped mayor of Bristol Marvin Rees explain why his new drive to clean up the city is so important.

Mr Rees chose Parson Street to launch his Clean Streets drive last month because it is one of only seven schools in the country to be declared an Eco Ambassador School.

As well as learning about every kind of green issue, this means that every pupil takes rubbish and recycling very seriously.

“If we see someone dropping litter we ask them to pick it up because we want to keep our school clean,” pupil Maddie told

Well done: Mayor Marvin Rees praised the pupils for their eco-wise ways the dozens of officials and councillors gathered for the launch.

Pupils are proud that the school recycles 80 per cent of its waste because they believe it’s a step to combating global warming.

It’s this self-help approach that Mr Rees is seeking to tap. It was perhaps no coincidence that Cllr Asher Craig, the council cabinet member for

neighbourhoods, told the children: “When I was your age growing up, my parents used to sweep the street in the front of our house every day.”

However, with the council facing a £92m shortfall, he offered no new money for the Clean Streets scheme.

Mr Rees wants to make the council work better with residents to identify dirty streets and flytipping, and deal with it,

often working in collaboration with community groups.

Prime among these is Let’s Clean Bedminster, a group of residents that also includes Cllr Celia Phipps, which has been cajoling residents and Bristol Waste to make the area tidier.

Let’s Clean Bedminster has already claimed some successes, helping to educate residents about what they can put in their bins and when to put them out, as well as dealing with fly-tipping in problem areas such as West Street.

The gathering heard several reasons why we should want a cleaner Bristol.

“We can improve our quality of life in Bristol, and the image we present to the outside world,” Mr Rees said. “I love the scale of your vision at this school – this is about our future and it’s about our planet too.”

But it is also about a better community – a cleaner and tidier city is safer and less prone to crime. “I’m convinced we can make Bristol cleaner and tidier by 2020,” the mayor said.

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To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Ruth on 07590 527664

December 2016

southbristolvoice

11

n CHRISTMAS

I’m dreaming of a green Christmas Whether you are an extremist who knits your own stockings from that organic sheep you keep in your garden, or you prefer to toss your conscience out of your frost-glazed, bulbfestooned window in December, here are some ideas for guilt-free festivities from Alex Morss

1

THE TREE Plastic is worse, environmentally. A real Christmas tree benefits wildlife, but do you know how much pesticide and fertiliser it took? Is it locally grown? FSC certified? Organic? Ask. More sustainable alternatives to throwaway trees include growing an evergreen species in a pot, such as yew, spruce, pine or fir. Bring it in from your garden just for the season.

Failing that, recycle your dead delight via Bristol city council’s doorstep collections. The council collected 170 tonnes of trees in Bristol last year, all shredded and

composted into crop fertiliser.

• bristolwastecompany.co.uk/ festive

2

FOOD Half the food items in your Christmas shopping trolley would disappear without pollinators. That includes chocolate, cranberries, parsnips, sprouts, many nuts, cinnamon, cloves, most juicy fruits, seasonal delights such as mince pies, figgy pudding, mistletoe and some wine, spuds, red cabbage, chestnuts, holly plus many more.

You like bees and butterflies, right? Pollinator populations have crashed in the UK because of intensive farming. Give them a break from pollution. Buy organic vegetables as a Christmas thank you to pollinators.

3

WRAPPING PAPER “We cannot recycle wrapping paper. Most of it is plastic or foil covered,” advised Tracy

Croft at Bristol city council.

Choose recycled or brown paper, or invest in beautiful, reusable fabric gift wrap, available online from local suppliers.

4

THE TURKEY Cut some slack to those poor turkeys – opt for free-range or organic, buy from a farmer or go veggie. Apart from the animal’s suffering and your health, the planet needs us to eat less meat to reduce habitat loss, famine, pollution and climate change.

5

PRESENTS Ban all vulgar plastic tat. Most of it has a short shelf life, is made overseas, with a huge carbon footprint, then gets dumped in landfill. Make your own gifts or give charity memberships instead. Try volunteering your time to a local charity over Christmas. It will give you more joy than giving or receiving loads of gifts.

6

CRACKERS If you must have crackers, make your own with the kids, using recycled loo rolls filled with yummy treats. Better than a bad joke.

WILDLIFE Don’t forget local wildlife. Stock up your bird feeders and keep gardens a bit wild to give insects and small mammals somewhere to shelter.

7

8

LIGHTS LED lights use up to 90 per cent less energy than ordinary bulbs. But do you really need all those lights?

CHRISTMAS SPECIAL pages 11-15 • Great gifts from Bristol 12-13 • Help for the lonely and homeless 13 • Icy Christmas treats 14 • Local food and drink 15 ... and COMPETITIONS!

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Our foster carers come from a wide range of lifestyles – they are married, single, in same gender partnerships and from diverse ethnic backgrounds.

We are now recruiting for foster carers in the Bristol area.

Five Rivers Chid Care is a leading Social Enterprise for looked after children. We offer professional support, very competitive fostering rates, dedicated 24/7 support and training.

If you would like an informal chat and to find out more information, please come to one of our Drop in Coffee Mornings: Monday 5 December 2016, 10am - 12pm and Tuesday 17th January 2017, 10am - 12pm These will be held at our offices at Five Rivers Child Care Ltd, Suite 7, Westbury Court, Church Road, Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol BS9 3EF

If you would like more information please call 01858 412765 or email: fostering@five-rivers.org www.five-rivers.org/fostering

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

December 2016

southbristolvoice

12

n CHRISTMAS GIFTS ALONE AT CHRISTMAS? CHRISTMAS dinners are on offer in South Bristol to people who would otherwise be on their own on December 25.

A charity called the Marmalade Trust will host a lunch in Whitchurch with volunteers picking people up from their homes and taking them to and from the meal. Contact 07566 244788.

The Marmalade Trust is also looking for volunteers: call 07566 244788.

• marmaladetrust.org The Faithspace Community Centre in Prewett Street, Redcliffe is also offering lunch to anyone on their own. Again, transport is available. Places must be booked on 0117 904 1533 or at the St Mary Redcliffe parish office on 0117 231 0060, before December 10. It’s possible families with children could be accommodated too.

Find ideas for things to do if you’re spending Christmas alone, and for feeling better about it: • standalone.org.uk

Lightcatcher, handmade translucent glass by Dianne James, £22 Shop 1

Toadstool cup and jug

by Hannah Turner, £13.95 and £12.50 Shop 5 Orchard, hand-felted picture by Brenda Duddington, £48 Shop 1

Websites & email: • brendaduddington.org.uk • facebook.com/toohoi • alexmaxwelldesigns.com • diannesjames@aol.com • fig1.co.uk • bristol-glass.co.uk • hannahturner.co.uk • facebook.com/ healthunlimitedbristol

Masami handbag in Japanese kimono silk by Toohoi, £35 Shop 1

Bristol mousemat, £6 South Bristol Through Time book, £14.99 Shop 2

Christmas at

Personalised Christmas Bauble only £25!

City Centre Shop Studio/Shop 47 High Street, 357-359 Bath Road, Bristol, Bristol, BS1 2AZ BS4 3EW 01179 259 212 01179 720 818 Hand Made Jewellery - Gift Ideas Uniquely Bristolian www.bristol-glass.co.uk

To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Ruth on 07590 527664

December 2016

southbristolvoice

13

n CHRISTMAS GIFTS Stuck for gift ideas? We’ve found some lovely stuff made in Bristol The number tells you where you can buy it 1. Windmill Hill City Farm art shop 2. Grenville Wick, 253 North Street, Southville 3. Health Unlimited, North Street 4. Bristol Blue Glass, Bath Road 5. Fig 1, St Luke’s Road, Totterdown 6. bemmie.co.uk • Other ideas: Christmas shopping evening, Victoria park Baptist Church, Sylvia Avenue, 7.30-10pm Saturday December 10; Local crafts and food at BS4 Market, Wells Road, Totterdown, Sunday December 11.

FOOD BANKS

Marvel heroes cufflinks

by Alex Maxwell, £10.00 Shop 1

Bristol poster by Bemmie, £10.00 Shop 6

Bristol mug by Susan Taylor Designs, £10.95 Shop 5

THE FOOD bank in Bedminster is at the Refresh Christian centre at 81 East Street, and is open Wednesday from 10am-1pm.

Inquiries to 0117 908 6015.

The centre also provides meals to the homeless.

The biggest food bank in South Bristol is at Victoria Park Baptist Church in Sylvia Avenue, open Friday from 10am-12noon.

For details call 07766 305051.

It receives donations from the South Bristol Christian Centre in Churchlands Road, Bedminster, which is open for contributions each Saturday from 10-11am.

Those in need must get a voucher from social services, a school, women’s refuge or other referring agency.

Food banks help people who have no food and no money – often because their benefits have been sanctioned or delayed.

Welcome donations include dried pasta, rice, tins, groceries, dog food, treats for Christmas, toilet rolls and female sanitary products. Cash is needed too.

Aurora Collection Imperial Vase by Bristol Blue Glass £88, Concorde paperweight £30 Shop 4

Avocado moisturiser £7, by Caro’s Creams, organic cocoa body butter £9.95 Shop 3

Jam, marmalade & chutney gift box £7, by Em’s Kitchen

HELPING THE HOMELESS If you’d like to help the homeless at Christmas, the Julian Trust is working with Bristol city council to provide food and shelter and needs offers of help and donations.

• juliantrust.org.uk

Shop 1

You can also donate to • facebook.com/groups/ feedthehomelessbristol If you see someone sleeping rough and want to find them help, call Streetlink on 0300 500 0914 • streetlink.org.uk

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

December 2016

southbristolvoice

14

n CHRISTMAS

Our lovely lollies are made with vegetables (but don’t tell the children ... )

T

WO MUMS from South Bristol had the idea of making ice lollies so healthy that they count as one of your “five a day”. Now their business, Polar Pops, has grown so much, they’re even busy in winter.

Emily Fletcher and Susie D’Andrea have progressed in less than two years from working out of their kitchens to a gleaming production unit at Filwood Green Business Park.

The idea for Polar Pops came to former catering manager Susie when her first daughter, now

What’s in a Polar Pop? Red Pops: strawberries, bananas and beetroot Orange Pops: oranges, butternut squash and carrots Green Pops: apples, bananas and kale

nine, wanted a lolly and she noticed there were no sugar-free organic ices on the market. She tried making her own, not only with fruit but with vegetables too.

Susie liked the results, and turned to her friend Emily, who had worked as a buyer and manager for Somerfield and Tesco, for marketing advice.

They set up a “focus group” of children. They found that if you ask children if they like veg, they

Cool way to eat: Emily and Susie

often say no. But give them an orange Polar Pop, which contains butternut squash and carrots as well as oranges, and they love it.

“We know that parents are always trying to put veg in children’s meals,” said Emily, who lives in Knowle .

“A lolly can be one of your five veg portions a day. There are only naturally occurring sugars in it, and it’s dairy free, lactose free, gluten free, nut free, and suitable for vegans.”

The feedback, especially from parents, has been fantastic, she

says. Polar Pops are a guilt-free way to give a child a treat, and some parents say it is the only way their child will eat veg.

In their second year Polar Pops has really taken off. Their first stockist was Mrs Brown’s café in Victoria Park. Windmill Hill City Farm soon followed.

Now there are dozens of outlets and a recent deal to sell through online grocer Ocado means that winter is spent building up stocks at up to 4,000 lollies a day.

But sales continue through the year: “You are talking about children who will eat ice lollies all year round,” said Emily.

• polarpops.co.uk

WIN A POLAR POPS BOX! ONE LUCKY South Bristol winner will receive a great Gift Box of lollies delivered to their door.

The Selection Box, worth £23, has six Little Pops for children plus six Big Pops – including Pina Colada – which contains alcohol and is adults only!

Q: Where is Polar Pops’ factory? To win, email paul@southbristolvoice. co.uk by December 12.

Christmas Services

with BS3 Churches Together All of the churches in the BS3 area wish you a very happy and blessed Christmas. We would love to welcome you to any of our special Christmas services and events.

“O come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord!”

ST FRANCIS North Street Sun Dec 11, 3pm Christingle Sun Dec 18, 3pm Explore Together All Age Carol Service Sat Dec 24, 5.30pm Nativity Service ST ALDHELM’S, Chessel Street Fri Dec 9, 3.30pm Messy Christingle Sun Dec 18, 7.30pm Candlelit Carol Service Sat Dec 24, 4pm Crib Service Sat Dec 24, 11pm Midnight Communion Sun Dec 25, 10am Christmas Celebration ST PAUL’S Coronation Road Sun Dec 11, 4.30pm Christingle Service with nativity and free Christingle Sun Dec 18, 7.30pm Carols by Candlelight, mince pies and wine Sat Dec 24, 11.30pm Midnight Mass Sun Dec 25, 10am Christmas Day present service

CHURCH OF CHRIST St John’s Lane Sun Dec 11, 12.30pm Children’s Christmas Party Sun Dec 18, 5pm Carol Service Thurs Dec 22, 10am Cocoa and Carols Sun Dec 25, 10am All Age Bible Hour Sun Dec 25, 11am Christmas Day Breaking of Bread Sun Dec 25, 5pm Evening Devotional Service Sun Jan 1, 10am Fellowship Breakfast Sun Jan 1, 11am New Year’s Day Service Sun Jan 1, 5pm Evening Devotional Service ST MICHAEL’S & ALL ANGELS Vivian Street BS3 4LW Sun Dec 18, 6.30pm Christmas Lessons and Carols Mon Dec 19, 6pm Carols in Victoria Park with collection in aid of Bristol Crisis Centre

Sat Dec 24, 5pm Crib Service Fun for all the family Sat Dec 24, 11.15pm Midnight Communion Sun Dec 25, 10am Christmas Family Praise VICTORIA PARK BAPTIST CHURCH Sylvia Avenue Sun Dec 11, 10.30am Christingle Service Sun Dec 18, 10.30am All-age Carol Service Sun Dec 18, 6.30pm Carols by Candlelight Sun Dec 25, 10.30am Short, all-age family Celebration of Christmas ASHTON VALE CHURCH Risdale Road Sun Dec 11th, 10.30am Café church Sun Dec 18, 3pm Children’s Christingle Service Sun Dec 18, 4pm Carols by Candlelight Sun Dec 25, 10am Christmas Morning Service

To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Ruth on 07590 527664

December 2016

southbristolvoice

15

n CHRISTMAS

Eat and drink more locally this Christmas

C

HRISTMAS is a time for sharing food. We’ve found some local suppliers who can bring you easy Christmas fare that’s often organic and is probably better for you than supermarket fodder. And as it’s not been trucked from one end of the country to the other, it’s also better for the environment.

There are lots of sustainable food suppliers in the area – we don’t claim to have found them all.

Many people think of meat as the centre of a Christmas meal.

James Stafford Little decided to sell only fresh, free-range meat when he opened The Little Butcher in Wells Road, Totterdown, in June.

He visits all his farm suppliers to make sure the animals are well treated. His pork comes from Baker’s of Nailsea, his stuffing from Cirencester – and his turkeys from Norfolk, because he wants to buy the best.

• facebook.com/ littlebutcheroftotterdown In Bedminster, Rare Butchers of North Street have just won Best Butcher in the Bristol Food Awards for a third year. Their meat is all free-range and from the South West.

• facebook.com/ RareMeatButchersofSouthville Many people now have vegetable boxes delivered, but

TWO MORE GREAT COMPETITIONS FOR CHRISTMAS! WIN A GAINES HAMPER!

This hamper is full of Christmas treats including mulled wine, Jason’s home made jams and kaffir lime marmalade, Oolala chocolate made in Nailsea and meringue.

Q: Who runs Gaines? Email paul@ southbristolvoice.co.uk by December 12.

often the contents are far from local. Plowright Organics of Nether Stowey near Bridgwater believes it’s the only delivery service that grows everything in its veg boxes, from staples such as potatoes to winter salads.

“Our goal has always been to develop a sustainable organic system that provides good quality seasonal vegetables to local people and in so doing help to re-make the connection between the land and people,” said Richard Plowright, who runs the farm with his wife Remke.

Richard lets customers choose what they want in their boxes as well as offering standard boxes.

• plowrightorganic.co.uk Gaines the grocer in Wells Road, Totterdown, has expanded to sell a wide range of food and drink, including alcohol – all of

WIN AN XMAS VEG BOX!

This seasonal veg box contains all the veg needed for a Christmas dinner. All the traditional Christmas vegetables, as well as purple sprouting broccoli, winter salad leaves, mushrooms, fresh chestnuts and clementines – it’s worth £30.

Q: Where is the Plowright farm?

Email paul@southbristolvoice. co.uk by December 12. it sourced as locally as possible.

Even some of the wine is from Somerset. And in an effort to cut down on packaging, owner Jason Gaines will refill bottles of

French wine – red, white and rosé – sold from the cask.

There’s a range of Bristol beer from Wiper & True to BS4’s Incredible Brewing Company.

It’s surprising how much food is produced locally. Gaines stock chocolate made in Nailsea, free range eggs from eight miles away. They stock Pukka Tea, based in Bristol, and stock Woody’s honey which is made three miles away.

Even closer to home, Jason makes his own dips and pastes as well as jams and marmalades.

Plus fruit and veg of course – available in pick-your-own boxes for Christmas.

• facebook.com/gainesthegrocer Just outside Bristol, Leigh Court Farm delivers organic vegetables every week – not only to homes but to collection points including the Southville Centre and Windmill Hill community centre. Not everything is grown on the farm, but it is the most local supplier to Bristol. It sources dairy, eggs, bread and fruit as locally as possible.

• leighcourtfarm.org.uk

CHRISTMAS at St Mary Redcliffe

Friday 9 to Wednesday 14 December 10am-5pm Daily: Treefest Monday 12 December 7:30pm: St Mary Redcliffe & Temple School Carol Service Wednesday 14 December 1:30pm: Redcliffe Care Carol Service Saturday 17 December 4:00pm: Christingle Sunday 18 December 6:30pm: Festival of Nine Lessons & Carols by Candlelight Tuesday 20 December 7:30pm: Carol Service with the Salvation Army Band & Songsters Thursday 22 December 1:15pm: Carols for All at Lunchtime (until 2.00pm)

Homegrown, organic vegetables

VEG BOX ES

Direct from your local Somerset farm Christmas veg selection Order today: plowrightorganic.co.uk

Friday 23 December 7:30pm: Festival of Nine Lessons & Carols

by Candlelight Christmas Eve : Saturday 24 December 4:00pm: Family Carol Service 11:30pm: Midnight Mass Christmas Day : Sunday 25 December 8:00am: Holy Communion 10:30am: Eucharist & Nativity Play New Year's Day : Sunday 1 January 9:30am: Said Eucharist with Hymns

for further information call 0117 231 0060 or email parish.office@stmaryredcliffe.co.uk

stmaryredcliffe.co.uk

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

southbristolvoice

16

n NEWS Free chance to try fitness class WOMEN who want to forget about their Christmas excesses by getting fit for the new year can try a free exercise class.

Rebecca Taylor, better known as Bex, is giving the first lesson free to anyone who joins her fitness classes in January who quotes “South Bristol Voice”.

“We are trying to create a place where ladies can exercise without judgement and boost self esteem while getting fitter,” she said.

Bex is keen on women motivating each other and challenging themselves.

“I originally started going to community classes because I was too embarrassed to join a gym, so I want to offer that back to other women who may be out feeling the same way I did,” she said.

Contact wannabfitness@ outlook.com to find out more.

Classes are at the Gatehouse Centre, Withywood, and Ashton Vale community centre.

New hall will be a boon for parents

WORK is under way on a £1.1 million community hall that will bring much-needed new nursery places to Southville.

It is being built by Southville Community Development Association (SCDA), which runs the Southville Centre in Beauley Road.

Demolition workhas already begun on the former Boys Brigade centre at the corner of Chessel Street and Garnet Street.

Neighbours were informed of the work before it started on November 21, and the site is expected to be cleared by Christmas.

Construction work by South Bristol contractor Helm will start

December 2016

Place to play: The Chessel Street building will have a nursery and a hall in the New Year, with completion expected in the autumn of 2017.

Helm’s projects in the area include new homes at Morley Road and at St Luke’s Hall.

Scores of community activities and nursery classes take place at the Southville Centre, which is bursting at the seams, and has a waiting list of 250 families wanting nursery places.

Tim Clark, head of family services at the SCDA, said: “There is huge demand in Bedminster and Southville for quality childcare provision so we’ve been looking for a suitable site for several years. Chessel Street is a great location and the plans are to build a space that

will provide an additional 54 nursery places for local children.

“It’s important to us that we work to deliver a centre that suits their needs and also grows the local economy by providing new jobs and using local contractors to carry out the works.”

Mr Clark believes the new hall should absorb almost half of the waiting list for nursery places.

The building will also have a community hall and offices for SCDA. It will allow the group to expand its activities, especially for older people, said Mr Clark.

Triodos, the Bristol ethical bank, will unveil a bond scheme allowing residents to invest in the new building in January.

To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Ruth on 07590 527664

December 2016

southbristolvoice

17

n THE MAYOR

MARVIN REES Mayor of Bristol

Despite tough choices, we can still make this a better city

A

S MANY of you will now know, our city is facing a budget gap of £92million over the next five years and together we face tough choices in order to address this.

We’ve released a document called our Draft Corporate Strategy which spells out some of these choices and our ideas for how we could approach this challenge. You can read this in full at the website below or request a hard copy on 0117 922 2848.

We are currently running a public consultation to get your thoughts on this plan and to hear your ideas for how we can address this budget deficit.

During November we conducted a series of public events across the city and I am grateful to all those who attended and took part in the discussion. Your thoughts and

do share your ideas with us via the website before Thursday January 5, 2017.

• bristol.gov.uk/corpstrategy

A

ideas will be considered carefully alongside the results of the consultation survey.

The changes we’ve proposed will affect us all and it’s important that we get input from as many people as possible to make sure that we make the right decisions.

We hope that our strategy recognises the strength and resource that you as communities already possess in Bristol.

Local volunteer and community-led organisations regularly prove their ability to make a significant contribution to a range of services in the city. In this way, you as individuals can be part of the solution. Please

Wild goose property

lso in November, I was pleased to launch the city’s first Clean Streets campaign, in partnership with Bristol Waste Company. This three-year campaign aims to make Bristol measurably cleaner by 2020, working with individuals, community groups, schools and businesses to take collective responsibility for keeping the streets clean.

We should, and we can be, as clean as cities such as Zurich, Tokyo and Singapore.

We can achieve this if everyone who lives, works, learns or plays here takes pride in the city and works with us and with those who have the job of keeping the city clean, tidy and working. You can find out more here: • bristolwastecompany.co.uk Whether it is through the discussions we are having together on the draft corporate strategy, or through new campaigns like Clean Streets, we have an opportunity to reassess the way we run this city and make sure that it can work for everyone. I was elected on the promise of trying to make this city a cleaner, fairer place to live and I still strongly believe that together we can make this happen.

Large enough to get results, small enough to care

A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL OUR CUSTOMERS AND EVERYONE WHO HAS SUPPORTED US IN OUR FIRST YEAR 0117 972 8715

www.wildgoose.property 106b St John’s Lane, Bristol BS3 5AQ bristol@wildgoose.property

Call your friendly local property experts selling property in Bristol and the surrounding area.

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

southbristolvoice

18

LETTERS

Building high would be bad for our health

B

UILDING a healthy community should be central to the Bedminster Green development, but so far it has hardly been mentioned.

Developer Urbis wants to maximise its profits, while the mayor seems more keen on

Cycle route will damage park I HAVE serious concerns about the proposals for the Filwood Quietway as it goes through Victoria Park. The Quietway is intended to provide a 4.7 metre wide (nearly 16 ft) segregated path for cyclists and pedestrians from Park Street (at the corner of Hill and Nutgrove avenues) to Windmill Close, by St Mary Redcliffe primary school.

The proposals speak of restoring a small “missing” section of path “in order to create a coherent route.” But the missing section is not small and is in the flatter area where people picnic in the park in spring and summer, and play ball games throughout the year.

The existing shared cycle path from St Luke’s Road to Windmill

December 2016

Send letters to paul@southbristolvoice.co.uk or to 18 Lilymead Ave, BS4 2BX

making a statement by building high; neither view puts people first.

The environment we live in greatly affects our health. For example, the UK is top of Europe’s obesity league, with one in four adults obese and 60 per cent overweight. Obesity is best tackled not by visits to the gym but by walking a little each day, so we need to build a place where people will want to get out and exercise. People are attracted to trees and green spaces, yet Urbis wants to reduce our lovely green by half and chop down all the mature trees.

Actually, with increasing housing densities in Bedminster, more open space should be

provided, not less! Also, research shows that people will walk more in a mixed-use neighbourhood where there are shops, businesses and activities, yet provision for this is limited.

People now go out of their way to walk through Wapping Wharf by the docks because it is so lively and well designed, but I can’t see people wanting to walk in the gloom cast by tower blocks.

Hereford Street, for example, will become a featureless canyon bordered on each side by a wall of high-rise buildings! Again, research shows that elderly people die younger in this kind of area than in thriving communities.

As bad as obesity is, loneliness is an even greater killer, as much

a cause of early death as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. Since there has been a 50 per cent increase in people living on their own since the 90s, and one in three of us will be over 60 by 2030, things are likely to get worse.

Therefore, it is vital to design an environment where people can meet, with recreational, artistic, social and educational facilities at its very heart. This has been achieved in cities like Copenhagen, so why not here?

But to do this we need architecture fit for the 21st century, not Urbis’ tired, isolating tower blocks that smack of the 70s.

Nick Townsend WHaM, Windmill Hill

Close is 3 metres wide. For most of the day there is no congestion.

At the start and the end of school, when the path is heavily used, there are children running, dogs on the loose, prams and pushchairs and people standing chatting.

At these times, it is inappropriate, and more dangerous, to have a segregated cycle route than a shared path, because it encourages cyclists to disregard the needs of other users.

The proposals, which include “restoring the original historic entrance features at Windmill Close and Park Avenue,” risk making the space more accessible to motor vehicles.

Nearly all cyclists making their way across the park to Temple Meads will go under the railway bridge on St Luke’s Road.

The money would be better spent making that underpass safer, or on Whitehouse Street, where

there is little pressure from other traffic.

Ninety per cent of people questioned think that pedestrians should have priority in the park.

Prioritising one group’s needs over another’s is not appropriate.

The plans, as they currently stand, are to the detriment of the park environment.

Rob Porteous Victoria Park

overstating both the risk of this happening and how much worse a situation it would put the city in.

The approach we spoke about, of using reserves and prudential borrowing powers, would allow you to present a legally balanced budget, and mean the Government had no automatic right to send in commissioners.

This would be a temporary measure, allowing services and jobs to be protected while a campaign was built that can reverse government funding cuts.

The approach we described would not lose the council money.

In fact, as you have rightly argued, austerity is a false economy, these cuts will end up creating more costs elsewhere.

Reserves are there to be used, for I repeat that we have no desire to see commissioners sent in to run Bristol’s finances.

However, there is a question as to how much worse it could be.

You say that any civil servant would not share your commitment to the people of Bristol.

However, the proposals you have put forward include a four per cent rise in council tax, charging people with dementia more for their care, the potential closure of adult day centres, large funding cuts to drug and alcohol services and Early Help Support for children, as well as cutting four times as much money from the library service as George Ferguson did and much more.

Tom Baldwin, Windmill Hill On behalf of Bristol and District Anti-Cuts Alliance

www.doorexpresssouthwest.co.uk

Mayor should oppose cuts Open letter to mayor Marvin Rees THE redundancy of one in six council staff and the cuts, outsourcing and increased charges outlined in the latest consultation document are not your vision for Bristol.

In fact, they run contrary to it; they will inevitably make Bristol more unequal by hitting those with the greatest needs the hardest. You said when we met that you were not happy with what was being prepared for consultation.

Yet the cuts being consulted on are still a minority of those you will have to make if you are to close the funding gap left by Government cuts. There is no way of implementing them that is at all consistent with your vision of a more equal city.

You also said you were unwilling to take any risk of commissioners being sent in to run Bristol. We have no desire for this to happen either.

However, we think you are

To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Ruth on 07590 527664

December 2016

southbristolvoice

19

n NEWS

Pub can become homes and community café THE FORMER Imp pub, which struggled to survive for many years, can be reborn as a community café and new homes, the council has ruled.

New owner Cabot Trustees now has permission to convert the pub building into four flats, with a café-bar on the ground floor and part of the basement.

It will also build a small single-bedroom house in the rear garden on the site of what is believed to be an old stable block.

The Imp was built in the 1850s and appears on a map of 1874 as the Southville Hotel. The new plan reinstates a passage through the building, which once led to the stable block. The front of the pub was rebuilt after Second World War bomb damage.

The application has divided opinion in the community of Alphaville – the mid-Victorian streets between the river and Dean Lane, which are the oldest part of Southville.

Five residents wrote in support of the planning application, while 15 objected.

Leading members of the Alphaville residents association backed the plans for the new café, which they hope can be run by a non-profit company they have set up, Alphaville Community Enterprises. They

believe a new café bar, serving food and closing at 9.30pm Monday-Saturday and 7pm on Sunday, will avoid the disturbance neighbours sometimes had to put up with when the Imp was a regular pub.

Among the objections were claims that the new passageway will make homes less secure, and that neighbours will be overlooked, and suffer from noise. The plan will also cause overshadowing, is out of keeping with the Conservation Area, and will be a cramped overdevelopment, objectors said.

The council responded by imposing conditions on noise and odour control, and stating that the café’s outside terrace must close at 7pm each day.

Neighbours will not be overlooked, planning officials said. The new coach house is largely sunk behind the rear wall and has no rear-facing windows.

In response to some of the objections, architect Tom Futcher said security would not be affected because access to the rear will be through metal gates.

The new homes are necessary to pay for the café, he said. “The building as it stands requires a massive financial investment to meet modern standards, and as such is no long viable,” he said.

Responsibility is not accepted for errors made by others scaling from this drawing. All construction information should be taken from figured dimensions only.

A better neighbour?

Those behind the plan for the Imp hope a café bar will be accepted by residents, especially as it will close earlier than a pub

5 4

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1

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Alpha Rd

The Imp Cafe

6

3

Proposed Front Elevation 1:100

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Proposed Front Balustrade 1:50

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Alpha Rd

The Imp Cafe

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4m @1:100 105 WEST ARCHITECTS Ltd 107 Lower Redland Road, Redland, Bristol. BS6 6SW T: 0117 3737596 E: info@105west.co.uk Web site: www.105west.co.uk

Project

The Imp

Drawing Title

Proposed Front Elevation of the former pub

Drawing No.

1613(L)25

Scale @A3

drawn by

Date

Rev

1:100

TF

05/04/16

/

December 2016

southbristolvoice

20

n PICTURE SPECIAL

As we approach the depths of

n NEWS

Street art: Nim Jethwa’s hyper-real panoramic photo of North Street, with O

The work of Jody, photographed by D7606, still adorning a North St wall

A NEW book published this month will celebrate eight years of Upfest, Europe’s largest live street art and graffiti festival.

The book will feature over 200 images showcasing the work of more than 150 artists from around the globe. Each image has been selected through a photography competition.

To mark the launch, 100 unique artworks are being created

by street artists to adorn the fronts of the first 100 copies.

The one-off versions will be created by artists who have attended the festival including Cheba, Cheo, Copyright, Dan Kitchener, Dr Love, Fanakapan and many more.

The special edition is available from the Upfest gallery in North Street, Bedminster, on Friday December 2, priced at £60. The

Looking for trouble off-road

Kerb appeal: John Vickery, Ben Barker and Lucy Skinner

A DEDICATED band of individuals is prowling the streets of Bedminster looking for problems that make it hard to get around.

The Bedminster Access Group wants to make it easier for everyone to navigate the pavements but particularly those who are less able – whether that’s because they are old, partially sighted, using a wheelchair or pushing a baby buggy.

The Voice met members of the group at a particular trouble spot – Raleigh Road to the south of North Street.

“These roads are a nightmare,” said Lucy Skinner, who uses a wheelchair.

“There was a car parked across the dropped kerb for four days this week.”

Sometimes it’s the design of a road that causes a problem: one of the dropped kerbs on Friezewood Road is next to a drain, which makes it difficult for wheelchairs to avoid getting stuck.

Members also find a problem with cars parked on pavements. But often there are simple solutions: a request to Ocean estate agents not to park their vehicles on the pavement met with a positive response.

The group aims to raise every highways issue it finds with the council.

It’s also asking for better enforcement of problem parking – the rules are better enforced in the residents parking zones, said member Ben Barker.

Very often drivers don’t realise they have caused a problem for pedestrians by parking in a certain way – “Most of the time they don’t realise they have done it,” said John Vickery, who uses a mobility scooter.

The group is hoping that gentle persuasion will solve most problems. if you would like to get in touch with Bedminster Access Group, email • gbcpnewsletter@gmail.com

To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Ruth on 07590 527664

reg

by and 198 Hill

the The of t pic • up

December 2016

southbristolvoice

21

f winter let’ s look back at the success of this year’s Upfest, now celebrated in a new book ...

Otto Schade’s tiger to the left

Park life: Kid Crayon gets creative in a packed South Street park, photographed by Valentina Venditti for the new book

gular edition is £19.95.

The book has been designed Jody, a Bristol-based designer d artist, who started painting in 87 at the now infamous Barton l Youth Club.

This is Upfest’s second book: e first focused on 2008 to 2012. e new book offers an overview the first five years with more ctures from 2013–2016. pfest.co.uk

Well covered: 100 copies will have exclusive covers by regular Upfest artists

FLX, captured at work by Nigel Thomas

Rocket01, photographed by Daz Smith

Pupils give drivers speed talk

Pulled over: Children explain the danger of speedng to drivers

MOTORISTS in Bedminster were given a lesson by local children about the importance of keeping to the speed limit.

Officers from the Bedminster neighbourhood team based at Broadbury Road police station spent an afternoon with Year 5 pupils from Parson Street primary school. Over the course of two hours, they spoke to nearly 20 drivers.

The children handed out their road safety poem and showed them a video made by Bristol children about how dangerous speeding is, especially near schools.

The session was led by community engagement officers from the city council, who have been working with police and the school, as well as transport charity Sustrans, on ways to make roads around the school safer.

PCSO Sue Surridge said: “Judging

by the reaction of the drivers they spoke to, the children have made a real difference to their attitudes when it comes to speeding.

“Some of the drivers were in tears when they watched the video, which highlights the difference in injuries and survival chances when a child is hit at 20 and 30 miles an hour. The video also explains a fact which people aren’t very aware of – that children under the age of eight can’t judge the speed of on-coming traffic, due to early brain development.

“Our hope is that the drivers they spoke to today will talk about it with their friends and families and help to spread the message.”

• The Community SpeedWatch scheme offers volunteers the chance to deter speeding drivers in their area. For details email communityspeedwatch bristol@avonandsomerset.police.uk

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

December 2016

southbristolvoice

22

n NEWS Market with Santa appeal FESTIVE spirit will be in the air at dozens of stalls in the BS4 Christmas Market on Sunday December 11 in Wells Road.

Gaines grocers has arranged for a choir to sing outside their shop, and Santa’s Grotto will be open to under-12s. There will be mulled wine and mince pies and shops and cafés including St Peter’s Hospice, the Eating Room, the Little Butcher, Totterdown Canteen and Floriography will open from 11am-3pm.

• facebook.com/Bs4market

Extravaganza STUDENTS at Bedminster Down school host a Winter Extravaganza on Thursday December 1. They will perform numbers from musicals such as Oliver! Annie; The Sound of Music and more.

Dancers and the new Stomp group will also be in action. www.bedminsterdown.com

Landmark café is back in family hands

ONE of South Bristol’s best know cafés is back in its original family ownership. George’s in East Street, Bedminster, is popular not only with local people but with visitors from all over the South West.

Owner Vas Soteriou said: “We have had customers coming from Bath, Keynsham, Newport and further afield – some of them spend the day shopping in the city, then come to Bedminster just to eat with us.”

George’s was opened in 1970

by Vas’s father in law, George.

Many people now address Vas, who took over in 1986, as George, but he doesn’t contradict them.

The traditional café has been

Flashback: George’s Restaurant in about 1982 with founder George Zographou, his wife Miriam, and children Eva, Nick and Andrew

run by the family in much the same way for 46 years – except for the the three years until October, when another manager took the lease.

Now Vas has reunited many of the original staff, including Kosta the chef and Michelle on serving duties. And customers who have been regulars for decades but may have drifted away in the past three years are

George’s

SERVING SOUTH BRISTOL

starting to return.“A lot of customers said to me that Bedminster wasn’t Bedminster without George’s,” said Vas. Asked the secret of such a large and loyal following, he said: “The only secret is hard work.

Independent restaurants can do well if the owners are prepared to put in the hard work.”

He’s also careful not to stray from the traditional English café menu which – like the portion sizes – is huge. There are almost 50 main dishes, not counting the sandwiches and children’s meals.

Everything, including the chips, is made fresh. The coleslaw is made to a secret recipe and another popular accompaniment is the gravy – “People think that there’s a special secret to that too, but there isn’t!” said Vas.

SINCE 1970

The original George’s is back! Now supervised once more by the founding family • Same great menu – almost 50 main courses • Everything cooked fresh – including chips • Omelettes, steaks, breakfasts, sandwiches • Children’s meals and snacks

Chef Kosta, owner Vas and server Livia welcome you

• Sunday roast served Sundays 11am-4pm

• Have you tried our secret coleslaw recipe?

• Always a welcome to friends old and new

OPEN Monday-Saturday 8am to 5.30 pm, Sunday 10am to 4pm 111 East St, Bedminster, Bristol BS3 4EX To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Ruth on 07590 527664

December 2016

southbristolvoice

23

n NEWS

Don’t run cycleway across steep part of Northern Slopes, plead volunteers

ANOTHER group representing users of open space in South Bristol has come out against plans for a £2.3 million cycleway.

The Northern Slopes Initiative (NSI) has asked the team behind the Filwood Quietway project to think again about plans to route it across the steep Glyn Vale section of the Slopes. This would involve widening a path either on the Wedmore Vale or the Glyn Vale side of the green space.

Last month the Voice reported that members of Victoria Park Action Group (VPAG) are unhappy with plans for the cycleway to cut a 4.7m wide path through the lower part of the park.

The move could create conflict between cyclists, pedestrians, children and dog walkers, VPAG chair Shaun Hennessy said.

Now it appears that the NSI has similar concerns. Its chair, Bob Franks, has written to Bristol city council objecting to the route and suggesting an alternative.

“We are not convinced of the benefits of routing the Quietway through the Slopes at Glyn Vale from the perspective of the Slopes and the users of the Slopes,” wrote Mr Franks.

“We believe that our alternative via Donegal Road,

Glyn Vale, Kingswear Green Space to Marksbury Road and on to Wedmore Vale has the potential to be a good route.”

One resident filed an online comment on the Slopes plan, saying: “Mixed use paths with pedestrians, dogs and toddlers make for lots of aggravation and possible accidents.” There were several other negative comments.

The NSI has asked to be involved in the next stage of the proposals. Public consultation on the Filwood Greenway is over, as it is for a companion scheme, the £600,000 Malago Greenway.

The Filwood Greenway would run from Filwood Broadway to the city centre. The Malago Greenway goes from Hartcliffe Way through Malago open space to pass north of Windmill Hill, before joining the Filwood route at Whitehouse Lane. Plans for a cycle lane in Whitehouse Street have aroused further opposition.

A map with public comments on each stage of the Filwood Quietway route can be found at • filwood.commonplace.is/ comments A similar map for the Malago Greenway is at • malago.commonplace.is/ comments

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The free local walk will explore the Northern Slopes and Victoria Park areas. It is part of a national event involving hundreds of plant lovers. Last new year was the mildest on record and the

organisers, the Botanical Society of Britain and Ireland, reported that a record-breaking 653 species were found blooming.

“It’s a nice way to learn more about our wild flowers and escape for air after all the festive excess,” Alex said. “We also help answer important questions to better understand our local flora.”

• info@alexmorss.co.uk

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

December 2016

southbristolvoice

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n YOUR MP

KARIN SMYTH Labour MP for Bristol South

The public and Parliament must have their say on Brexit

N

O ISSUE will be more important in our politics in the years ahead than the way the UK withdraws from the European Union. It will influence every area of our lives, from shop prices to employment rights, from the NHS to the post-16 opportunities available to South Bristol’s young people – and all points in between.

That’s why I think members of the public deserve the opportunity, through the usual democratic paths, to be represented in the Brexit process.

Voice readers will recall that in November the High Court ruled the Government could not simply bypass Parliament in making these vital decisions as they’d intended. It ruled Brexit must be subject to Parliament’s full approval, signalling clearly that the Prime

Minister had been wrong to try to sideline MPs and, therefore, the people they represent.

Let me be clear. While readers will know I campaigned for us to remain in the EU, I do believe we have a duty to respect the referendum vote for the UK to leave the European Union. Yet while the result on June 23 was clear, we have to remember that the referendum asked voters one very simple question, whereas the shape of Brexit is anything but simple.

Like the end of a 42-year marriage, there

Monday

Knowle Filwood Community Centre Barnstaple Road, Knowle BS4 1JP 9.30am, 11.30am, 5.30pm, 7.30pm Tel: Kim 07920 023170 Clifton St Peter & Paul Cathedral Pembroke Road, Clifton BS8 3BX 5.30pm Tel: Susan 07711 388511

Tuesday

Bedminster Salvation Army Dean Lane, Bedminster BS3 1BS

are a huge number of complex issues to be determined. That’s why I have found the lack of government planning – from the day the referendum result was announced – rather alarming.

It’s also why public scrutiny and Parliamentary input will be crucial in the months ahead.

I believe, for example, that existing workers’ rights provided by the EU should be maintained, and that businesses that depend on trade with Europe can continue doing so freely.

I also believe the residency rights of EU citizens living or working here, and those of UK citizens in the EU, need to be protected.

And I think the Government must proactively identify and fill any gaps in environmental protection that may arise from the removal of EU law.

But on all these issues there are a range of views, which is what makes the shape of Brexit so complex – and so important to get right – because the way Britain leaves the EU will shape the future prosperity of Bristol and the West Country for decades to come.

What do you think? You can email me your thoughts on this or any other issue, to karin.smyth.mp@parliament.uk or put pen to paper to Karin Smyth MP, House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA.

9.30am, 6pm Tel: Virginia 07938 567886 Knowle Church of the Nazarene Broad Walk, Knowle BS4 2RD 9.30am, 11.30am, 5.30pm, 7.30pm Tel: Susan 07711 388511 Ashton Ashton Park School Blackmoors Road, Ashton BS3 2JL 7.30pm Tel: Emma 07701 030460

Wednesday

Bedminster St Francis Church

North Street, Bedminster BS3 1JP 9.30am, 5pm, 7pm Tel: Kelly 07760 623115

Thursday

Bedminster Victoria Park Primary School St John’s Lane entrance, BS3 4QS 5.30pm, 7.30pm Tel: Kelly 07760 623115

Saturday

Bedminster Salvation Army Dean Lane, Bedminster BS3 1BS 9am Tel: Susan 07711 388511

To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Ruth on 07590 527664

December 2016

n NEWS Free sessions from tutors A TUTORING service is offering a free first session for parents worried about their child’s performance in English or maths.

The offer comes from Kip McGrath Bristol Central, based in Redcliffe, part of a chain of tutors using Ofsted-registered teachers.

“I get lots of calls from parents in January, concerned that their children won’t get the desired GCSE or end-of-year exam results,” said centre director Seonaid Birkett.

Call 0117 370 4525 or email bristolcentral@kip-mcgrath.com

Seasonal songs RIFF Raff, the a capella rock and pop choir, holds a Christmas concert at the Hen & Chicken in North Street, Southville at 8pm on Monday December 5. Tickets are £5, with £1 going to Bristol music therapy charity MusicSpace.

• riffrafftickets@gmail.com

southbristolvoice

New proposal to deter rat-running on Windmill Hill RESIDENTS are to be consulted on a new plan to deter commuters from driving through Windmill Hill, the Voice has learned.

The first scheme, proposed last year, was abandoned because residents were split over whether to accept it. The proposal was to ban right-turns from St John’s Lane into Paultow Road and make several roads one-way.

Now the focus has changed to make Windmill Hill less appealing as a cut-through.

The new proposals are for: • Double yellow lines on Windmill Hill, moving some of the car parking areas to make the southerly journey more difficult; • Narrowing the road next to the

Can we really create a whole pantomime in less than one day?

MOST pantomimes take weeks or months to plan and rehearse – but it’s a bit different in Southville, where the whole process only takes a day!

Arts groups Launchpad and Acting Out are joining forces to produce a Christmas ‘play in a day’ after the success of last year’s venture. Children aged six years and over and adults are invited to join in a one-day workshop to produce Southville Cinderella.

The event takes place at the Southville Centre on Sunday December 18. The workshop will run from 10am-4pm, involving rehearsing for the play and creating props, costumes and scenery ready for the production in the evening.

You can join in whether your interest is in art or acting – participants can choose to be involved in prop and scenery design, acting or both.

The Southville Centre’s

25

Monday Club for older people will help to make some of the props. Children from the nursery at the centre are recording songs that will be played in the interval.

Local actor, writer and producer Chris Yapp has volunteered to join the workshop and help produce the pantomime.

If you just want to see the finished result, the performance is at 6.30pm. Tickets are £5 for adults and £3.50 for children, available from the Southville Centre.

The production is being staged in conjunction with the Southville Community Development Association.

The cost for the workshop is £20 for the day for children; over 18s are free. Children will need to bring a packed lunch and a drink.

To book a place email enquiries@ actingoutdrama.com or book on the website: • actingoutdrama.com

Windmill pub, creating a larger pedestrian area as well as a crossing point and loading area; • Narrower junctions, with safer places for pedestrians to cross, where Windmill Hill meets Eldon Terrace and Alfred Road, to deter southbound motorists; • Narrowed section on Cotswold Road to deter drivers both ways, and create a crossing point.

Cutting rat-running through Windmill Hill has been declared a priority for the Filwood, Knowle and Windmill Hill neighbourhood partnership.

Residents will be consulted on the new proposals, although no dates were available as the Voice went to press.

Cash offer for health activities DO YOU have an idea for an activity for children which would improve their health and wellbeing? It could be to do with art, music, drama, exercise… or something completely different.

One in 10 children aged between 5 and 16 years has a mental health problem. Now the Community Access Support Service, funded by the city council, is offering grants of up to £1,000 to voluntary and community groups to kickstart activities that promote wellbeing in children of primary school age and their families.

The first deadline for applications is January 10 but more money will be available in March, May and possibly July.

All activities must be complete

by July 31. For details, contact Anna Balcerek by email at anna.balcerek@cassbristol.org or call 07400 128052.

• cassbristol.org

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

December 2016

southbristolvoice

26

n FEATURES

Police call on communities to look, listen, ask and ask again, to help the victims of domestic abuse IN SOME areas of South Bristol, police are called to nearly three times as many incidents of domestic abuse as in other areas of the city – and these are just the ones that are reported. The real number of people suffering will be much higher.

Throughout December, the police are highlighting the fact

14

FILWOOD

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TH 14 S TO C HE KWOOD 14 WH NGR I TC O V E HU & RC H

DOMESTIC ABUSE IN SOUTH BRISTOL

BISHOPSWOR

Let’s deal with the scourge of domestic abuse

W NO

LE

13

2

LL 1

HI K The chart shows ILL DM HARTCLIFFE & domestic abuse incidents, N I W WITHYWOOD recorded by police, per 1,000 VILLE SOUTH people, in year ending March 2016. UK average is 13 per 1,000 BEDMINSTER

12

42

that domestic abuse can happen to anyone at any time in their life.

Chief Inspector Andy Bennett, the lead officer for domestic abuse, said: “As well as victims, we’re calling on family members and friends who are concerned about someone in their life, to look, listen, ask and ask again.

“We need to shift away from the misconception that domestic abuse only happens to women in unhappy marriages.

“We know that there are

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certain sections of our society who do not feel as confident in coming forward to report abuse – specifically men, members of the LGBT+ community and the elderly.

“We also need to acknowledge that it isn’t just physical in nature – it can be financial control, emotional and mental abuse, sexual violence and intimidation.

“The message from us is simple – we will believe you. If you put your trust in us and come forward to report it, we will do all we can to protect you and bring those responsible for the abuse to justice.”

To launch the campaign, a police officer has bravely spoken out about her experience as a victim of domestic abuse.* She said: “I am sure many of you are thinking ‘Why didn’t you just leave him?’ But abuse is paralysing, it sneaks up on you over years, until one day it dawns on you and you barely recognise the person staring back at you in the mirror.

“The enormity of the fear of facing up to it is somehow worse than just getting by day by day. I

am no longer blind to abuse, I look around and can see the little signs - the behaviour that should not be excused, the colleague becoming withdrawn, the comments made in jest that hint at more.

“The bruises are real, you just can’t see them. Please look out for one another – and be that friend, colleague and supervisor that I was so lucky to have had.”

For further information and support, please log on to • thisisnotanexcuse.org.uk Anyone wishing to report abuse can contact police on 999, 101 or via the website. * The officer’s story of how she dealt with her abuse can be read at avonandsomerset.police.uk

TAKING IT SERIOUSLY: How police tackle domestic violence In the year to November 1, officers from the Avon & Somerset force:

12,459

• Attended incidents of domestic abuse.

4,352 people of which 3,766 were

• Arrested men

586 women • Charged 1,646 people and

with domestic abuse offences

59

were charged of which under the new coercive control powers – which makes it an offence to control someone’s life, for example through psychologiocal or financial means, even if violence is not used.

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December 2016

southbristolvoice

RSPCA UPDATE

27 From Bristol Dogs & Cats Home

Heartwarming tales of pets found new homes

A

S 2016 is drawing to a close, we are reflecting on our lovely animal friends who came through our doors this year. Between January and November, we rescued and rehomed 510 dogs, cats, small animals and reptiles in need. We reunited 333 lost pets with their owners and our ‘pawesome’ team of vets and nurses undertook over 12,000 procedures and operations to help care for Bristol’s animals in need.

October was particularly special, seeing record numbers for rehoming, including the wonderful Buster who you met in the October issue. We are very proud that 23 dogs, 26 cats, three rabbits, three birds and two ferrets found homes that month!

Notably, lots of our long- stay dogs were successfully rehomed; we had all grown attached to

Cat we found had been lost 7 months

them and many happy tears were shed by staff as we waved them off to their new homes!

We have witnessed many wonderful reunion stories, but one stands out. One of our dog-walking volunteers, Amy, was taking resident Mia for a walk when they saw a cat foraging in some bins nearby. He looked hungry, so after taking Mia back to the Dogs Home, Amy hurried back to rescue the cat.

She brought him to the RSPCA Clinic where he had a few

POLICE REPORT

Don’t fall victim to a Christmas trickster

T

HROUGHOUT December, the teams will be working to keep shoppers supporting our local businesses safe, raising awareness of pickpocketing and sharing general safety advice. Please remember to avoid using your car to store shopping between trips and, if you shop online, make sure you always use a secure website.

If you’re buying from an online retailer you haven’t heard of, check they’re reputable by establishing a physical address and telephone number.

Paying by credit card offers the greatest protection from online fraud, but before entering

medical checks and, importantly, was scanned for a microchip. Our clinic team phoned the number and got through to his family.

The cat had been missing for seven months! It was a ‘purrfect’ ending and reminded everyone of the importance of microchips.

Every animal who leaves our

With Sgt Caroline Crane Broadbury Road police station

payment card details on a website, ensure the link is secure (there should be a little padlock in the browser window frame, not on the page itself).

Also, the web address should begin with ‘https://’ – the ‘s’ stands for ‘secure’. Never pay for goods online if you’re using an unsecured WiFi connection. Lots more advice is available here: • getsafeonline.org If you’re going away, remember to use timer switches on your lights to avoid advertising an empty house to burglars and ask a neighbour to keep an eye.

Finally, it’s a dark side of Christmas that every police officer will recognise - an increase in domestic abuse incidents.

Please read our advice on page 26 and if you, or anyone you know, are affected by domestic abuse, report it. Remember, look, listen, ask and ask again.

I

We were thrilled when Buster found a home, as he had spent most of his life in kennels

t’s hard to believe we’re approaching the end of another year. Looking back, some issues have come and gone, and some remain a challenge.

Residents in Ashton and Southville will know that parking by football fans remains in the ‘challenge’ category, but I hope will be reassured by the fact we continue to carry out dedicated patrols on match days to target selfish or dangerous parking.

We’re also working with Bristol Sport at Ashton Gate stadium to try and alleviate the problems long-term.

Children from Bedminster Down school did their community proud last month when they took part in the national Children’s Commissioner’s Takeover Challenge.

They’re one of six schools, across five counties, selected to become our specialist squad working to find a way to combat the threats young people face online, in Operation Takeover.

The research and plans developed by the six schools will shape the force’s policy, building a safer future for young people online.

Wishing you all a safe, happy Christmas, Sergeant Caroline Crane

doors, to go to their forever home happy and healthy, inspires us to continue our vital work.

If you think you could offer one of our gorgeous animals the happy home they deserve, or would like to support us in any way please visit our website.

• rspca-bristol.org.uk

Pair jailed over plot to blow up cash machine

TWO MEN arrested in Ashton and jailed for their role in plots to attack an ATM have been given Serious Crime Prevention Orders.

Jamie Bessell, 27, formerly of Elm Hayes, Bishopsworth, and Brennan Hartrey, 26, formerly of Tregarth Road, Ashton Vale, have been given three-year Serious Crime Prevention Orders.

The orders will come into effect on their release from prison.

Both men were jailed for six years in March, after admitting charges of conspiracy to steal and conspiracy to cause an explosion.

The orders restrict their ability to handle or possess flammable gas and their use of mobile phones. They also have to inform police of their address.

Det Ch Insp Matthew Iddon said the pair were arrested after being seen acting suspiciously in Ashton. Police found two gas canisters in a car, destined for use in an imminent ATM attack.

“These orders will seriously disrupt their ability to become involved in further crime,” he said.

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

southbristolvoice

28

n NEWS

December 2016

No caravans in the Green Belt, thanks BRISTOL’S planners have sent a clear message that caravans are not welcome in the Green Belt next to historic Ashton Court.

Councillors have turned down an application by the Caravan Club to build a touring caravan site with 62 pitches on the former police dog and horse premises on Clanage Road, Bower Ashton.

The Caravan Club had said there were “very special circumstances” to justify the developemt in the Green Belt – including the fact that it expects to be turfed out of its current site, in Baltic Wharf, by Bristol city council, which owns it.

The council has been trying to decide what to do with Baltic Wharf – which could be worth a fortune if developed as housing – for years. But plans to site a school there have come to nothing and councillors were told there are no firm proposals for the land.

In any case, moving the site to Bower Ashton could be a risk to life, councillors were told.

Police horse centre not suitable for the Caravan Club Plans for the caravan site, right.

Avon & Somerset Police have moved out of their former mounted unit premises, and its future looks uncertain Clanage Road is the scene of numerous accidents, according to highways officers. To combat this, ’Slow’ markings have been painted in the road, and chevron signs mark the steep bend at the bottom of Rownham Hill – but these are still regularly damaged, and motorists often break the 30mph speed limit, said officials.

Allowing a caravan site will increase the number of large, slow-moving vehicles.

“The inability of these vehicles to exit the site from a standing start in adequate time in a gap in the traffic, together with the lack

of visibility, is likely to lead to an increase in the number of collisions,” said the report.

But traffic is not the only hazard – Clanage Road is also at risk of flooding, said the Environment Agency. “The risk to life and property from tidal inundation would be unacceptable,” said the agency.

Also cited as a reason for refusal was the impact on the historic views all around Bower Ashton – from the Clifton Suspension Bridge to the docks and the Grade II listed Ashton Court mansion and its parkland.

The Caravan Club said the caravans would be only temporary fixtures and for most of the year, outside of the summer months, the southern part of the site will remain open.

The council’s conservation officer disagreed, saying: “This disregards the fact that the site will be in use all year round, with members able to stay for up to 21 days. Moreover, a majority of the pitches will be capable of being occupied throughout the year.”

The Voice contacted the Caravan Club for comment but received no response.

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ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Family

Co-parenting at Christmas Christmas is just round the corner, but for separated parents it can present a whole host of conundrums. In this article, Chris Miller, Managing Partner of Barcan+Kirby, considers co-parenting during the festive season.

Christmas can present childcare difficulties for ex-couples. Most separated parents won’t be celebrating the festive season together, but both will still want to see their children.

Share + share alike

It’s tempting to ignore this issue and hope it goes away, or to fall back on your usual co-parenting arrangements. However, this can often lead to last minute conflict and uncertainty – and the resulting arguments aren’t likely to lead to a harmonious Christmas break.

Some parents choose to do this by sharing out Christmas and Boxing Day, whilst others opt to let one parent have more time at Christmas in return for similar concessions for the other at New Year.

Christmas is always going to be a tricky time of year for separated and divorced parents. So if you’re struggling to agree co-parenting arrangements over Christmas, we have some tips for you.

Think ahead

When broaching the subject of Christmas with your ex-partner, don’t leave it until the last minute. It’s a lot easier to come to a rational and fair decision in advance rather than on 23rd December when you’re in full Christmas mode.

Be fair in how you divvy up contact time – accept that neither of you should have a monopoly on contact at Christmas and be willing to compromise accordingly.

Whatever you decide, remember to let your children’s other relatives know, particularly your own parents if you know they’re hoping to see their grandchildren.

Plan for future years

Once you’ve agreed an arrangement for this year, it’s sensible to make a long term plan so that the same problem doesn’t crop up every 12 months. Why not consider alternating Christmas and Boxing Day each year?

Talk to your children

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n PLANNING APPLICATIONS Ashton Gate Stadium, Former Hire-Rite building & 65 Ashton Road BS3 2EJ Application for non-material amendment following consent 4/00751/X to vary approved plans condition attached to app.no. 13/03517/F: now proposed two video screens and four windows in the north western facade. Pending consideration 24 Islington Road BS3 1QB New dwelling adjacent to No. 24.

Pending consideration 97 Stackpool Road BS3 1NX Conversion of property into seven-room house in multiple occupation (HMO) including insertion of roof lights. Pending consideration 29 Argus Road BS3 3NY Retrospective application for front dormer extension.

Pending consideration 61 Langton Park BS3 1EQ Proposed loft conversion, including raising the height of the roof and inserting a rear dormer. Refused Land and buildings to southeast of 58 Greville Road BS3 1LL Approved details in relation to condition 5 (a,b and e) (Samples) of permission 13/05801/F: Change of use from light industrial warehouse to residential three-storey development of five houses with on-site parking. Granted

117 East Street, Bedminster BS3 4EX New door and new kitchen extraction. Granted subject to conditions

18 Blackmoors Lane BS3 2JJ Single storey side and rear extension. Pending consideration

99 Garnet Street BS3 3JN Single storey side and rear extension. Granted subject to conditions

13 Beaufort Street, Bedminster BS3 3PH Lawful development certificate for conversion of roof void into room with 2 Velux roof windows to the rear. Pending consideration

127-129 East Street Bedminster BS3 4ER Conversion to six dwellings (Class C3), with minor external alterations. Granted subject to conditions Avonleigh, Parklands Road BS3 2JW Sycamore: fell and replant with two birch trees to reduce shading. Refused 6 Beauley Road BS3 1PX Conversion from single dwelling (Use Class C3) to a large HMO, with external alterations. Granted subject to conditions 23 Warden Road BS3 1BU Demolition of single-storey garage block, construction of two-storey block with garage and first floor residential annexe. Granted subject to conditions 155A Coronation Road BS3 1RE Outline application for single dwelling to rear of property. Withdrawn 63 Smyth Road BS3 2DS New front bay window and porch.

Granted

10 Silbury Road BS3 2QD Two storey side and single storey rear extension. Granted subject to conditions

71 North Street, Bedminster BS3 1ES New fascia sign, Earthcake, on front elevation.

Granted subj. to conditions

Land at 1 Acramans Road, Southville Approval of conditions 2 a, b, c, (Further details of Relevant Elements) and 3 (Sample Panels) of 16/01884/F: Three storey, 3-bedroom house attached to side of 3 Acramans Road. Garden to rear and parking to front with access onto Acramans Road.

Granted

1 Lock Lane, Bedminster BS3 1BZ Appeal against an Enforcement Notice issued by the city council on 02.03.2016 for an alleged breach of planning: change of use from a commercial unit to a residential dwelling.

Appeal refused

26 Merrywood Road BS3 1DX Single storey infill extension.

Granted subj. to conditions 2A North Street, Bedminster BS3 1HT Infill single storey rear extension. Granted subject to conditions

Bedminster, Southville, Ashton

1 Lock Lane, Bedminster BS3 1BZ Variation of condition no. 4 (use restriction – general) attached to application no.

13/00385/F: Demolition of storage building and erection of work studio/workshop, for upholstery and furniture recovering, to allow other commercial uses. Pending consideration

30 Bartletts Road BS3 3PL First floor rear extension.

Pending consideration Land between 10 & 11 Derry Road BS3 3JB Erection of a 1-bedroom dwelling with parking space. Pending consideration 39A Islington Road BS3 1QB Two storey artist/ designer studio. Pending consideration 188-190 North Street, Bedminster BS3 1JF Change of use from A1/A2 (retail or professional services) to D2 (leisure uses). Re-decoration and modernisation has started but change of use has not begun. No change to interior or exterior structure. Pending consideration Workshop, 115-119 West Street Bedminster BS3 3PD Change of use from car repair centre, ground floor workshop (Use Class B2), to restaurant (Use Class A3). Pending consideration 183 Luckwell Road BS3 3HB Conversion of 2-bed ground floor flat to two 1-bed flats, insertion of new windows and conversion of garage to habitable space.

Pending consideration

262 North Street, Bedminster BS3 1JA Infill single-storey rear extension and internal alterations. Pending consideration 15 Leighton Road, Southville BS3 1NS Demolition of single storey extension and construction of new single storey extension. Pending consideration 86 East Street (37 Herbert Street) Bedminster BS3 4EY Erection of 9 new flats in a single block. Pending consideration 5 Vicarage Road, Southville BS3 1PD Single storey rear extension to extend beyond rear of house by 4.m, of maximum height 3.9 m with eaves 2.9 m high. Pending consideration 200 Coronation Road BS3 1RQ Change of use from 6-bed house in multiple occupation (HMO) (Use Class C4) to 8-bed HMO. Pending consideration 108 Risdale Road BS3 2RA Demolish house and replace with pair of semi-detached properties.

Pending consideration 30 Stackpool Road BS3 1NQ Approved details in relation to condition 2 (Stone Work) and 3 (Further details) of permission 16/03911/F: Repair and replacement of stonework to front elevation, new uPVC windows, bifold doors to rear ground floor, and loft conversion.

Pending consideration • The status of these applications may have changed since we went to press. Check for updates at planningonline.bristol.gov.uk

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n YOUR COUNCILLORS

I

December 2016

southbristolvoice

32

HAVE been to a couple of meetings about the spatial strategy recently. This is a document Charlie being produced Bolton for the four local Green authorities (which Southville used to be Avon) and concerns the building of 100,000 homes over the next 20 years. Being built into it is the mayor’s pledge to build 2,000 homes per year in Bristol, of which 800 are to be affordable.

The second part of this is the transport plan. This is currently unfunded but aims to get an extra £7.5 billion of schemes – road building, more Metrobus, bits of walking and cycling.

In the context of the housing crisis, I presume we all accept the need to build large numbers of houses (or flats). And I also presume we accept the need to develop brownfield sites (although this becomes trickier when it is on green space, of

Southville

course). So you have all of this on the one hand. On the other hand, you have Bristol’s climate change targets. Marvin recently re-affirmed our commitment to achieving 40 per cent by 2020.

The issue then is how do you build these homes – all of which would add to Bristol’s total emissions – without making it worse in terms of our climate and our air quality. This might include building to passivhaus standard, district heating or a range of other measures.

How do you do it if there isn’t any money? This is not nearly so easy to answer – but finding a response may be vital to meeting any climate change targets.

Many thanks to the people who completed our Green Party survey on air quality. And many thanks to the 4,000-plus people who signed the petition which was also set up. I proposed a motion to the last full council meeting on having a Clean Air Zone. I’m delighted to say it got unanimous support. We just need some action now ...

B

Y THE time you read this, Christmas will be approaching, presents will be getting wrapped Stephen and turkeys will be Clarke looking nervous but Green as I write, I don’t Southville feel very jolly. The world has gone mad. Trump has followed Brexit and the third horseman of the apocalypse is arriving in France in the shape of Le Pen. It feels like time to stick your head under the duvet for a few years. But I say to you “No!” It is actually time for a new radical politics of hope, and why not start here in Bristol. Remember: there were 49 per cent who were against Brexit and Trump.

What to do though? I recently had a Q&A session with BS3 Churches Together (a collection of 20-plus churches in our area) and I was very struck by how they were so practically involved in many positive initiatives around homelessness and other dire

Wessex Glass & Locks 0117 977 0033 & 0117 977 4012

How to contact your councillor: p2 social issues. It strikes me that this is what all of us interested in the values of fairness and social justice should do. Get active, protest and keep engaged! There; I feel better already for that …

A good place to start would be by resisting Tory cuts in the vital council services for the vulnerable.

Have your say and persuade Marvin to show leadership and fight back. The consultation document on the cuts (or perhaps it should be called Where To Move The Deckchairs On The Titanic) is at bristol.gov.uk/ corpstrategy and you have until January 5 to give your opinion.

Some good news now. You may have seen news of a Green Party motion in council to clean up the air in central Bristol and help the 300-plus people who die early because of the pollution.

Thanks to the 4,000 of you who signed the petition we were successful and the motion passed!

Now you all need to hold to account your MP, the mayor and the council (including me) and make sure that this is acted upon.

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n YOUR COUNCILLORS

T

HIS month sees the long awaited publication of the local Sustainability and Transformation Plan (STP) for the NHS which has raised concerns across the country. The plan covers Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire.

The STPs require local organisations to work together to develop joint plans which improve health, improve the quality of services and deliver financial balance throughout the local care system. NHS England was less than transparent when they asked local clinical gommissioning groups to keep the plans under wraps during the early development process, which led to suspicion and worry about the content, especially when cuts to funding are likely.

The NHS deficit is projected to be £400million within the next five years. The NHS is under resourced, and coping with increased demand, so it is all the more important that local people, NHS staff and council members

Mark Bradshaw Labour Bedminster

33

Bedminster

Celia Phipps, Labour Bedminster

are fully involved in the plans.

There are few surprises in the plan and most will agree with the intent of the broad statements, but the detail of delivery is not yet available.

Labour is concerned that STPs will not have enough funding to work and that savings will be difficult to achieve, so our MPs will continue to put pressure on the Government.

Labour councillors believe that local authorities need a strong voice within our local STP to ensure that it does not merely focus its efforts purely on cutting NHS services. In addition, we believe that the STP needs to prioritise the vital role of social

How to contact your councillor: p2

workers and care workers who provide the support and care to keep people out of hospital. The council’s people scrutiny committee will play an important part in the ongoing refinement of the plans to make sure decisions are made public and with full local consultation. You can find the plan on the CCG website: • bristolccg.nhs.uk

I

t’s been a busy year and we have attended many local events including Make Sunday Special in North Street and Ashton Vale, regular coffee morning drop-ins, local organisation meetings, street walks and of course, the Greater Bedminster Community Partnership meetings. You are very welcome to come to these public meetings and help us to improve our neighbourhood; the next meeting is on January 16 at 7pm at Windmill Hill City Farm.

We will continue to work to deliver Let’s Clean Bedminster, now as part of the Clean Streets campaign which was launched in

How healthy are your pet’s teeth?

November by mayor Marvin Rees. We will continue to work with you to look at the reviews of residents parking, and there is still time to take part in the draft corporate strategy consultation on the council’s £92m budget shortfall, which runs until January 5.

So, as we come to the end of an extraordinary year, we would like to wish you all a very Happy Christmas and a healthy New Year, and despite the clear challenges the New Year will bring, we look to meeting many more local residents.

Mark and I are always happy to hear your suggestions about how we can make our community better so why not drop us an email. We regularly join coffee mornings and sessions running at Ashton Vale community Centre.

We also drop in to Acta community theatre every month on the first Friday between 10.30-11.30am, so look out for a notice through your door, or contact us direct.

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ADVICE FROM A PHARMACIST over a few decades the rate of Make today decline has now slowed.

Those in the lowest groups, the the day you set socioeconomic unemployed and those with health issues are the people your lungs free mental least likely to quit. Sadly they are

B

EDMINSTER Pharmacy recently took part in the Stoptober campaign, the 28-day stop smoking challenge that encourages smokers across England towards quitting for good.

Stoptober is backed by Public Health England and is based on the insight that if you can stop smoking for 28 days, you are five times more likely to be able to quit for good.

Stoptober has driven almost one million attempts to quit.

There has been a steady drop in smoking rates as a result of government policy, public health messages and changes in social perceptions. The highest recorded level of smoking among men in Great Britain was 82 per cent in 1948! At that time, significant numbers of men smoked pipes or cigars as well as, or instead of, cigarettes. Despite a steady decline

also more likely to be heavy smokers at 21 to 30 cigarettes a day.

Smoking is acknowledged to be the biggest contributor to health inequalities in Bristol. South Bristol has a high deprivation level and in some areas smoking rates are five times those of Clifton Down.

Smoking causes around 90 per cent of lung cancers and is also linked to cancer in other parts of the body.

The risks of smoking during pregnancy are serious, from premature delivery to increased risk of miscarriage, stillbirth and sudden infant death.

Over 80 per cent of cigarette smoke is invisible, so no matter how careful you are, your family still breathes in more harmful chemicals than you think. This puts your children at risk of serious illness, including meningitis, cancer, bronchitis and pneumonia.

Bristol City Council funds a

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budget constraints, the merit of this service funded by the council is beyond dispute. One in two long-term smokers dies from a smoking-related disease.

At Bedminster Pharmacy, we have smoking advisers always available to help. Come in and have a look at our displays to get some information. More importantly, give up today.

• This column by Ade Williams and Michelle Leow of Bedminster Pharmacy aims to show how all local pharmacies can offer help with a range of conditions, helping to ease pressure on GPs.

Planners say no to Philip Street flats A REQUEST to build a block of eight flats on an empty plot in Philip Street, Bedminster has been rejected as out of keeping by planning officers.

The site lies in the Bedminster Conservation Area between the Motaman shop on Bedminster Parade and the Apple Tree pub behind it. It is also opposite the Philip Street Chapel.

But the developer failed to include a heritage statement assessing how the plans would affect the conservation area.

The BS3 Planning group criticised the plan as overintensive, too high, and failing to provide family accommodation.

The plan was for six flats of two

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Refused: The Philip Street block

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bedrooms with two more onebed flats on the top floor.

The proposal failed to provide enough information on flood risk, or the noise impact on residents from the next-door pub.

It also failed to say whether there would be any overlooking of the flats which are proposed to be built above Motaman.

Proposed Side Elevations (southeast)

Proposed Side Elevations (northeast)

We’re making gargoyles to make our walk safer

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smoking cessation service available through local pharmacies. You get free smoking cessation products and the support of a trained adviser. Our support is confidential with a non-judgemental approach.

We know that even smokers acknowledge it is bad for health, socially unacceptable, dangerous in pregnancy and harmful to children.

Statistically you are more successful if you use a cessation programme: we can help you beat the habit.

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December 2016

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CHILDREN from Compass Point school are doing their bit to make it easier for everyone to walk around Bedminster, by making their own gargoyles to mark out a safe route to school.

It’s the latest activity to emerge from Let’s Walk Bedminster, a project started last year as part of Bristol European Green Capital.

The children spent a morning exploring the Green Man route, which runs from Compass Point in South Street and stays off-road as far as possible to St John’s churchyard, behind East Street.

Traditionally, gargoyles are grotesque figureheads, used on

old churches to ward off evil. The children are making their own, inspired by the Green Man sculpture in the churchyard.

The pupils who made the best 10 drawings will be able to fire their gargoyles in clay with the help of Pottery on Wheels and arts project Launchpad, who will visit the school on December 6.

Both the gargoyles and wooden leaf markers made by the children will be hung along the Green Man route – alerting people that it’s an important path and hopefully encouraging neighbours to keep it clean and free of rubbish.

To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Ruth on 07590 527664

December 2016

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35

n ARTS Reinventing the witch for Christmas show THIS Christmas show is going to be popular with parents of small children not used to live events – there are guaranteed no frights.

In this retelling of Hansel and Gretel, the witch doesn’t wear a black hat, cackle or want to eat children.

South Bristol’s BraveBoldDrama have teamed up with BS13 Theatre Company to stage the show at Zion in Bedminster Down, promising beautiful images, original music and that it’s suitable for all ages.

The traditional tale is retold with music, puppetry – and no scary bits.

Living close by a forest, Hansel and Gretel are typical children. Often hungry, always wanting to play, the forest is their playground. But when they wake up alone in the forest at

Alice through another glass

Rehearsals: With Rachael Moon (Gretel) and Joshua Phillips (Hansel) midnight, things feel very different. They meet a witch – of course. But not all witches seek to harm ... The production is full of layers for all ages to enjoy.

Family shows are at 6pm on Saturday December 3 and 11am on Sunday December 4.

On December 4 at 6pm there is a performance for adult audiences with a post-show talk with cast and design team about

the making of the production.

Because Hansel & Gretel are, for a time, abandoned children, the production will raise funds and awareness of the work of Calais Refugee Solidarity Bristol.

Tickets are £8 for adults, £5 for children, and £25 for two adults and up to three children.

Zion is at Bishopsworth Road, Bedminster Down BS13 7JW. • zionbristol.co.uk

THIS YEAR’S Southville pantomime is Alice Takes a Trip, keeping up the tradition of alternatives to the traditional panto.

It plays at the SouthBank Club in Dean Lane on Friday December 2, Saturday December 3 and Sunday December 4.

The Friday and Saturday shows are at 7.30pm and the Sunday event at 5pm.

Tickets can be reserved by emailing recessiongill@gmail. com. Adult tickets are £8, concessions £7 and children £5.

They are also available from Recession, 8 Jacobs Wells Road, Hotwells, on Thursday, Friday or Saturday from 12noon-5.30pm.

The audience is advised that there is no advantage to arriving at Wonderland early, as the doors at SouthBank won’t be opened until 15 minutes before each performance.

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

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December 2016

n WHAT’S ON Friday November 25 n Red Carpet at the Riviera Christmas party nights at paintworks, Bath Road, until December 17 (some dates already sold out). Canapés, dinner, casino, acrobats and entertainment from 7pm. Tickets from £37.50. Discount for companies based at Paintworks.

• bestpartiesever.com Thursday December 1 n Fairtrade and Festive Market Create Centre BS1 6XN. 12-7pm. Fairtrade shopping for gifts and festive foods for all the family. Including ethical cotton clothing, Palestinian food and gifts, beauty products. Café open.

• createbristol.org Saturday December 3 n Christmas Fair St Michael and All Angels, Vivian Street, Windmill Hill, 12noon-2.30pm.

• stmikechurch.co.uk n Mike Scott Saltcellar Folk Club, Basement of Totterdown Baptist Church, Cemetery Road, Totterdown. 7.30pm, £5. “Another popular Saltcellar performer whose wry and witty reflections are hugely enjoyed at local folk clubs and festivals.”

• saltcellarfolk.org.uk n Stand Up for the Weekend with David Trent Comedy Box at the Hen & Chicken, North Street, Southville. David Trent uses projectors and frenetic video editing for a high-energy commentary on celebrity culture.

Plus guests. Tickets £12; with meal at Hen & Chicken £29.

• thecomedybox.co.uk Sunday December 4 n Jive Fusion Dance classes for beginners upwards, mixing LeRoc, ballroom, latin, salsa and stroll. Every Sunday 4-6pm at St Francis church centre, North Street, Southville. Tutor Derek Knapman 07549 590269. £6 on the door or six sessions for £20.

Monday December 5 n Light Up West Street Family carols with Bedminster Citadel Salvation Army Band.

Mulled wine and hot drinks from Mezzaluna and mince pies from Tesco. Organised by Way Out West. Starts 6pm outside Mezzaluna and Tesco on West Street Bedminster. Carol sheets provided. facebook.com/WOWBS3 n A Sting in the Tale Work

by Young Theatremakers at the Tobacco Factory. Inspired by fairytales, the YTM11:13 group present Good Things/Bad People: what makes someone a

Bush and Fey: they just love to play for you REVIEW: Bush & Fey, Thunderbolt, Totterdown ONE of Bristol’s hardestworking musical duos chose the Thunderbolt in Totterdown to launch their second album.

Steve Bush and Fran Fey unleashed Earl Grey and Leather to an enthusiastic reception on November 10.

The bluesy duo are well known on the Bristol circuit, having supported many bands since they got together 15 years ago, at venues including the Fleece, but they’ve also ventured further afield to Bath, Frome, London and Dorset.

It’s a mark of the strength of their performances and original songs that they can fill a room with just Steve’s voice and Fran’s guitar.

The album has a deeper sound, with drums, keyboards, good person? Can any act be 100 per cent evil? In the second half, YTM14:19 present Not So Very Far Away, using music, physical theatre and puppetry in a tale of a dragon with complicated feelings. Ages 7+.

Tickets £3, 7.45pm • tobaccofactorytheatres.com

Wednesday December 7 n Bizarre Bazaar Acta Theatre, Gladstone Street, Bedminster. “Everything is quiet in Excentris City, where magic has been banned for 20 years. But then madcap trainee witch Mildew arrives on her broomstick, and accidentally sets free an ancient evil. With the Anti-Magic Force hot on her tail, Mildew is in a race against time to put things right. Can she find the spell she needs? Where is Wonderworld? And what is the hidden secret of the Bizarre

bass and percussion, recorded at Invada Studios at the Old Fire Station on Coronation Road, Bedminster. Invada grew out of a studio owned by Portishead’s Geoff Barrow, and the album was produced by Portishead veteran John Pickford.

Live, it’s full of passion, with Steve’s forceful, quirky delivery matched by Fran’s captivating guitars and effects. They’re rare for having lyrics full of depth which are easily absorbed live, from the caustic view of a charitable saint, Jemima Saves The World, to the fantastical The Forest of Dean Martin.

The pair met when Fran moved to Bristol about 15 years ago and

both were looking for musical partners. “It clicked from the beginning,” said Fran – he began new arrangements of Steve’s material and they were away.

They don’t like to be pigeonholed – “I don’t think, ‘what type of song will this be?’ when I pick up the guitar,” said Fran – but they have shades of all kinds of influences, from Nick Cave to Bob Dylan.

It may have taken them two years to make the record – Fran, from Knowle, is a teacher and Steve, from Brislington, until recently worked for the council – but they’ve got up a handful of new songs for the next one.

It’s their professionalism that stands out, from the polished performance to the presentation of the album, pressed to look like vinyl, with superb photos (taken at Severn Beach) by Knowle’s Benji Cooper. It’s not as though they’re looking for a rock ’n’ roll career: “It’s mainly for the love of playing,” said Fran.

Definitely worth a listen.

Paul Breeden • Facebook: Steve Bush & Fran Fey

Bazaar?” Also on December 8, 14, 15, 16, 17. 7pm, • acta-bristol.com Thursday December 8 n Amy Rigby with Wreckless Eric The Thunderbolt, Bath Road, Totterdown. Amy Rigby became well-known at the age of 37 with her 1996 album Diary of a Mod Housewife. Hailed as “up there with Paul Simon and Randy Newman” as a songwriter, she’s performing with her husband, 1970s pop legend Wreckless Eric.

7.30-11.30pm, £10.

• thethunderbolt.net Friday December 9 n Knowle & Totterdown Local History Society Christmas Party Redcatch community centre, Redcatch Road, Knowle, 7.30pm. John Penney will give a short talk, Communicating Christmas, followed by festive food and drinks.

• knowleandtotterdownhistory. org.uk Saturday December 10 n Christmas Coffee Morning Bedminster Methodist church, British Road, Bedminster, 10.30am-12noon. With seasonal stalls, tea, coffee, mince pies. n Winter Fair Windmill Hill City Farm, Philip Street,

Bedminster. 11am-4pm. Festive live music, Farmer Tim’s Barbecue, street food stalls, crystal grotto, wishing tree, Christmas trees for sale, local art, gifts, fairy wand making by Floriography and more. Free!

• windmillhillcityfarm.org.uk n Christmas shopping night Victoria Park Baptist Church, Sylvia Avenue, with stalls from jewellery to gifts to delicious handmade macaroons from a variety of talents from all over Bristol. Great opportunity to get a gift for a loved one without the chaos of Broadmead. Helping to raise funds for a local church while spreading Christmas cheer.

7.30-10pm . For details email ruth@themalago.net n Bedminster Winter Lantern Parade Leaves at 4.30pm from St Francis Church, North Street, Southville, processes along North Street, Cannon Street, British Road and back to Compass Point school next to South Street park for hot drinks and fireworks at around 6.15pm.

• bwlp.org.uk n The Big ’Un music night Windmill Hill community centre, Vivian Street, with DJ Barry the Bull. 8pm-late. Tonight: Motown

Forceful delivery: Steve and Fran

To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Ruth on 07590 527664

December 2016

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37

n WHAT’S ON Cinderella’s magical show is extended THE MAGIC hasn’t started yet – and already demand for the Tobacco Factory’s Christmas show has meant that the run has been extended.

Cinderella: A Fairytale will play at the North Street theatre all the way from December 2 to January 22, giving every fan of this classic Christmas show a chance to see it.

Cinderella: A Fairytale was first presented at the Tobacco Factory in 2011. Since then it’s been seen around the country by 60,000 people, been nominated for an Olivier Award and won an Off West End Award.

In this version of the classic fairy tale, when Ella’s mother dies she is brought up by her loving father who teaches her the names and calls of the woodland birds that surround their home.

But when her father marries again, Ella’s peaceful life is turned upside down by a host of & soul. Quizzes and food.

• whca.org.uk n Adrian Sherwood Fiddlers Club, Willway Street, Bedminster. Live dub set plus full band set by Laid Blak, mixed by Sherwood. Plus guests. 8pm2am.

• fiddlers.co.uk • Sunday December 11 n The Wurzels Xmas Show The Tunnels, Temple Meads.

Formed in 1966 by Adge Cutler, the Bard of Avonmouth, this bunch of haystack-headed, cider-soaked, not-quite-so-young Avonside lads play good-time traditional Zummerzet Scrumpy ’n’ Western. 7.30pm, £12.

• thetunnelsbristol.co.uk Monday December 12 n Totterdown Square Gardening Club Meets outside Tesco, Totterdown on the second Monday of the month to tend the communal planters, 11.45am12.45 pm • tresa.co.uk Wednesday December 14 n The Greatest Story Ever Told A festive musical evening devised and performed by Tim Lewis and Sheila Furneau.

Bedminster Methodist Church, British Road, Bedminster, 7pm.

Cinderella: New take on a classic fairy tale

Picture: FARROWS CREATIVE

new and unpleasant relations. It appears her only allies are the feathered friends, but they are no ordinary birds …

The show was created by the Tobacco Factory theatres team and Travelling Light, who also collaborated on 101 Dalmatians and Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves.

Together they promise an original and absorbing visual

style, crystal-clear storytelling, original live music and pitchperfect ensemble acting.

If you want to be among the first to see it, you can bag bargain £8.50 preview tickets for performances between Friday December 2 and Wednesday December 7.

Regular ticket prices are £16 for adults, £11 concessions and £45 for a family of up to four.

Collection for Jessie May Trust.

Thursday December 15 n SouthBank Christmas Party SouthBank Club, Dean Lane, Southville.Performance from The Balkany Band, DJs, mulled wine. 8pm.

• southbankclub.webs.com Saturday December 17 n Stand Up for the Weekend with Andrew Bird Comedy Box at the Hen & Chicken, North Street, Southville.

“Andrew Bird is always funny and frequently hilarious. He’s a nimble storyteller, with a relaxed, personable style.” Plus guests.

Tickets £12; with meal at Hen & Chicken £29.

• thecomedybox.co.uk Sunday December 18 n Family Carol Service United Reformed Church, West Street, Bedminster, followed by hot drinks and mince pies in the Church Hall. 11 am.

Wednesday December 21 n Mighty Dub Generators Live dub band at Fiddlers Club, Willway Street, Bedminster. Plus DJ Alexi and DJ Snoopy. 8pm2am. £5 advance, £7 on door.

• fiddlers.co.uk Thursday December 22 n London Calling: Joe

Strummer Remembrance Night The Thunderbolt, Bath Road, Totterdown. Clash tribute, presented by Death or Glory.

7.30-11.30pm, £6.

• thethunderbolt.net Friday December 23 n Retro Electro The Tunnels, Temple Meads. Retro Electro are five musicians from the Bristol and Bath area, playing 1980s music from the likes of Simple Minds, Level 42 and Spandau Ballet. 7.30pm, £10.

• thetunnelsbristol.co.uk

Saturday December 31 n New Year’s Eve: Escape the Metropolis Tobacco Factory. Cirque Bijou, Tobacco Factory theatres and the Thali Cafe create an enticing escape for the year’s end by turning the clock back to 1927 and resurrecting the spirit of Metropolis – Fritz Lang’s iconic depiction of a dystopian future

Performances from Saturday December 17 to Friday December 30, and January 7 and 8, are £20 for adults, £15 concessions and £60 for families.

There is an interpreted performance using BSL (British Sign Language) on Thursday December 15.

And there’s a special relaxed performance on Wednesday January 18 at 6.30pm for those with extra needs. A pre-show information pack will be provided, the house lights will be on, sound and lighting effects will be lessened and a chill out space will be available.

PRE-SHOW WORKSHOPS If you want to find out more about the show, join a 60-minute pre-show workshop with Chris Pirie, director of Cinderella: A Fairytale, before the matinee performance on the following dates. Explore the world of the show and help create some of the magic!

It’s for ages 6-12 years, and costs £10 per person, on Saturday December 10, Saturday December 17 and Sunday January 7, all at 11am.

• tobaccofactorytheatres.com where the workers toil day after day. “We’ll have amazing aerial acts, fire dancing, juggling, burlesque, stilt walking, slack line, hula hooping and interactive walkabout performance.” Live music from the Carny Villans, plus DJs aplenty. From 7.30pm, £35.

• tobaccofactorytheatres.com n New Year’s Eve with The 45s The Thunderbolt, Bath Road, Totterdown. The 45s are “A world-class power pop trio who mix the best in Motown, soul, rock and blues with an edge.” Featuring the music of Elvis, Otis Redding and James Brown. A sellout last year. With DJ Kev Regz. £12 • thethunderbolt.net n New Years Eve Party The Tunnels, Temple Meads.

With DJ and covers band.

7.30pm-1am, £12.

• thetunnelsbristol.co.uk n New Year’s Eve at Zion Three live bands at Zion Bristol, Bishopsworth Road BS13 7LW. Music from The Baskervilles, upcoming South West Indie band, Bristol tribute act Any Winehouse and Dire, a rock/pop covers band. 8pm-1am.

• zionbristol.co.uk

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

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To advertise, contact sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or Ruth on 07590 527664

December 2016

southbristolvoice

n ARTS Eerie tale of the near future where words are rationed REVIEW Lemons Lemons Lemons Lemons Lemons, Tobacco Factory THE TWO young actors in Lemons Lemons Lemons Lemons

Lemons delivered likeable, naturalistic performances, all the more notable because the stage set for this piece is just two stand-up microphones placed opposite each other in the Tobacco Factory’s black-painted performance space.

We observe all the chatter and excitement of a newly-forming relationship, and its progression to the point where the couple, Oliver and Bernadette, know each other and adopt their own

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solving the puzzle of what is going on with the plot, while the protagonists react to what is happening around them. Clever and thought-provoking on many levels.

Actors Euan Kitson and Beth Holmes are part of Walrus, a young company made up of graduates from the University of Warwick. This hour-long piece won three Judges’ Awards at the National Student Drama Festival.

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December 2016

INVITATION

CJ Hole Southville invite you to accept our offer of a free sales or lettings valuation.

To arrange an appointment, please telephone the office or call in personally.

If you have instructed another agent on a sole agency and/or sole selling rights basis, the terms of those instructions must be considered to avoid a possible liability to pay two commissions.

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t: 0117 963 4373 southville@cjhole.co.uk With 17 offices covering Bristol, Gloucester and Somerset

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