They Put The Unity in Community
On Midsummer’s Day, Redcatch Park played host to a truly remarkable celebration of local spirit, sunshine, and solidarity as The Big Picnic brought together thousands of locals across one joyful day of connection, creativity, and community pride.
THE EVENT WAS THE BRAINCHILD of Friends of Redcatch Park (FORP), the award-winning volunteer group led by Sian Ellis-Thomas and Lesley Powell, whose vision was simple: to put the unity back in community.
From the early hours of the morning to the last rays of evening sunshine, the park buzzed with energy. The event opened at 6.30am and didn’t wind down until well after 8pm, offering something for everyone across the day. There were fitness and yoga sessions, cricket and tennis, a high-energy Zumba class, and a joyful Rock Out Baby session led by local musician Ella Arnold that saw almost a hundred parents and children singing and dancing in the sunshine.
An official opening by Bristol’s Lord Mayor Henri Michallat at midday, kicked off the afternoon’s events. He took
his time to talk to many of the community groups, stall holders and popped into the Community Garden to say hello.
A bustling market of over 23 community stalls created a lively hub for local organisations to connect with the public. Many of these were non-profit groups who were given their pitch for free, giving them the opportunity to raise awareness or funds for their causes. Among them was Jubilee Pool, who ran four separate stalls and raised an astonishing £2,000 — more than double their target — to support vital roof repairs.
A free all-day cinema tent featured family favourites like
The Goonies and Mary Poppins, while the food truck area offered everything from roast pork baps from Yew Tree Farm to fish and chips from Farrow’s of Totterdown. Visitors were encouraged to bring their own picnic blankets and settle in for the day, soaking up the atmosphere. Local brewers Bristol Beer Factory supplied a pop-up bar and beer as part of their Brewed to Give initiative, which supports grassroots community events like The Big Picnic — a partnership that perfectly matched the event’s values and although the planned hot air balloon launch had to be
Continued on Page 3
Have your say on Broadwalk Redevelopment
Consultation meeting on Friday 11 July
Knowle Methodist Church, 9 Redcatch Road, BS4 2EP
Session 1: 12pm-3pm
Session 2: 4pm-7pm
[Image: Ben Skingley]
Continued from Front Page
cancelled due to high winds, spirits remained sky-high.
Music was a key part of the celebration. Batala Bristol Samba Reggae band set the midafternoon tone with their powerful rhythms and choreography, drawing crowds with their unmistakable energy. Throughout the day, four bands and three solo performers took to the stage, creating a rolling soundtrack of live music. As dusk approached, Steve Carpenter’s Decades Disco got the crowd dancing with a nostalgic blend of feel-good classics.
Every detail had been carefully thought through by organisers Sian and Lesley, whose dedication shone through in the seamless running of the day. “We set out to hold a free event that would bring the whole of Knowle together,” said Sian. “In times like these, community connection is more important than ever. It was such a joyful day”
With more than 150 volunteers involved in planning and delivering the day — and many local sponsors contributing prizes, goods, and support — the
event was not just a celebration, but a true collaboration. “We’ve been overwhelmed by the generosity and spirit shown by everyone,” added Lesley. “Looking around and seeing so many people smiling made it all worth it. We’re incredibly proud.”
Looking ahead, the organisers are keen to share what they’ve learned. “We want to make our expertise, equipment and experience available to help other Bristol organisations host their own Big Picnic,” they said. “By sharing resources, we can help make more of these community events possible — and they are so needed.”
The Big Picnic is not just an event. It’s a movement and South Bristol Voice was very happy to sponsor this amazing and inclusive community event - a shining example of Knowle at its very best.
Let’s hope they’ve got the energy to do it again next year! Check out the event on Facebook to see the photos and comments. www.friendsofredcatchpark.com hello@friendsofredcatchpark.com
Electrician
◆ExtraLightsandSockets
◆Fuseboardupgrades
◆Rewires
◆Smokealarms
◆ElectricalSafetyReports
◆Gardenlights&Power
◆Securitylights
◆FaultFinding Specialisinginelectricsforyourhome
Les and Sian hard at work
[Image: Ben Skingley]
07590 527664
sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk
news@southbristolvoice.co.uk
Next
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: Call the above number for an appointment
My councillor?
Post: (all councillors) City Hall, College Green, Bristol BS1 5TR.
Ellie Freeman Green, Bedminster Email: cllr.ellie.freeman@bristol.gov.uk
By phone: 0738 669 8680
Emily Clarke Labour, Bedminster
Email: cllr.emily.clarke@bristol.gov.uk
Phone: 0738 669 8678
Tony Dyer, Green, Southville Phone: 0758 418 2862
Email: Cllr.Tony.Dyer@bristol.gov.uk
COMPLAINTS
Despite our best efforts, we sometimes get things wrong. We always try to resolve issues informally at first but we also have a formal complaints procedure. If you have a complaint about anything in the South Bristol Voice, contact the Editor using the details below. We aspire to follow the Code of Conduct of the NUJ (National Union of Journalists), nuj.org.uk/about/nuj-code
Further details of the complaints process can be found on our website (below) or can be obtained by contacting the Editor by email: sales@southbristolvoice.co.uk or by post: 111 Broadfield Rd, Knowle, Bristol BS4 2UX or by phone: 07590527664 southbristolvoice.co.uk/complaints-procedure
All stories and pictures are ©South Bristol Voice (unless otherwise stated) and may not be reproduced without permission.
South Bristol Media Ltd | Co. no. 11948223 | VAT no. 322 3640 38
Christine Townsend Green, Southville Phone: 0758 418 3843
Email: Cllr.Christine. Townsend@bristol.gov.uk
Cam Hayward Green, Knowle Email: cam.hayward@ bristolgreenparty.org.uk
Toby Wells Green, Knowle. Phone: 07386 698771
Email: toby.wells@bristolgreenparty.org. uk
Ed Plowden Green, Windmill Hill Phone: 07584184577
Email: Cllr.Ed.Plowden@bristol.gov.uk
Lisa Stone Green, Windmill Hill Phone: 0758 418 6535
Email: Cllr.Lisa.Stone@bristol.gov.uk
USEFUL NUMBERS
Bristol City Council www.bristol.gov.uk 01179222000
Waste, roads 01179222100
Pests, dog wardens 01179222500 Council tax 01179222900
Follow us on social media:
Housing benefit 01179222300
Social services 01179222900 Police Inquiries 101 Emergency 999
Windmill Hill Community Association Unveils New AccessibleToilet
Windmill Hill Community Centre in Bristol has recently completed a significant accessibility overhaul, installing a brand-new, dedicated accessible toilet alongside upgrading its other facilities. This initiative forms part of a larger refurbishment that began in March 2025.
“The accessible toilet is designed with inclusivity at its heart”, explained councillor Lisa Stone, “Offering essential features for people with disabilities, mobility issues, those changing nappies, and others who benefit from extra space. The project not only meets regulatory accessibility standards but also responds to heartfelt feedback from local residents and community groups”.
This facility was made possible thanks to generous funding from Bristol City Council, the John James Foundation, the National Lottery Community Fund and completed with paint donated by Brewers Decorators Centre, highlighting strong local partnership and shared
commitment to accessibility. The facilities are now open, offering a more welcoming and inclusive environment for all users.
The Centre organisers, who are all volunteers, have thanked the public and regular users for their patience during the works, ensuring continued delivery of classes and groups throughout. They encourage everyone to visit and experience the improved convenience and comfort— whether they’re attending regular classes, social events, or community meetings.
These enhancements reflect the WHCA’s determination to create a truly accessible community hub. For updates or enquiries, email info@whca.org.uk
�LOCAL NEWS
Kids go free on buses
Children and young people under the age of 16 are set to be able to travel for free on buses across our region during the school holidays, thanks to new investment proposed by the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority.
AROUND 150,000 KIDS in Bath & North East Somerset, Bristol, North Somerset, and South Gloucestershire aged from 5-15 years old could benefit from free bus travel this summer –just by hopping on board, with no bus pass or registration required.
Pupils from Perry Court EACT Academy and local council leaders marked that news with the new Mayor of the West of England at one of the most popular free play-parks in the south of England.
Just over a month after being elected as Mayor, Helen Godwin announced plans for this one-of-
a-kind move for the region during an event at Hengrove Play Park in South Bristol on Monday, 9 June.
These plans are hot-on-theheels of last month’s extension of free bus travel – all-year-round –for care leavers across the West aged up to and including 25 years old. It also follows news last week that the West of England is set to receive a record £752 million of transport funding for better buses, more trains, and mass transit, which was welcomed by local leaders across our region last week.
Why Running Socks are Worth Investing in �ADVERTORIAL
Running socks are an overlooked but vital running accessory. We invest in good quality shoes but often give our socks little-to-no thought. However, a quality sport-specific sock will actually help you move more freely and for longer without pain, discomfort and distraction.
It can be tempting to buy a multi-pack of cotton socks when you see the price of a single pair of running socks but when you consider the materials, durability and overall fit and feel of socks you realise why they make such a difference.
The golden rule for running is to avoid cotton socks as cotton holds moisture and creates a warm, wet environment around your feet. This leads to rubbing, irritation and ultimately blisters. Socks made of moisture-wicking materials like polyester, nylon and merino wool keep feet dry and cool.
Running socks are designed to be durable and last longer. They are reinforced in high wear areas such as the toes and heels to reduce the likelihood of holes. When you add up the total cost of investing in a couple of pairs of durable running
socks versus buying cheaper pairs that are less comfortable and need to be frequently replaced, the price of quality running socks is justified. Many brands, such as Darn Tough, are so confident in the quality of their socks that they offer a lifetime guarantee making them a nobrainer.
Look out for additional features which enhance the overall fit and feel, such as:
◆ Seamless toe constructions provide a flat, invisible and smooth feel at the end of the sock.
◆ Mesh channels wick moisture away from your feet and keep them dry.
◆ Deep heel pockets and pull-tabs keep socks from slipping down into your shoes as you run.
There is so much to think about but fortunately Kinisi Run Hub are here to help! We stock a wide variety of running socks from leading international and local brands and will gladly talk you through the various options to help find you the perfect running socks. Go on treat your feet!
�COMMUNITY NEWS
Green spots appear overnight in Southville
Several bright green spots have appeared overnight on a road in Southville, causing speculation amongst locals.
THESE PECULIAR SPOTS are located in various parts of Greville Road. Southville.
This addition to the road has received mixed local response, with some Southville locals expressing confusion over the sudden appearance of the spots.
“They just appeared one day! I think they are really cool, but we’d love some context as to why are they here”, shared one local woman.
“I don't like them. My Dad says that the road has a virus!”, said a local girl.
Another local resident shared that he believed it was due to occasional closures of the road that enabled children to safely play.
According to a report published by Bristol 24/7, Cllr Ed Plowden, Chair of Bristol City Council's Transport and Connectivity Committee, confirmed that the spots were intentionally painted due to a community and council collaborative scheme. It aims to calm traffic in the area and prevent road accidents.
The scheme based upon the principles laid out in the “Liveable Neighbourhoods Handbook”† encourages communities to be involved in decisions around changes to local community spaces, with a view to improving these spaces through a range of initiatives, many of which involve reducing or removing traffic.
In this case the members of the local community were consulted about the decision to paint the green spots. However, this happened in 2023 and has had to wait for a resurfacing
before being carried out. Some do not feel these changes are beneficial.
Article by Holly Farmer
†Find the report here: www.bristol.gov.uk/ files/documents/ 5807-liveableneighbourhoodshandbook
The Green Spots in the street appeared overnight and were a surprise to many of the local residents [Image: holly Farmer]
Bruhaha is now offering Sunday Summer roasts
If you haven't heard the recent buzz, local brewpub Bruhaha on Wells Road is now offering Sunday Summer roasts.
Courtesy of top Totterdown chef Melissa Meakins, formerly of The Pelican in Chew Magna, the roast menu choices are wild and sustainable meat, so you’re more likely to get venison or duck rather than beef, lamb or chicken - much more exciting - with a veggie option available too.
All roasts are served on a sharing board with seasonal veg and Yorkshire puddings. Plus you can always ask for extra trimmings too if there’s not enough to go round and with a different choice of side dishes and small desserts every week it’s well worth a visit. Fancy a spot of lunch? Then visit www.bruhaha.beer/menu/ and click to book, or scan the QR-code opposite.
If you prefer something smaller, on Friday and Saturday lunchtimes
Bruhaha is still offering it’s dinerinspired menu of Brunch Burritos, Huevos rancheros, their new Oatmilk American Pancakes and more. Meanwhile, on Wednesday and Thursday evenings, the Dog & A Pint midweek deal runs from 4 til 7pm, where customers can buy any BrüDog - using traditional brats from Totterdown snag wrangler, Sausagenius - plus a house drink for just £15, saving a few quid.
With the pub now opening on Tuesday evenings from July 1st too, it’s nice to have another option for dinner ideas over the summer holidays don’t you think?
�NEWS FROM BS3 COMMUNITYTHE CHARITY THAT RUNS THE SOUTHVILLE CENTRE AND THE CHESSEL CENTRE
At BS3 Community Development, our mission is to elevate the wellbeing, health, happiness, and connection for people living in the BS3 area.
ONE OF OUR PRIORITIES is addressing loneliness and social isolation. It’s something we all experience at times and just talking about it can make a real difference.
As part of Bristol Walk Fest, our Communities Team recently led a gentle walk to explore the idea of Green Social Prescribing, the use of nature-based activities to support wellbeing. We explored some of BS3’s smaller green spaces, taking time to pause and appreciate the calming effect of nature. Spending time in nature can have a real positive impact on our wellbeing, and this walk was a gentle reminder of that.
Our Growing Together project is another way we’re connecting people through nature. In partnership with Bountiful Bristol, we’re connecting allotments with
Come and be part of our Growing Together project
community food projects, bringing people together to grow nutritious food and friendships. We run friendly growing
If you’re interested in joining us, get in touch via food@bs3community.org.uk or call Jackie on 07487 329854.
Activities can be a great way to meet new people, even if we can feel nervous about trying something different. That’s why we run two friendly weekly clubs designed to bring people together: Monday Club for Older People at the Southville Centre
Tuesday Club at Philip Street Chapel, Bedminster
Plus our Stroll & Chat walking group every Tuesday, meeting at 10.30am outside the Tobacco Factory – come rain or shine!
sessions at Alderman Moore Allotments in Ashton Vale every other Wednesday (10am–12pm, with coffee from 9.30am).
Whether you're looking to connect with others, try something new, or enjoy the outdoors, we’d love to welcome you. For more details, call us on: 0117 923 1039 or visit www.bs3community.org.uk
�COMMUNITY NEWS
Share Bristol Library Turns One
The library of things is celebrating its first birthday, and what a year it’s been!
SINCE OPENING IN JUNE
2024 the library has lent out over 2500 items to the community, including gazebos, drills, projectors and camping equipment! The Bedminster location, located on East Street has even become busier than the sister location in Kingswood, which is three years older!
The library opened with just six hours of weekly opening time but has since extended to nine hours a week and has more extensions planned! It’s not just a library though, the venue have been running a thriving community hub, hosting social cooking classes to macrame workshops to yoga to comedy gigs and film nights. The East Street venue has hosted over 200 events with support from local businesses.
And it’s not just tools you’ll
find on the shelves. While they once offered a car roof box (it was re-homed after taking up too much space), one of the smallest items is a tiny Allen key that is easy to misplace. The most indemand items? Camping gear, especially in the summer. So if you’re planning a weekend adventure, why not borrow
SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES
Holiday Food vouchers for families �
Bristol parents can get food vouchers over the school holidays to help feed children
Parents in Bristol can get food vouchers over the school holidays to help feed their children if they receive free school meals.
The vouchers are for £15 per week per child with almost £4 million put aside by Bristol City Council this year.
Vouchers allow parents and carers to choose which supermarket they wish to purchase food over the holidays. They should contact the child’s school to find out about how to access the vouchers, which are paid for from the government’s Household Support Fund.
Budget cuts leaves Bristol with about £1 million less to spend this year, with a total of £7.1 million. Around 60% of this will be spent on food vouchers, which won’t face budget cuts — although other support such as debt advice will receive less funding this year. Throughout the year, the council will spend £3.8 million on food vouchers - approved by councillors on Monday, June 16.
Graham Clapp, head of revenue and benefits, said: “That’s a £15 voucher per child per week for the May, October and February half terms; £30 per child for the Christmas holidays and £90 per child for the summer holidays.”
As well as the vouchers, there is a range of options for people struggling to afford to buy enough healthy food. The council will pay Feeding Bristol, a local charity, £650,000 this year to help with support such as food pantries and boxes of vegetables.
Labour Councillor Ellie King said: “It’s quite clear the importance of the work that Feeding Bristol do to support some of the vulnerable in the city. They’ve worked collaboratively with the council for years on food insecurity.
“But perhaps even more importantly they work with grassroots organisations to ensure that we’ve got affordable, accessible, nutritious and culturally appropriate food for the most vulnerable people in our city.”
Article by Alex Seabrook , Local Democracy Reporter
instead of buy and live out your Bear Grylls fantasy sustainably?
The library is run by volunteers, who test all the items that come in to make sure they are in good condition for the community, so don’t be shocked if you go in and find them asleep on a camp bed, it’s all part of the process!
As the team celebrates a successful first year, they are still on the lookout for donations of useful items, and volunteers to keep the library running. So, if you’ve got an underused fondue set, or want to help out behind the scenes, get involved.
Find the team at:
Share Bristol Bedminster, 4749 East Street, Bedminster, Bristol, BS3 4HB
Opening hours: Mondays 17:00 – 19:30, Wednesdays 11:00 – 14:00 and Saturdays 10:00 –14:00.The Bedminster Library of Things is at the entrance to St Catherine’s Place shopping centre, which is being redeveloped.
Our space is step-free, with plenty of space for wheelchairs. If you think we could be doing more to make our space accessible pleaselet us know.
We’re very happy to share our space, and are able to offerroom hire.
Article by Archie McWatt
EHCP timelines row �SUPPORT IN SCHOOLS
Assessment for special needs children could be faster but ‘wouldn’t be equitable’
Crucial assessments for children with special needs could happen faster but “wouldn’t be equitable” according to a leading councillor. More than 1,000 children are waiting for checks to see what support they can get with their education, with the average waiting for almost a year.
Legally, councils should take 20 weeks from when a request is made for an assessment to finalising an education, health and care plan (EHCP). This is a document that sets out what help a child with special educational needs and disabilities is entitled to.
Across England, councils achieve this 46% of the time. But the latest figures show that Bristol City Council manages to comply with the law just 3% of the time, partly due to a backlog which built up when the former Labour administration cut the budget for early support.
Green Councillor Christine Townsend, chair of the
committee, said: “We could put it up and chase the target, if that’s what we wanted to do to improve that percentage. But what that would mean is you pick out all the easier ones. There are children who have more complex needs than others.
The percentage of requests finished within 20 weeks has dropped massively over the past two years, from two thirds in August 2023 to a third last August.
There are 1,276 children waiting for an assessment at the moment to see if they need an EHCP. But the number of new plans finalised each month is rising, with 89 finished in March, 11 more than February. However there are still more new requests coming in than plans that are finalised, with 150 requests made in March, meaning that the backlog continues to grow.
The huge backlog is expected to be cleared by next March, although this is far from certain.
Article by Alex Seabrook, Local Democracy Reporter
Share Bristol Bedminster on its opening day
�COMMUNITY NEWS
Community funded skate-ramp built at Brunel Way
A new ramp has been built at Brunel Way skatepark after crowd-funding efforts.
THE RAMP was constructed by GB Olympic skateboarder Jordan Thackery and a small team in early June. Thackery also spearheaded the crowd-fund.
Previous skate ramps at the park were burnt down and destroyed. The Brunel Way Mini team (INSTAGRAM@brunelwaymini) came together to crowd-fund and repair them. In response to the vandalism, this new ramp has been built with fire-retardant properties and even features a small
climbing wall. As a larger ramp, it is able to facilitate skateboarders of higher levels to enjoy the park more.
Finlay Deedman, a local skateboarder who has been part of Bristol’s skateboarding scene for the last 4 years, expressed his excitement for the new ramp.
“Every time I've been there, it's been busy. Bristol has a large skate scene but not a lot of facilities. The skateparks we have are very old.
The council places concrete blocks but they’re obsolete at this point. This [ramp] is something skateboarders want
to skate. Before the skaters started building here, there was just dead space. It became a place where they could just do their own thing and build ramps for themselves. Now it’s like a thriving ecosystem. Sometimes
you come down here after dark and people bring lights and generators. I think it’s an integral place in Bristol’s skate scene”.
Article and imagesHolly Farmer
Still Here. Still Vital. Celebrating 25 Years of The Park Centre
IN THE YEAR 2000, The Park Centre opened its doors with a vision: to create an inclusive, supportive space at the heart of Knowle West.
A PLACE WHERE EVERYONE— particularly those who are differently abled—could feel welcome, find opportunities, and access life-changing services. Twenty-five years later, that vision is stronger than ever.
This year marks The Park’s 25th Anniversary, a milestone we’re proud to celebrate with our community. Over the years, The Park has grown into a unique and vital local ecosystem, home to more than 20 organisations, most of them not-for-profit. From our Special Education College to grassroots football, youth services, fitness classes, and food programmes, we’ve become a lifeline for South Bristol.
To mark this silver jubilee, we’re throwing open the doors and inviting everyone to join in a series
of special anniversary events.
On Friday August 22nd, we’re teaming up with our brilliant inhouse partners Square Food Foundation for a Community BBQ The Brizzle Sizzle is going to be a proper Knowle West get-together –amazing food, good vibes, and a huge celebration of the people who’ve helped shape The Park over the past two and a half decades.
Later this summer on Saturday September 6th, we’ll also be hosting a Free Fun & Wellness Day, shining a spotlight on the incredible fitness and wellbeing services that run at The Park all year round.
Expect sports, dance, movement, massage, music and a whole load of joyful energy for all ages and abilities.
And rumour has it, we might just be welcoming a very special VIP guest to The Park as part of the September celebrations. (We’re keeping tight-lipped for now… but watch this space)
As we reflect on 25 years of impact, we also look to the future— with pride, purpose, and our signature Park Centre heart. Thank you to every single person who has supported us on this journey. Here's to the next 25!
�LOCAL INTEREST
Bristol artist picked for major London portrait exhibition
A local artist is set to feature in one of the UK’s most prestigious art exhibitions this summer.
OWAIN HUNT, who lives and works in Bristol, is one of just 46 artists chosen for the Herbert Smith Freehills Portrait Award at the National Portrait Gallery in London. The award, formerly known as the BP Portrait Award, celebrates the very best in contemporary portraiture.
Selected from more than 1,400 entries worldwide, Owain’s painting is the result of a close, 18-month-long process with a school friend who sat for the portrait. “We hadn’t spoken in over a decade, but we reconnected and the painting grew out of that,” he said. “It’s layered with time, memory, and real conversation. He came and sat in my studio which used to be my childhood bedroom and we just talked. That connection is at the heart of the work.”
Owain’s approach to painting is slow and thoughtful. He works
exclusively from life, spending hours with each sitter and building portraits through observation and dialogue. “Everyone I paint is from my local community people I know, or who’ve become part of my life in some way. I try to capture something human and lasting.”
He hopes the exhibition will open new doors, both professionally and creatively. “I’ve always dreamed of being in the National Portrait Gallery. It’s something I’ve worked towards for years,” he said. “I’m especially happy that my sitter will be able to visit and see himself on the wall, it’s a shared experience and a special moment for both of us.”
The Herbert Smith Freehills Portrait Award will be on display from 10 July to 12 October at the National Portrait Gallery, St. Martin’s Place, London. The exhibition is free to attend and showcases portraits from around the world.
You can see more of Owain’s work at owainhunt.com or follow him on Instagram @owainhunt.
SOUTH BRISTOL DEFIBRILLATOR LOCATIONS
Detailed below are the locations of the existing defibrillators accessible 24/7 (unless marked ‘restricted’) that Simon Brookes from Defibs4Bristol.com has compiled, together with ‘what3words’locations for each.
Trojan Fitness, Unit 204, South Liberty Lane, Ashton, BS3 2TY. jars.digs.sooner Bristol BS3 communities Chessels, BS3 3DN. herbs.gather.truck C.J.Hole 268 North Street, Bedminster, BS3 1JA. still.frogs.string
Bristol BS3 communities Southville Centre, Southville, BS3 1QG. goods.luxury.comic Windmill Hill Community Centre, Vivian St, Windmill Hill, BS3 4LW. wings.spike.remain
The Masonic, 110 North Street, Bedminster, BS3 1HF. exit.poetic.poetic Monarch House, Smyth Road, Ashton, BS3 2BX. casino.milky.other
The Garages, Islington Road, Southville, BS3 1QB. loving.shades.fonts
What 3 Words
The Luckwell Hotel, Luckwell Road, Southville, BS3 3HB. last.packet.garage 194, West Street, Bedminster BS3 3NB. shadow.elder.gather Bristol City Football Club, Ashton Road, Ashton, BS3 2EJ. hats.sank.complains County Gates, Ashton Road, Ashton, BS3 2JH. palm.award.polite Imperial Tobacco, 121 Winterstoke Road, Ashton, BS3 2LL (restricted). deflection.person.tonic Ashton Vale Church, Risdale Road, Ashton, BS3 2QY. empire.rises.secure Swimming Baths, Knowle, BS4 2LP. market.weep.taken Bristol Osteopaths, 253 Wells Road, Totterdown, BS4 2PH. marked.plan.broker Redcatch Park, Knowle, BS4 2RD. jazz.noted.tricks Knowle Cricket Club BS4 2RD (restricted). Knowle, lowest.fees.match Broadwalk shopping centre, Wells Road, Knowle, BS4 2QU (restricted). link.along.soap Grove Park, Brislington, BS4 3LG. bring.glitz.tunes
PureGym, Unit 2C, Brislington Retail Park, Bath Road, Brislington, BS4 4NG. soap.kite.finest Brislington & St Anne’s Conservative Club, 109 Wick Road, Brislington, BS4 4HE. save.booth.battle PYTCH, 4 Skyline Park, Hartcliffe, BS4 5QH. appeal.bolts.shaped Totterdown Baptist Church, Wells Road, Totterdown, BS4 2AX. loaf.charm.broker
Help us keep this list up to date! If you notice any errors or emissions, email us at news@southbristolvoice.co.uk
Simply take a photo of these pages on your phone and save it for emergency use, or cut the pages out and keep for reference. The what3words location is given in red for each AED location. What3Words is a location finding app available on iPhone and Android phones and tablets which allows you to name, pinpoint and share locations anywhere in the world by way of a unique 3 word identifier. It is being used by emergency services to help locate people and incidents, and using it will enable you to find the exact location of any of these defibrillators in an emergency. Why not download the app to your phone now?
�NEWS FROM BRISTOL SOUTH MP, KARIN SMYTH
Strengthening Animal Welfare: New Reforms Ahead of 20th Anniversary
Britain is a nation of animal lovers and animal welfare is something that rightly concerns many constituents who write to me from across Bristol South.
Britain can be proud to have some of the highest animal welfare standards in the world, and 2026 will mark the 20th anniversary of the Animal Welfare Act, introduced by Labour, which still represents the most fundamental change to our animal welfare law in nearly a century.
At the election last year, I stood on a manifesto that promised to strengthen animal welfare further by banning the practice of trail hunting, which can often act as a cover for illegal hunts, by closing the loopholes that allow puppies and kittens to
be smuggled into the UK without the proper checks, by working to phase out animal testing, and by ending the use of snare traps which can kill indiscriminately and cause needless suffering.
Last month, the Prime Minister reaffirmed Labour’s commitment to publishing our Animal Welfare strategy and the Animal Welfare Committee has already been commissioned to carry out important work gathering evidence about the international trade in fur where the UK blazed a trail by being the first country to ban fur farming under the last Labour Government in 2000.
I am delighted that, in May of this year, the Government issued a major update to animal welfare standards in zoos. Under these new rules, elephants will benefit from larger habitats, birds of prey
will no longer be allowed to be tethered for long periods and aquariums will no longer be able to allow visitors to touch fish, octopuses and rays – these are often highly intelligent creatures and being handled by humans can cause them unnecessary stress. These reforms ensure that Britain is still leading the world in ethical standards for zoos.
Farming is a significant area of concern when it comes to animal welfare, and I believe that Britain’s high welfare standards are not only good for animals but good for business. I am very glad that recent trade deals concluded with India, the US and EU will protect these high standards meaning that British farmers won’t be undercut and forced into a race to the bottom on welfare standards.
Like the last Labour Government before us, we take animal welfare seriously.
Karin Smyth shares her views with the Voice
Bristol’sCreativeContainerCommunity
Tucked away just off East Street in Bedminster, Willway Yard is one of Bristol’s most vibrant hidden gems. It is a bold and growing hub for artists, makers, and creative entrepreneurs.
Developed by Meanwhile Creative, Willway Yard transforms repurposed shipping containers into fully functioning workspaces, offering flexible, affordable studios to the city’s creative community. What started as a modest cluster of units has evolved into a colourful patchwork of containers, murals, and collaborative spirit.
The site is now home to illustrators, designers, tattoo artists, filmmakers, musicians, makers,
students, printmakers, darkrooms, barbers, nail technicians, 3D artists, therapists, clothing brands, chiropractors, vintage resellers, personal trainers, and many more.
In addition to the container units, Willway also offers large workshop spaces, expansive commercial studios, and a smaller number of secure storage containers, catering to a broad range of creative and practical
needs. Each space is brimming with character, allowing tenants to shape their environment to suit their work.
With24/7access, inclusive pricing, and a strong sense of independence, Willway Yard supports early stage businesses and established creatives alike in thriving on their own terms.
But it is more than just workspaces. It is a community.
Tenants regularly collaborate, share ideas, and take part in events that showcase the site’s energy. From collaborative murals to open studio days, Willway has become a landmark for grassroots talent and DIY culture in Bristol.
As the creative industries continue to grow, spaces like Willway Yard are essential. They offer not just affordability but visibility and support for the people shaping the city’s cultural future.
Whether you are hoping to join the community or simply curious about what is being made behind the container walls, Willway Yard is a place worth watching.
Here’sapreviewofjustafewofthecreativesonsite
ThePoolAgency RebelPatch RootsAllotments
Rebel Patch is a small business started by designer Lisa Matzi, blending artistry with activism by creating iron-on and sew on patches that transform clothing repair into an expressive, creative act. Each patch is a small-scale artwork made with sustainable materials and designed to extend the life of clothing, while challenging fast fashion and throwaway culture. By collaborating with artists and engaging a growing community through workshops, Rebel Patch turns mending into a statement – wearable art that reshapes our relationship with what we wear. https://www.rebelpatch.com
https://www.willwayyard.co.uk
Roots Allotments creates shared spaces for local food production and biodiversity. We provide members with seeds, tools, plants, and growing advice while fostering community through workshops and events. Our spaces feature native woodland, orchards, ponds, and wildflower meadows, proving food can be grown harmoniously with nature. https://www.rootsallotments.com
We provide design and print services, from ready-to-print files to developing unique concepts. Transform your ideas into 3D printed realities with us today! Experience our speedy 3D print service, delivering highquality results often within just 48 hours! Check our availability today and get your project started without delay!
https://www.the3dprintshop.co.uk
In witch I’m banging at heaven’s door
I was in the supermarket, just going through the checkout, when Mum’s new care home called.
I answered, which in hindsight I really shouldn’t have done. First. it is rude, you should give your full attention to the cashier and second, it was never going to be good news.
“We cannot deal with your mother”was the welcoming first line. “She got into another resident’s bed last night and lay on top of them. That resident is very frail and could not call for help.” I sighed. “She’s violent, actually punched Kate in the ribs just now”. I frowned, bet Kate deserved it. “And she keeps getting into the laundry room which is obviously dangerous.” The women did not stop for breath.
I shoved my shopping into the bags while rolling my eyes at the unimpressed cashier.
“We will need you to come sleep over with her tonight as we simply do not have the staff, to be perfectly honest she needs to go. You could tryDawn of the Deadup the road, they have a padded room.” I thanked her so much for her call and promised I’d look into this right away.
I paid the rightfully annoyed cashier and staggered wearily to my car where I sat and had a little dry-eyed cry. What the hell was I supposed to do?
I called a dementia help line who told me that the Home had a duty of care, they’d assessed Mum and agreed to take her. The Home should have contacted the Intensive Dementia Service for support. I called IDS direct who promised to go visit Mum immediately. That was a surprise.
In the meantime, Dad, still in hospital having gone mad, had been placed into a single room with a guard on the door, so he was safe.
I liaised with my brother, and we made an appointment to viewDawn of the Deadand were met by it’s proprietor,Miss Hannigan. “Right”. She smiled tightly giving us the up and downs. “We will need proof that your Mum can afford a two year stay. We accept bonds, shares, houses, kidneys…” Miss Hannigan was patronising, and I became petulant. She showed us around. “This is our crafting room, where residents participate in painting or flower arranging”. It was empty. “ Here we have the lounge”. About twenty dead eyed oldies were scattered around a large telly including one woman curled up like a cat on the sofa gently snoring. “And here’s the dining area where our residents can choose from our ala-cart menu”. Seriously? We shook her limp hand, everyone acutely aware that we would not be back.
Mum was returned to her original home, the one like a hotel, she immediately settled and returned to her passive self and we emptied her bank account to pay for a month’s breathing space.
Now Social Services have agreed funding. There are some benefits to being a violent oldie. But they won’t fund the home where she is now. Here we go again.
Maybe, if I bang hard enough on those heavenly pearly gates, I’ll be able to push my darling parents through and end this horrid torment.
�MESSAGE FROM THE POLICE AND CRIME COMMISSIONER
Celebrating our volunteers
LAST month I marked Volunteers’ Week with an event to celebrate the 66 dedicated volunteers supporting the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner across Avon and Somerset.
These volunteers give their time, energy, and expertise week in, week out - not for recognition or
reward, but because they deeply care about fairness, transparency, justice, and community.
Each of our volunteers plays a vital role in helping me and my office hold the police to account. What they do isn’t always easy, but it matters enormously.
Reflecting on their impact in
2024, these volunteers achieved the following:
◆ 646 individuals in custody were interviewed by independent custody visitors. Their treatment, rights, and entitlements were checked and upheld.
◆ 96 police complaint files were reviewed in full. Their insights identified areas for improvement and prompted action to be taken.
◆ 191 cases of police use of force were scrutinised, with over 240 hours of body-worn video footage reviewed. Their findings shaped themes for change, identified areas for improvement, and highlighted examples of good practice.
◆ 87 Community Resolution cases were reviewed, including cases involving sexual offences, domestic abuse, hate crime, and youth knife possession.
Their feedback was shared with magistrates and the Local Criminal
Justice Board to drive change.
Additionally, an independent expert board continued to oversee the Tackling Disproportionality programme, helping to ensure it remains focused on achieving long-term, anti-racist reforms in our criminal justice system.
I am deeply grateful to all those who volunteer to support me, for their ongoing support to create fairer criminal justice services for all.
To find out more about the roles please visit the volunteering pages on my website, www.avonandsomerset-pcc.gov.uk
Clare Moody (front, centre) with volunteers at the celebration event
With Police and Crime Commissioner Clare Moody
�NEWS FROM THE METRO MAYOR
Getting our region moving
IT’S been a busy first two months as your new Mayor, but I’ll continue my focus on transport for our region in this month’s column.
We recently shared our exciting plans for free bus travel for all under-16s across Bath & North East Somerset, Bristol, South Gloucestershire and neighbouring North Somerset during the school summer holidays from July 19 to September 5. This includes WESTlink and WESTlocal: no registration or bus pass is needed, just hop on board!
That new investment from the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority could benefit 150,000 children and young people, and children from Perry Court E-ACT Academy who helped us announce it couldn’t have been more excited.
It’s right that we help people save money and encourage greener travel, so I hope that local families can more easily have
busloads of fun this summer.
Working with Visit West and local councils, we will also be compiling a list of dozens of free activities for families and sharing on social media.
But we all know that it will take more than one summer to sort out our transport system – and get to where we want to be.
As a West Country girl, I know the frustration: we’ve been stuck in the slow lane on transport for too long.
Just a month after being elected as your new mayor, we’ve set the wheels in motion like never before to start that journey. That’s thanks to record investment from the new government for our part of the world: £752 million.
Three-quarters of a billion pounds of new transport money can go a long way. It’s time to really start to catch up with other city regions.
For us and our families, this will mean better buses, more trains, and mass transit.
We can secure more brandnew electric buses and the infrastructure to go with them, while also continuing to seriously invest in fixing potholes, restoring bridges, and making active travel easier.
We can also invest in our rail infrastructure, with an ambition for four trains per hour at stations across our growing suburban railways. New tracks and signalling improvements would allow more regular trains between existing and future stations, with stronger connections between two economic growth zones at Brabazon and Bristol Temple Quarter.
This new money will empower our region to start to fill the gaps in our transport network. It’s time to give local people proper alternatives to their cars.
We can cut the congestion that’s holding back our full potential. Trams, metrobuses, rail, light rail, and guided buses are all on the table to make that a reality.
Metro Mayor Helen Godwin writes for the Voice
Over the years, as a region, we have talked too much about mass transit and delivered too little. We can deliver an overall system that people can rely on, even if we all know that can’t be built overnight.
When the first 74 electric buses in Bristol are on the road this autumn, I look forward to sharing a joined-up transport vision for our region. Working with the new government, and with genuine collaboration between local councils, it’s time for real change.
ADVICE FROM A PHARMACIST with Ade Williams
Bedminster Pharmacy now offering Private Adult ADHD Assessment
ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) is a condition where the brain works differently to most people. This neurodevelopmental disorder is characterised by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interfere with daily functioning.It affects how people focus, behave, and regulate their emotions. While ADHD is often associated with childhoodand diagnosed then, many adults live with the condition—often undiagnosed—and face complex emotional and psychological hurdles as a result.
A UK study put the adult incidence rate at 3-4% (1.9 million). There is no one cause of ADHD, but it is considered a result of an often complex interplay between genetic and environmental factors, with genetic factors being responsible for 70%-80% of the probability.
The impact of ADHD across
age groups will differ, reflecting both the individual's changing maturity and the changing circumstances and expectations surrounding them. As an individual matures, they may be better able to cope, yet continue to struggle due to the increased behavioural expectations placed upon them.
ADHD in adults goes far beyond difficulty focusing or being easily distracted. It often co-exists with conditions like anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and even substance use issues. Studies suggest that nearly50% of adults with ADHDalso experience an anxiety disorder, and around30% deal with depressionat some point in their lives.
Living with undiagnosed or unmanaged ADHD can take a toll on self-esteem and mental well-being.Adults with ADHD may struggle with time management, job performance, relationships, and selfregulation. Over time, these daily stressors can contribute to chronic feelings of frustration, failure, or low mood—creating a fertile ground for mental health problems.
Itis a two-way street: mental health struggles can also worsen ADHD symptoms.For example, depression can make it harder to concentrate or maintain routines, while anxiety can amplify restlessness and emotional dysregulation. This cycle can be exhausting and disheartening—but it is unbreakable. Diagnosis is the first step to effective management and care.
Partnering with MakeWell Clinic, we now offer on-site Adult ADHD assessments at Bedminster Pharmacy. We already have a long-term relationship with MakeWell
colleagues, working together to establish physical health services, including our COVID-19 vaccination clinics. This private assessment service, with input from a dedicated multidisciplinary team of experienced professionals, takes a holistic approach, considering not only the symptoms but also the impact of ADHD on various aspects of their lives, such as relationships, education, and employment. For details about the service, including cost, selfreferral and pre-assessment screening, please call MakeWell on 01908 731 293 or email: bookings@makewell.co.uk
Bedminster Pharmacy has taken a national lead on population health, and we hope that, like many other services we have pioneered, NHS adoption will follow to ensure and protect universal access.
To find out more about ADHD, please visit the Charity ADHD UK: https://adhduk.co.uk/.
�RECIPE COLUMN - PROVIDED BY MICHELLE VOWLES, REDCATCH COMMUNITY GARDENS
THIS RECIPE is part of Redcatch Community Garden Shaping Places project in partnership with Oasis Hub, South Bristol based at Connaught School. It aims to build on community strengths and existing work around food insecurity, to work collaboratively with cross-sector partners, to resource and test new approaches and share learning widely.
The project also aims to understand if there is a sustainable model where these meals can be sold to the public and made available at an affordable rate to provide inclusive meals for all.
All sales of meals at the Garden will go towards providing affordable meals for those who need them most. These following meals are available this week on sale at Roots for £4.50 or 3 for £12:
Pasta Bolognese
Sweet & Sour with Rice (chicken or tofu)
Mac & Cheese
Chicken Curry with Rice
Vegan Chilli with Rice Enjoy!
Rainbow Salad Bowl
Ingredients List
Protein
■ 1 hard boiled egg
■ 2 slices of cooked ham or chicken
■ 1/2 a can of tuna
■ 30g of dairy or plant based feta
Healthy
Fats
■ 1/2 a sliced avocado
■ 6 - 8 olives
■ 6 - 8 nuts. Walnuts, Almonds or Hazelnuts.
Salad items
■ Tomato
■ Cucumber
■ Salad leaves
■ Beetroot
■ Red onion
■ Roasted root veg
■ Grated raw carrot or courgette
Eachrow,columnandsquare(9spaceseach)needsto befilledoutwiththenumbers1-9,withoutrepeating anynumberswithintherow,columnorsquare.
NOTEAfterfeedbackfromreaders,wehavemadeTheFiendSLIGHTLYeasier!
Carbohydrate
Potato salad
4 boiled new potatoes. While still warm stir in 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise. 1/2 a teaspoon on fresh or dried mint. Salt and pepper to taste.
Bean Salad
3 types of beans. Could be butter, black eyed, cannelloni, kidney or pinto beans. These are a great source of carbohydrates and high in protein. Mix with 1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice, olive oil. A sprinkle of any herb you like.
Rice or Pasta Salad
Follow the instructions on the packet to cook your rice or pasta. Add a stock cube to the water for extra flavour.
Method
Pick 1 protein, 1 carbohydrate, 1 healthy fat and 3 Salad items. You can mix and match each time you make your Bowl.
Usethephonekeypad
�GARDENING COLUMN
Broadwalk Update and Public Consultation
While concerns for the Broadwalk Shopping Centre car park being closed suddenly, became a hot topic – South Bristol Voice have heard from the development team about the ongoing planning process.
“I’m pleased to confirm that we’ve had our initial pre-app meeting with Bristol City Council and had our meeting with the Design West Design Review Panel.
In accordance with the PPA (planning performance agreement) timeline, there’s some pressure for us to conduct the in-person public consultation before the summer holidays.”
Hence, they will be holding a public consultation meeting on: Friday 11 July
Knowle Methodist Church, 9 Redcatch Road, BristolBS4
Session1:12pm-3pm
Session 2:4pm-7pm
The purpose of the consultation will be to update local residents and stakeholders
on the ‘s.73’ process (mechanism to modify or remove specific requirements/conditions of a planning permission without revoking the entire permission itself); the revised designs; the ongoing Reserved Matters process; and commercial/ community re-provision.
They will be updating the Redcatch Quarter website to enable registration for progress updates; FAQs; and submission of additional questions/queries.
So please get this date in your diaries and spread the word so the community stays as involved as possible. South Bristol Voice will be there to report back after the event as well.
If you are want to find out how the development got to where it is today, look at the “Redcatch Quarter” section of the Friends of Redcatch Park Website. It’s all there!!! www.friendsofredcatchpark. com/redcatch-quarter
Hello rain, goodbye slugs (hopefully)
THE RAIN IS BACK – hoorah! And with it, the slugs – boo! I spent all spring worrying about the unseasonably dry weather. Now it’s over, I’m worrying about the slugs. So here are some top tips to slow them down.
Slugs like soft new leaves that don’t have much bite. So grow your young plants as large as possible in pots, before planting them out. Tougher leaves have more lignin, more lignin equals less munchin’.
Put your pots on a table, to deter molluscs. For a double deterrent, stand the table legs in a bowl of water. Don’t underestimate the ability of slugs and snails to ‘jump’ gaps with their hyperstretchy bodies - keep your seedlings far from things slugs could climb.
Don’t water in the evening –slugs and snails are mostly nocturnal, and they like a damp environment to slide around on, so watering your plants just before bedtime is only making it easier for
our one-footed friends.
Make your garden as full as possible, to minimise the risk of slug attack on the plants you really care about. You could chuck down a packet of old seeds as a sacrificial crop, or just weed less – easy. Invite predators in to help out. Start by tidying less, because an old pile of leaves and twigs is home for ground beetles. If you have space, dig a pond for frogs, cut a hole in your fence to encourage hedgehogs, and pray a slowworm or two find their way into your garden.
Rose Orlik Garden Design
Sam Russe Paddles for Team GB
On Fri 11th July Sam Russe will fly to Berlin to compete in the iDBF (International Dragon Boat Federation) world championships representing Great Britain. South Bristol Voice caught up with Sam Russe to find out more.
Sam will be completing alongside 36 countries and 4500 competitors. The competition sees crews competing for 7 days in 200m, 500m, 1km and 2km.
She took up dragon boating in 2021 after her brother introduced her to the sport after he was selected for Great Britain in 2020. However with the lockdown restrictions of the COVID-19 pandemic in place at the time sadly competitions were cancelled that year.
“I've always been active, being a PE teacher, playing hockey and tennis for Knowle and playing netball in Bristol league. 2020 saw me diagnosed with thyroid cancer and fibromyalgia, with the following year receiving a
diagnosis for rheumatoid arthritis and FND. My health meant I was unable to play the sports I was playing at the level I was used to and as I wanted to still take part in competitive sport I signed with Bristol Empire Dragons, who train in Saltford.”
“At first, I wondered 'what am I doing?!' as I have a fear of being trapped in water, but as time moved on I found it was a great sport for my mental health, being on the water, and competed with my team in the nationals at
Nottingham. Wanting to continue to progress in the sport I went to the pre GB training sessions based around the country as the majority of GB dragon boat teams are based in the North and then went to trials in Liverpool where we had to complete fitness tests and have our paddling assessed.”
“I made the team and have been training around the country one weekend a month, whilst also being monitored by the GB PT, for whom we complete three single water sessions per week and three gym sessions. As head of maths in a specialist dyslexia and dyscalculia school in Somerset my life has been a juggle between work and training, whilst pushing my body further than I've been advised by the hospital . However, I'm almost there and am looking forward to heading off to Germany and experience this event, which is the biggest one ever.”
Dragon boat racing is an inclusive sport with paradragon
and breast cancer categories (recently featured in the one show, as this world. Championships hold the first breast cancer race category) as it has been proven how beneficial this is as a sport for those with breast cancer, especially if they've had lymph node removed.
If you're interested in giving dragon boat racing a try Bristol Empire Dragons train at Saltford Tuesday and Thursday at 6.30pm and Sunday at 9am. Everyone is welcome and we'd love people to come have a taster session with.
Dragon boating is sadly unfunded, despite be recognised by the IOC. So, if you are interesting in donating to Sam’s GoFundMe page to help her go to the championships this year, follow the link below: https://gofund.me/84db8976
�BS3 WILDLIFE COLUMN
Stop the Decline in Bedminster’s Wildlife
The Greater Bedminster Urban Nature Reserve started off as just BS3, but residents in other areas are joining in.
This includes bits of BS1 and BS4 and we are also talking to people in Bedminster Down and Harbourside.
The map on the right illustrates the range of habitats that support our wild neighbours. We have divided the existing area into seven smaller spaces which we are examining in detail. All contain significant areas of housing and domestic gardens, but probably the largest concentration is in Central Bedminster. About 80% of this neighbourhood is housing and gardens.
Many gardens will be of poor wildlife quality with artificial grass and hard surfaces. But others will contain water, flowers, bushes and trees, places to hide and various food sources.
These domestic gardens are
supplemented by community gardens such as the one at Churchlands Road.
Public parks in Central Bedminster are few and small.
Gores Marsh friends group, mostly young mums, want to make the park more attractive to wildlife. This includes a pond and a flowery meadow, perhaps
by 2026. The Friends of South Street Park also have wildlife plans covering the park itself, the acta community garden and parts of Compass Point School playing field. It seems that the support group for Luckwell Park has dissolved. Can it revive?
Apart from a short stretch of Colliter’s Brook by Ashton
Stadium, there are no streams in this part of GBUNR.
Small actions by lots of local residents are the key to stopping the decline in biodiversity.
Article by Ben Barker, Secretary, BS3 Wildlife Group, mywildbedminster@ bs3community.org.uk
FixX is a local social enterprise preparing young people for employment through bike mechanics. They work with young people in the Hartcliffe area aged 11-25 focusing on building their confidence, purpose and resilience through vocational training and mentoring.
Each young person FixX works with repairs two bikes, one of which they keep as a reward. During their placement they learn new skills and are mentored in a real-life workplace environment. Since opening, they have trained over 220 young people with 125
earning a bike through them.
Hartcliffe Young Person Logan Winstone (16) said: “I got involved as I wanted to shy away from trouble. I like the atmosphere being laid back. I’m into bikes anyway so it’s interesting and feels like there is a purpose more than at other youth projects. I want to be an electrician so it helps doing something like this that’s hands on. I know that Maths and science at school are important but this seems more relevant.”
FixX are now opening an extra two days per week including Fridays 11am - 5.30pm Saturdays 11am - 4pm to be able to offer more young people courses, repair spaces and opportunities to buy a secondhand bike.
For more information please contact info@fixxbikes.com or call 07588 492154.
�NEWS FROM LOCAL COUNCILLORS
Thanks to additional funding allocated by WECA, all Under 16s are now able to travel free on bus services across the West of England region during the summer holidays.
Bristol City Council are supportive of this offer and have also produced a complementary list of child friendly activities happening during the summer holidays across the city. We know that finding things that the whole family can do when money is tight can be difficult, so to find out more, go to: www.yourholidayhubbristol.co.uk
Summer is also an opportunity to enjoy nature, and we recommend taking the opportunity to visit Capricorn Quay on Harbourside to see the first of the Floating Ecosystems that have been funded by Bristol City Council and WECA.
I was extremely proud to be part of the crowd of Bristolians who came out to show the far right demonstrators who came to our city centre in May that their policies of division and hate had no place here.
We saw the racists eventually leave in disgrace following some amazing speeches, including from fellow Greens. We will continue to be at the front lines of such events and stand up for the values of our city.
Some good news: Bristol’s bin collections are improving after a period of disruption stretching back to autumn 2023 when a quarter of a million pounds was cut from Bristol Waste. This contributed to the poor performance over the 2024/25 winter period.
The Green-led administration is focused on getting the basics right,
Tony Dyer and Christine Townsend Green councillors
Southville
With 700 sqm of new habitat with 6,200 aquatic plants and 24 native trees, much of it on a floating island that provides a haven for animals both in and on the water, it’s one of the largest floating wetland habitats in the country.
This complement the work community groups are doing across BS3 - including leaving areas of grass to grow longer in our parks to encourage biodiversity.
Sadly, we need to finish our column with a warning – we are aware of residents being targeted by parking scams. The methods used vary, but we ask residents to be alert and wary.
If you, or someone you know, have been a victim of a scam, or you have suspicions of fraud, let the council know by calling 0117 9222470.
Ellie Freeman Green councillor Bedminster
Council Property Review Could Open Door for Community Reuse:
As you may know Bristol City Council (BCC) owns a wide range of properties across the city, including pubs, theatres, hotels, and other non-residential buildings. These properties can be valuable assets when they bring in income or contribute positively to the city’s goals. However, some are in poor condition or no longer meet the needs of the community and can be costly to maintain.
The Greens have started the process or reviewing the cities property portfolio, there is an online list of all our properties which is accessible, please see link: Council property ownership | Open Data Bristol. In doing this work we are determined to provide opportunity through area committees to bring assets back
and while it takes a while to turn around such services, we are making progress. We have a new waste facility, upgrades to another, and are replacing the current ageing fleet of bin lorries. We are also working with the South Bristol Liveable Neighbourhoods to improve access to narrow roads and tricky junctions.
CATT Community Transport is looking for volunteers, who are vital to keep the service running. This is a valuable and much appreciated service that is a lifeline for many in our neighbourhood. CATT provide full training. For more information, please contact the team on 0117 377 3451 or thecattbus@hwcp.org.uk A reminder of my surgery session at Mezzaluna’s on West Street on 19th July, 5.30-6.30pm.
Lisa Stone and Ed
Plowden
Green councillors Windmill Hill
into community use or make them work for Bristol. We hope that Victoria Park Lodge could be one of those assets.
Meanwhile, we strongly support community initiatives like the Totterdown Character Assessment, and Design Code. It’s a powerful example of what happens when residents take ownership of their future. This kind of local vision should not be an afterthought but must be central to how we shape development in Bristol. When published it will influence the design from developers in the area, because it will become material consideration for planning consent. Please get in touch if you want to develop one for your area.
Please go and enjoy the new assessable toilets at the Windmill Hill Community Association, after winning a Bid from the community resilience fund, well done.
Emily Clarke Labour councillor Bedminster
I am writing my column early this month so apologies in advance if it’s out of date by the time you read it (things can move fast in politics).
I hope you have enjoyed the events taking place across Bedminster, such as Eat: Bedminster and Bedminster’s Secret Gardens (which will have taken place by the time this lands). I enjoyed tea and cake with Ashton Vale residents at the get-together in late May to hear ideas about future activities that could be hosted at the community centre. I feel like I have spent a lot of time engaging with Bristol Waste recently about missed collections. This has involved getting them to send a long list of dates of missed collections over the past year for roads which I know have regular issues. The reason given for a lot of
the missed collections is difficulties with lorries accessing the streets. The missed collection data helped me to take up my case with Bristol Waste, who have now confirmed that they have moved certain terraced streets including, Ruby, Beryl and Garnet Street, to a narrow access recycling vehicle. I really hope this helps this situation. I was pleased to see the Labour Government announce £752m of funding to improve public transport across Bristol and the wider region. Our new West of England Mayor, Helen Godwin, has announced that this funding will be put into extending the local bus network, improving the rail service, and looking at options for a proper mass transit system like they have in other major cities such as trams, metrobuses, rail, light rail – which Bristol desperately needs.
The Theatre and Entertainment Luvver
Ricky Gervais Stand-Up Competition Comes to Bristol
Ricky Gervais Stand-Up Competition Comes to Bristol –and You Could Help Pick the Winner!
A NEW NATIONAL STAND-UP COMPETITION, with a chance to perform with Ricky Gervais at Wembley, is coming to the Hen and Chicken on 4thJuly- I spoke with the team behind the competition to find more.
How did the Spirit of Comedy Competition start – and how did Ricky Gervais get involved?
"Ricky has been a co-owner of Dutch Barn Vodka for a while now, and so we’ve been dreaming up Spirit of Comedy for a while. Given our love of stand up and helping people have a laugh over a delicious vodka cocktail, it felt right that we should hit the road and
“We’re pleased to see work start to improve the entrance of Jubilee Pool, after Toby found a local firm to carry out the work for free.
Toby and Cam have also ensured that Jubilee Pool is now eligible to apply for Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funding, after it was previously blocked from applying by the former Mayor. They have submitted a funding bid for roof repairs. Other CIL funding bids include improving the accessibility of Redcatch Community Garden, and new benches at Paignton Square playground – funding decisions are expected in the Autumn.
Public transport is continuing to improve with brand new electric buses now entering service on the 73 and 74, providing a quicker, smoother, and cleaner ride. After
find the UK’s next top comedian”
What makes this competition different from other stand-up competitions?
“It’ll take over 6 months, but it feels important that we are heading to as many UK cities and towns as we can, with first round heats taking place May-July, then regional finals in August & September. 1stOctober sees our final take place at the Leicester Square Theatre in London – the big difference for our comp is that the winner will be invited to open for Ricky Gervais on 15thNovember at Wembley Arena as part of his Morality tour!”
Do you need experience to take part - what are you looking for in the acts?
“Not at all – we are taking applications from anyone who
wants to throw their hat into the ring. Our simple online applications means we see a short clip of applicants as a first round –with the best being invited to the first events in person. This first round is a 2 minute slot onstage, so we’re looking for the acts to be able to make our audience laugh in that time. All audience on the night are invited to help us decide the winners, using a voting app on their phones on the night – so you’ve got to make them laugh during your slot!”
Who is hosting the event at the Hen and Chicken and what can audiences expect on the night? Why should they come?
“Matt Bragg is hosting at Hen and Chicken– he hosted one of the earlier events in Leeds and the crowd loved him. Matt will open
the show with around 10 minutes of his own set, then run the stage, welcoming each of the 20 comedians to the stage, within 2 halves. On arrival, ticket holders get a complementary Dutch Barn Vodka cocktail while they settle in and find their seats – then when we’re all set Matt takes to the stage and the laughs commence! The way that the audience can vote keeps it interactive throughout, plus we reveal the 3 winners at the end of the show – they go through to the next round to compete at the regional final!”
So if youfancy helping to discover the next big comedy star or even becoming one this could be the night for you- Good Luck!
Cam Hayward and Toby Wells Green councillors Knowle
securing the new 36 and 37 bus routes that launched in April, Cam is continuing to look at how the council can invest revenue from the Clean Air Zone (CAZ) to improve the city’s bus network. For Knowle, we’re pushing for a new bus route that would serve Redcatch Hill and Daventry Road, and for hourly night buses on Friday and Saturday nights for the 2, 73 and 74 routes.”
Find out about your local councillors and how they work here.
www.bristol.gov.uk/council/ councillors-and-the-lord-mayor
We are in need of volunteers to help at our stroke support group in Bedminster every Thursday morning 10 – 1pm @St Monica Wills House, Cromwell Road, Bedminster, BS3 3NH.
Every year 950 people in Bristol and South Glos will experience a stroke: people of all ages…and from all backgrounds. Bristol After Stroke is the local charity that helps those people get their lives back on track – though our groups, activities, mentoring, counselling and so much more. Our volunteers do a variety of things each week
from helping with the room set up, serving hot drinks and supporting the activities that are planned eg music, poetry or seated exercise sessions like Yoga or Zumba. The most important part of the role of the volunteer though is to talk to group members, encourage them to get involved and generally help to promote a supportive, happy atmosphere that contributes to a sense of wellbeing.
If you can help or for more info, please contact Lucy Stockall on 07485 302 868 or email Lucy: stockall@Bristolafterstroke.org.uk Do
�PLANNING APPLICATIONS (PENDING) - JUNE 2025
Bedminster
23 Raynes Road BS3 2DJ Ref. No: 25/12722/CP
Creation of a rear dormer.
The United Reformed Church Stanley Street South BS3 3PG Ref. No: 25/12551/F
Erection of 46 student bed-spaces within a Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (sui generis), a community hub (Class F2(b)), a community launderette (sui generis) and a landscaped courtyard and associated works.
26 Churchlands Road BS3 3PW Ref. No: 25/12503/CP
Flat roof dormer to the rear elevation, together with the necessary internal alterations.
141 West Street, BS3 3PD Ref. No: 25/12346/F
Change of use of ground floor 5 bed HMO (C4) to Dwelling (C3).
J Sainsbury Winterstoke Rd BS3 2NS Ref. No: 25/11776/F
Erection of new plant equipment in store service yard
12 Bower Road BS3 2LN Ref. No: 25/11030/H
Demolition of existing garage and replacement with detached outbuilding.
Bishopsworth
1 Kings Walk BS13 8BB Ref. No: 25/12794/H
Single storey rear extension.
70 Eastlyn Road Bristol BS13 7HY Ref. No: 25/12463/CP
Repurpose a currently unused brick and concrete 'air raid shelter' into a useful space on my property.
72 Lewis Road Bristol BS13 7JB Ref. No: 25/12406/H
Single storey rear extension / raised deck.
Brislington East
Communal Gnds Angels Gnd BS4 4JA Ref. No: 25/12768/VC
T1 - Sycamore - Prune overhang back to boundary by 3m and remove dead-wood. T2 - CypressCrown lift off garage roof to 2m clearance.
6 Sidcot BS4 4TY, Ref: 25/12582/H Rear flat roof extension & extended replaced flat roof to garage.
40 Jersey Avenue BS4 4RA Ref. No: 25/12525/H
Single storey rear extension.
100 Lichfield Road BS4 4BN Ref. No: 25/12449/H
Erection of single storey, side extension.
Brislington West
181 Bloomfield Road BS4 3QS Ref. No: 25/12697/H
Erection of rear single storey extension.
41 Wick Crescent BS4 4HG Ref. No: 25/12626/H
Proposed hip to gable loft conversion and rear dormer.
3 Repton Road BS4 3LS Ref. No: 25/12548/COND
Change of use from Commercial,
Business and Service (Use Class E) to Dwelling-houses (Use Class C3)Change of use of existing vacant commercial building (Use Class E) to create 1 residential dwelling.
The Granary Stockwood Road
Brislington Bristol BS4 5LU Ref. No: 25/12415/F
Construction of a 46.8m x 25.2m all weather horse riding arena with sand/fibre surface. This is for personal and recreational use only.
Filwood
48 Kildare Road BS4 1PS Ref. No: 25/12647/CP
Proposed construction of a single storey, side extension.
Filwood Community Centre
Barnstaple Road BS4 1JP Ref. No: 25/12607/COND
Proposed retrofit and expansion of Filwood Community Centre, with associated works. (Major)
78 Barnstaple Road BS4 1JP Ref. No: 25/12484/H
Two storey side extension.
89 Marksbury Road BS3 5JY Ref. No: 25/12455/H
Proposed double Storey side Extension & Single Storey Rear Extension inclusive new off street parking.
30 Leinster Avenue BS4 1NJ Ref. No: 25/12358/H
Single-storey side and rear extension to existing semi-detached residential house.
Hengrove and Whitchurch
9 Lampton Grove BS13 0QB Ref. No: 25/12585/H
A two storey extension on the rear of an end of terrace house.
98 Allerton Crescent BS14 9PX Ref. No: 25/12435/HX
Erection of a single storey rear extension that would exceed beyond the rear wall of the original house by 4m, have a maximum height of 3.8m and have eaves that are 2.25 m high.
Parking Area Rodfords Mead BS14 9UD Ref. No: 25/12434/F
Redevelopment to provide six residential dwellings (Use Class C3, affordable), community hall (Use Class F2) & associated amenity area, refuse/recycling & cycle storage.
Knowle
77 Newquay Road BS4 1ED Ref. No: 25/12764/H
Installation of air source heat pump.
24 Stockwood Crescent BS4 1AW Ref. No: 25/12742/CP
Internal modernisation and improvement of internal layout. New window arrangement to first floor front elevation using materials to match the existing fabric.
1 Jubilee Road Knowle BS4 2LR Ref. No: 25/12707/H
Demolition of attached garage. Erection of single storey extension to side.
35 Springleaze Bristol BS4 2TU Ref. No: 25/12691/H
Demolition of existing conservatory and erection of new single storey rear extension and side passage.
100 Redcatch Road BS4 2HQ Ref. No: 25/12654/VP
T1 - London Plane - Reduce lateral branches that go over new build by 4m, reduce remaining canopy by 2m, and raise canopy to 6m (pruning to aid construction work). (TPO 1142)
12 Wingfield Road BS3 5EH Ref. No: 25/12524/CP
Proposed single storey side extension.
306 Wells Road BS4 2QG Ref. No: 25/12202/F
Loft conversion, rear dormer extension and change of use from C3 to C4.
Southville
92 Coronation Road BS3 1AX Ref. No: 25/12754/CP
Proposed infill extension of an existing dwelling house .
Dental Surgery 48 Coronation Road
Bristol BS3 1AR Ref. No: 25/12720/VC
T1 - Prunus domestica - Crown lift East side to a height of 6m, end weight reduce 2 x lateral West limbs by 2m and other branches by 1m. T2
- Prunus domestica - Crown lift East side to a height of 6m, end weight reduce 1 x lateral South limb by 2m and other branches by 1m. Beech Tree
7 Gathorne Road Bristol BS3 1LR Ref. No: 25/12712/H
Demolition of existing rear addition and replacement with new rear extension.
Dental Surgery 48 Coronation Road BS3 1AR
Ref. No: 25/12667/VP
T1 - Copper Beech (Fagus sylvatica 'purpurea') - Crown reduce by 2m all round, back to pervious pruning points. (TPO 147) Beech Tree
36 Kingston Road BS3 1DP
Ref. No: 25/12659/VC
T1 - Conifer - Reduce by 1.5m in height and spread.
Former Pring & St Hill (Plot 1) Malago Road BS3 4JQ
Ref. No: 25/12624/NMA
Non-material Amendment following grant of Planning Permission 22/06085/F - Redevelopment of the site comprising the erection of three buildings to provide purpose built student accommodation (sui generis) with new vehicular access, disabled parking and servicing arrangements, public realm works and landscaping. (Major)
46 Leighton Road BS3 1NU Ref. No: 25/12615/H
Single storey extension to the rear and side of the house, incorporating a new party wall which will replace the existing garden wall.
Land Known As Plot 3B Whitehouse Street BS3 4DJ Ref. No: 25/12496/F
Retrospective application for the erection and operation of a temporary energy centre and installation of associated pipework.
Rear Of 13 Dean Lane BS3 1DB Ref. No: 25/12414/F
Construction of a new dwelling house, with associated works.
6A & 7A Upper Perry Hill BS3 1NH Ref. No: 25/12299/X
Demolition of an existing office and storage area and the construction of two new houses with new vehicular access and off street parking. The proposal will result in a change of use from B1 offices to residential.
Temple Gate District Ctr Mead St Ref. No: 25/12279/VP
T1,T2,T10,T11,T12,T14 - Lime - Prune canopy on building side by 2m clear of building. T3 - Norway MapleRemove deadwood.
33 Baynton Road BS3 2EB Ref. No: 25/12002/H
Rear and side two storey extension, replacing the existing single story rear extension.
213A Coronation Road BS3 1RQ Ref. No: 25/11940/F
The conversion and extension of the ground floor to create two no. onebedroom flats and associated works.
51 Exeter Road BS3 1LY Ref. No: 25/11705/H
Single-storey side infill extension and associated works to enlarge the kitchen space of the property.
Windmill Hill
15 Greendale Road BS3 5EW Ref. No: 25/12628/H
Construction of a two storey rear extension and internal alterations, to form additional living accommodation.
1 Cotswold Road North BS3 4NL Ref. No: 25/12549/COND
Alterations and extension to existing building forming change of use from joinery workshop to residential unit.
51 Fitzgerald Road BS3 5DH Ref. No: 25/12459/X
Single storey rear extension.
25 Littleton Road BS3 5HP Ref. No: 25/12430/H
Demolition of existing garage and erection of garden room.
12 Park Avenue BS3 5AH
Erection of a perimeter fence to enclose land for use as an ancillary C3 garden use.
�WHAT’S ON
Call Anytime
■ Bristol Home Library Service. A free home delivery service for Bristolians provided by local volunteers. For anyone affected by age, disability or caring responsibilities. 07714 898 558
Tuesday Mornings, 10.15-11.45am
■ Zest Choir is an inclusive, joyful singing group for all adults who love to sing, —even if you can’t sing and think you are tone deaf! We meet at Headley Park Community Centre Contact Mary on 07954 170 532 www.zestchoirs.com.
Wednesday Eve, 7:30 to 9:30pm
■ Break Out Voices Community Choir, Do you love singing? Come along to Philip Street Chapel, Bedminster nights in term time to enjoy a FREE taster session for a brand-new branch of popular local community choir Break Out Voices. No experience or audition required – just an ability to hold a tune. Over 18s only. For more info, see www.breakoutvoices.com, or email katefletcher50@hotmail.com
�CHURCH NEWS
Thursday Evening, 7:30 to 9:30pm
■ Quiz Night, A light-hearted quiz in a relaxed and friendly settingGrounded Bedminster, Bedminster Parade. £2 per person. Win prizes such as pizzas, wine and so much more!
Third Saturday Every Month, 7:00 to 9:00pm (Next event Sat 19th July)
■ Poetry Open Mic - Sign up from 6:30pm. Grounded Bedminster, Bedminster Parade. Hosted by Cal Wensley, New Grounds Poetry
ST ALDHELM’S, Chessel Street, Bedminster
SUNDAY
■ 10am every week, followed by refreshments.
■ 1st Sunday of the Month - All Age Service.
WEDNESDAY
■ 1st Wednesday of the month – 10am BCP Communion, followed by refreshments.
ALL WELCOME
ST PAUL’S, Coronation Road, Southville
SUNDAY
■ 10:30am every week, followed by refreshments.
■ 1st Sunday of the Month - 9am Traditional Communion, 10am Breakfast, 10:45am All Age Service.
ALL WELCOME
Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS)
What is BOAS?
BOAS can affect several structures of the upper airway system. The main causes are: deformed skull (flat face), narrow nostrils, elongated soft palate and tracheal swellings.
Brachycephalic aObstructive Airway Syndrome is a recognised condition affecting certain dog breeds with shorter muzzles, flatter noses and wide shaped heads, known as brachycephalic breeds. The soft tissues of the nose and throat in some brachycephalic breeds may be excessive and can lead to a partial obstruction of the airways. This makes it difficult for these dogs to breathe normally, causing noisy breathing and often heavy panting.
This condition is a progressive disorder that can impair a dog's ability to:
◆ Exercise & play- reduced ability, slow, can appear lazy, not wanting to go for walks
◆ Eat - Frequently regurgitates
◆ Sleep- excessive snoring & may wake themselves up when they
try to catch their breath. The following breeds are recognised as brachycephalic breeds:
◆ French Bulldogs
◆ Pugs
◆ Bulldogs
◆ Boston Terrier
◆ Shih Tzus
◆ Boxers
◆ Pekingese
Clinical signs include:
◆ Snorting or snoring
◆ Exercise intolerance
◆ Prolonged recovery after exercise
◆ Restless at night, sleep with their heads propped up, sleeping with a toy in their mouth
◆ Regurgitation
Some of these issues can be surgically corrected and greatly increase the quality of life in a dog suffering with BOAS.
Our vets Nilze and Gokberk have a special interest in these surgeries and are always happy to
see your pet for a free of charge 'airway assessment' to see how they can help your pet breathe better!
Article by Lisa Walters RVN of Bristol Imperial Vets for Pets
�LOCAL DEVELOPMENTS
Next steps for long-stalled development in Bedminster facing opposition from locals
A long-stalled housing development in Bedminster has been taken over by a new developer owned by Bristol City Council.
FOR SEVERAL YEARS a row over building flats dragged on with locals complaining of the tall heights of the buildings, loss of trees and lack of affordable housing.
Late last year the council terminated its deal with Dandara Living to build homes on Plot 5 of the Bedminster Green regeneration project. Now Goram Homes has added the plot, in between Malago Road and the Windmill Hill railway bridge, to its pipeline of upcoming developments.
This year Goram will look at options for the site and carry out initial design work. Changes to Goram’s pipeline were approved by councillors on the strategy and resources policy committee on Monday, June 16. It’s unclear how
many homes or how tall the future buildings will be.
Louise Davidson, head of housing delivery at the council, said: “The current work at the moment is to close the arrangements we’ve got with the existing developer who was looking at the site, and then over the next year working with Goram to look at the art of the possible.”
The deal between Dandara and
the council was signed back in 2017 to develop the site, but no decision on granting planning permission was ever made. Dandara had planned to build 330 flats there, reaching up to 12 storeys tall. The apartments would have been “build to rent”.
Plot 5 includes a car park, buildings and industrial units, surrounding a green area with several large trees. Many of the
trees could have been chopped down to make way for the hundreds of apartments, something which angered locals and environmental campaigners.
When the council reneged on the deal last December, Green Councillor Tony Dyer, leader of the council, promised to “take on board the feedback” and look at alternatives for the site that are more appropriate. Much of the rest of the area has seen huge new apartment blocks shoot up, with hundreds of students moving into a neighbouring building last September.
The area is home to a surprising diversity of wildlife, with otters found living on the River Malago and beavers on the RiverAvon. Goram Homes was founded by the council back in 2018, and is working on a number of projects across the city, including in Hengrove and Lockleaze.
Article by Alex Seabrook, Local Democracy Reporter
