THE WEEK IN East & North East Somerset FREE Issue 639 5th August 2020 Read by more than 40,000 people each week Concerns over 20-metre phone mast on busy pavement Plans to erect a 20-metre high telecoms mast next to one already on the pavement outside The Concorde pub in Lane is causing concern. The existing pole is 11.7 metres and is shared by EE and H3G. It provides 2G, 3G and 4G coverage and capacity to the area. The application lodged with Bristol City Council is to determine if prior approval is needed from the planning authority for the new column. It has been submitted by MBNL (Mobile Broadband Network Ltd) on behalf of Hutchison 3G UK Ltd, who say the proposed height of 20 metres is essential to ensure that the latest 4G and new 5G technologies are provided in and around Bristol. The new mast would support six antennas. There would be a wraparound equipment cabinet at the base of the column along with three new equipment cabinets. Redundant cabinets would be removed. The application says: “The application site is positioned within the wide footway of Stockwood Lane, to the south of Hollway Road. The site has been carefully located in the highway and will be co-located with the existing 2G/3G/4G pole.” It adds: “The proposed new mast has been sited and designed in order to provide 5G coverage for H3G and to support the existing mobile network. As the new pole will be complementary to the existing 2G/3G/4G mast, it must be immediately adjacent to the existing pole in order to replicate the coverage.” Continued on page 2

Also in this More changes on Housing and commercial development Kingswood takeaway Revamp for the buses plans on both sides of the A4 late opening rejected Keynsham park week’s issue . . . page 4 . . . pages 6 & 7 . . . page 9 . . . page 10 Plans for giant phone mast next to existing one on busy pavement Continued from page 1 The application says that nearby Waycroft (taking up 30% of the public footpath) of the mast column that is not in keeping It adds: “The location enables the whole of Academy in Seldon Road – less than half a causing obstruction to the well-used with the local area and will be an eyesore to the surrounding area to benefit from mile away - was consulted prior to the public footpath that is used by OAPs the local community.” improved 5G network coverage and has been application being lodged but no response has and schoolchildren on a daily basis, that The planning reference is 20/03137/Y. designed to be future proof, thus enabling yet been received. provides safety from a very busy main Consultation ends on 20th August. The other technologies to be deployed depending Local councillor Graham Morris has asked road. council is due to make a decision next upon the demand required.” for a local public consultation area to gather “I would also like to object to the 20m height month. The application says the most sensitive residents’ views. He described the height of “slimline” design currently available is being the proposed mast as “obtrusive”. proposed: “There are a number of existing And fellow ward councillor Steve Jones Earlier start for crews vertical features in the immediate area, said: “I consider that both the height To help crews during the hot weather, rubbish and recycling collections in Bath & North including streetlighting columns, telegraph and location of the proposed mast to be out East Somerset are now starting from 6am (instead of 7am) and will finish later than poles, utility cabinets, as well as street trees. of keeping with the street scene in usual, says the council. “The design of the column is a simple, Stockwood.” He said the height of the mast People are asked to ensure their bins are out by 6am or from 8pm the night before their functional, vertical structure which will not is unacceptable and the width of the collection day. appear incongruous within the street scene, pavement would be impacted, “potentially which is characterised by similar linear endangering pedestrians using this extremely structures.” busy footpath”. The proposed colour of the column is grey Writing to the council to object to the plans Work starts on but the application says it can be any colour a Stockwood Lane resident said: “I would deemed appropriate by the planning like to object to the proposed application on authority. the grounds that it will compromise safety Keynsham development

Demolition work has begun on Miland House in Keynsham. The building, which was originally a garage and car dealership on the corner of Ashton Way and Rock Road, has more recently been used as office accommodation. In 2016, outline planning permission was finally granted to develop the site, along with a derelict house next door, into a convenience store, maisonette and 15 apartments.

Keep in touch, let us know what you think, send us your news www.facebook.com/theweekin

2 The Week in • Wednesday 5th August 2020 Council’s ‘outstanding’ deputy leader announces he’s stepping down

Jon Hunt, the deputy leader of South local partner organisations. Gloucestershire Council, has announced Cllr Hunt said: “Having the opportunity to that he will be stepping down this month serve my community and help make a after nine years as a councillor. He difference for people in their everyday lives recently completed treatment, concluding has been nothing short of a privilege and I a successful 14-month battle with stage 4 am proud of what I and my fellow liver and bowel cancer. Conservatives have been able to achieve Cllr Hunt, who represents and during my time on the council. I want to Downend, as well as serving as Cabinet thank everyone who has supported me along Member for Children and Young People, will the way, particularly during my fight with shortly begin a new career in the public cancer, it has meant the world. sector. During the Brexit process, he has “Having recently come to the end of my overseen work to normalise the local impact treatment, now feels the right time to move Jon Hunt of leaving the European Union and, more on to a new chapter of my life. I am excited recently, following the outbreak of COVID- by a move to the public sector, even though privilege. He has become a close personal advised to. His tireless efforts to deliver for 19, took charge of the council’s work with it sadly means I have to withdraw from local friend and been an excellent deputy, his local residents, for the children and the growing community support and politics, but my priority has to be to provide someone I can rely on for sound advice and young people entering and leaving the care volunteer network responding to the crisis. for my family. I will continue to support and has served the council with system, and as a In his Cabinet role for children’s services, wholeheartedly support my colleagues led distinction, so it is going to be a sad day whole has been nothing short of outstanding. Cllr Hunt has been working to bring the by Toby Savage, but more so in spirit than in when he formally steps down. “On behalf of South Gloucestershire Council department out of special measures towards person.” “Despite his battle with cancer over the past and the Conservative Group, we all wish him a Good Ofsted rating, and he oversaw an Council leader Cllr Savage said: “Working year, he was never distracted from his the best of luck as he takes his life in an expansion of youth services, working with with Jon on the council has been a real responsibilities – even when he was being entirely understandable new direction.”

The Week in • Wednesday 5th August 2020 3 More changes to bus services from this week Revised timetables are in operation from Causeway to Stockwood), have also this week on many bus routes in Bristol increased to run every 15 minutes during the and across the West of region. day. Service 2a has been introduced to run The changes see timetables further adjusted between Brentry and Stockwood, Monday to to match demand and support social Friday to increase capacity for social distancing on the busiest routes ahead of distancing on this part of the route. more people returning to use bus travel. A half-hourly 349 service from Keynsham Some routes have increased and selected Park Estate to Bristol now operates on a weekend timetables reinstated to support Saturday. The 39 reverts to the X39 direct social distancing onboard as more from Bath to Bristol via Saltford at weekends passengers start to travel by bus again for with departures every 15 minutes. The 178 leisure purposes. Some Sunday services are (Radstock to Bristol via Keynsham) now also returning to more normal operating runs every two hours on a Saturday. hours as the bus operator adjusts the Changes to the weekend timetable on timetables to match customer demand. Service 43 (City Centre to Cadbury Heath After much pressure, Service 35 (Bristol to via Kingswood) see buses increasing to run Marshfield) has been reinstated and is every 12 minutes during the day on running every two hours, Monday to Friday Saturdays. The daytime Sunday service has during the day. been reduced to run every 20 minutes instead Early morning journeys have also been and 7 (City Centre to Staple Hill), off-peak The Saturday service on routes 1 (Cribbs of every 15 minutes, and early morning withdrawn from the Sunday service on journeys have increased in frequency to Causeway to Broomhill) and 2 (Cribbs journeys have also been withdrawn. routes 42 (City Centre to Bitton) and 44 (City every 20 minutes Monday to Friday to run at Centre to Cadbury Heath via the same frequency as all peak-time journeys Common) due to low customer demand. throughout the week. Some early morning THE WEEK IN Service 45 ( to Cadbury journeys have been withdrawn. Heath via Hanham) has additional journeys There are minor changes to weekend bus Barrs Court, Bitton, , between the Butchers Arms at Longwell services in Downend and Cadbury Heath, Compton Dando, Green and the City Centre during the day on for customers wishing to travel to and from Corston, Downend, Emersons Green, , Hanham, Hillfields, Saturday. Early morning journeys have been the City Centre. And a Saturday service has Keynsham, Kingswood, Longwell withdrawn from the Sunday service. been introduced on route 48a (City Centre to Green, , Marksbury, On the 36 (Bristol City Centre to Brislington) UWE Frenchay Campus via Fishponds) to North Common, , the frequency of both off-peak journeys from run every 30 minutes. Pucklechurch, Saltford, Staple Hill, Monday to Friday and daytime journeys on Bristol’s Park & Ride services are seeing Stockwood, St George, , Saturday has more than doubled to run every increased Saturday timetables and there are Whitchurch, Wick, . 30 minutes. Some early morning and evening also additional metrobus services. 16,000 copies are distributed through journeys have been withdrawn due to low For more information on all the latest service retail outlets, libraries, pubs, customer demand. information and updates, visit community centres each week. Verified pick-up rate of 97%. On services 6 (City Centre to Kingswood) ww.firstgroup.com/coronaviruswoe Publisher Keynsham & Saltford Times Ltd, 8 Temple Court, Keynsham. BS31 1HA 0117 986 0381 Still no buses on route www.theweekin.co.uk ISSN: 2052-9767 that connects two cities Managing Editor Stephen Rodgers [email protected] This week leading transport campaigner service via Keynsham and North News Editor Becky Feather 07403 273967 David Redgewell said progress is being Common); and that there is no evening Contributors Christine Rogers made on the bus network recovery “but service on the 19 (Bath to Cribbs Advertising Jodie Deason and Tracy Broderick we need to speed up”. Causeway via Cadbury Heath, 0117 986 0381 He welcomed a late announcement that Kingswood, Staple Hill, Downend, UWE, [email protected] the new 2a between Brentry and and Bristol Parkway Station). @theweekineditor Stockwood, would stop off at Meanwhile Mr Redgewell said there was Hospital. disappointment at the virtual meeting of No material in this publication, nor its associated website (www.theweekin.co.uk) may be reproduced without the written permission of Keynsham & Saltford Times Ltd. All But he remained very concerned that Yate & District Transport Forum, rights reserved. Service 37 (Bristol to Bath via St George, organised by Yate Town Council last Hanham, and Bitton) week to discuss public transport Keynsham & Saltford Times Ltd. t/a The Week In is regulated by IMPRESS: The Independent Monitor for the Press CIC. As such, we adhere to the IMPRESS complaints continues to be suspended. “This is not a issues, that no one attended from the West procedure. A copy of this procedure can be found on our website or can be minor route, it connects two main cities.” of England Combined Authority sent upon written request to the address above. He also highlighted the lack of weekend (WECA), which is the regional transport services on the 18 (Bath to Kingswood authority.

4 The Week in • Wednesday 5th August 2020 UK’s first scheduled bus booking system being trialled here First West of England has launched the seat availability of their bus. first ever booking system for spaces on its Along with social distancing measures on the buses. buses and an enhanced cleaning regime, it As of last week, customers travelling on the forms a package of measures to ensure Brislington Park & Ride service can book customers are able to make informed and their space ahead of their journey as part of safe journeys on First’s fleet and comes at a the new pilot. time when the Government has changed its The system was extended to journeys on advice to make it clear that anybody can use the 3a service from Batheaston to Weston public transport. in Bath this week, and will be on the T1 Bookings can be made up to seven days in service between Bristol and Thornbury from advance of the journey, with the flexibility next week. of being able to reserve a space, subject to The new service comes as First continues to availability, right up to 15 minutes before find ways to use technology to improve the departure. Customers have the option of experience for its customers. It follows buying a ticket with their reservation or recent changes to First’s app, which now booking at no extra cost if they already have enables customers to track the location and a pre-paid First Bus ticket or are a concessionary card holder travelling after shown to the driver alongside an existing, 9am. pre-paid ticket. If a customer doesn't have an With capacity onboard currently reduced due existing ticket, they can buy one at time of Parked cars force route change to social distancing, the reservation will booking. Bus company First says it has been forced to change the route of the 17 bus due to badly secure a space on the chosen bus, rather than For customers who are not able to make an parked cars on Hanham Road. a specific seat. Bookings will be made on a online booking, a dedicated phone line is new, dedicated website, also being trialled and is available on 0786 “Service 17 will use Court Road and Mount Hill Road in both directions until further bookmybusride.com, with customers 6977586, Monday to Friday from 9am to notice. We are sorry for any inconvenience caused.” receiving an email confirmation that is 5pm (excluding public holidays).

The Week in • Wednesday 5th August 2020 5 Developers respond to traffic concerns as new plans for 200+ homes are submitted

Following the recent public consultation by house feedback. The developers acknowledge that like many towns builders Mactaggart and Mickel over their plans for a 25- and cities, Keynsham experiences peak-hour congestion, but acre greenfield site next to Hygge Park in Keynsham, a add: “Outside of Bath, Keynsham is considered the most planning application has now been submitted to B&NES sustainable location in Bath & North East Somerset and has Council. therefore been a focus for development in recent local The outline plans for the Withies Green site at the A4 Bath development plans and was a focus in the withdrawn Joint Road are for approximately 213 homes, a sports pitch serving Spatial Plan. It is important that development is located a new primary school at Hygge Park, open space, where residents have good alternative travel mode options to landscaping, access roads, footpaths and cycleways. the car to minimise car use. The land, which is bordered to the south west by Manor Road “Withies Green has excellent bus links to Bristol and Bath, Community Woodland, was removed some time ago from is well located for access to the Bristol to Bath Railway Path the Green Belt and is ‘safeguarded’ for future residential at Saltford, particularly for cycle journeys to Bath. Keynsham development in the Bath and North East Somerset Core town centre and rail station are within walking and cycling Strategy. distance of Withies Green. Walking and cycling routes will transport facilities and the Withies Green development would In 2018 the developer tried to get planning permission for be available through Hygge Park to the Lane be ideally located to take advantage of the proposed the site, when there were more than 300 objections. The roundabout; and beyond the site, significant offsite pedestrian Metrobus route (and any future upgrades) along the A4.” council refused permission, saying that the site was not and cycle improvements are proposed on the route to the A mix of housing is proposed to provide for all generations currently allocated for development and that the existing road town centre and train station to encourage these modes.” and family groups, and each home would be equipped with network didn’t have the capacity to cope with the increase in They say the transport assessment, which includes modelling electric car and cycle charging points. The new estate would traffic that would be generated. undertaken with data obtained before the COVID-19 crisis blend “seamlessly” with Hygge Park. M+M subsequently lodged an appeal with the Secretary of demonstrates that the proposed development would not result A number of respondents to the consultation raised concerns the State but dropped it last summer. in traffic impact which is considered severe. over the loss of Green Belt land and its effects on wild flora The public consultation staged in advance of this latest The applicants add: “We are aware that the Joint Local and fauna. application was held online due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Transport Plan (4) published in March 2020 identifies The developers say of a total site area of 10.26 hectares, more One of the key questions was whether people supported the extending the Metrobus network along the A4 corridor than 50% will comprise “green infrastructure” which is provision of new homes as well as community facilities at between Bristol and Bath with a longer term aspiration for significantly in excess of the council’s requirements. In all Withies Green, to which there were 75 responses with 81% mass transit. It also identifies the potential for a light rail link 500 trees are proposed to be planted saying no. between Hicks Gate/Keynsham to Bristol. These The planning reference is 20/02673/OUT. Consultation runs Traffic congestion along the A4 was a recurring theme in the improvements will represent very significant investment in until 4th September. Care home helps Dora celebrate her 106th birthday Dora Banfield, a resident at Brunelcare’s Deerhurst Care Home in , turned 106 at the beginning of July. She has been a resident with Brunelcare for two years and was able to celebrate her milestone with an outdoor garden visit from her daughter, Mary. Dora was born in 1914 in Kent and educated in Essex. She was brought up on a farm and served in the Land Army. She became a teacher, an artist and had a book published when she was 93 all about how to be an artist. She has three children, eight grandchildren and 14 great- grandchildren. Dora lived for 29 years in Taunton and now calls Bristol and Deerhurst her home. It was the first of Brunelcare’s homes to offer outdoor socially distanced garden visits as lockdown has eased. As of 1st July, loved ones can now visit on a one-on-one basis for 30-minute well. I wanted to thank everyone at Deerhurst for making meeting slots across all five of Brunelcare’s homes. her birthday such a special occasion. The awning was a Mary said: “I was so pleased to see Mum on her birthday, cosy place to sit and the decorations were bright and what a special time we had. I thought she looked very cheerful.”

6 The Week in • Wednesday 5th August 2020 Plans for commercial development on A4 raise access concerns Plans have now been submitted for a was unable to respond fully to the outline 5,950sq m commercial development on the application for flexible use commercial A4 east of Keynsham. development as there is “inadequate As we reported in Issue 632, prior to putting information” in respect of the access on to in an outline application to Bath & North the A4 which is “an already busy and East Somerset Council for the 3.7-acre green congested main commuter route between space, the landowners’ agents asked whether Bath and Bristol”. the planned development would meet the It adds: “No consideration has been given threshold for an Environmental Impact to access/egress being via Worlds End Assessment (EIA) to be carried out. Lane which is due to be improved under The purpose of an EIA is to ensure that the proposals in the B&NES Placemaking Plan environmental effects of a proposed 2017. Keynsham Town Council wish to development are properly considered. reserve judgment and comment fully when B&NES Council has since confirmed that more detailed site layout plans are the scheme did not need an EIA. submitted.” The site is owned by Places for People The applicants say that both vehicular and The proposals include parking for peak-hour traffic when compared to the Strategic Land and is allocated for pedestrian access into the site can be made approximately 69 cars, including eight for existing flows, resulting in a 3% uplift in employment uses in the Bath and North East available from the A4, with a separate disabled users. The application highlights traffic to what is already on Bath Road. Somerset Core Strategy. It sits between the entrance and exit dual access arrangement that there are good bus links and Keynsham The application also says the overall effect petrol station on one side and horticultural proposed, and that there is an opportunity to railway station is a 29-minute walk or 10- of the proposed development on air quality nursery on the other, and stretches from the link the site with Worlds End Lane should minute cycle ride away. A transport report would not be significant. A4 Bath Road back to World’s End Lane. that infrastructure be upgraded to suit wider says the proposed development would The planning reference is 20/02479/OUT for Keynsham Town Council last week said it development at a later stage. generate only a “negligible” increase in anyone wishing to comment.

The Week in • Wednesday 5th August 2020 7 LETTERS

An open letter to Jacob One way of easing run has virtually disappeared. informing local people of issues of concern so Let’s hope South Gloucestershire Council run they have time to act. Rees-Mogg MP conflict on shared paths this project across the county and children get Kerry Morgan Dear Mr Rees-Mogg Dear Becky fitter by walking or cycling, pollution goes Chair, Protect Our Keynsham We are writing to you again because we are At last week’s South Glos Regulatory from around schools and residents don’t have Environment (POKE) concerned that we have had no reply to our Committee meeting I raised the issue of to put up with inconsiderate parking and abuse. urgent letter that we sent you almost two conflict where public rights of way are being Nick Gould, Oldland months ago (as featured in The Week In, Issue shared by both walkers and cyclists. Fuelling a debate 630). We are aware that you have a good During the past months of the pandemic there Dear Editor reputation for responding to constituents’ has been a big increase in cycling, and this is Power to the people Birthdays are always memorable occasions, but letters. From what scientists state, it would likely to increase even more with the Dear Becky mine this year will be unforgettable, for all the seem that the climate emergency is potentially Government’s promotion to reduce obesity. Protect Our Keynsham Environment (POKE) wrong reasons! With so many things to the most urgent issue that humanity has ever This will mean even more cyclists sharing has received a very positive and encouraging consider now, like gloves, masks and hand faced, yet you have not responded on this public rights of way (PROWs) with walkers. response from local residents following the sanitiser, it’s very easy to be distracted with the subject. It was disappointing too that you did One route in particular is the Bristol – Bath ex- publication of our letter in The Week In (Issue simplest of tasks we’ve performed numerous not attend any of the three climate hustings railway line, although I am not sure if this is 636). It is clear that many people share our times before. But how many of these small before the last election or the recent Climate actually classed as a PROW. concerns about the possibility of a noisy power mistakes are as costly as this? Coalition Virtual Lobby. Accidents and near-misses do occur fairly station that will create bad smells, more HGV I inadvertently filled my tank with unleaded Now is the time when we need to build back regularly as there are also no marked arrows on vehicles, increased dust and unhealthy spores petrol instead of diesel. A simple mistake green to build back better if we are to preserve direction of travel, and there is limited width of right across Keynsham and the surrounding which I’ve since learnt has happened to our wonderful planet. We really hoped that you the paths, and often bunched groups of both area. Those most worried (quite rightly) are countless people many times over. So my would represent us as your constituents, as you sets of users. In some other countries cyclists those living in the newly-built housing on the question is a simple one. Why is it even have power and influence within the and walkers are segregated by marked lines, west side of Keynsham because they are possible? Why, in this age of technology, do we Government, or at the very least to reply to us. etc. and my question at the meeting was as to nearest to the power station site and most still have nozzles that fit into the wrong tank? We would also welcome a meeting with you, whether the council will consider my proposal impacted by the prevailing winds. Yes, I know there have different coloured either in person or over Zoom. on lane-marking certain identified sections of However, all homes in and around Keynsham pipes, but how many people have picked up the We need to treat the Climate Crisis as seriously PROWs in South Glos, and possible speed - including places to the east and north of pump without even thinking about it? Why has as we treated the COVID crisis - i.e. as a crisis. limits as well for cyclists (not walkers!) Keynsham like Saltford - should be concerned. the car/fuel industry not devised a system Your government took drastic action to halt the Cllr Michael Bell It is not just noise and pollution that is causing which allows only the correct type of fuel to be spread of this disease, now it needs to do the worry. Many locals are also realising that a pumped into the vehicle? same to stop the pollution and destruction of School road closures is local power station could impact on the value This lapse of judgement on my part, on my the planet - a far more urgent matter. of their homes! birthday, will cost me almost £1,000. I could The money that the Government wants to welcome news It is also clear that many local people, while have been involved in an accident and caused Dear Editor spend to get the country out of this new being aware of the power station site because damage to the car and it cost me considerably I am sometimes annoyed at council suggestions economic crisis should not be used to subsidise of reports in The Week In, don’t know exactly less money. My £40 fuel top-up and but the plan to close roads around school run polluting industries. It needs to seriously where the site is or how big an impact it could momentary loss of concentration has proved to times (Issue 638) is welcome news. consider the ideas that we raised in our letter to have on their lives. be a costly mistake indeed, but why was it even I wish they would run it out around all schools. you and use them as guidelines, as well as People wanting to know more about the risks, possible for me to make the mistake in the first Residents living around schools put up with creating and preserving nature reserves, and what can be done when new plans for the place? If the nozzle for the unleaded petrol had parking across driveways, blocking garages, woodlands and green corridors that benefit power station are submitted later this year, been a different shape, or a slightly different parking over pavements, parking on grassed everyone, all our wildlife and ultimately the should please email Protect Our Keynsham size, then I would not have been able to areas, speeding, engines running, pollution, planet. We would be very grateful if you could Environment (POKE) at help.poke.group proceed and would have realised my error road rage and parking in private roads. find the time in your busy schedule to write to @gmail.com before causing almost £1000 damage. I know some parents say they have to drop off us and to meet with us. POKE would particularly like to thank The So Shell, BP, Esso and all the other fuel their children as they have to go to work but Thank you. Week In for its excellent reporting of these providers, why have you not addressed this times have changed and it has been a welcome Yours sincerely worrying power station plans. It shows how very simple problem? We have cars that can relief that over the last few months the school Keynsham Extinction Rebellion vitally important a community newspaper is in talk to us, drive themselves and even park

8 The Week in • Wednesday 5th August 2020 LETTERS Kingswood takeaway’s without assistance, so why can you not get to the dug outs, hardstanding and hedge together with the car manufacturers and devise planting work, has received landlord approval 2am licence bid is refused a fuel system that doesn’t allow for human in previous years. Advertising is allowed and A Kingswood takeaway’s bid to stay open error? Square peg, round hole springs to mind. is common across all of our sites but boards until 2am at weekends and 1am on Someone needs to get the ball rolling – who may be subject to planning permission, weekdays has been refused on the grounds will be willing to take on this challenge and depending on their size. of prevention of public nuisance. help prevent others from experiencing this 3. The council has failed to publish and make The premises at 137 Station Road is at misery? I’m laying down the gauntlet – who available a final ‘Playing Pitches Strategy and present known as Flamers Star but the new will pick up the baton (or the nozzle)? Action Plan’ and had the opportunity to consult Yours annoyed and broke. with local residents and users at feasibility licence being applied for by Erkan Cil was Tracey Pewtner stage more than two years ago. for Star Kebab & Pizza House. SGC: The Playing Pitch Strategy (PPS) and South Gloucestershire Council’s Licensing Council responds to Indoor Built Sports Facilities Strategy and Sub-Committee heard that Mr Cil works action plans were adopted by South very closely with the current business, for issues in residents’ Gloucestershire Council in August 2018 which there is a history of noise and complaint following validation by the respective sports’ disruption. Following on from last week’s article national governing bodies. At the virtual meeting held last Tuesday, takeaways in the rank of shops in Station ‘Residents living near playing fields lodge Work undertaken by the FA and one local resident highlighted the Road, which close at 11am. formal complaint against council’, South Gloucestershire FA on the Local Football problems associated with the premises, Mr Cil’s application was originally Gloucestershire Council (SGC) has sent us a Facility Plan (LFFP) used the PPS action plan with anti-social behaviour including scheduled to be heard on 7th July but was response to the issues raised by the residents. as its basis. Public consultation on these fights, noise, delivery drivers blocking adjourned at his request. He did not attend 1. The council, as landowner, should have strategies ran from 30 January to 24 April 2018 driveways, and litter. last Tuesday’s hearing and attempts to carried out a public consultation as it did at and the consultation report was published in Local councillor Kim Scudamore also contact him and his agent failed, but on Greenbank Road with AEK-BOCO. July 2018: https://consultations.southglos.gov. spoke against the proposed premises taking legal advice, the sub-committee SGC: It is the responsibility of the lease holder uk/consult.ti/sports_pitch/consultationHome licence. He said that businessman Mr Cil decided to hear the application in his to carry out public consultation and 4. The residents say the current planning got permission in March to turn the old absence. demonstrate that they have done so when application, being registered during lockdown, PAWS charity shop in Staple Hill High Councillors noted that the council’s approaching the council for landlord’s could be construed as an attempt to allow it Street into a fast-food outlet, to which licensing service had received one direct permission. We requested to have further without receiving proper scrutiny. there was considerable resistance. complaint from a member of the public in involvement as we felt the evidence received SGC: Planning applications are being Mr Cil reportedly said in response to regard to the premises and that a further from the club’s consultation required considered and assessed as normal, despite the community objections there: “If you don't complaint had been referred by the clarification before a decision could be coronavirus pandemic. want it smelly or noisy, you need to move environmental health and anti-social reached. 5. Since lodging the complaint, the residents somewhere nicer or to the countryside.” behaviour teams, with the complaints 2. The leaseholder has carried out work at have tracked down the ‘South Gloucestershire Cllr Scudamore told the sub-committee relating to the premises operating beyond Shellards Road without consent, including Local Football Facility Plan’ and say it adds that Mr Cil’s comment is not something a permitted hours, parking and noise issues. putting up a fence, a hedge and advertising weight to their complaint. responsible neighbour would say. Mr Cil can appeal to the magistrates’ court boards. SGC: Gloucestershire FA have written to us to The sub-committee heard there are no against the decision within 21 days of SGC: We are not aware that the leaseholder has support the proposals for Longwell Green as problems associated with the other being notified. carried out any work that has not been granted they align with their Local Football Facility the relevant permission. Fencing work, changes Plan.

SUNDAY CHEMISTS Sudoku Sunday 9th August Boots, Gallagher Retail Park, Longwell Green (10.30am-4pm) 1-Easy 2 -Hard Asda, Longwell Green (10am-4pm) Boots, Emersons Green Retail Park (10.30am-4.30pm) Sainsbury’s, Emersons Green Retail Park (9.30am-4.30pm) Stockwood Pharmacy, 78 Hollway Road, BS14 8PG (9am-7pm) Keynsham Pharmacy, 15 Station Road, BS31 2BH (10am-4pm) Tesco, Callington Road, Brislington (10am to 4pm) Morrisons, 688-718 Fishponds Road, Fishponds (10am-4pm) Boots, Avonmeads Retail Park, St Philips Causeway (11am-5pm)

The Week in • Wednesday 5th August 2020 9 Fun times ahead for Keynsham Walking Football donates Keynsham families with £2,000 to good causes

Apart from the playing and social side of members over £100k park redevelopment 50 getting together to carry on taking part in the game they love, Keynsham Walking Football combine these Major improvements at Kelston activities with raising money for good causes. Road Park in Keynsham are due to During the 2019/20 season members of the club begin next month as part of a nominated the Children’s Hospice South West and the £100,000 investment by B&NES Jessie May hospice at home as their chosen charities. Council and Keynsham Town During the season various events were organised and the Council. club managed to collect £2,000 which was split equally The final design has been published between the two charities. The formal presentation of the and includes junior and toddler play cheques was delayed due to lockdown until last week, zones, accessible equipment and a although the money was transferred to their accounts in range of swings and climbing May to help with their fundraising during the pandemic. apparatus. On the left, Keynsham Walking Football’s chairman Visitors to the park, which is next to Mike Slucutt presents Frances Kenneally, community St Keyna Primary School, will also fundraiser for the Children’s Hospice South West, with benefit from better seating and tree a cheque for £1,000. planting in the complete overhaul. In the other picture, committee member Richard Iles Signs showing the new design and presents a cheque for £1,000 to Chris Roys, chief informing residents of the play area executive of Jessie May. The photographs are courtesy closure while the improvements are of Pete Ricketts. carried out are being installed. areas for local children and that swings are the most popular Keynsham Walking Football train at the AJN Stadium in The project is a result of a consultation carried out last year pieces of play equipment, followed by all types of climbing Keynsham, home of Keynsham Town FC, and have two which highlighted that play improvements were the top equipment. sessions for over 50s on Thursday evenings and Friday priority for the park, alongside better seating, signage and The work is expected to take six weeks to complete. The play mornings and one for over 65s on Tuesday mornings. safety measures. The current play equipment was installed area redevelopment is being funded by developer Last season they entered two teams in the Somerset FA around 30 years ago and is reaching the end of its life. contributions, a grant from Enovert Community Trust, Walking Football League (Over 50s and Over 60s) and A children’s survey led by the Keynsham Neighbourhood through the Landfill Communities Fund. one in the Gloucester FA League for Over 70s. Development Plan and supported by the town council Residents are reminded to follow social distancing and hand showed that Kelston Road is amongst the most popular play hygiene measures when visiting parks. Crossword

ACROSS DOWN 1. Gummed labels (8) 2. Salad ingredient (6) 8. Cheer (6) 3. Short sleep (6) 9. Leave out (4) 4. Come out (6) 10. Greek letter (3) 5. Apportions (6) 11. Remember (6) 6. ------of Delphi (6) 12. Throttle (8) 7. Paleness (6) 15. Hairpiece (6) 12. Pierce (4) 16. Large scissors (6) 13. Destroy (4) 20. Yellow fruit (6) 14. Inert gas (4) 24. Spite (6) 17. Chief (4) 27. Tincture of 18. Similar (4) opium (8) 19. Appear (4) 28. Herb (6) 21. About (6) 29. Unwell (3) 22. Pilot (6) 30. Ring (4) 23. United (6) 31. Breathe in (6) 24. Fine cotton fabric (6) 32. Scaly scurf (8) 25. Suds (6) 26. Interrupt (3,3)

10 The Week in • Wednesday 5th August 2020 The Week in • Wednesday 5th August 2020 11 Committee’s Development plans for football club disused Kingswood pub Plans to turn The Old Flowerpot Inn in Kingswood High decision is Street into a large children’s day nursery and build four homes behind the pub have been submitted to South kicked in Gloucestershire Council. In February we reported on pub campaigners’ fears that the inn could be lost. They said that in early 2019 the pub, part to touch of the Wellington Pub Company, closed without warning and In yet another twist in the AEK-BOCO FC saga (which has remained closed and boarded up since then. can be difficult to follow if you take your eye off the Flowerpot Properties Ltd’s conversion plans include ball), South Gloucestershire Council’s Spatial Planning knocking down the single-storey and two-storey rear Committee last week approved changes to two planning extensions and replacing them with new ones. The nursery, conditions which would enable the club to play in a which would eventually employ 30 staff and accommodate have rear gardens. higher league, as well as allow youth and women’s teams up to 125 children, would be open from 8am to 6pm, Monday The planning reference numbers are P20/12658/F for the pub to play under floodlights at the Greenbank Road in to Friday, with weekend opening depending on demand for conversion and P20/12659/F for the houses. Hanham. additional childcare. Another local pub – the former Anchor Made For Ever at the In doing so, the committee overturned the decision of the The proposed two-bed, three-storey houses would face, and bottom of New Cheltenham - was turned into a children’s Development Control Committee which earlier last be accessed from, neighbouring Station Court, and would nursery after securing planning permission in 2017. month had refused the proposed changes at the public open space in Greenbank Road in Hanham where the club play, against the advice of a council planning officer. Community asked to take part The ‘lower’ committee had felt that changing the floodlighting condition would lead to unrestricted use, in Willsbridge Mill survey which would impact negatively on people living nearby, and that raising the previously agreed height of the fence People are being asked to take part in a community survey or stream – and how often; how they get there, where they from 1.2 metres to 1.83 metres would harm the public about Willsbridge Mill. park; and what would make it easier for them to access it. open space. It is being run by WiIlsbridge Mill Community Refresh They are also asked what they like best about the Mill and However, the Spatial Planning Committee felt that use (WMCR), who have been working towards the long-term what could be improved; whether people have attended any of the pitch under floodlights three times a week was sustainability of the Mill which was previously run by Avon of the many organised events held there and how they might appropriate, as was raising the height of the fence. Wildlife Trust. be improved; and what kind of events they would like to see As power has actually been taken away from the council As we reported shortly before lockdown, the restoration of more of. because it has been taking so long to consider the Willsbridge Mill and gardens is now in its sixth year. The The questionnaire also asks how often people visit the café changes, an inspector appointed by the Secretary of State community interest company oversee the work to restore the and whether they have used the café takeaway service since will make the decision, although the Spatial Planning Grade II listed buildings and surrounding gardens while Avon it reopened, as well as whether they would be interested in Committee’s views will be taken into account. Wildlife Trust still maintain Willsbridge Valley as a wildlife donating time to regularly volunteer. But the council, which as well as being the planning reserve. To find out more visit http://www.willsbridgemill.com/ or authority is the club’s landlord, will at the end of the day The survey asks people a series of questions, including why https://forms.gle/ywhJgXYemfNYoRG66 still have the final say. they visit – whether it is to appreciate the nature reserve, walk The survey will take around 10 minutes to complete. All the dog, eat or drink in the café or take children to the pond answers are anonymous.

12 The Week in • Wednesday 5th August 2020 Stephen Williams is New curate joins the team Mark Nam is the new curate at St Anne's back to the UK in 2016 so that he could first candidate to Church in Oldland Common and the study theology at Trinity College in United Church in Longwell Green. Bristol. It was during his studies that he Mark was born in Newport in South embarked on his journey to become an challenge for West Wales and prior to training for ordained Anglican priest. ministry, he worked as a solicitor in both He said: “A curacy is by and large a the UK and Hong Kong and served as a learning post, and I am grateful to be of England Mayor pastor at a large English-speaking church learning from Rev Bruce Goodwin and for 10 years. the wonderful teams at St Anne's in The Liberal Democrats have chosen two- Mark is married to Kayi, with whom he Oldland and United Church in Longwell time MP for Bristol West Stephen has three young children. They moved Green.” Williams to contest the election next May for the post of Mayor of the West of England. Mr Williams also stood in May 2017 to be the first regional mayor. Conservative Tim Bowles won the election, at which turnout across the combined authority area – South Gloucestershire, Bristol and B&NES - was 29.72%. Labour’s Lesley Mansell came second and Mr Williams, who had gone into the race as the front-runner, came third. Stephen Williams Mr Williams was the MP for Bristol West from 2005 to 2015. He was Minister for Chair of the All Parliamentary Committee on Communities and Local Government during smoking and public health. Prior to being an Mark & Kayi the Coalition and was previously the Lib MP, he was a councillor on the former Avon Dem spokesman on the Treasury, higher County Council and a Bristol city councillor. education and skills and on schools. He was He has also worked as a professional adviser Situations Vacant Grand effort for charity by Alfie, 6 A six-year-old boy from Hanham is running 20 miles over the summer holidays to raise money for the Bristol Children's Hospital's Grand Appeal. Alfie Sessions, who attends Christchurch Primary School, previously had a short stay at the hospital and decided he wanted to help out whilst staying fit and healthy. He hopes to raise £250. Readers wishing to sponsor Alfie can donate via the JustGiving page at Vacancy https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/a lfiesessions to fill? The Grand Appeal is the Bristol Advertising in The Children’s Hospital Charity. Founded in 1995, the charity has raised over £50m to Week In is an Alfie Sessions save lives and support sick children and effective and low their families at Bristol Children’s treating more than 100,000 children each cost option. Hospital. year, and serves as the paediatric intensive The hospital covers the largest geographic care centre for the whole of the South Call Tracy or area of any children’s hospital in England, West region. Jodie on 0117 986 0381.

The Week in • Wednesday 5th August 2020 13 Sudoku Solutions Crossword Solution 1-Easy 2-Hard

Service Directory

Aerials Architectural Carpet Cleaning Fencing Garage Doors Garden Services Services

Chimney Sweeps Garden Services Handyman Blinds Appliances Foot Health

Driveways

An advert An advert like this costs like this costs £21.00 £21.00 + VAT + VAT per insert per insert DEADLINE FOR PLACING Discounts are available for Discounts are available for DIRECTORY ADVERTS multiple bookings starting at multiple bookings starting at IS FRIDAY 4.30PM 2 weeks 2 weeks

14 The Week in • Wednesday 5th August 2020 Service Directory

Home Painting Plumbing Roofing Tree Services Book a series Maintenance & Decorating of adverts and save even more Our Directory is the perfect place to find a local tradesperson.

An advert like this costs £21.00 + VAT per insert Discounts are available for multiple bookings starting THE WEEK IN at 2 weeks adverts call Adverts cost £4.20 per 0117 986 0381 centimetre (min 5cm) The more weeks you book the cheaper An advert Wanted each insertion like this costs BOOKS, paper ephemera, becomes THE WEEK IN postcards, football programmes, adverts £21.00 records, toys etc. 1 week - £21 Best prices paid. Phone Rick on call + VAT 01761 232936 2 weeks - £18.90 per insert 0117 986 0381 4 wk - £17.85 Discounts are available for multiple bookings starting at Waste Disposal 6 wk - £16.80 2 weeks DEADLINE FOR PLACING 8 wk - £15.75 DIRECTORY ADVERTS Locksmiths IS FRIDAY 4.30PM Telephone 12 wk - £14.70 Engineers 26 wk - £13.65

Plumbing 52 wk - £12.60 All prices per week exc VAT

You don't have to book successive weeks. You can choose fortnightly, monthly or specific insertion dates as long as the Rubbish total number of Oven Cleaning Tree Services Clearance insertions booked Cheap and fast corresponds to the An advert discount rate. like this costs We load and clear any household, garden, Similar percentage garage and shed £21.00 clearance discounts apply equally + VAT THE WEEK IN Free estimates to larger sized adverts. per insert adverts Fully licensed 85% recycled Call us now on Discounts are available for call multiple bookings starting at Call 0117 9373009 2 weeks 0117 986 0381 at anytime to book 0117 986 0381

The Week in • Wednesday 5th August 2020 15 16 The Week in • Wednesday 5th August 2020