From our South Gloucestershire Councillors
Cllr Liz Brennan
Cllr Ben Burton
Cllr James Griffiths
South Gloucerstershire Council
Frenchay and Downend Ward
Contact:
[email protected] [email protected] [email protected]
Cllr Ben Burton
Cllr James Griffiths
South Gloucerstershire Council
Frenchay and Downend Ward
Contact:
[email protected] [email protected] [email protected]
February 2022
We would like to take this opportunity of wishing residents a Happy New Year. We hope that everyone was able to spend some time with friends and family over the festive period.
As your local Councillors, we continue to work hard to improve the local area and regularly receive feedback from residents and the local Parish Councillors. If there are any concerns, suggestions or ideas that you would like to discuss then please do not hesitate to contact us.
Section 106 Funding for Frenchay
Sports facilities and public open spaces in Frenchay, and those used by Frenchay residents in neighbouring Downend, will be benefitting from a significant proportion of £450, 000 of new facilities and improvements thanks to developer funding secured by South Gloucestershire Council. The funding has been secured as Section 106 developer contributions from the development at the former Frenchay Hospital site and the recipients were listed in the January FCN.
As local Councillors we are delighted that South Gloucestershire Council is continuing its investment in supporting local sports clubs and helping improve some of our public open spaces. These new facilities and improvements will mean that even more people in the area will be able to benefit from active and healthy lifestyles, as well as enjoying the outdoors and some of the nature we have on our doorstep.
We continue to pursue other key local facility improvements such as better nursery provision, increased access to library services and other supporting services for our existing and new Frenchay communities. Please get in touch if there are specific services that you consider are needed in Frenchay.
Beckspool Road - Traffic Calming Measures
We are conscious that changes to the traffic calming measures proposed for Beckspool Road (as it crosses the common) need to improve road safety, be sympathetic to the visual appearance of the village and support our local community. The proposals put forward by South Gloucestershire Council were mainly welcomed by the community and considered an improvement on the existing arrangements. However, there were some concerns raised in relation to parking on the common, ensuring safety for the routes to the new Frenchay Primary School and access to important key local buildings such as the Frenchay Unitarian Chapel and Frenchay Parish Church.
We are pleased to report that we relayed local concerns about some aspects of the scheme and were able to negotiate some changes. We consider these alterations better reflect local residents’ views, whilst at the same time ensuring the primary desire for improved road safety is achieved. We fully understand that this is a key route through Frenchay and we would all like to see lower vehicle speeds, reduced traffic and more considerate driving. We are hopeful that these changes will help to change drivers’ behaviour and make Beckspool Road safer for the whole community.
The new scheme will now move through the various legal processes and we will update further in due course.
Ben Burton, Councillor
South Gloucestershire Council
We would like to take this opportunity of wishing residents a Happy New Year. We hope that everyone was able to spend some time with friends and family over the festive period.
As your local Councillors, we continue to work hard to improve the local area and regularly receive feedback from residents and the local Parish Councillors. If there are any concerns, suggestions or ideas that you would like to discuss then please do not hesitate to contact us.
Section 106 Funding for Frenchay
Sports facilities and public open spaces in Frenchay, and those used by Frenchay residents in neighbouring Downend, will be benefitting from a significant proportion of £450, 000 of new facilities and improvements thanks to developer funding secured by South Gloucestershire Council. The funding has been secured as Section 106 developer contributions from the development at the former Frenchay Hospital site and the recipients were listed in the January FCN.
As local Councillors we are delighted that South Gloucestershire Council is continuing its investment in supporting local sports clubs and helping improve some of our public open spaces. These new facilities and improvements will mean that even more people in the area will be able to benefit from active and healthy lifestyles, as well as enjoying the outdoors and some of the nature we have on our doorstep.
We continue to pursue other key local facility improvements such as better nursery provision, increased access to library services and other supporting services for our existing and new Frenchay communities. Please get in touch if there are specific services that you consider are needed in Frenchay.
Beckspool Road - Traffic Calming Measures
We are conscious that changes to the traffic calming measures proposed for Beckspool Road (as it crosses the common) need to improve road safety, be sympathetic to the visual appearance of the village and support our local community. The proposals put forward by South Gloucestershire Council were mainly welcomed by the community and considered an improvement on the existing arrangements. However, there were some concerns raised in relation to parking on the common, ensuring safety for the routes to the new Frenchay Primary School and access to important key local buildings such as the Frenchay Unitarian Chapel and Frenchay Parish Church.
We are pleased to report that we relayed local concerns about some aspects of the scheme and were able to negotiate some changes. We consider these alterations better reflect local residents’ views, whilst at the same time ensuring the primary desire for improved road safety is achieved. We fully understand that this is a key route through Frenchay and we would all like to see lower vehicle speeds, reduced traffic and more considerate driving. We are hopeful that these changes will help to change drivers’ behaviour and make Beckspool Road safer for the whole community.
The new scheme will now move through the various legal processes and we will update further in due course.
Ben Burton, Councillor
South Gloucestershire Council
January 2022
Christmas Message
We would like to take this opportunity of thanking the residents of Frenchay for their continued support throughout 2021. We are pleased to see how well the community has bounced back from the difficulties of 2020. It has also been great to see so many community groups continue to thrive and people being able to meet up at the pub, playground, school, sports club or just out and about.
May we take this opportunity of wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Sports Facilities and Libraries
A large proportion of more than half a million pounds in funding is set to be invested in nearby sports clubs, public open spaces and improvements to library facilities in Frenchay and Downend. The latest tranche of funding will provide investment in the following sports/recreation facilities in both Frenchay and Downend
These investments are in addition to funding allocated to Downend Library, which we know is well used by Frenchay residents. We hope that these developer contributions, arising from the construction of new houses on the old Frenchay Hospital site, will continue to support and improve local recreation facilities.
New Frenchay Primary School - update
Work is underway on the brand-new Council-led school building for Frenchay CofE
Primary School, ahead of the planned opening in September 2022
The brand-new home for the school is being built on the former Frenchay Hospital site on Alexander Road and has been designed to the low carbon Passivhaus standards, which will substantially reduce energy consumption. This will lower the school’s running costs whilst also supporting the objectives of the Council’s Climate Emergency declaration made in 2019.
The new building has been designed in collaboration with the school to keep the unique character and ethos of the current primary school. The classrooms are provided on two floors with outdoor learning areas for first floor classrooms looking out over the nearby woodland. The existing school provides places for up to 140 pupils on its Churchside site, and once relocated the school will be able, over time, to welcome more children with capacity for up to 420 primary-age pupils
As local members, we were delighted to join the Cabinet Member for Education, Learning and Employment Cllr Erica Williams, headteacher Katherine Marks and school governors to visit the site and view the new school’s progress. We were able to see the size of the school as the floor plate had been completed, and the erection of internal partitions was due to commence shortly after our visit. It was pleasing to see BAM making such good progress and hopefully this will continue so the school can be handed over at the earliest opportunity to Katherine and the school.
Ben Burton, Councillor
South Gloucestershire Council
Christmas Message
We would like to take this opportunity of thanking the residents of Frenchay for their continued support throughout 2021. We are pleased to see how well the community has bounced back from the difficulties of 2020. It has also been great to see so many community groups continue to thrive and people being able to meet up at the pub, playground, school, sports club or just out and about.
May we take this opportunity of wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Sports Facilities and Libraries
A large proportion of more than half a million pounds in funding is set to be invested in nearby sports clubs, public open spaces and improvements to library facilities in Frenchay and Downend. The latest tranche of funding will provide investment in the following sports/recreation facilities in both Frenchay and Downend
- £32,500 to Cleve Hill Tennis Club to fund a clubhouse extension and the construction of a new tennis court
- £42,709 to Cleeve Archers to fund the installation of an air source heat pump and construction of a covered shooting area
- £36,000 to Ding Crusaders RFC for improvements to their grass pitch
- £76,300 to Downend and Bromley Heath Parish Council to fund tennis court renovation and pavilion access enhancements
- £99,424.94 to Downend and Frenchay Tennis Club to fund construction of a new clubhouse
- £22,500 to Frenchay Cricket Club to fund cricket wicket upgrades
- £99,424.94 to Frenchay Tennis Club to fund construction of a new toilet and changing facility
These investments are in addition to funding allocated to Downend Library, which we know is well used by Frenchay residents. We hope that these developer contributions, arising from the construction of new houses on the old Frenchay Hospital site, will continue to support and improve local recreation facilities.
New Frenchay Primary School - update
Work is underway on the brand-new Council-led school building for Frenchay CofE
Primary School, ahead of the planned opening in September 2022
The brand-new home for the school is being built on the former Frenchay Hospital site on Alexander Road and has been designed to the low carbon Passivhaus standards, which will substantially reduce energy consumption. This will lower the school’s running costs whilst also supporting the objectives of the Council’s Climate Emergency declaration made in 2019.
The new building has been designed in collaboration with the school to keep the unique character and ethos of the current primary school. The classrooms are provided on two floors with outdoor learning areas for first floor classrooms looking out over the nearby woodland. The existing school provides places for up to 140 pupils on its Churchside site, and once relocated the school will be able, over time, to welcome more children with capacity for up to 420 primary-age pupils
As local members, we were delighted to join the Cabinet Member for Education, Learning and Employment Cllr Erica Williams, headteacher Katherine Marks and school governors to visit the site and view the new school’s progress. We were able to see the size of the school as the floor plate had been completed, and the erection of internal partitions was due to commence shortly after our visit. It was pleasing to see BAM making such good progress and hopefully this will continue so the school can be handed over at the earliest opportunity to Katherine and the school.
Ben Burton, Councillor
South Gloucestershire Council
December 2021
Frenchay Primary School - Update
We are sure that everyone is pleased to see the progress being made in relation to the new Frenchay Primary School. BAM continue to move at pace and the foundations have been completed. Those taking a keen interest in the site will start to see the timber frame being erected in the coming weeks.
This is a very exciting project and will deliver a fantastic learning environment for local children. We will provide updates as the school build progresses and will hopefully be able to share some photos shortly. As your local Councillors, we continue to ensure that vital local services are provided for Frenchay and giving children the best start in life is a key priority
Plant a tree for Tree Week
Tree Week is the UK’s largest annual tree celebration, marking the start of the winter tree planting season (November to March) and raising awareness of how we can all help to increase tree cover in the UK. Trees are essential for the health of our environment and provide clean air, food, shelter for wildlife as well as helping to prevent flooding and soil erosion.
For our third Tree Week (27 November to 5 December 2021), South Gloucestershire Council will be giving away 250 vouchers worth £20 to South Gloucestershire residents as a contribution towards buying their own tree. If you had a tree voucher last year, we are asking you to let others apply first this year. But we would love to see your tree.
Please share your photos with us on social media. Facebook, Instagram or Twitter: #NationalTreeWeek #SouthGlos
Further details and the online application will be available from Monday 29 November 2021. Please visit the following website for further details: https://beta.southglos.gov.uk/plant-a-tree-for-tree-week
As your local Councillors, we continue to work with Winterbourne Parish Council to enhance the natural environment around Frenchay and maintain the rural feel of the village.
Ben Burton, Councillor
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay Primary School - Update
We are sure that everyone is pleased to see the progress being made in relation to the new Frenchay Primary School. BAM continue to move at pace and the foundations have been completed. Those taking a keen interest in the site will start to see the timber frame being erected in the coming weeks.
This is a very exciting project and will deliver a fantastic learning environment for local children. We will provide updates as the school build progresses and will hopefully be able to share some photos shortly. As your local Councillors, we continue to ensure that vital local services are provided for Frenchay and giving children the best start in life is a key priority
Plant a tree for Tree Week
Tree Week is the UK’s largest annual tree celebration, marking the start of the winter tree planting season (November to March) and raising awareness of how we can all help to increase tree cover in the UK. Trees are essential for the health of our environment and provide clean air, food, shelter for wildlife as well as helping to prevent flooding and soil erosion.
For our third Tree Week (27 November to 5 December 2021), South Gloucestershire Council will be giving away 250 vouchers worth £20 to South Gloucestershire residents as a contribution towards buying their own tree. If you had a tree voucher last year, we are asking you to let others apply first this year. But we would love to see your tree.
Please share your photos with us on social media. Facebook, Instagram or Twitter: #NationalTreeWeek #SouthGlos
Further details and the online application will be available from Monday 29 November 2021. Please visit the following website for further details: https://beta.southglos.gov.uk/plant-a-tree-for-tree-week
As your local Councillors, we continue to work with Winterbourne Parish Council to enhance the natural environment around Frenchay and maintain the rural feel of the village.
Ben Burton, Councillor
South Gloucestershire Council
November 2021
'Reporting Issues or Concerns’
We thought it would be helpful to provide some guidance in relation to the most common issues that are raised by residents. We are always happy to help and to advise how to best contact the appropriate department at South Gloucestershire Council. However, there is a move to give residents greater access to Council services online and to receive notifications when reports/jobs are complete.
We have set out below some of the post common enquiries by residents. The links included in each section provide some practical guidance in relation to each issue and this will include an online form to notify the appropriate department.
Graffiti
There have been some instances of graffiti being reported in and around Frenchay. Please report any new graffiti using the following form: https://my.southglos.gov.uk/ServicePage.aspx?servicePath=
Missed Bin Collections
We are aware that on occasions the waste crews are unable to complete their rounds. If your bin has been presented and missed on a normal collection day then please report it using this form: https://beta.southglos.gov.uk/report-a-missed-waste-or-recycling-collection/
Please note that as a result of the national HGV driver shortage, in some areas waste is being ‘comingled’ when collected at the kerbside (i.e. all the recycling put together). Please be assured that it is still being separated and recycled once it is returned to the Depot and we hope the full service will resume shortly
Planning Enforcement
If you have concerns that a property has been constructed without planning permission or any other planning enforcement matter then please report it using the form below. Please note this is a confidential service and your details will not be disclosed to third parties: https://beta.southglos.gov.uk/check-report-planning-breach/
Potholes
Residents are now able to report potholes directly to Streetcare and they are more accurately reported by using integrated maps to identify the location. As part of the new service, residents will be informed when the pothole has been repaired.
We hope this will provide reassurance to residents that matters are inspected and dealt with appropriately. https://beta.southglos.gov.uk/report-a-pothole-damaged-road-footpath-or-cycleway
Ben Burton, Councillor
South Gloucestershire Council
'Reporting Issues or Concerns’
We thought it would be helpful to provide some guidance in relation to the most common issues that are raised by residents. We are always happy to help and to advise how to best contact the appropriate department at South Gloucestershire Council. However, there is a move to give residents greater access to Council services online and to receive notifications when reports/jobs are complete.
We have set out below some of the post common enquiries by residents. The links included in each section provide some practical guidance in relation to each issue and this will include an online form to notify the appropriate department.
Graffiti
There have been some instances of graffiti being reported in and around Frenchay. Please report any new graffiti using the following form: https://my.southglos.gov.uk/ServicePage.aspx?servicePath=
Missed Bin Collections
We are aware that on occasions the waste crews are unable to complete their rounds. If your bin has been presented and missed on a normal collection day then please report it using this form: https://beta.southglos.gov.uk/report-a-missed-waste-or-recycling-collection/
Please note that as a result of the national HGV driver shortage, in some areas waste is being ‘comingled’ when collected at the kerbside (i.e. all the recycling put together). Please be assured that it is still being separated and recycled once it is returned to the Depot and we hope the full service will resume shortly
Planning Enforcement
If you have concerns that a property has been constructed without planning permission or any other planning enforcement matter then please report it using the form below. Please note this is a confidential service and your details will not be disclosed to third parties: https://beta.southglos.gov.uk/check-report-planning-breach/
Potholes
Residents are now able to report potholes directly to Streetcare and they are more accurately reported by using integrated maps to identify the location. As part of the new service, residents will be informed when the pothole has been repaired.
We hope this will provide reassurance to residents that matters are inspected and dealt with appropriately. https://beta.southglos.gov.uk/report-a-pothole-damaged-road-footpath-or-cycleway
Ben Burton, Councillor
South Gloucestershire Council
October 2021
Voi Scooter - Update
Thank you for all those residents who have contacted us in relation to concerns over the parking of Voi scooters. We know that inconsiderate parking has meant pavements being obstructed or blocked, causing visibility issues at junctions and generally making the village look untidy. We are keen to help alleviate some of these concerns and ensure that the benefits of the Voi scooters are balanced with the needs of local residents.
The Voi scooter trial scheme, promoted by WECA, will remain for the foreseeable future and as your local Councillors we have been working hard to identify ways of promoting the benefits whilst addressing the serious concerns some residents have raised. We understand from residents that one of the key concerns relates to how and where the Voi scooters are parked at the end of a ride. The Voi website gives some useful information about how users should be parking the scooters (we recognise this is not always being followed) and this is available at the following website:
https://www.voiscooters.com/blog/a-voi-e-scooter-guide-to-parking/
We have been making representation to WECA and Voi to help improve the parking of scooters around the village. Some of the comments we have made are as
Reporting Inappropriate Parking Locations: We have received emails from a number of residents in relation to parking zones that are identified within the App but have been causing issues locally. These include at the junction of Beckspool Road and Cleeve Road, Malmains Drive and around Filton Road. This does not necessarily mean there is not a need for Voi scooter parking in these areas but some minor changes to the locations might prove beneficial to avoid obstructions. We have reported these concerns to Voi and will continue to work with their team to ensure that appropriate locations are designated within the App.
‘No Ride’ or ‘No Park’ Zones: There is an option for designating ‘no ride’ or ‘no park’ zones for Voi scooters to ensure that particularly sensitive or inappropriate areas are restricted. If you consider there are areas that should be included in this designation then please let us know and we can discuss with Voi what can be done (for instance, a number of parks are designated as such
Reporting Inconsiderate Parking: A number of the parking zones are in appropriate locations but the riders are not placing scooters correctly. This can mean other users path users (e.g. with buggies or wheelchairs) are unable to safely navigate pavements and potentially creates risks of pedestrians having to go in the road to get by. We ask all residents to report any such behaviour to Voi so that we can continue to ensure paths around the village are kept clear.
Marking Designated Parking Zones: The Voi team, in conjunction with South Gloucestershire Council, are able to provide racking or marked parking zones (depending on the location). The benefit of marked parking zone is that it promotes best practice when users finish their ride. The marked parking zones will show users the exact location for the Voi scooters to be placed and ensures that they are not blocking pavements or causing an obstruction. These sort of zones will hopefully encourage riders to park appropriately rather than just ‘dumping’ the scooter. We are keen to hear your views about appropriate locations for any such marked parking zones.
Please get in touch if you have other comments or issues relating to the Voi scooter scheme.
Bristol Road, Hambrook Resurfacing
We know some residents will frequently use the Bristol Road towards Hambrook. Please note that essential roadworks are to be carried out from the 27th September 2021 (starting just before ‘The Stream’ to just before where the B4058 passes under the motorway). The road will be subject to major resurfacing works that will involve the planing off of the existing surface of the carriageway and the laying of a new surface. The work will start at 8.00pm and remain in place until approximately
6.00am. These works will create a significant amount of noise.
For the duration of the works, the road will be closed and all traffic will be diverted around the area whilst the closures are in place. Although alternative routes will be signposted whilst the works are in progress, it is possible that delays may occur on the surrounding network. Please watch the local press for any further news, but you are advised to avoid the area if possible for the duration of the works.
South Gloucestershire Council apologises for any inconvenience caused by these essential works.
Ben Burton, Councillor
South Gloucestershire Council
Voi Scooter - Update
Thank you for all those residents who have contacted us in relation to concerns over the parking of Voi scooters. We know that inconsiderate parking has meant pavements being obstructed or blocked, causing visibility issues at junctions and generally making the village look untidy. We are keen to help alleviate some of these concerns and ensure that the benefits of the Voi scooters are balanced with the needs of local residents.
The Voi scooter trial scheme, promoted by WECA, will remain for the foreseeable future and as your local Councillors we have been working hard to identify ways of promoting the benefits whilst addressing the serious concerns some residents have raised. We understand from residents that one of the key concerns relates to how and where the Voi scooters are parked at the end of a ride. The Voi website gives some useful information about how users should be parking the scooters (we recognise this is not always being followed) and this is available at the following website:
https://www.voiscooters.com/blog/a-voi-e-scooter-guide-to-parking/
We have been making representation to WECA and Voi to help improve the parking of scooters around the village. Some of the comments we have made are as
Reporting Inappropriate Parking Locations: We have received emails from a number of residents in relation to parking zones that are identified within the App but have been causing issues locally. These include at the junction of Beckspool Road and Cleeve Road, Malmains Drive and around Filton Road. This does not necessarily mean there is not a need for Voi scooter parking in these areas but some minor changes to the locations might prove beneficial to avoid obstructions. We have reported these concerns to Voi and will continue to work with their team to ensure that appropriate locations are designated within the App.
‘No Ride’ or ‘No Park’ Zones: There is an option for designating ‘no ride’ or ‘no park’ zones for Voi scooters to ensure that particularly sensitive or inappropriate areas are restricted. If you consider there are areas that should be included in this designation then please let us know and we can discuss with Voi what can be done (for instance, a number of parks are designated as such
Reporting Inconsiderate Parking: A number of the parking zones are in appropriate locations but the riders are not placing scooters correctly. This can mean other users path users (e.g. with buggies or wheelchairs) are unable to safely navigate pavements and potentially creates risks of pedestrians having to go in the road to get by. We ask all residents to report any such behaviour to Voi so that we can continue to ensure paths around the village are kept clear.
Marking Designated Parking Zones: The Voi team, in conjunction with South Gloucestershire Council, are able to provide racking or marked parking zones (depending on the location). The benefit of marked parking zone is that it promotes best practice when users finish their ride. The marked parking zones will show users the exact location for the Voi scooters to be placed and ensures that they are not blocking pavements or causing an obstruction. These sort of zones will hopefully encourage riders to park appropriately rather than just ‘dumping’ the scooter. We are keen to hear your views about appropriate locations for any such marked parking zones.
Please get in touch if you have other comments or issues relating to the Voi scooter scheme.
Bristol Road, Hambrook Resurfacing
We know some residents will frequently use the Bristol Road towards Hambrook. Please note that essential roadworks are to be carried out from the 27th September 2021 (starting just before ‘The Stream’ to just before where the B4058 passes under the motorway). The road will be subject to major resurfacing works that will involve the planing off of the existing surface of the carriageway and the laying of a new surface. The work will start at 8.00pm and remain in place until approximately
6.00am. These works will create a significant amount of noise.
For the duration of the works, the road will be closed and all traffic will be diverted around the area whilst the closures are in place. Although alternative routes will be signposted whilst the works are in progress, it is possible that delays may occur on the surrounding network. Please watch the local press for any further news, but you are advised to avoid the area if possible for the duration of the works.
South Gloucestershire Council apologises for any inconvenience caused by these essential works.
Ben Burton, Councillor
South Gloucestershire Council
September 2021
Malmains Drive - Residential Development
As many residents will know, the 'dog walking field' at Malmains Drive was originally reserved for many years by South Glos
Council for the provision of a new primary school. However, work has now begun at the old Frenchay Hospital site to construct the new 420 place Frenchay CoE Primary School. As your local Councillors, we managed to secure £9.6 million from last year's budget to complete the school works and to ensure that it was constructed on low carbon principles (Passivhaus standards).
Many residents attended the second consultation event organised by Aequus on 3 February 2020 that set out the plans for the new residential development at Malmains Drive. The development of this site was critical in order to fund the new Frenchay CoE Primary School and to ensure it provided the facilities required by local families. We understand that new development is contentious but, as your local Councillors, we needed to strike a balance between the development potential of the site at Malmains Drive to enable the new school whilst ensuring it was completed in a sympathetic way for the local community.
The consultation events and our correspondence with local residents has identified a number of concerns in relation to the development at Malmains Drive, including: increased traffic, a loss of green space, ecological standards of the development and the number of dwellings. We have been working with Aequus to reflect these concerns and have managed to secure the following:
We have also been in contact with many residents in Malmains Drive, and the surrounding roads, to understand concerns about traffic volumes and excess speed. There have been many views expressed about the best way of addressing these issues and we are keen to try and agree some local proposals that we can then ask South Gloucestershire Council to implement (i.e. waiting restrictions yellow lines, access only, permit schemes). We will shortly be distributing a letter to residents in Malmains Drive and surrounding roads to canvass your views. We are looking to arrange an in person meeting, now that restrictions have been lifted, so we can answer your questions and hear your ideas. We hope this will produce a consensus that we can take forward.
We also wanted to explain why Aequus have been chosen as a partner on this joint venture. As they are 100% owned by Bath and North East Somerset Council, many of their principles relating to sustainable developments align with South Gloucestershire Council's own aspirations. This gives greater control over the development and more flexibility in creating community benefit rather than development profit being the overriding factor. Without this approach, the land may have been sold to a commercial developer who would look to maximise the profitability of the site, probably with greater numbers and intensity of housing.
We hope the above details helps to explain how we have balanced the development of Malmains Drive and the need for funding the new school.
Ben Burton, Councillor
South Gloucestershire Council
Malmains Drive - Residential Development
As many residents will know, the 'dog walking field' at Malmains Drive was originally reserved for many years by South Glos
Council for the provision of a new primary school. However, work has now begun at the old Frenchay Hospital site to construct the new 420 place Frenchay CoE Primary School. As your local Councillors, we managed to secure £9.6 million from last year's budget to complete the school works and to ensure that it was constructed on low carbon principles (Passivhaus standards).
Many residents attended the second consultation event organised by Aequus on 3 February 2020 that set out the plans for the new residential development at Malmains Drive. The development of this site was critical in order to fund the new Frenchay CoE Primary School and to ensure it provided the facilities required by local families. We understand that new development is contentious but, as your local Councillors, we needed to strike a balance between the development potential of the site at Malmains Drive to enable the new school whilst ensuring it was completed in a sympathetic way for the local community.
The consultation events and our correspondence with local residents has identified a number of concerns in relation to the development at Malmains Drive, including: increased traffic, a loss of green space, ecological standards of the development and the number of dwellings. We have been working with Aequus to reflect these concerns and have managed to secure the following:
- The number of proposed dwellings were reduced from 48 to 30.
- 66 parking spaces have been provided in the scheme to reduce pressure on local roads.
- A significant amount of landscaped green space is retained at the heart of the scheme to promote green and healthy living.
- Visibility splays have been improved to provide safer access to and from Malmains Drive.
- The new homes are being built to a AECB silver standard (better energy performance that includes the use of solar panels and air source heat pumps).
- Landscaping and tree planting have been included around the site to emphasise the village feeling of Frenchay
We have also been in contact with many residents in Malmains Drive, and the surrounding roads, to understand concerns about traffic volumes and excess speed. There have been many views expressed about the best way of addressing these issues and we are keen to try and agree some local proposals that we can then ask South Gloucestershire Council to implement (i.e. waiting restrictions yellow lines, access only, permit schemes). We will shortly be distributing a letter to residents in Malmains Drive and surrounding roads to canvass your views. We are looking to arrange an in person meeting, now that restrictions have been lifted, so we can answer your questions and hear your ideas. We hope this will produce a consensus that we can take forward.
We also wanted to explain why Aequus have been chosen as a partner on this joint venture. As they are 100% owned by Bath and North East Somerset Council, many of their principles relating to sustainable developments align with South Gloucestershire Council's own aspirations. This gives greater control over the development and more flexibility in creating community benefit rather than development profit being the overriding factor. Without this approach, the land may have been sold to a commercial developer who would look to maximise the profitability of the site, probably with greater numbers and intensity of housing.
We hope the above details helps to explain how we have balanced the development of Malmains Drive and the need for funding the new school.
Ben Burton, Councillor
South Gloucestershire Council
August 2021
Library Services - Frenchay
We know many residents take advantage of the range of books and other media that is available at South Gloucestershire libraries. We understand that for some residents it is often difficult to get to the library itself so we are keen to highlight a service that is offered locally.
Downend Library operates a housebound library service that is open to residents in Frenchay. Volunteers or staff will deliver books or other materials to residents on a monthly basis. This was a very important service during the pandemic which not only provided reading materials during lockdown but also was crucial in supporting members of the community and signposting to other agencies as needed.
There is some capacity within this scheme at present so please contact Downend Library if you would like to join (contact details below). Staff will select books, audio books or DVDs according to your requirements and volunteers will then deliver these items to you. This is a great service and brings the joy of books to many residents who would otherwise not be able to use our library services.
If you would like to sign up for the scheme or, indeed, volunteer to deliver books locally, please contact Downend Library (01454 864773 or [email protected]).
Vaccinations
We know that many residents are looking forward to Covid 19 related restrictions being eased but for others this causes understandable concerns. One of the main drivers in reducing hospital admissions is the success of the nationwide vaccination campaign and this has also been going well locally.
We are sure many residents have received both doses of their vaccinations but, for younger members of the community, more vaccination sites and walk in clinics are being offered. Please visit the South Gloucestershire Council Newsroom for information about the new large scale Vaccination Centre that opened at the Conference and Exhibition Centre on UWE's Frenchay campus on 7 July.
http://sites.southglos.gov.uk/newsroom/health-and-wellbeing/new-large-scale-vaccination-centre-uwe-bristol-opens-as-all-adults-are-urged-to-book-their-vaccination-now/
We urge all residents locally, who have not already had a first or second dose, to take advantage of this facility. The vaccination programme will hopefully ensure that we can return our lives to relative normality.
Ben Burton, Councillor
South Gloucestershire Council
Library Services - Frenchay
We know many residents take advantage of the range of books and other media that is available at South Gloucestershire libraries. We understand that for some residents it is often difficult to get to the library itself so we are keen to highlight a service that is offered locally.
Downend Library operates a housebound library service that is open to residents in Frenchay. Volunteers or staff will deliver books or other materials to residents on a monthly basis. This was a very important service during the pandemic which not only provided reading materials during lockdown but also was crucial in supporting members of the community and signposting to other agencies as needed.
There is some capacity within this scheme at present so please contact Downend Library if you would like to join (contact details below). Staff will select books, audio books or DVDs according to your requirements and volunteers will then deliver these items to you. This is a great service and brings the joy of books to many residents who would otherwise not be able to use our library services.
If you would like to sign up for the scheme or, indeed, volunteer to deliver books locally, please contact Downend Library (01454 864773 or [email protected]).
Vaccinations
We know that many residents are looking forward to Covid 19 related restrictions being eased but for others this causes understandable concerns. One of the main drivers in reducing hospital admissions is the success of the nationwide vaccination campaign and this has also been going well locally.
We are sure many residents have received both doses of their vaccinations but, for younger members of the community, more vaccination sites and walk in clinics are being offered. Please visit the South Gloucestershire Council Newsroom for information about the new large scale Vaccination Centre that opened at the Conference and Exhibition Centre on UWE's Frenchay campus on 7 July.
http://sites.southglos.gov.uk/newsroom/health-and-wellbeing/new-large-scale-vaccination-centre-uwe-bristol-opens-as-all-adults-are-urged-to-book-their-vaccination-now/
We urge all residents locally, who have not already had a first or second dose, to take advantage of this facility. The vaccination programme will hopefully ensure that we can return our lives to relative normality.
Ben Burton, Councillor
South Gloucestershire Council
July 2021
Frenchay School Update
BAM Construction have been appointed by South Gloucestershire Council to construct the new Frenchay Church of England primary school. The new school building will provide for 420 primary aged children, the teaching spaces will be provided over 2 floors, with a double height internal hall space, and adjoining full catering kitchen. The new school will be a valued asset to the Frenchay community and will provide an excellent learning facility for the children of Frenchay for years to come.
Old Frenchay Hospital Site
South Gloucestershire Council have appointed Silverback arboricultural services to conduct a detailed tree survey across the proposed site. This survey assesses the: age, health, species, and ecological importance of the trees on and bordering the proposed site. The survey identifies many of the existing trees that will be incorporated within the new landscaping master plan. These trees will receive protective fencing throughout the duration of the construction works. It is the intention of the scheme to retain as many of the existing trees as possible. This tree felling and vegetation clearance is essential to prepare the proposed site for the new school, the works are planned to commence from week beginning 21st June 2021. A trained ecologist will survey the trees prior to the work commencing and will be in attendance throughout the felling works to ensure the trees are ecologically safe to remove and only the required trees are removed. Considering this essential tree removal, the landscape master plan is being developed to enhance the number of trees in the new soft landscape areas, involving the planting of many new trees of differing species.
As local ward Councillors we continue to progress the plans for the provision of health and social care facilities on an area of the former Frenchay Hospital site. We are pleased to advise that the Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire CCG,
North Bristol Trust and South Gloucestershire Council have agreed to jointly appoint consultants to progress this development. This will provide the three parties with soft market testing, obtaining pre application planning advice for the proposed scheme, advice on overall financial viability and valuation of the site. This will ensure that any development on this site meets local requirements and is sensitive to the surroundings.
Ben Burton, Councillor
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay School Update
BAM Construction have been appointed by South Gloucestershire Council to construct the new Frenchay Church of England primary school. The new school building will provide for 420 primary aged children, the teaching spaces will be provided over 2 floors, with a double height internal hall space, and adjoining full catering kitchen. The new school will be a valued asset to the Frenchay community and will provide an excellent learning facility for the children of Frenchay for years to come.
Old Frenchay Hospital Site
South Gloucestershire Council have appointed Silverback arboricultural services to conduct a detailed tree survey across the proposed site. This survey assesses the: age, health, species, and ecological importance of the trees on and bordering the proposed site. The survey identifies many of the existing trees that will be incorporated within the new landscaping master plan. These trees will receive protective fencing throughout the duration of the construction works. It is the intention of the scheme to retain as many of the existing trees as possible. This tree felling and vegetation clearance is essential to prepare the proposed site for the new school, the works are planned to commence from week beginning 21st June 2021. A trained ecologist will survey the trees prior to the work commencing and will be in attendance throughout the felling works to ensure the trees are ecologically safe to remove and only the required trees are removed. Considering this essential tree removal, the landscape master plan is being developed to enhance the number of trees in the new soft landscape areas, involving the planting of many new trees of differing species.
As local ward Councillors we continue to progress the plans for the provision of health and social care facilities on an area of the former Frenchay Hospital site. We are pleased to advise that the Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire CCG,
North Bristol Trust and South Gloucestershire Council have agreed to jointly appoint consultants to progress this development. This will provide the three parties with soft market testing, obtaining pre application planning advice for the proposed scheme, advice on overall financial viability and valuation of the site. This will ensure that any development on this site meets local requirements and is sensitive to the surroundings.
Ben Burton, Councillor
South Gloucestershire Council
June 2021
We would like to take this opportunity to thank residents of Frenchay for voting in the recent South Gloucestershire Council, WECA and PCC elections. In particular, we are pleased to welcome Liz Brennan to the Frenchay and Downend Ward team of
Conservative Councillors. We are here to represent all residents, irrespective of who you voted for, so please get in touch if you have any questions, issues or comments. We look forward to working with the whole Frenchay community in order to deliver some of our key local priorities, including completing the new primary school, road maintenance/safety and facilities for the new Redrow development.
We would like to take this opportunity to thank residents of Frenchay for voting in the recent South Gloucestershire Council, WECA and PCC elections. In particular, we are pleased to welcome Liz Brennan to the Frenchay and Downend Ward team of
Conservative Councillors. We are here to represent all residents, irrespective of who you voted for, so please get in touch if you have any questions, issues or comments. We look forward to working with the whole Frenchay community in order to deliver some of our key local priorities, including completing the new primary school, road maintenance/safety and facilities for the new Redrow development.
As many residents will know an electric scooter trial is currently ongoing, which is operated by a company called Voi. The trial is led by the West of England Combined Authority in order to assess the effectiveness of electric scooters at cutting congestion, improving air quality and reducing carbon emissions. As it is at a trial stage, it is critical to ensure that both positive and negative feedback is received so that the scheme as a whole can be improved.
We think the Voi scooters potentially have a place in the available options for transport around Frenchay. However, we note there have been concerns locally about the position of parking bays, inappropriate use and a desire for some areas to be classed as 'no riding' zones. Some residents have already be in contact - thank you - but please let us know your experiences.
In particular, it is important to notify Voi of inappropriate driving (i.e. dangerous, on pedestrian only paths, multiple passengers on one scooter), badly parked scooters (i.e. if they are causing a nuisance or blocking pavements) or potentially underage riders (a provisional driving licence is required to hire a scooter). We know Voi are working closely with WECA, South Gloucestershire Council and the Police.
We would urge any residents that have any feedback in relation to the scheme to make contact with either Voi, WECA or ourselves:
Voi Support - 0800 3768179, [email protected]
WECA - [email protected]
Cllr Ben Burton, Tel: 07596 338420, [email protected]
Cllr James Griffiths, Tel:: 07557587123, [email protected]
Contact details for Liz Brennan will be available shortly.
We think the Voi scooters potentially have a place in the available options for transport around Frenchay. However, we note there have been concerns locally about the position of parking bays, inappropriate use and a desire for some areas to be classed as 'no riding' zones. Some residents have already be in contact - thank you - but please let us know your experiences.
In particular, it is important to notify Voi of inappropriate driving (i.e. dangerous, on pedestrian only paths, multiple passengers on one scooter), badly parked scooters (i.e. if they are causing a nuisance or blocking pavements) or potentially underage riders (a provisional driving licence is required to hire a scooter). We know Voi are working closely with WECA, South Gloucestershire Council and the Police.
We would urge any residents that have any feedback in relation to the scheme to make contact with either Voi, WECA or ourselves:
Voi Support - 0800 3768179, [email protected]
WECA - [email protected]
Cllr Ben Burton, Tel: 07596 338420, [email protected]
Cllr James Griffiths, Tel:: 07557587123, [email protected]
Contact details for Liz Brennan will be available shortly.
April 2021
Road Maintenance
Maintaining local roads across South Gloucestershire is no mean feat, given the range of rural and suburban communities in our area, and keeping our network in shape remains one of the Council’s top priorities. Record amounts are continuing to be invested towards resurfacing, filling in potholes and delivering new infrastructure – more than £174million since 2019 – and it is important we continue to focus on tackling problems before they arise, not only to cause less disruption for residents but also to ensure we aren’t wasting the taxpayer’s money.
I am pleased that, having secured a £3.7million funding investment from Government last year to carry out works to make key routes more resilient to flooding, improvements to drainage on Bristol Road in Frenchay are being made later this month.his work will be split into two phases.
The first, lasting two weeks from the week commencing Monday, March 22 will be carried out under temporary traffic lights (only during the day), and the second, involving replacing drainage pipes, lasting four weeks and starting from Tuesday, April 6. It is important to flag that this latter stage will need a combination of temporary traffic lights and a complete road closure, with diversions in place. As with any such works, dates and timeframes could be subject to change and we will be doing everything we can to keep the local community up to date.
The Council will soon be publishing its list of road resurfacing plans for the year and we are continuing to press for the Frenchay and Downend Ward to remain in the picture. If you have a road you think is in particularly need of attention, please do get in contact with either of us by emailing [email protected] and [email protected] or calling 07596 338420 so that we can lobby the Council to include it in next year’s programme.
Voting
On a separate note, residents will have the opportunity on May 6 to vote for the new district councillor to join our team, as well as to vote for the new West of England Mayor and Police and Crime Commissioner. The deadline to apply for a postal vote is 5pm on April 20 and to vote by proxy is April 27. The Council is putting in every effort to make sure polling stations are safe and Covid secure for you to cast your vote so please make sure your voice is heard. Again, if you have any concerns or questions, please don’t hesitate to drop us a line.
Ben Burton, Councillor
South Gloucestershire Council
Road Maintenance
Maintaining local roads across South Gloucestershire is no mean feat, given the range of rural and suburban communities in our area, and keeping our network in shape remains one of the Council’s top priorities. Record amounts are continuing to be invested towards resurfacing, filling in potholes and delivering new infrastructure – more than £174million since 2019 – and it is important we continue to focus on tackling problems before they arise, not only to cause less disruption for residents but also to ensure we aren’t wasting the taxpayer’s money.
I am pleased that, having secured a £3.7million funding investment from Government last year to carry out works to make key routes more resilient to flooding, improvements to drainage on Bristol Road in Frenchay are being made later this month.his work will be split into two phases.
The first, lasting two weeks from the week commencing Monday, March 22 will be carried out under temporary traffic lights (only during the day), and the second, involving replacing drainage pipes, lasting four weeks and starting from Tuesday, April 6. It is important to flag that this latter stage will need a combination of temporary traffic lights and a complete road closure, with diversions in place. As with any such works, dates and timeframes could be subject to change and we will be doing everything we can to keep the local community up to date.
The Council will soon be publishing its list of road resurfacing plans for the year and we are continuing to press for the Frenchay and Downend Ward to remain in the picture. If you have a road you think is in particularly need of attention, please do get in contact with either of us by emailing [email protected] and [email protected] or calling 07596 338420 so that we can lobby the Council to include it in next year’s programme.
Voting
On a separate note, residents will have the opportunity on May 6 to vote for the new district councillor to join our team, as well as to vote for the new West of England Mayor and Police and Crime Commissioner. The deadline to apply for a postal vote is 5pm on April 20 and to vote by proxy is April 27. The Council is putting in every effort to make sure polling stations are safe and Covid secure for you to cast your vote so please make sure your voice is heard. Again, if you have any concerns or questions, please don’t hesitate to drop us a line.
Ben Burton, Councillor
South Gloucestershire Council
March 2021
The “Recover and Rise” Budget
As February rolls around, so does the Council budget, where we have to make tough calls on how best to utilise the funding available to result in the maximum benefit for all our communities and to help them recover and to rise following the Covid outbreak. As part of this, we have been pushing consistently to ensure that Frenchay stays in the mix.
The number one priority of the Council’s Administration is to improve School Standards and the Council has made record capital investments into building new schools as well as to upgrade existing buildings to reduce their carbon output and to make them more energy efficient, thereby also bringing down running costs for the schools. We are particularly delighted that included in the budget is a £2.7million increase in funding for the new Frenchay Primary School, not only to ensure a great learning environment, but also to ensure the design is more environmentally friendly.
As local parents, we are very keen to see that children are not missing out on their education due to the Covid pandemic and are very supportive of the plans for the second phase of the trail-blazing Recovery Curriculum initiative, which will help local children to catch up on lost learning as well as support their wellbeing and development.
We know that so many people have seen their work impacted by Covid and, while there has been a fantastic amount of support for individuals and businesses, there are still some who don’t get the help they need. In the Budget, we are widening the net of support with a £1million Council Tax relief package to help households under pressure to direct their finances where it is most needed. We are also increasing Welfare Debt Advice support for the coming year and are establishing a Youth Employment Hub to help young people find work if they are struggling to get on the jobs ladder.
On top of this we are continuing to push for more investment into supporting our High Streets – including local services in Downend – to thrive, and are further rolling out our record investment into maintaining local roads.
Ben Burton, Councillor
South Gloucestershire Council
The “Recover and Rise” Budget
As February rolls around, so does the Council budget, where we have to make tough calls on how best to utilise the funding available to result in the maximum benefit for all our communities and to help them recover and to rise following the Covid outbreak. As part of this, we have been pushing consistently to ensure that Frenchay stays in the mix.
The number one priority of the Council’s Administration is to improve School Standards and the Council has made record capital investments into building new schools as well as to upgrade existing buildings to reduce their carbon output and to make them more energy efficient, thereby also bringing down running costs for the schools. We are particularly delighted that included in the budget is a £2.7million increase in funding for the new Frenchay Primary School, not only to ensure a great learning environment, but also to ensure the design is more environmentally friendly.
As local parents, we are very keen to see that children are not missing out on their education due to the Covid pandemic and are very supportive of the plans for the second phase of the trail-blazing Recovery Curriculum initiative, which will help local children to catch up on lost learning as well as support their wellbeing and development.
We know that so many people have seen their work impacted by Covid and, while there has been a fantastic amount of support for individuals and businesses, there are still some who don’t get the help they need. In the Budget, we are widening the net of support with a £1million Council Tax relief package to help households under pressure to direct their finances where it is most needed. We are also increasing Welfare Debt Advice support for the coming year and are establishing a Youth Employment Hub to help young people find work if they are struggling to get on the jobs ladder.
On top of this we are continuing to push for more investment into supporting our High Streets – including local services in Downend – to thrive, and are further rolling out our record investment into maintaining local roads.
Ben Burton, Councillor
South Gloucestershire Council
February 2021
Third National Lockdown
We are sure everyone in Frenchay is slowly coming to terms with the need for a third national lockdown due to the case rates of Covid 19 rising rapidly across the UK and here in South Gloucestershire. The number of Covid 19 patients in hospitals is growing and the health system, sadly, continues to be under pressure. We thank all the key workers locally who continue to respond and work tirelessly.
As local councillors we are working with South Gloucestershire Council and NHS colleagues to support the roll out of vaccinations. We believe this is the most likely route out of the current restrictions and we will be raising with government to see what more we can do to support the roll out locally. We would stress that vaccinations by themselves will not be enough to relieve pressures on our local hospitals and we thank everyone for continuing to support the various social distancing measures that have been put in place.
Business Support
We are conscious that many businesses still require our support locally. At every opportunity, we have been trying to communicate to local residents about the support that is available from central government but also those schemes that are administered locally. The government has announced that it is committing £4.6 billion to new lockdown grants to support business and protect jobs. Businesses in the retail, hospitality and leisure sectors are to receive a one off grant worth up to £9,000.
The new local grants will be advertised on the South Gloucestershire Council website and through the various other social and other media outlets. However, if you are still not sure about what is available and whether you qualify, then please feel free to reach out to either Ben or James and we would be happy to assist (contact details above).
We are also aware that many residents continue to have other non-Covid 19 questions in relation to council services or local issues. If there is anything that you would like to discuss further then please let us know.
Ben Burton, Councillor
South Gloucestershire Council
Third National Lockdown
We are sure everyone in Frenchay is slowly coming to terms with the need for a third national lockdown due to the case rates of Covid 19 rising rapidly across the UK and here in South Gloucestershire. The number of Covid 19 patients in hospitals is growing and the health system, sadly, continues to be under pressure. We thank all the key workers locally who continue to respond and work tirelessly.
As local councillors we are working with South Gloucestershire Council and NHS colleagues to support the roll out of vaccinations. We believe this is the most likely route out of the current restrictions and we will be raising with government to see what more we can do to support the roll out locally. We would stress that vaccinations by themselves will not be enough to relieve pressures on our local hospitals and we thank everyone for continuing to support the various social distancing measures that have been put in place.
Business Support
We are conscious that many businesses still require our support locally. At every opportunity, we have been trying to communicate to local residents about the support that is available from central government but also those schemes that are administered locally. The government has announced that it is committing £4.6 billion to new lockdown grants to support business and protect jobs. Businesses in the retail, hospitality and leisure sectors are to receive a one off grant worth up to £9,000.
The new local grants will be advertised on the South Gloucestershire Council website and through the various other social and other media outlets. However, if you are still not sure about what is available and whether you qualify, then please feel free to reach out to either Ben or James and we would be happy to assist (contact details above).
We are also aware that many residents continue to have other non-Covid 19 questions in relation to council services or local issues. If there is anything that you would like to discuss further then please let us know.
Ben Burton, Councillor
South Gloucestershire Council
November 2020
Frenchay CE Primary School Rebuild - Statement
The Council is pleased to announce that the project to rebuild Frenchay CE Primary School on its new site has been kick-started once again. The scheme was previously on hold as consequence of the lockdown when contractors were unable to commit to cost certainty or a definitive date for completion. The Council is delighted that the scheme is underway and parents/carers, children and residents may be reassured to hear that it is planned that the new building will be ready in time for the new academic year 2022/23. This timescale reflects that the Council has taken the opportunity to review and enhance the design in line with net zero carbon design standards.
Following this work, it is planned that alternations will be made to the original planning application for the new school building and this will be submitted for approval before the end of this year. These alterations will help to further reduce the running costs of the school and will positively contribute to the Council’s Climate Emergency declaration and 2030 carbon neutral target. The Council remains committed to delivering what is an exciting new school building for the local Frenchay community which is an essential part of promoting community cohesion and supports the Council’s number one priority to raise school standards.
Community Engagement Forums
Last Wednesday the first Community Engagement Forum (CEF) for Downend, Emersons Green and Frenchay was held virtually. CEFs have taken place previously but the boundaries for these meetings have changed to better reflect the updated South Gloucestershire Council’s wards. Everyone is welcome to attend the CEFs and it provides you with the opportunity to:
The next meeting of the CEF will be in January and we will ensure that details are circulated once the final arrangements have been made. Please note these are usually ‘face to face’ meetings and it is a great opportunity for meeting people in your local community. However, due to Covid 19 restrictions, the last meeting was held via Zoom and it is very likely the next meeting will follow the same format.
If you would like further details about CEF meetings then please contact: [email protected]
www.southglos.gov.uk/CEF or 01454 868113
Ben Burton, Councillor
South Gloucestershire Council
T: 07596 338420
Frenchay CE Primary School Rebuild - Statement
The Council is pleased to announce that the project to rebuild Frenchay CE Primary School on its new site has been kick-started once again. The scheme was previously on hold as consequence of the lockdown when contractors were unable to commit to cost certainty or a definitive date for completion. The Council is delighted that the scheme is underway and parents/carers, children and residents may be reassured to hear that it is planned that the new building will be ready in time for the new academic year 2022/23. This timescale reflects that the Council has taken the opportunity to review and enhance the design in line with net zero carbon design standards.
Following this work, it is planned that alternations will be made to the original planning application for the new school building and this will be submitted for approval before the end of this year. These alterations will help to further reduce the running costs of the school and will positively contribute to the Council’s Climate Emergency declaration and 2030 carbon neutral target. The Council remains committed to delivering what is an exciting new school building for the local Frenchay community which is an essential part of promoting community cohesion and supports the Council’s number one priority to raise school standards.
Community Engagement Forums
Last Wednesday the first Community Engagement Forum (CEF) for Downend, Emersons Green and Frenchay was held virtually. CEFs have taken place previously but the boundaries for these meetings have changed to better reflect the updated South Gloucestershire Council’s wards. Everyone is welcome to attend the CEFs and it provides you with the opportunity to:
- Raise concerns you have about your community.
- Hear about what is happening in your area.
- Meet with representatives from South Gloucestershire Council, Councillors, Avon & Somerset Police, Avon Fire & Rescue, Voluntary & Community Groups and your Town & Parish Councils.
The next meeting of the CEF will be in January and we will ensure that details are circulated once the final arrangements have been made. Please note these are usually ‘face to face’ meetings and it is a great opportunity for meeting people in your local community. However, due to Covid 19 restrictions, the last meeting was held via Zoom and it is very likely the next meeting will follow the same format.
If you would like further details about CEF meetings then please contact: [email protected]
www.southglos.gov.uk/CEF or 01454 868113
Ben Burton, Councillor
South Gloucestershire Council
T: 07596 338420
October 2020
Frenchay School Update
We are pushing for work to continue on the new Frenchay Primary School building, which has been delayed due to the Covid 19 outbreak. We are keen to see this much needed school provision become available as soon as possible and are also working with the Parish Council to support a possible nursery in the Old School building.
Improved school standards is the number one priority for Conservatives on South Gloucestershire Council and we are keen to see the new school in Frenchay deliver the best possible learning environment for local children to get the best start to their education.
We will continue to update residents as the plans progress and hopefully in the coming months work will start on site.
Cycling Routes
Following the Covid 19 outbreak, more and more local people have turned to cycling as a way to get around. We are campaigning to see Frenchay stay ahead of the curve and to reduce traffic through the village. We have been asking officers to review the local bike paths to ensure that signage, pavement markings and routes are improved around Frenchay.
We are keen to support more people getting out on their bikes or out walking as this has significant health benefits as well as a positive impact on traffic. But to do this we need to make changes and have made it clear we only want simple, sensible changes that will work in the long term, rather than knee jerk reactions.
We are working closely with regional Mayor Tim Bowles to ensure Frenchay benefits from any funding that is available to improve the cycling network.
MAF Funding
We have also been able to award Member Award Funding (MAF) to local groups from Frenchay. This funding helps to support local initiatives that will hopefully benefit the whole community. We have provided much needed funding to Frenchay Cricket Club to support their coaching programmes and other running/exercise groups that operate locally.
We still have funding available this year so if you have a scheme then please let us know and we can discuss it further.
Ben Burton [email protected]; and
James Griffiths [email protected]
Frenchay School Update
We are pushing for work to continue on the new Frenchay Primary School building, which has been delayed due to the Covid 19 outbreak. We are keen to see this much needed school provision become available as soon as possible and are also working with the Parish Council to support a possible nursery in the Old School building.
Improved school standards is the number one priority for Conservatives on South Gloucestershire Council and we are keen to see the new school in Frenchay deliver the best possible learning environment for local children to get the best start to their education.
We will continue to update residents as the plans progress and hopefully in the coming months work will start on site.
Cycling Routes
Following the Covid 19 outbreak, more and more local people have turned to cycling as a way to get around. We are campaigning to see Frenchay stay ahead of the curve and to reduce traffic through the village. We have been asking officers to review the local bike paths to ensure that signage, pavement markings and routes are improved around Frenchay.
We are keen to support more people getting out on their bikes or out walking as this has significant health benefits as well as a positive impact on traffic. But to do this we need to make changes and have made it clear we only want simple, sensible changes that will work in the long term, rather than knee jerk reactions.
We are working closely with regional Mayor Tim Bowles to ensure Frenchay benefits from any funding that is available to improve the cycling network.
MAF Funding
We have also been able to award Member Award Funding (MAF) to local groups from Frenchay. This funding helps to support local initiatives that will hopefully benefit the whole community. We have provided much needed funding to Frenchay Cricket Club to support their coaching programmes and other running/exercise groups that operate locally.
We still have funding available this year so if you have a scheme then please let us know and we can discuss it further.
Ben Burton [email protected]; and
James Griffiths [email protected]
September 2020
Cllr Jon Hunt, is to stand down as councillor following nine years of "outstanding" service to the community. The Deputy Leader of South Gloucestershire Council has said it has been "nothing short of a privilege" to serve his community as he announces his intention to stand down next month for personal reasons.
Cllr Jon Hunt, who represents the people of Frenchay and Downend as well as serving as the Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, has said he will be stepping down after nine years on the council following his recent completion of treatment that concludes his successful 14-month battle with stage 4 liver and bowel cancer. He will shortly begin a new career in the public sector.
Having first been elected to South Gloucestershire Council to represent the then Downend Ward in 2011, as well as to Downend and Bromley Heath Parish Council, Cllr Hunt quickly established himself as a figure for positive change in his community, with residents knowing to contact him for solutions to their local issues.
As Deputy Leader, Cllr Hunt acted in the stead of the Leader, Cllr Toby Savage, at public, internal and external on numerous occasions and was quick to rise to the challenge of taking on additional responsibility. During the Brexit process, he oversaw work to normalise the local impact of leaving the European Union and, more recently, following the outbreak of Covid-19 took charge of the council's work with the growing Community Support and Volunteer Network responding to the crisis. He also joined Cllr Savage in a gruelling two-day bike ride last year to visit all schools in South Gloucestershire to raise awareness for Children's Mental Health Awareness Week.
In his Cabinet role for Children's Services, Cllr Hunt was responsible for bringing the department out of Special Measuresand towards a Good Ofsted rating and oversaw an expansion of youth services working with local partner organisations.
His vision for innovation and improved services for care leavers also led to the creation of the Woodleaze supporting living project in Yate which, when opened later this year, will house young people aged from 16-25. The festive season has also become a happier place for care leavers under Cllr Hunt's watch, with the council bringing them together on Christmas Day for an annual party with plenty of food and presents.
Speaking on his announcement, Cllr Jon Hunt, Deputy Leader of South Gloucestershire Council and Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said: "Having the opportunity to serve my community and help make a difference for people in their everyday lives has been nothing short of a privilege and I am proud of what I and my fellow Conservatives have been able to achieve during my time on the council. I want to thank everyone who has supported me along the way, particularly during my battle with cancer, it has meant the world.
"Having recently beaten cancer and come to the end of my treatment, now feels the right time to move onto a new chapter of my life. I am excited by a move to the public sector even though it sadly means I have to withdraw from local politics, but my priority has to be to provide for my family. I will continue to wholeheartedly support my Conservative colleagues led by Toby, but more so in spirit, rather than in person.
"South Gloucestershire remains a great place to live and work and I want to recognise everyone at the council; the officers, my fellow Councillors and the Cabinet, for the important role they play. Being a local councillor is a big responsibility but also a great honour and I hope the council continues to adapt to make that opportunity more accessible to local people wanting to make a difference."
Also speaking on the announcement, Cllr Toby Savage, Leader of South Gloucestershire Council, said: "Working with Jon on the council has been a real privilege. He has become a close friend and been an excellent Deputy, someone I can rely on for sound advice and support and has served the council with distinction, so it is going to be a sad day when he formally steps down.
"Despite his battle with cancer over the past year, he was never distracted from his responsibilities - even when he was being advised to. His tireless efforts to deliver for his local residents, for the children and young people entering and leaving the care system, and South Gloucestershire as a whole has been nothing short of outstanding.
"On behalf of South Gloucestershire Council and the Conservative Group, we all wish him the best of luck as he takes his life in an entirely understandable new direction. He will be missed by many but I have no doubt that he will still remain a strong voice within his community."
James Griffiths
Councillor, South Gloucestershire Council
T: 07742 400474
www.southglos.gov.uk
Cllr Jon Hunt, is to stand down as councillor following nine years of "outstanding" service to the community. The Deputy Leader of South Gloucestershire Council has said it has been "nothing short of a privilege" to serve his community as he announces his intention to stand down next month for personal reasons.
Cllr Jon Hunt, who represents the people of Frenchay and Downend as well as serving as the Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, has said he will be stepping down after nine years on the council following his recent completion of treatment that concludes his successful 14-month battle with stage 4 liver and bowel cancer. He will shortly begin a new career in the public sector.
Having first been elected to South Gloucestershire Council to represent the then Downend Ward in 2011, as well as to Downend and Bromley Heath Parish Council, Cllr Hunt quickly established himself as a figure for positive change in his community, with residents knowing to contact him for solutions to their local issues.
As Deputy Leader, Cllr Hunt acted in the stead of the Leader, Cllr Toby Savage, at public, internal and external on numerous occasions and was quick to rise to the challenge of taking on additional responsibility. During the Brexit process, he oversaw work to normalise the local impact of leaving the European Union and, more recently, following the outbreak of Covid-19 took charge of the council's work with the growing Community Support and Volunteer Network responding to the crisis. He also joined Cllr Savage in a gruelling two-day bike ride last year to visit all schools in South Gloucestershire to raise awareness for Children's Mental Health Awareness Week.
In his Cabinet role for Children's Services, Cllr Hunt was responsible for bringing the department out of Special Measuresand towards a Good Ofsted rating and oversaw an expansion of youth services working with local partner organisations.
His vision for innovation and improved services for care leavers also led to the creation of the Woodleaze supporting living project in Yate which, when opened later this year, will house young people aged from 16-25. The festive season has also become a happier place for care leavers under Cllr Hunt's watch, with the council bringing them together on Christmas Day for an annual party with plenty of food and presents.
Speaking on his announcement, Cllr Jon Hunt, Deputy Leader of South Gloucestershire Council and Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said: "Having the opportunity to serve my community and help make a difference for people in their everyday lives has been nothing short of a privilege and I am proud of what I and my fellow Conservatives have been able to achieve during my time on the council. I want to thank everyone who has supported me along the way, particularly during my battle with cancer, it has meant the world.
"Having recently beaten cancer and come to the end of my treatment, now feels the right time to move onto a new chapter of my life. I am excited by a move to the public sector even though it sadly means I have to withdraw from local politics, but my priority has to be to provide for my family. I will continue to wholeheartedly support my Conservative colleagues led by Toby, but more so in spirit, rather than in person.
"South Gloucestershire remains a great place to live and work and I want to recognise everyone at the council; the officers, my fellow Councillors and the Cabinet, for the important role they play. Being a local councillor is a big responsibility but also a great honour and I hope the council continues to adapt to make that opportunity more accessible to local people wanting to make a difference."
Also speaking on the announcement, Cllr Toby Savage, Leader of South Gloucestershire Council, said: "Working with Jon on the council has been a real privilege. He has become a close friend and been an excellent Deputy, someone I can rely on for sound advice and support and has served the council with distinction, so it is going to be a sad day when he formally steps down.
"Despite his battle with cancer over the past year, he was never distracted from his responsibilities - even when he was being advised to. His tireless efforts to deliver for his local residents, for the children and young people entering and leaving the care system, and South Gloucestershire as a whole has been nothing short of outstanding.
"On behalf of South Gloucestershire Council and the Conservative Group, we all wish him the best of luck as he takes his life in an entirely understandable new direction. He will be missed by many but I have no doubt that he will still remain a strong voice within his community."
James Griffiths
Councillor, South Gloucestershire Council
T: 07742 400474
www.southglos.gov.uk
August 2020
South Glos Council has received £3.2 million in grant funding from WECA for road schemes. At Cabinet on 6th July we proposed, and had accepted, that some of this funding should be spent on Bristol Road B4058 which runs through Frenchay. This is a key commuter route to access Bristol and the motorway network. The drainage system along the route is now unable to cope with rainfall and weather patterns which causes flooding to the highway and properties alongside it. When flooding occurs traffic disperses into the residential streets causing major congestion and impact on the local community and local bus services. There is also an increased safety risk to school children and this is a particular concern.
For anyone who has an electric vehicle, or is considering purchasing one, South Glos Council are installing 14 new electric vehicle charging points at seven locations across South Gloucestershire as part of the plans to upgrade the publicly available charging network in the area. The 14 charging points will be located at Emersons Green, Hanham, Kingswood, Patchway, Staple Hill, Thornbury and Yate, offering residents and visitors to the area rapid (43kW+) and fast (7-22kW) charging facilities at a wider range of locations. This is the first phase of our roll-out of EV charging points, with future plans for a number more at sites across the area. This is all included in our commitment to becoming a net zero Council by 2030.
South Glos libraries have now introduced bookable services so customers can access them in a safe and controlled way following the easing of COVID-19 lockdown restrictions. Customers will be asked to pre-book an appointment in advance to visit a library for IT access and a click and collect facility is in place for the loan of books, DVDs and audiobooks. The libraries are reopening for these services in two phases, with Emersons Green, Kingswood, Patchway, Thornbury and Yate Libraries able to take bookings from 6 July, and the rest following on 13 July. Bradley Stoke Library will not be opening due to the continued closure of the leisure centre. All of the libraries will have hand sanitiser at the entrances and floor markings will be in place so people can follow the direction of travel required.
The bridge move on Gipsy Patch Lane was due to take place over the Easter period (11 to 20 April 2020) but because of coronavirus (COVID-19) and government guidance concerning social distancing, Network Rail postponed the work along with a number of other schemes across the wider rail network. Since this time Network Rail has continued to work hard behind the scenes with its stakeholders, contractor and supply chain to identify a new date when the Gipsy Patch Lane railway bridge can be manoeuvred into position.
The bridge move on Gipsy Patch Lane will now take place between Saturday 24 October and the early hours of Saturday 7 November 2020 and will take approximately 13 days to complete. Obviously this is outside of Frenchay but the effects of this road closure will be felt by the wider highway networks and will affect journeys around the district at that time.
James Griffiths, Ben Burton and Jon Hunt
Councillors for Frenchay and Downend Ward
South Glos Council has received £3.2 million in grant funding from WECA for road schemes. At Cabinet on 6th July we proposed, and had accepted, that some of this funding should be spent on Bristol Road B4058 which runs through Frenchay. This is a key commuter route to access Bristol and the motorway network. The drainage system along the route is now unable to cope with rainfall and weather patterns which causes flooding to the highway and properties alongside it. When flooding occurs traffic disperses into the residential streets causing major congestion and impact on the local community and local bus services. There is also an increased safety risk to school children and this is a particular concern.
For anyone who has an electric vehicle, or is considering purchasing one, South Glos Council are installing 14 new electric vehicle charging points at seven locations across South Gloucestershire as part of the plans to upgrade the publicly available charging network in the area. The 14 charging points will be located at Emersons Green, Hanham, Kingswood, Patchway, Staple Hill, Thornbury and Yate, offering residents and visitors to the area rapid (43kW+) and fast (7-22kW) charging facilities at a wider range of locations. This is the first phase of our roll-out of EV charging points, with future plans for a number more at sites across the area. This is all included in our commitment to becoming a net zero Council by 2030.
South Glos libraries have now introduced bookable services so customers can access them in a safe and controlled way following the easing of COVID-19 lockdown restrictions. Customers will be asked to pre-book an appointment in advance to visit a library for IT access and a click and collect facility is in place for the loan of books, DVDs and audiobooks. The libraries are reopening for these services in two phases, with Emersons Green, Kingswood, Patchway, Thornbury and Yate Libraries able to take bookings from 6 July, and the rest following on 13 July. Bradley Stoke Library will not be opening due to the continued closure of the leisure centre. All of the libraries will have hand sanitiser at the entrances and floor markings will be in place so people can follow the direction of travel required.
The bridge move on Gipsy Patch Lane was due to take place over the Easter period (11 to 20 April 2020) but because of coronavirus (COVID-19) and government guidance concerning social distancing, Network Rail postponed the work along with a number of other schemes across the wider rail network. Since this time Network Rail has continued to work hard behind the scenes with its stakeholders, contractor and supply chain to identify a new date when the Gipsy Patch Lane railway bridge can be manoeuvred into position.
The bridge move on Gipsy Patch Lane will now take place between Saturday 24 October and the early hours of Saturday 7 November 2020 and will take approximately 13 days to complete. Obviously this is outside of Frenchay but the effects of this road closure will be felt by the wider highway networks and will affect journeys around the district at that time.
James Griffiths, Ben Burton and Jon Hunt
Councillors for Frenchay and Downend Ward
July 2020
We hope you are all well and keeping safe in these unusual times. We have been conscious that it has been difficult to communicate directly with residents in Frenchay during the last few months due to the social distancing measures. We know, like many communities around the country, the residents of Frenchay have come together to support each other in these challenging times. We are really grateful for all the hard work of local volunteers and those helping the more vulnerable members of the community.
We would also like to take this opportunity to thank residents for their patience with changes to Council services. Council teams and staff are extremely stretched at this time due to staff being ill or supporting family members and children at home. We have redeployed members of staff to help support frontline services and this has allowed us to return many of the services back to normal.
As we slowly emerge out of the more restrictive lockdown measures, our attention is turning to a reset and recover phase. We are providing help to local High Streets to ensure that residents can return safely whilst still following government social distancing advice.
We also want to ensure that some of the new home working practices are maintained as this helps to remove vehicles from local roads (a concern of many residents with the proximity to the A4174). This will be in combination with supporting alternative 'green' methods of getting to and from work. We would be delighted to hear from residents about any ideas for improving the local transport network, especially proposals that will help make roads safer and support walkers and cyclists.
Contact Details
We are really grateful to Frenchay Community News for restarting deliveries as we are very aware there are some members of the community who have limited access to online resources. We thought it would be helpful to provide some key contact details for South Gloucestershire Council support and other partner agencies:
Yours sincerely,
Cllr James Griffiths, Cllr Ben Burton, Cllr Jon Hunt
We hope you are all well and keeping safe in these unusual times. We have been conscious that it has been difficult to communicate directly with residents in Frenchay during the last few months due to the social distancing measures. We know, like many communities around the country, the residents of Frenchay have come together to support each other in these challenging times. We are really grateful for all the hard work of local volunteers and those helping the more vulnerable members of the community.
We would also like to take this opportunity to thank residents for their patience with changes to Council services. Council teams and staff are extremely stretched at this time due to staff being ill or supporting family members and children at home. We have redeployed members of staff to help support frontline services and this has allowed us to return many of the services back to normal.
As we slowly emerge out of the more restrictive lockdown measures, our attention is turning to a reset and recover phase. We are providing help to local High Streets to ensure that residents can return safely whilst still following government social distancing advice.
We also want to ensure that some of the new home working practices are maintained as this helps to remove vehicles from local roads (a concern of many residents with the proximity to the A4174). This will be in combination with supporting alternative 'green' methods of getting to and from work. We would be delighted to hear from residents about any ideas for improving the local transport network, especially proposals that will help make roads safer and support walkers and cyclists.
Contact Details
We are really grateful to Frenchay Community News for restarting deliveries as we are very aware there are some members of the community who have limited access to online resources. We thought it would be helpful to provide some key contact details for South Gloucestershire Council support and other partner agencies:
- South Gloucestershire Council dedicated webpage: www.southglos.gov.uk/coronavirus
- South Gloucestershire Council freephone Covid-19 number 0800 953 7778 (open 08.45 to 17.00 Monday to Thursday and 08.45 to 16.30 Fridays).
- Our partner Southern Brooks for support with food deliveries, prescriptions, mental health support and much more on 0333 577 4666 (Mon-Fri 17:00-19:00 and Saturdays 12:00-19:00).
- Latest information from the government on coronavirus: www.gov.uk/coronavirus
- NHS information on coronavirus: www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/
Yours sincerely,
Cllr James Griffiths, Cllr Ben Burton, Cllr Jon Hunt
February 2020
Cllr Jon, Ben and I would like to wish you all a happy new year on behalf of South Glos Council and hope you had a lovely Christmas. I believe over the Christmas period it is an excellent time for everyone to spend time with friends, family and engage with their local community. I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to take part in the Carols by Candlelight service at Frenchay Church, there was a fantastic turn out and it was a lovely evening and a pleasure to meet so many local Frenchay residents.
With the new year upon us now and many of us pushing forward with our new year resolutions, Jon, Ben and I, will be looking to push forward with many of the councils target for this year, some of which focusing on reduce congestion and emissions, improve cycling and pedestrian routes, facilitate faster bus journeys and future proof our road network, as these are areas we frequently get asked about and affect us all in an increasingly populated area.
The council announcing a climate emergency in the later part of last year, the council this winter has held its first Tree Week, to raise awareness of the benefits of trees and encourage everyone to help us double the tree cover in South Gloucestershire by 2030, and we aim to plant an additional 5,000 trees on council-owned land during this winter planting season.
This winter South Glos Council was also delighted to be announced as winner of the national 'Keep it Local' award at the Locality Awards 2019. This award is an acknowledgement of the support given to community organisations to be strong and successful so communities thrive. The Locality Awards celebrate the most dedicated and inspiring people and organisations in the Locality network, and 'Keep it Local' is their campaign calling for councils to commission locally for services that transform lives, as a way to turn the tide on large-scale outsourcing.
Yours sincerely,
Cllr James Griffiths, Cllr Ben Burton, Cllr Jon Hunt
Cllr Jon, Ben and I would like to wish you all a happy new year on behalf of South Glos Council and hope you had a lovely Christmas. I believe over the Christmas period it is an excellent time for everyone to spend time with friends, family and engage with their local community. I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to take part in the Carols by Candlelight service at Frenchay Church, there was a fantastic turn out and it was a lovely evening and a pleasure to meet so many local Frenchay residents.
With the new year upon us now and many of us pushing forward with our new year resolutions, Jon, Ben and I, will be looking to push forward with many of the councils target for this year, some of which focusing on reduce congestion and emissions, improve cycling and pedestrian routes, facilitate faster bus journeys and future proof our road network, as these are areas we frequently get asked about and affect us all in an increasingly populated area.
The council announcing a climate emergency in the later part of last year, the council this winter has held its first Tree Week, to raise awareness of the benefits of trees and encourage everyone to help us double the tree cover in South Gloucestershire by 2030, and we aim to plant an additional 5,000 trees on council-owned land during this winter planting season.
This winter South Glos Council was also delighted to be announced as winner of the national 'Keep it Local' award at the Locality Awards 2019. This award is an acknowledgement of the support given to community organisations to be strong and successful so communities thrive. The Locality Awards celebrate the most dedicated and inspiring people and organisations in the Locality network, and 'Keep it Local' is their campaign calling for councils to commission locally for services that transform lives, as a way to turn the tide on large-scale outsourcing.
Yours sincerely,
Cllr James Griffiths, Cllr Ben Burton, Cllr Jon Hunt
January 2020
20 MPH Zone
At the start of this year a consultation took place regarding the implementation of a 20mph zone in Frenchay Village and speed tables on Beckspool Road. The responses that we have seen so far show that nearly three quarters of respondents supported the 20mph zone. Meanwhile about half supported the installation of the Beckspool Road speed tables. There is an allocated budget for implementing the Frenchay 20mph speed limit and 2 speed tables of £38,909 and this is sufficient to complete the works.
The Director of Environment and Community Services will make the final decision on this scheme through delegated powers.
Budget
South Gloucestershire Council (SGC) is responsible for a range of services which your local area receives such as refuse collection and disposal, street cleaning, planning, education, social care services and road maintenance.
SGC is currently consulting on its budget, council tax levels for next year, and its overall savings plan. Each year, we ask council tax payers for their views before agreeing our budget and council tax. This is your opportunity to comment on the council's priorities, its council tax and its proposals to improve services and increase efficiency.
As a local resident, it is important that you have a say in how we shape services in the future and our budget consultation is a key part of this. Please send us your views by Sunday 5th January 2020 through the Council's consultation webpage. https://consultations.southglos.gov.uk/consult.ti/Budget20/consultationHome
Tree Planting
SGC is aiming to double the tree cover in South Gloucestershire by 2030, helping to tackle climate change. We have recently had our first tree week where schools were involved in planting trees. There are also plans to plant an additional 5,000 trees on council-owned land in six parishes during the winter planting season.
We do not own enough land to reach our tree planting requirements, therefore, as well as planting as many trees on our own land as possible, we need to find innovative ways to increase tree planting across the area. Anyone who wants any more information on how they can get involved please get in touch with us. [ Ed: see links above]
Cllr Jon Hunt, Cllr James Griffiths, Cllr Ben Burton
20 MPH Zone
At the start of this year a consultation took place regarding the implementation of a 20mph zone in Frenchay Village and speed tables on Beckspool Road. The responses that we have seen so far show that nearly three quarters of respondents supported the 20mph zone. Meanwhile about half supported the installation of the Beckspool Road speed tables. There is an allocated budget for implementing the Frenchay 20mph speed limit and 2 speed tables of £38,909 and this is sufficient to complete the works.
The Director of Environment and Community Services will make the final decision on this scheme through delegated powers.
Budget
South Gloucestershire Council (SGC) is responsible for a range of services which your local area receives such as refuse collection and disposal, street cleaning, planning, education, social care services and road maintenance.
SGC is currently consulting on its budget, council tax levels for next year, and its overall savings plan. Each year, we ask council tax payers for their views before agreeing our budget and council tax. This is your opportunity to comment on the council's priorities, its council tax and its proposals to improve services and increase efficiency.
As a local resident, it is important that you have a say in how we shape services in the future and our budget consultation is a key part of this. Please send us your views by Sunday 5th January 2020 through the Council's consultation webpage. https://consultations.southglos.gov.uk/consult.ti/Budget20/consultationHome
Tree Planting
SGC is aiming to double the tree cover in South Gloucestershire by 2030, helping to tackle climate change. We have recently had our first tree week where schools were involved in planting trees. There are also plans to plant an additional 5,000 trees on council-owned land in six parishes during the winter planting season.
We do not own enough land to reach our tree planting requirements, therefore, as well as planting as many trees on our own land as possible, we need to find innovative ways to increase tree planting across the area. Anyone who wants any more information on how they can get involved please get in touch with us. [ Ed: see links above]
Cllr Jon Hunt, Cllr James Griffiths, Cllr Ben Burton
October 2019
School Funding
There has been good news for schools in South Gloucestershire with an announcement on a funding increase. South Glos has historically been one of the lowest funded local authorities for education but the recent decision will mean an extra £10 million is available for schools in South Gloucestershire.
The extra money will support our priority to continue to drive up standards across all of our schools and, crucially, it includes an extra £2.8m to support children with Special Educational Needs or Disabilities (SEND), which will help us meet the increasing and projected future demand.
There will now be a period of consultation with schools to make sure that we work together to ensure we put the extra resources to their best use, to support better outcomes for all children, including our most vulnerable pupils.
Alongside the agreed plans for the new Frenchay Primary School this funding announcement is excellent news for our pupils and teachers and will make a real difference in our work together to drive up standards across South Glos. We will still continue to lobby for more funding, especially for SEND pupils, to further enhance the opportunities for our children and young people in South Gloucestershire.
Waste Services
Following an in-depth review and negotiations with SUEZ, who operate waste and recycling vehicles in the area, improved terms have been agreed for kerbside collections in South Gloucestershire. As part of the ongoing Council Transformation and Savings Programme, we have been exploring the potential to make savings by renegotiating or potentially even withdrawing from arrangements with SUEZ.
We have reached agreement that means we can reduce our spending on the service in a way that will not impact kerbside collections and should improve the services. I'm sure everyone has been frustrated seeing litter left behind after the recycling crews have passed through. As part of the new arrangements SUEZ have agreed to invest to improve the quality of the service, on top of savings of £1m per annum.
The changes that have been agreed are:
• Installing CCTV cameras on all waste collection and recycling vehicles to provide better monitoring data, reduce littering and promote improved health and safety. SUEZ will also employ staff to review the footage to resolve any service issues. This will include crews who throw and break boxes and equipment and leave behind unnecessary rubbish.
• Buying additional recycling vehicles, which will improve collection round sizes and ensure that rounds are completed each day.
• Using a 70/30 ‘split-back’ vehicle at Christmas and Easter to collect the additional cardboard and mixed plastic and cans put out for collection at these times of year.
• Increased frequency of vehicle cleaning to help prevent avoidable equipment failure.
Alongside the kerbside changes there are also changes proposed to local Sort-It-Centres to make it easier for residents to visit and recycle. There will be a new Sort-It-Centre built in Filton which will help to take pressures from other centres and will support the new developments around the airfield. Our nearest Sort-It-Centre at Mangotsfield will be enlarged and have a new slipway built so that vehicles queuing to access the facility will not be blocking the road and help support a smooth running of the centre.
General Election
I am sure no one has missed the fact that there is a General Election happening on December 12th. As with all elections, regardless or who you vote for, it is very important to exercise your right to vote. The deadline to register to vote is 26th November. Don’t miss the chance to have your say on who will form the next government.
Cllrs Jon Hunt. James Griffiths & Ben Burton
Frenchay and Downend Ward
School Funding
There has been good news for schools in South Gloucestershire with an announcement on a funding increase. South Glos has historically been one of the lowest funded local authorities for education but the recent decision will mean an extra £10 million is available for schools in South Gloucestershire.
The extra money will support our priority to continue to drive up standards across all of our schools and, crucially, it includes an extra £2.8m to support children with Special Educational Needs or Disabilities (SEND), which will help us meet the increasing and projected future demand.
There will now be a period of consultation with schools to make sure that we work together to ensure we put the extra resources to their best use, to support better outcomes for all children, including our most vulnerable pupils.
Alongside the agreed plans for the new Frenchay Primary School this funding announcement is excellent news for our pupils and teachers and will make a real difference in our work together to drive up standards across South Glos. We will still continue to lobby for more funding, especially for SEND pupils, to further enhance the opportunities for our children and young people in South Gloucestershire.
Waste Services
Following an in-depth review and negotiations with SUEZ, who operate waste and recycling vehicles in the area, improved terms have been agreed for kerbside collections in South Gloucestershire. As part of the ongoing Council Transformation and Savings Programme, we have been exploring the potential to make savings by renegotiating or potentially even withdrawing from arrangements with SUEZ.
We have reached agreement that means we can reduce our spending on the service in a way that will not impact kerbside collections and should improve the services. I'm sure everyone has been frustrated seeing litter left behind after the recycling crews have passed through. As part of the new arrangements SUEZ have agreed to invest to improve the quality of the service, on top of savings of £1m per annum.
The changes that have been agreed are:
• Installing CCTV cameras on all waste collection and recycling vehicles to provide better monitoring data, reduce littering and promote improved health and safety. SUEZ will also employ staff to review the footage to resolve any service issues. This will include crews who throw and break boxes and equipment and leave behind unnecessary rubbish.
• Buying additional recycling vehicles, which will improve collection round sizes and ensure that rounds are completed each day.
• Using a 70/30 ‘split-back’ vehicle at Christmas and Easter to collect the additional cardboard and mixed plastic and cans put out for collection at these times of year.
• Increased frequency of vehicle cleaning to help prevent avoidable equipment failure.
Alongside the kerbside changes there are also changes proposed to local Sort-It-Centres to make it easier for residents to visit and recycle. There will be a new Sort-It-Centre built in Filton which will help to take pressures from other centres and will support the new developments around the airfield. Our nearest Sort-It-Centre at Mangotsfield will be enlarged and have a new slipway built so that vehicles queuing to access the facility will not be blocking the road and help support a smooth running of the centre.
General Election
I am sure no one has missed the fact that there is a General Election happening on December 12th. As with all elections, regardless or who you vote for, it is very important to exercise your right to vote. The deadline to register to vote is 26th November. Don’t miss the chance to have your say on who will form the next government.
Cllrs Jon Hunt. James Griffiths & Ben Burton
Frenchay and Downend Ward
November 2019
Road Humps - Beckspool Road, Frenchay
South Gloucestershire Council made a resolution in September 2013 to ensure that, as far as reasonably practicable, all schools in South Gloucestershire are covered by a 20mph speed limit.
Local Transport Funding has been secured for a 20mph speed limit scheme in the vicinity of Frenchay Primary School and it's adjoining residential roads.
In addition to the proposed 20mph speed limit, contributions have also been secured through the redevelopment of Frenchay Hospital to provide further traffic calming measures, such as speed tables, on the eastern side of Beckspool Road (see map). The proposed two speed tables also assist with compliance of the proposed 20mph speed limit.
Road Humps - Beckspool Road, Frenchay
South Gloucestershire Council made a resolution in September 2013 to ensure that, as far as reasonably practicable, all schools in South Gloucestershire are covered by a 20mph speed limit.
Local Transport Funding has been secured for a 20mph speed limit scheme in the vicinity of Frenchay Primary School and it's adjoining residential roads.
In addition to the proposed 20mph speed limit, contributions have also been secured through the redevelopment of Frenchay Hospital to provide further traffic calming measures, such as speed tables, on the eastern side of Beckspool Road (see map). The proposed two speed tables also assist with compliance of the proposed 20mph speed limit.
As your local Councillors we hope these measures will help to make walking and cycling to and from school more attractive and safe for local children. Please let us know of any other traffic concerns you may have noticed in the village.
Hambrook Lights
We understand a number of residents have raised concerns about the experimental traffic order at the Hambrook lights. We intend on organise a feedback evening as soon as possible to hear first hand about your experiences and suggestions.
In advance of the meeting, we have asked Mark King (Head of Streetcare at South Gloucestershire Council) to not only attend the meeting but to also provide us with interim feedback about how the ETO is progressing. We hope to be able to publish this shortly so residents can better understand the impact of the trial.
Yours sincerely,
Cllr James Griffiths
Cllr Ben Burton
Cllr Jon Hunt
We understand a number of residents have raised concerns about the experimental traffic order at the Hambrook lights. We intend on organise a feedback evening as soon as possible to hear first hand about your experiences and suggestions.
In advance of the meeting, we have asked Mark King (Head of Streetcare at South Gloucestershire Council) to not only attend the meeting but to also provide us with interim feedback about how the ETO is progressing. We hope to be able to publish this shortly so residents can better understand the impact of the trial.
Yours sincerely,
Cllr James Griffiths
Cllr Ben Burton
Cllr Jon Hunt
October 2019
Road Traffic Order - Cleeve Wood Road
A temporary traffic order is due to be made that will allow the temporary closure of Cleeve Wood Road to vehicles. The section of Cleeve Wood Road that will be affected is from the junction with Cleeve Road/Beckspool Road to its junction with Amberley Road. The road traffic order is required in connection with carriageway patching works that will be operative from dates to confirmed from 4 November 2019 onwards.
The exact date and times of closure are not currently provided and will only be in place for as long as necessary for the works to be completed (these form part of other patching works in the South Gloucestershire Council area). Please visit South Gloucestershire Council's website for further details when they become available.
Redrow Development
Notification has been received from Redrow that they are arranging for set-up works to be started this week (week commencing 10 September 2019) in Lime Tree Avenue. The main works to remove the existing tarmac road and installation of a new tarmac footpath, grassed area, lighting, furniture and other ancillary works will commence on Monday 16 September 2019.
As most of this work is taking place in the confines of the lime trees, there will be a Redrow Tree Consultant in attendance during the works. The works will be undertaken in accordance with the Arboricultural Method Statement agreed with South Gloucestershire Council. The works are expected to last until mid-October.
Hambrook Junction
As previously indicated your local Councillors (Ben Burton, Jon Hunt, James Griffiths) are arranging a meeting with officers and the Head of Streetcare at South Gloucestershire Council. This meeting will be an opportunity for local residents to feedback issues, concerns and thoughts in relation to the changes at the Hambrook lights. A date will shortly be fixed for this meeting and details will be circulated in the usual channels.
Yours sincerely,
Cllr James Griffiths
Cllr Ben Burton
Cllr Jon Hunt
Road Traffic Order - Cleeve Wood Road
A temporary traffic order is due to be made that will allow the temporary closure of Cleeve Wood Road to vehicles. The section of Cleeve Wood Road that will be affected is from the junction with Cleeve Road/Beckspool Road to its junction with Amberley Road. The road traffic order is required in connection with carriageway patching works that will be operative from dates to confirmed from 4 November 2019 onwards.
The exact date and times of closure are not currently provided and will only be in place for as long as necessary for the works to be completed (these form part of other patching works in the South Gloucestershire Council area). Please visit South Gloucestershire Council's website for further details when they become available.
Redrow Development
Notification has been received from Redrow that they are arranging for set-up works to be started this week (week commencing 10 September 2019) in Lime Tree Avenue. The main works to remove the existing tarmac road and installation of a new tarmac footpath, grassed area, lighting, furniture and other ancillary works will commence on Monday 16 September 2019.
As most of this work is taking place in the confines of the lime trees, there will be a Redrow Tree Consultant in attendance during the works. The works will be undertaken in accordance with the Arboricultural Method Statement agreed with South Gloucestershire Council. The works are expected to last until mid-October.
Hambrook Junction
As previously indicated your local Councillors (Ben Burton, Jon Hunt, James Griffiths) are arranging a meeting with officers and the Head of Streetcare at South Gloucestershire Council. This meeting will be an opportunity for local residents to feedback issues, concerns and thoughts in relation to the changes at the Hambrook lights. A date will shortly be fixed for this meeting and details will be circulated in the usual channels.
Yours sincerely,
Cllr James Griffiths
Cllr Ben Burton
Cllr Jon Hunt
Hambrook Junction Changes September 2019
I’m sure many of you are aware of the changes to Hambrook junction that have taken place. These changes are taking place, and a consultation undertaken, through an experimental traffic order (ETO). This has come about following a ministerial directive aimed at improving air quality in the direct vicinity to the lights due to poor traffic flows. This is the only location in South Glos where emissions exceed government targets and the directive says that these must be reduced before the end of 2019.
Modelling has been completed to show how the revised layout will affect the flow of traffic and reduce emissions below the required threshold. It is predicted that journey times from Bromley Heath to M32 junction will be greatly reduced, including bus journeys despite the removal of the bus lane, but this involves the below changes which adversely affect Frenchay residents wishing to access Downed or Hambrook:
We have been responding to many of your emails regarding these changes and we want to hear your views on how it effects your traveling in the local area, so we are planning a residents meeting to take place where you will have the opportunity to ask us any questions you many have and we can hear your opinions.
We would also like to hear your comments formally, the link to the consultation is on the dedicated webpage below. You can also find access to more information, including the traffic modelling video showing how the changes should affect the junction at peak AM and PM times.
https://www.southglos.gov.uk/transport-and-streets/streets/roads-road-works/major-roadworks/hambrook-air-quality-action/
Climate Change Emergency
In the wider council we passed a cross-party climate change emergency for us to be carbon neutral by 2030. Due to the importance of this, Frenchay and Downend Cllr James Griffiths will be sitting on the task and finish group to make sure our residents needs and views are fully incorporated in setting out the next steps we will now need to take to reach net zero emissions by 2030.
But this is not to say that the council has not already made significant progress in achieving existing targets to reduce our environmental impact by investing in a greener fleet of vehicles, replacing street lighting with LED lights, and overseeing a significant boost in recycling rates, including a large reduction in waste sent to landfill.
As we look ahead to 2020 and beyond, our focus must now shift towards doing our bit to save our planet's precious resources by reducing our consumption, especially of single-use items and ensuring our environment is protected for future generations, and with this said we are interested in your views on our updated Resource and Waste Strategy. https://consultations.southglos.gov.uk/consult.ti/Waste20
Yours sincerely,
Cllr James Griffiths
Cllr Ben Burton
Cllr Jon Hunt
I’m sure many of you are aware of the changes to Hambrook junction that have taken place. These changes are taking place, and a consultation undertaken, through an experimental traffic order (ETO). This has come about following a ministerial directive aimed at improving air quality in the direct vicinity to the lights due to poor traffic flows. This is the only location in South Glos where emissions exceed government targets and the directive says that these must be reduced before the end of 2019.
Modelling has been completed to show how the revised layout will affect the flow of traffic and reduce emissions below the required threshold. It is predicted that journey times from Bromley Heath to M32 junction will be greatly reduced, including bus journeys despite the removal of the bus lane, but this involves the below changes which adversely affect Frenchay residents wishing to access Downed or Hambrook:
- Removal of the westbound right-turn to B4058 Bristol Road to Winterbourne and of the northbound B4058 Bristol Road right-turn to A4174 and straight on movement to Hambrook from Frenchay at the A4174 Hambrook crossroads
- removal of the westbound right-turn to B4058 Bristol Road to Winterbourne and of the northbound B4058 Bristol Road right-turn to A4174 and straight on movement to Hambrook from Frenchay at the A4174 Hambrook crossroads.
We have been responding to many of your emails regarding these changes and we want to hear your views on how it effects your traveling in the local area, so we are planning a residents meeting to take place where you will have the opportunity to ask us any questions you many have and we can hear your opinions.
We would also like to hear your comments formally, the link to the consultation is on the dedicated webpage below. You can also find access to more information, including the traffic modelling video showing how the changes should affect the junction at peak AM and PM times.
https://www.southglos.gov.uk/transport-and-streets/streets/roads-road-works/major-roadworks/hambrook-air-quality-action/
Climate Change Emergency
In the wider council we passed a cross-party climate change emergency for us to be carbon neutral by 2030. Due to the importance of this, Frenchay and Downend Cllr James Griffiths will be sitting on the task and finish group to make sure our residents needs and views are fully incorporated in setting out the next steps we will now need to take to reach net zero emissions by 2030.
But this is not to say that the council has not already made significant progress in achieving existing targets to reduce our environmental impact by investing in a greener fleet of vehicles, replacing street lighting with LED lights, and overseeing a significant boost in recycling rates, including a large reduction in waste sent to landfill.
As we look ahead to 2020 and beyond, our focus must now shift towards doing our bit to save our planet's precious resources by reducing our consumption, especially of single-use items and ensuring our environment is protected for future generations, and with this said we are interested in your views on our updated Resource and Waste Strategy. https://consultations.southglos.gov.uk/consult.ti/Waste20
Yours sincerely,
Cllr James Griffiths
Cllr Ben Burton
Cllr Jon Hunt
New Frenchay Primary School Pedestrian Routes to School August 2019
A consultation is being conducted by South Gloucestershire Council in order to better understand residents’ views on pedestrian routes to the new Frenchay Primary School. Residents are encouraged to review the proposals and to provide feedback about their preferred option. This will better inform South Gloucestershire Council and us, as your local Councillors, about what scheme is favoured.
The purpose of the scheme is to provide safe pedestrian routes to the new Frenchay Primary School from Beckspool Road and the residential area to the east of the new school. There are 3 possible routes that are being considered and a map is available showing the proposed locations. Full details of the consultation are available online at: www.southglos.gov.uk/consultation
To respond to the consultation and have your views taken into account, you must complete the questionnaire by 28 July 2019. If you would like a paper version then please call 01454 863794.
Experimental Traffic Order – Hambrook Lights
All three of us were delighted to be able to introduce ourselves to some local residents at the recent Frenchay Preservation Society meeting. We were able to hear directly from you about various issues that were causing concern. We are always happy to hear your feedback about any local issues and how we might be able to support you.
One of the issues that is clearly causing a great deal of concern is the Experimental Traffic Order (EPO) at the Hambrook Lights. We fully appreciate and sympathise with local residents about the impact this will have on Frenchay Village and the surrounding area. As your ward councillors, we are keen to represent your views and to communicate your ideas about how traffic can be improved locally.
As we mentioned at the meeting, we will be arranging a residents’ meeting shortly after the EPO is put in place. This will allow us to hear your thoughts directly and to better understand possible changes that can be tried as part of the EPO. We are sure that we are all keen to improve traffic flow and air quality around Frenchay village and the Hambrook lights. We are asking for your help to ensure that any proposed changes are successful and take into account your needs.
We will also be asking for Streetcare to place air quality monitoring equipment in key areas around Frenchay village so that we have a better understanding about how the EPO not only effects air quality at the Hambrook lights but also for the wider community. We want to ensure that a positive solution is found and the issue is not simply moved from one location to another.
We are grateful for residents who have already been in touch with concerns. We would stress that it is important for all residents to provide feedback through the public consultation so that these views can be collected in conjunction with the
wider community.
Cllr Ben Burton,
SGC, Frenchay and Downend Ward
A consultation is being conducted by South Gloucestershire Council in order to better understand residents’ views on pedestrian routes to the new Frenchay Primary School. Residents are encouraged to review the proposals and to provide feedback about their preferred option. This will better inform South Gloucestershire Council and us, as your local Councillors, about what scheme is favoured.
The purpose of the scheme is to provide safe pedestrian routes to the new Frenchay Primary School from Beckspool Road and the residential area to the east of the new school. There are 3 possible routes that are being considered and a map is available showing the proposed locations. Full details of the consultation are available online at: www.southglos.gov.uk/consultation
To respond to the consultation and have your views taken into account, you must complete the questionnaire by 28 July 2019. If you would like a paper version then please call 01454 863794.
Experimental Traffic Order – Hambrook Lights
All three of us were delighted to be able to introduce ourselves to some local residents at the recent Frenchay Preservation Society meeting. We were able to hear directly from you about various issues that were causing concern. We are always happy to hear your feedback about any local issues and how we might be able to support you.
One of the issues that is clearly causing a great deal of concern is the Experimental Traffic Order (EPO) at the Hambrook Lights. We fully appreciate and sympathise with local residents about the impact this will have on Frenchay Village and the surrounding area. As your ward councillors, we are keen to represent your views and to communicate your ideas about how traffic can be improved locally.
As we mentioned at the meeting, we will be arranging a residents’ meeting shortly after the EPO is put in place. This will allow us to hear your thoughts directly and to better understand possible changes that can be tried as part of the EPO. We are sure that we are all keen to improve traffic flow and air quality around Frenchay village and the Hambrook lights. We are asking for your help to ensure that any proposed changes are successful and take into account your needs.
We will also be asking for Streetcare to place air quality monitoring equipment in key areas around Frenchay village so that we have a better understanding about how the EPO not only effects air quality at the Hambrook lights but also for the wider community. We want to ensure that a positive solution is found and the issue is not simply moved from one location to another.
We are grateful for residents who have already been in touch with concerns. We would stress that it is important for all residents to provide feedback through the public consultation so that these views can be collected in conjunction with the
wider community.
Cllr Ben Burton,
SGC, Frenchay and Downend Ward
Hambrook Air Quality Action July 2019
South Gloucestershire Council are implementing an Experimental Traffic Order (ETO) restricting some vehicle movements at the Hambrook traffic lights. SGC are working with the government to improve air quality on this part of the A4174 ring road in the shortest time possible. This will prove beneficial for nearby residents and all road users including motorists, bus passengers, cyclists and pedestrians.
An ETO is a trial which can be in place for a period up to 18 months, during which time consideration is given to making the order permanent. Orders are subject to a statutory process which allows the public to comment formally and provide feedback. The consultation will open when the restrictions at Hambrook are implemented on Sunday 11 August 2019. There will be a website page available shortly, which will provide further details.
A national assessment of local authority roads identified the A4174 ring road between the M32 Junction 1 and the A4017 Bromley Heath roundabouts as being above the annual mean limit value for NO2 of 40 µg/m3 (micrograms per cubic metre). This is the only road in South Gloucestershire predicted to exceed these limits in this assessment.
SGC computer modelling indicates that with the introduction of traffic management measures at the Hambrook traffic lights, this section of road could become compliant with the limit sooner than predicted, bringing with it all the health benefits of better air quality. This modelling will be tested through the use of an Experimental Traffic Order (ETO) which will restrict some movements at the traffic lights. The restrictions will allow east and westbound traffic on the ring road to flow more efficiently, thereby reducing NO2 emissions.
South Gloucestershire Council are implementing an Experimental Traffic Order (ETO) restricting some vehicle movements at the Hambrook traffic lights. SGC are working with the government to improve air quality on this part of the A4174 ring road in the shortest time possible. This will prove beneficial for nearby residents and all road users including motorists, bus passengers, cyclists and pedestrians.
An ETO is a trial which can be in place for a period up to 18 months, during which time consideration is given to making the order permanent. Orders are subject to a statutory process which allows the public to comment formally and provide feedback. The consultation will open when the restrictions at Hambrook are implemented on Sunday 11 August 2019. There will be a website page available shortly, which will provide further details.
A national assessment of local authority roads identified the A4174 ring road between the M32 Junction 1 and the A4017 Bromley Heath roundabouts as being above the annual mean limit value for NO2 of 40 µg/m3 (micrograms per cubic metre). This is the only road in South Gloucestershire predicted to exceed these limits in this assessment.
SGC computer modelling indicates that with the introduction of traffic management measures at the Hambrook traffic lights, this section of road could become compliant with the limit sooner than predicted, bringing with it all the health benefits of better air quality. This modelling will be tested through the use of an Experimental Traffic Order (ETO) which will restrict some movements at the traffic lights. The restrictions will allow east and westbound traffic on the ring road to flow more efficiently, thereby reducing NO2 emissions.
SGC understands that these changes will make some journeys slightly longer as drivers will be required to drive around the M32 roundabout in order to access the B4058 northbound and or the ring road from Frenchay. We apologise for the inconvenience caused.
When will the changes be implemented?
The road works required to install the measures will take approximately one weekend and are proposed to be carried out on 10 and 11 August 2019.
This is an early notification of the ETO and a full press release will be available from the week commencing 17 June 2019. This press release will provide further details and more background to the proposals.
When will the changes be implemented?
The road works required to install the measures will take approximately one weekend and are proposed to be carried out on 10 and 11 August 2019.
This is an early notification of the ETO and a full press release will be available from the week commencing 17 June 2019. This press release will provide further details and more background to the proposals.
Our New Councillors June 2019
We would first like to introduce ourselves. With the reduction in South Gloucestershire Councillors of 9, from 70 to 61, boundaries were redrawn. This created a new ward of Frenchay and Downend. At the elections on May 2nd Jon Hunt, Ben Burton and James Griffiths were successful in being elected to represent the new ward. Jon is an existing councillor who has previously represented the Downend ward since 2011 and is the Deputy Leader of South Gloucestershire Council while Ben and James have both been elected for the first time. We are all very much looking forward to working with all residents within the new ward.
Planning
The application at Fromeshaw Lodge, to convert the garage into a Lab room, has been ‘called in’ to a planning committee after the case officer had indicated that they were minded to grant planning permission for it. This will be going to a committee shortly and everyone who had previously commented on the application should be made aware of the date of this. There will be an opportunity for residents to address the committee directly to raise any concerns or comments of support.
Speed Restrictions
The build out of the chicanes along Beckspool Road has caused many issues. Just prior to the elections we held meetings with Highways officers and got agreement that no further build outs would take place immediately and that further thought needs to be put into this project. These were originally agreed as part of the Planning Permission for the hospital site but, clearly, they are not working as intended and cause more issues than they solve. We are pleased that the immediate stop was agreed to and will meet with officers shortly to look at options that can improve the situation with the build outs that are currently in place.
Beckspool Pond
The works to desilt the village pond have now been completed. This was part of a wider South Glos Councils flood resilience project for which the Council successful applied for a £3.35 million grant to make improvements to drainage systems at nine sites in South Glos. This should address long-standing flooding problems and included upgrading ineffective drainage systems. Hopefully this means that the road will now be in a better position to cope with extreme weather and reduce the need for reactive maintenance works.
Cllr Jon Hunt
Cllr Ben Burton
Cllr James Griffiths
We would first like to introduce ourselves. With the reduction in South Gloucestershire Councillors of 9, from 70 to 61, boundaries were redrawn. This created a new ward of Frenchay and Downend. At the elections on May 2nd Jon Hunt, Ben Burton and James Griffiths were successful in being elected to represent the new ward. Jon is an existing councillor who has previously represented the Downend ward since 2011 and is the Deputy Leader of South Gloucestershire Council while Ben and James have both been elected for the first time. We are all very much looking forward to working with all residents within the new ward.
Planning
The application at Fromeshaw Lodge, to convert the garage into a Lab room, has been ‘called in’ to a planning committee after the case officer had indicated that they were minded to grant planning permission for it. This will be going to a committee shortly and everyone who had previously commented on the application should be made aware of the date of this. There will be an opportunity for residents to address the committee directly to raise any concerns or comments of support.
Speed Restrictions
The build out of the chicanes along Beckspool Road has caused many issues. Just prior to the elections we held meetings with Highways officers and got agreement that no further build outs would take place immediately and that further thought needs to be put into this project. These were originally agreed as part of the Planning Permission for the hospital site but, clearly, they are not working as intended and cause more issues than they solve. We are pleased that the immediate stop was agreed to and will meet with officers shortly to look at options that can improve the situation with the build outs that are currently in place.
Beckspool Pond
The works to desilt the village pond have now been completed. This was part of a wider South Glos Councils flood resilience project for which the Council successful applied for a £3.35 million grant to make improvements to drainage systems at nine sites in South Glos. This should address long-standing flooding problems and included upgrading ineffective drainage systems. Hopefully this means that the road will now be in a better position to cope with extreme weather and reduce the need for reactive maintenance works.
Cllr Jon Hunt
Cllr Ben Burton
Cllr James Griffiths
And now……..I face the final curtain!!! May 2019
Just in case the grapevine hasn’t reached everyone’s front door, this will be my last report to the Frenchay community!
With the arrival of the new ward boundaries as South Glos Council reduces the number of councillors from 70 to 61, my current ward was broken into three pieces!
Having not been selected to stand in the new Frenchay and Downend Ward, I have taken the very short walk across the A4174 to the Winterbourne Ward.
You will still bump into me regularly, not least because I intend remaining on the Governing Body of Frenchay Primary School, as it moves towards the brand new building for September 2020 and outstanding status under Headteacher Katherine Marks and her staff. Please keep your eyes peeled for the publication of the planning application, which has been submitted recently.
Parish Council concerns have been expressed about the planning application for Phase 4 of the Hospital Site development PT17/5363M, while the application for the Dental Lab at Fromeshaw Lodge, Beckspool Road, PT18/5025/F is still outstanding.
Meanwhile we have received a notice for closure of the southern part of Malmains Drive for about 5 days in an 18 month period from mid-May to facilitate water main works. For those of you that use Hambrook Lane there is a similar notice for a closure of about 28 days in the next 18 months, during which the bridge over the M32 will be subject to maintenance.
I cannot identify any changes to bus services for Frenchay in the latest First Bus updates so it only remains for me to say thank you for all your friendly assistance over the twelve enjoyable years I have had representing the Frenchay community and I look forward to continuing chats long into the future, be it in the school, the White Lion, the Cricket Club, which will officially be back in Frenchay, or, of course, Shaftesbury Park.
Finally I really must pay tribute to the three long-stay Parish Councillors, who are retiring, David Fletcher, Eurof Lewis and Carol Thorne for all their hard work and welcome advice over the years.
Best wishes,
Cllr Trevor Jones,
SGC, Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Just in case the grapevine hasn’t reached everyone’s front door, this will be my last report to the Frenchay community!
With the arrival of the new ward boundaries as South Glos Council reduces the number of councillors from 70 to 61, my current ward was broken into three pieces!
Having not been selected to stand in the new Frenchay and Downend Ward, I have taken the very short walk across the A4174 to the Winterbourne Ward.
You will still bump into me regularly, not least because I intend remaining on the Governing Body of Frenchay Primary School, as it moves towards the brand new building for September 2020 and outstanding status under Headteacher Katherine Marks and her staff. Please keep your eyes peeled for the publication of the planning application, which has been submitted recently.
Parish Council concerns have been expressed about the planning application for Phase 4 of the Hospital Site development PT17/5363M, while the application for the Dental Lab at Fromeshaw Lodge, Beckspool Road, PT18/5025/F is still outstanding.
Meanwhile we have received a notice for closure of the southern part of Malmains Drive for about 5 days in an 18 month period from mid-May to facilitate water main works. For those of you that use Hambrook Lane there is a similar notice for a closure of about 28 days in the next 18 months, during which the bridge over the M32 will be subject to maintenance.
I cannot identify any changes to bus services for Frenchay in the latest First Bus updates so it only remains for me to say thank you for all your friendly assistance over the twelve enjoyable years I have had representing the Frenchay community and I look forward to continuing chats long into the future, be it in the school, the White Lion, the Cricket Club, which will officially be back in Frenchay, or, of course, Shaftesbury Park.
Finally I really must pay tribute to the three long-stay Parish Councillors, who are retiring, David Fletcher, Eurof Lewis and Carol Thorne for all their hard work and welcome advice over the years.
Best wishes,
Cllr Trevor Jones,
SGC, Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Questions from “the outskirts….” April 2019
Following the recent transport of a few loads of spoil from the former Hospital site, I, and Andy Huband, our local Highways Inspector, received complaints about “red roads”, specifically Bristol Road.
Both of us have carried out visits recently without noticing any additional build-up of mud on Bristol Road. One of my recent visits coincided with significant rainfall which quickly washed the kerbed areas of the road clean. Redrow’s Site Manager, Nathan, has confirmed that a road brush is used as a matter of course, on a twice a week basis plus any additional times, when the need arises including the recent muck shifts, which are now rare, and notified beforehand by Nathan/Dan.
Part of the recent problems were, undoubtedly, the unseasonal dry hot dry spell, followed by light rain, rather than the downpours we usually get in March.
Continuing concerns about excessive speed, now that Bristol Road is “quiet”, apart from “rush hour” will be monitored. I would anticipate the speed visor will return once all the local road closures have been completed.
Added concerns about the erosion of grass verges outside houses on the opposite side of the road from the Redrow development are also the subject of regular monitoring. Having previously spoken to road-sweeper operatives about the need to prevent sweeper brushes touching the verges, Nathan will reiterate the message. Minimal red staining is very likely to remain until works are completed and “nature has taken its course!”
I understand that further works to the entrance at the front of site on Bristol Road are likely to recommence on 18th or possibly 25th March, lasting about four weeks and will entail use of traffic signals.
While there are several items “unfinished at present”, including the proposed Dental Lab opposite the Village Hall, the Planning Inspectorate have dismissed the Clic Cottage appeal while the Council have refused the application for the Village Museum, for similar reasons!
Cllr Trevor Jones,
SGC, Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Following the recent transport of a few loads of spoil from the former Hospital site, I, and Andy Huband, our local Highways Inspector, received complaints about “red roads”, specifically Bristol Road.
Both of us have carried out visits recently without noticing any additional build-up of mud on Bristol Road. One of my recent visits coincided with significant rainfall which quickly washed the kerbed areas of the road clean. Redrow’s Site Manager, Nathan, has confirmed that a road brush is used as a matter of course, on a twice a week basis plus any additional times, when the need arises including the recent muck shifts, which are now rare, and notified beforehand by Nathan/Dan.
Part of the recent problems were, undoubtedly, the unseasonal dry hot dry spell, followed by light rain, rather than the downpours we usually get in March.
Continuing concerns about excessive speed, now that Bristol Road is “quiet”, apart from “rush hour” will be monitored. I would anticipate the speed visor will return once all the local road closures have been completed.
Added concerns about the erosion of grass verges outside houses on the opposite side of the road from the Redrow development are also the subject of regular monitoring. Having previously spoken to road-sweeper operatives about the need to prevent sweeper brushes touching the verges, Nathan will reiterate the message. Minimal red staining is very likely to remain until works are completed and “nature has taken its course!”
I understand that further works to the entrance at the front of site on Bristol Road are likely to recommence on 18th or possibly 25th March, lasting about four weeks and will entail use of traffic signals.
While there are several items “unfinished at present”, including the proposed Dental Lab opposite the Village Hall, the Planning Inspectorate have dismissed the Clic Cottage appeal while the Council have refused the application for the Village Museum, for similar reasons!
Cllr Trevor Jones,
SGC, Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Northern events March 2019
By the time you read this, what could be the last road closure of the northern section of Beckspool Road should be complete, this one involves the re-piping of the water supply into the Becks Pool. I understand that the works should also include the desilting of the pool.
In addition to spending last Thursday (7 February) considering the plans for the upgrade of the Flood Prevention measures to address the effects of rising sea level in the Severn Vale until 2060, I also attended a lengthy public briefing on the detailed reserved matters plans for the Harry Stoke development. While I had the ear of the developers, I reminded them that the local communities are expecting the planned “District Centre” adjacent to the bottom of the Stoke Gifford Transport Link to include a medical centre!
Work is expected to start in the Spring to underground the power lines that run to the north of the Ring Road.
With the play area and new tennis courts adjacent to the Frenchay Museum approaching completion I am disappointed to hear that more vandalism has occurred. I have made the Neighbourhood Police Beat Team aware. They will continue to keep their eye on the development during their regular visits.
I was interested to see that Metrobus welcomed their one millionth customer on 31 January, well ahead of schedule. The lucky person received free travel for a year!
As I write, there is still no further news on the planning application (PT18/5025/) to expand Fromeshaw Lodge, changing the garage into a dental lab. I will be contacting the Case Officer shortly as to a recommended decision.
Cllr Trevor Jones,
SGC, Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
By the time you read this, what could be the last road closure of the northern section of Beckspool Road should be complete, this one involves the re-piping of the water supply into the Becks Pool. I understand that the works should also include the desilting of the pool.
In addition to spending last Thursday (7 February) considering the plans for the upgrade of the Flood Prevention measures to address the effects of rising sea level in the Severn Vale until 2060, I also attended a lengthy public briefing on the detailed reserved matters plans for the Harry Stoke development. While I had the ear of the developers, I reminded them that the local communities are expecting the planned “District Centre” adjacent to the bottom of the Stoke Gifford Transport Link to include a medical centre!
Work is expected to start in the Spring to underground the power lines that run to the north of the Ring Road.
With the play area and new tennis courts adjacent to the Frenchay Museum approaching completion I am disappointed to hear that more vandalism has occurred. I have made the Neighbourhood Police Beat Team aware. They will continue to keep their eye on the development during their regular visits.
I was interested to see that Metrobus welcomed their one millionth customer on 31 January, well ahead of schedule. The lucky person received free travel for a year!
As I write, there is still no further news on the planning application (PT18/5025/) to expand Fromeshaw Lodge, changing the garage into a dental lab. I will be contacting the Case Officer shortly as to a recommended decision.
Cllr Trevor Jones,
SGC, Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Local Plans and Works February 2019
During the first couple of weeks of the new year, and following the publication of an article by the Evening Post, I received correspondence from several residents about a potential Park and Ride option on the other side of the M32, encompassing the land currently used by the Sims Hill Shared Harvest Group (SHSH). SHSH is a cooperative which provides vegetable boxes to residents in Bristol. Many residents will be well aware of similar suggestions in the past. The current dialogue has arisen as part of the lengthy consultations required of the West of England Combined Authority (WECA) around development of the long-term future “Local Plan”.
While the consultation does include the “blue finger” land between the M32 and Sims Hill, this is a technical “Options Paper”, required of WoE prior to its Local Plan proposals being examined in public by Government Inspectors. While the consultation period will have officially ended by the time this copy of FCN hits your doormat I am sure that further comments will be accepted by WECA [email [email protected] , phone-0117 428 6210 write to: 3 Rivergate, Temple Quay, Bristol BS1 6EW
Further to ongoing traffic–calming works around the former Hospital site, Winterbourne Parish Council have recently considered the two planning applications detailing the footpath/cycle path works on the corner of Beckspool Road, adjacent to the Cedar Hall entrance.
These applications, PT18/6151/F – Frenchay Hospital (Creation of opening in boundary wall to create footpath/cycle link onto Beckspool Road), and the linked “Listed Building” application, PT18/6152/LB are integral to both the Redrow section 106 traffic-calming works currently in progress and those relating to the length of Beckspool Road, from Cedar Hall to the Village Hall, to be consulted on by South Glos Council in the near future. I understand that WPC have raised no objection to these applications.
My thanks to local residents who raised their concerns about the planning application (PT18/5025/) to expand Fromeshaw Lodge, changing the garage into a dental lab. I have reiterated those concerns in conversation with the Case Officer and am awaiting her suggestions as to a recommended decision.
Cllr Trevor Jones,
SGC, Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
During the first couple of weeks of the new year, and following the publication of an article by the Evening Post, I received correspondence from several residents about a potential Park and Ride option on the other side of the M32, encompassing the land currently used by the Sims Hill Shared Harvest Group (SHSH). SHSH is a cooperative which provides vegetable boxes to residents in Bristol. Many residents will be well aware of similar suggestions in the past. The current dialogue has arisen as part of the lengthy consultations required of the West of England Combined Authority (WECA) around development of the long-term future “Local Plan”.
While the consultation does include the “blue finger” land between the M32 and Sims Hill, this is a technical “Options Paper”, required of WoE prior to its Local Plan proposals being examined in public by Government Inspectors. While the consultation period will have officially ended by the time this copy of FCN hits your doormat I am sure that further comments will be accepted by WECA [email [email protected] , phone-0117 428 6210 write to: 3 Rivergate, Temple Quay, Bristol BS1 6EW
Further to ongoing traffic–calming works around the former Hospital site, Winterbourne Parish Council have recently considered the two planning applications detailing the footpath/cycle path works on the corner of Beckspool Road, adjacent to the Cedar Hall entrance.
These applications, PT18/6151/F – Frenchay Hospital (Creation of opening in boundary wall to create footpath/cycle link onto Beckspool Road), and the linked “Listed Building” application, PT18/6152/LB are integral to both the Redrow section 106 traffic-calming works currently in progress and those relating to the length of Beckspool Road, from Cedar Hall to the Village Hall, to be consulted on by South Glos Council in the near future. I understand that WPC have raised no objection to these applications.
My thanks to local residents who raised their concerns about the planning application (PT18/5025/) to expand Fromeshaw Lodge, changing the garage into a dental lab. I have reiterated those concerns in conversation with the Case Officer and am awaiting her suggestions as to a recommended decision.
Cllr Trevor Jones,
SGC, Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Plans for the new Primary School advance January 2019
Having just returned from a morning at Frenchay Primary with Katherine, the headteacher and Michael her deputy, I can report that we were all pleased at the turnout for the public consultation on proposed plans for the new school. While there is still much further detail to follow, the response was generally very positive. The overall layout is similar to that at my other primary school, Wallscourt Farm Academy, just up the road behind UWE.
The designers also took the opportunity to share a possible scheme for the development of the previously reserved school site on Malmains Drive which has now been declared surplus to the requirement for reservation which has been in place for nigh on sixty years! The sale of that site will enable the funding/building of a two form entry school which is likely to fulfil the needs of the wider Frenchay area for the foreseeable future.
While at that meeting I had the usual wide-ranging conversations with residents, these included the current flood prevention works on Beckspool Road, which seem to be progressing well.
Following on from another conversation, I will do my best over the festive break, boss permitting, to locate some up-to-date relevant network maps which I will ask Katherine to upload to the Frenchay Community website. The First Bus festive timetables can be found at: https://www.firstgroup.com/bristol-bath-and-west/news-and-service-updates/christmas-and-new-year-bus-services-201819. I have not seen any details of January timetable changes, yet!
Finally, Grange Park and Beckspool residents are concerned about a planning application to expand Fromeshaw Lodge, changing the garage into a dental lab, extending the rear of the property and adding two car parking spaces. If anyone else wishes to post comments the application PT18/5025/F, can be found on the SGC Planning Portal.
Now all that remains is to wish you, and your families a Happy New Year!
Cllr Trevor Jones,
SGC, Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Having just returned from a morning at Frenchay Primary with Katherine, the headteacher and Michael her deputy, I can report that we were all pleased at the turnout for the public consultation on proposed plans for the new school. While there is still much further detail to follow, the response was generally very positive. The overall layout is similar to that at my other primary school, Wallscourt Farm Academy, just up the road behind UWE.
The designers also took the opportunity to share a possible scheme for the development of the previously reserved school site on Malmains Drive which has now been declared surplus to the requirement for reservation which has been in place for nigh on sixty years! The sale of that site will enable the funding/building of a two form entry school which is likely to fulfil the needs of the wider Frenchay area for the foreseeable future.
While at that meeting I had the usual wide-ranging conversations with residents, these included the current flood prevention works on Beckspool Road, which seem to be progressing well.
Following on from another conversation, I will do my best over the festive break, boss permitting, to locate some up-to-date relevant network maps which I will ask Katherine to upload to the Frenchay Community website. The First Bus festive timetables can be found at: https://www.firstgroup.com/bristol-bath-and-west/news-and-service-updates/christmas-and-new-year-bus-services-201819. I have not seen any details of January timetable changes, yet!
Finally, Grange Park and Beckspool residents are concerned about a planning application to expand Fromeshaw Lodge, changing the garage into a dental lab, extending the rear of the property and adding two car parking spaces. If anyone else wishes to post comments the application PT18/5025/F, can be found on the SGC Planning Portal.
Now all that remains is to wish you, and your families a Happy New Year!
Cllr Trevor Jones,
SGC, Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
More works to come to Beckspool Road! December 2018
As I write this piece, I am hoping to be able to report to the Frenchay Preservation Society AGM on the plans for the last section of traffic calming on Beckspool Road. This part of the scheme, funded by South Glos Council, is designed to reduce the speed of traffic on the section of Beckspool Road from the top of Frenchay Hill to the Village Hall junction. These plans will complete the implementation of a maximum speed of 20 mph across the whole of the centre of the village, a long term ambition of both the Frenchay Preservation Society, the Parish Council and, indeed, South Glos Council. We understand that due to the “help” of the Redrow contractors there are some misapprehensions about the scheme adjacent to the hospital site. I can assure you that all proposals have been fully evaluated by professional highways officers. There are NO directional priorities built into the scheme!
While Frenchay doesn’t appear to have suffered significantly from graffiti over recent years, I thought you might like to note the recently amended procedures for reporting it. The Chairman of the Council’s Regulatory Committee has asked that we raise awareness of SGC’s approach to graffiti and how this should be reported, and this is shown below.
· All graffiti should be reported to the Council.
· Graffiti on public property will be removed in 3 days.
· Offensive/hate crime graffiti is removed within 1 day.
· Graffiti can be reported online here:
http://www.southglos.gov.uk/environment-and-planning/street-care-and-cleaning/graffiti/
· Graffiti on private property is the responsibility of the property owner.
· The Council will report graffiti on utility boxes to the utility provider.
Talking to Dan Bramwell, I understand that the additional roadworks at the main entrance, which Redrow have scheduled to improve the existing standards, have been delayed until after Christmas, as they are unable to get the necessary licence from SGC due to other works already planned in the vicinity.
Now all that remains is to wish you, and your families a merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Cllr Trevor Jones,
SGC, Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
As I write this piece, I am hoping to be able to report to the Frenchay Preservation Society AGM on the plans for the last section of traffic calming on Beckspool Road. This part of the scheme, funded by South Glos Council, is designed to reduce the speed of traffic on the section of Beckspool Road from the top of Frenchay Hill to the Village Hall junction. These plans will complete the implementation of a maximum speed of 20 mph across the whole of the centre of the village, a long term ambition of both the Frenchay Preservation Society, the Parish Council and, indeed, South Glos Council. We understand that due to the “help” of the Redrow contractors there are some misapprehensions about the scheme adjacent to the hospital site. I can assure you that all proposals have been fully evaluated by professional highways officers. There are NO directional priorities built into the scheme!
While Frenchay doesn’t appear to have suffered significantly from graffiti over recent years, I thought you might like to note the recently amended procedures for reporting it. The Chairman of the Council’s Regulatory Committee has asked that we raise awareness of SGC’s approach to graffiti and how this should be reported, and this is shown below.
· All graffiti should be reported to the Council.
· Graffiti on public property will be removed in 3 days.
· Offensive/hate crime graffiti is removed within 1 day.
· Graffiti can be reported online here:
http://www.southglos.gov.uk/environment-and-planning/street-care-and-cleaning/graffiti/
· Graffiti on private property is the responsibility of the property owner.
· The Council will report graffiti on utility boxes to the utility provider.
Talking to Dan Bramwell, I understand that the additional roadworks at the main entrance, which Redrow have scheduled to improve the existing standards, have been delayed until after Christmas, as they are unable to get the necessary licence from SGC due to other works already planned in the vicinity.
Now all that remains is to wish you, and your families a merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Cllr Trevor Jones,
SGC, Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Flood Resilience Works on Beckspool Road November 2018
Many thanks to the ten residents, including Councillors Paul Kembery and Eurof Lewis, who took the trouble to attend the licensing hearing for the siting of the mobile snack van at the top of Frenchay Hill. After lengthy deliberations, the Committee refused the application. However there was a subsequent whisper that the applicants are looking at another “private site off Frenchay Hill. Watch this space!
Unfortunately we have some more road works to come, on top of the start of traffic-calming works on and around Beckspool Road! As a result of Council Officers’ continuing monitoring of the structure of the Cleeve Wood Road Bridge over the last 3 years, they determined that it was prudent to undertake works to rebuild the Grade II listed bridge parapet to prevent further
deterioration. As I write this the works should be reaching completion!
In addition, residents have been notified of works scheduled for Beckspool Road as part of the Highway Drainage Works which are currently underway in Winterbourne High Street. This work is funded by a £3.35 million grant awarded to the Council in 2017. Beckspool Road is one of the nine sites identified as in need of works to in-effective drainage systems addressing longstanding flooding problems in extreme weather. Phases of the work are designed to be carried out consecutively to minimise the effect on traffic movements.
Regular updates are posted at: http://www.southglos.gov.uk/environment/drainage-and-flood-risk-management/highway-drainage-improvement-works/challenge-fund-bid-highway-drainage-resilience-improvements/
Unfortunately, a very busy diary will prevent me attending the Council drop-in event on the subject.
Right, I’m out of space already, so merely a mention of the fact that the applicant has appealed against the decision to refuse his application to enlarge Clic Cottage. We await the Planning Inspector’s verdict with interest!
Cllr Trevor Jones,
SGC, Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Many thanks to the ten residents, including Councillors Paul Kembery and Eurof Lewis, who took the trouble to attend the licensing hearing for the siting of the mobile snack van at the top of Frenchay Hill. After lengthy deliberations, the Committee refused the application. However there was a subsequent whisper that the applicants are looking at another “private site off Frenchay Hill. Watch this space!
Unfortunately we have some more road works to come, on top of the start of traffic-calming works on and around Beckspool Road! As a result of Council Officers’ continuing monitoring of the structure of the Cleeve Wood Road Bridge over the last 3 years, they determined that it was prudent to undertake works to rebuild the Grade II listed bridge parapet to prevent further
deterioration. As I write this the works should be reaching completion!
In addition, residents have been notified of works scheduled for Beckspool Road as part of the Highway Drainage Works which are currently underway in Winterbourne High Street. This work is funded by a £3.35 million grant awarded to the Council in 2017. Beckspool Road is one of the nine sites identified as in need of works to in-effective drainage systems addressing longstanding flooding problems in extreme weather. Phases of the work are designed to be carried out consecutively to minimise the effect on traffic movements.
Regular updates are posted at: http://www.southglos.gov.uk/environment/drainage-and-flood-risk-management/highway-drainage-improvement-works/challenge-fund-bid-highway-drainage-resilience-improvements/
Unfortunately, a very busy diary will prevent me attending the Council drop-in event on the subject.
Right, I’m out of space already, so merely a mention of the fact that the applicant has appealed against the decision to refuse his application to enlarge Clic Cottage. We await the Planning Inspector’s verdict with interest!
Cllr Trevor Jones,
SGC, Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
On the Buses October 2018
Last month I provided information on the termination of the supported number 10 bus service to Southmead Hospital from 2 September, following the withdrawal of Wessex Bus Company from the market. Many people seem to have forgotten that, after a lot of personal conversations with the Managing Director at First Bus, the 19 and 19A services returned to Frenchay village in spring 2018!
Having raised questions with the WECA Office I was informed that:
“While the region’s bus strategy is being developed, WECA is working with the constituent councils, looking at all the routes affected by Wessex’s withdrawal. Discussions are on-going and together we are exploring options as there are a range of issues to consider and potential remedies available.”
While most concerns relate to links to Southmead Hospital a useful table of alternative options to the 10 service was provided. In summary, the 19/19A will take you to UWE, where one can link into M3, 19, 48A, 70, 71, 72, 77 and 625 services. While the 77 provides one service to Southmead Hospital, Parkway Station also links to it, and, indeed Yate via the 82 service. Help with planning alternative travel options along with timetable information is available from www.traveline.info or call 0871 200 22 33 (calls from landlines cost 10p per minute).
Thank you everyone for your responses to the application for a licence to park a mobile snack van at the top of Frenchay Hill, seven days a week! I understand that the application is to be determined by the Council’s licensing Sub-Committee in Kingswood from 10.30 on 25 September.
While we await news on the start of traffic-calming works on Beckspool Road, which will support the aspiration for a 20mph speed limit across the Common, the current consultation on amendments to the parking restrictions within the village has caused some concerns about the process. I can assure you that Cllr Paul Kembery and I, having done the walk of Frenchay and Pearce’s Hill, advised the need for only minor changes. SGC Officers have then offered additional consultation options to avoid the need for further costly consultations. Paul and I will undoubtedly be having further conversations with officers!
Cllr Trevor Jones,
SGC, Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Last month I provided information on the termination of the supported number 10 bus service to Southmead Hospital from 2 September, following the withdrawal of Wessex Bus Company from the market. Many people seem to have forgotten that, after a lot of personal conversations with the Managing Director at First Bus, the 19 and 19A services returned to Frenchay village in spring 2018!
Having raised questions with the WECA Office I was informed that:
“While the region’s bus strategy is being developed, WECA is working with the constituent councils, looking at all the routes affected by Wessex’s withdrawal. Discussions are on-going and together we are exploring options as there are a range of issues to consider and potential remedies available.”
While most concerns relate to links to Southmead Hospital a useful table of alternative options to the 10 service was provided. In summary, the 19/19A will take you to UWE, where one can link into M3, 19, 48A, 70, 71, 72, 77 and 625 services. While the 77 provides one service to Southmead Hospital, Parkway Station also links to it, and, indeed Yate via the 82 service. Help with planning alternative travel options along with timetable information is available from www.traveline.info or call 0871 200 22 33 (calls from landlines cost 10p per minute).
Thank you everyone for your responses to the application for a licence to park a mobile snack van at the top of Frenchay Hill, seven days a week! I understand that the application is to be determined by the Council’s licensing Sub-Committee in Kingswood from 10.30 on 25 September.
While we await news on the start of traffic-calming works on Beckspool Road, which will support the aspiration for a 20mph speed limit across the Common, the current consultation on amendments to the parking restrictions within the village has caused some concerns about the process. I can assure you that Cllr Paul Kembery and I, having done the walk of Frenchay and Pearce’s Hill, advised the need for only minor changes. SGC Officers have then offered additional consultation options to avoid the need for further costly consultations. Paul and I will undoubtedly be having further conversations with officers!
Cllr Trevor Jones,
SGC, Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Highway Works on Bristol Road/Frenchay Park Road September 2018
Following on from last month’s news regarding traffic-calming on Beckspool Road, you will have noticed the start of additional works on Bristol Road/Frenchay Park Road improving the entrance to the Frenchay Park development. I have already addressed a concern with the assistance of Dan Bramwell.
At short notice I prepared a statement for presentation at the Meeting of the West of England Combined Authority Committee on 27 July. Three days earlier I became aware that the Wessex 10 bus service will terminate on 2 September 2018. This results from the recent decision by Wessex Bus Company to withdraw from the provision of local bus services, The service is currently funded under a one-year emergency arrangement following First Bus ceasing to run the 18 service last Autumn! The service, as you know, links Lyde Green to the east, westward through Frenchay to Southmead Hospital, and onward via the linking 11 service, to
Westbury on Trym and Avonmouth.
Following a recent conversation with Neil Falango, who is heading up the residents group renovating Becks Pool, I have ensured that advice and information is made available to him to ensure that the project addresses all legal and operational requirements.
Finally, I know that you will have received news from Adrian Collins (FRA) and Paul Kembery (FPS), reference the application for a licence to park a Mobile Snack Van at the top of Frenchay Hill, seven days a week! The consultation period ends mid-August! However, one would anticipate that the application will be laid before the Licensing Committee in due course.
Cllr Trevor Jones,
SGC, Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Following on from last month’s news regarding traffic-calming on Beckspool Road, you will have noticed the start of additional works on Bristol Road/Frenchay Park Road improving the entrance to the Frenchay Park development. I have already addressed a concern with the assistance of Dan Bramwell.
At short notice I prepared a statement for presentation at the Meeting of the West of England Combined Authority Committee on 27 July. Three days earlier I became aware that the Wessex 10 bus service will terminate on 2 September 2018. This results from the recent decision by Wessex Bus Company to withdraw from the provision of local bus services, The service is currently funded under a one-year emergency arrangement following First Bus ceasing to run the 18 service last Autumn! The service, as you know, links Lyde Green to the east, westward through Frenchay to Southmead Hospital, and onward via the linking 11 service, to
Westbury on Trym and Avonmouth.
Following a recent conversation with Neil Falango, who is heading up the residents group renovating Becks Pool, I have ensured that advice and information is made available to him to ensure that the project addresses all legal and operational requirements.
Finally, I know that you will have received news from Adrian Collins (FRA) and Paul Kembery (FPS), reference the application for a licence to park a Mobile Snack Van at the top of Frenchay Hill, seven days a week! The consultation period ends mid-August! However, one would anticipate that the application will be laid before the Licensing Committee in due course.
Cllr Trevor Jones,
SGC, Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Traffic Calming on Beckspool Road August 2018
Following on from the presentation I made at the recent half-yearly meeting of the Frenchay Preservation Society, detailing the proposals for significant traffic-calming on Beckspool Road, from Cedar Hall to Pearces Hill, many of you will have noticed the multi-coloured hieroglyphics which have appeared recently at the junction of Frenchay Hill and Beckspool Road.
These relate to the need to realign the junction to ensure the safety of the additional crossing point which will serve the new footpath entrance to the Frenchay Park housing development
As I explained to residents at the meeting, the cost of this scheme is borne by the developers as part of their s106 commitments. The funding stream is dedicated to that project and if not spent for that purpose, will be returned to the developer.
Cllr Paul Kembery and I have also been working with Council Highways Officers on suggested amendments to the Frenchay-wide Traffic Regulation Order which legalises the yellow lines put down to address hospital parking problems.
Katherine Marks, our School Headteacher, confirmed at last night’s meeting of the Governing Body that design concept works for the new school building continue apace.
I am continuing conversations with the Dings Club and South Gloucestershire Officers, with reference to the completion of the pavements and crossing points on Frenchay Park Road and have also spoken to Redrow about the requirement for them to trim the hedging on that side of their site where it is restricting accessibility to the footpath.
Cllr Trevor Jones,
SGC, Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Following on from the presentation I made at the recent half-yearly meeting of the Frenchay Preservation Society, detailing the proposals for significant traffic-calming on Beckspool Road, from Cedar Hall to Pearces Hill, many of you will have noticed the multi-coloured hieroglyphics which have appeared recently at the junction of Frenchay Hill and Beckspool Road.
These relate to the need to realign the junction to ensure the safety of the additional crossing point which will serve the new footpath entrance to the Frenchay Park housing development
As I explained to residents at the meeting, the cost of this scheme is borne by the developers as part of their s106 commitments. The funding stream is dedicated to that project and if not spent for that purpose, will be returned to the developer.
Cllr Paul Kembery and I have also been working with Council Highways Officers on suggested amendments to the Frenchay-wide Traffic Regulation Order which legalises the yellow lines put down to address hospital parking problems.
Katherine Marks, our School Headteacher, confirmed at last night’s meeting of the Governing Body that design concept works for the new school building continue apace.
I am continuing conversations with the Dings Club and South Gloucestershire Officers, with reference to the completion of the pavements and crossing points on Frenchay Park Road and have also spoken to Redrow about the requirement for them to trim the hedging on that side of their site where it is restricting accessibility to the footpath.
Cllr Trevor Jones,
SGC, Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Health and Education July 2018
Further to last month’s explanation of the activities on the fields that were previously owned by the Roberts family and a question from a resident, Council Officers have confirmed that the public right-of-way from Filton Road across the fields towards Sims Hill should reopen by 1st October.
After a successful second drop-in event for the new Frenchay Primary School, Katherine, our Headteacher, has been burning the midnight oil, preparing a draft vision statement.
The big news this month is the positive move forward on the health proposals for both Frenchay and Thornbury Hospital sites. South Glos Council has now adopted the Lead Commissioning role for the projects, placing it at the forefront of health and social care integration in our area and delivering the facilities faster!
The intended provision for Frenchay comprises:
Finally, I was asked last week to confirm the status of a new hedge-line planted recently, outside of the original boundary for Clic Cottage. It was the subject of a legal agreement between the NHS and the Village Green sponsor, to leave strips of land along the northern and western boundaries of the Clic Cottage curtilage outside of the Village Green to facilitate future drainage works.
Cllr Trevor Jones,
SGC, Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Further to last month’s explanation of the activities on the fields that were previously owned by the Roberts family and a question from a resident, Council Officers have confirmed that the public right-of-way from Filton Road across the fields towards Sims Hill should reopen by 1st October.
After a successful second drop-in event for the new Frenchay Primary School, Katherine, our Headteacher, has been burning the midnight oil, preparing a draft vision statement.
The big news this month is the positive move forward on the health proposals for both Frenchay and Thornbury Hospital sites. South Glos Council has now adopted the Lead Commissioning role for the projects, placing it at the forefront of health and social care integration in our area and delivering the facilities faster!
The intended provision for Frenchay comprises:
- 45 to 55 ‘step-down’ rehabilitation beds at Frenchay for people who no longer need acute hospital care but need to regain life skills through a period of rehabilitation before returning home
- At least 72 care home beds in total across the two sites, including social care beds for dementia nursing
- An Extra Care Housing Scheme on each site of 50 to 80 dwellings per site.
Finally, I was asked last week to confirm the status of a new hedge-line planted recently, outside of the original boundary for Clic Cottage. It was the subject of a legal agreement between the NHS and the Village Green sponsor, to leave strips of land along the northern and western boundaries of the Clic Cottage curtilage outside of the Village Green to facilitate future drainage works.
Cllr Trevor Jones,
SGC, Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Sports and Education June 2018
As I write this I have spent most of the morning investigating a parking problem at Shaftesbury Park, not for one of their own matches, but for the Combination Cup final, which couldn’t be held at the Memorial Ground and was therefore a one-off!
Looking across the M32 from Shaftesbury Park, I have been asked to explain what the extensive digging activity is on fields that were previously owned by the Roberts family. This work is archaeological excavation in advance of the development of the UWE rugby facility. This was long-used agricultural land and one might anticipate some evidence of use over a very long period.
By the time you read this, the consultation document for the new Frenchay Primary School will have been made available to parents/carers, members of staff and the governing body. Details of the consultation will also have been signposted in the School’s newsletter.
A drop-in event will be held on Thursday 24 May 2018 at Frenchay Village Hall between 4.15pm and 6pm. The consultation deadline for responses is Friday 1 June 2018. Response forms can be found at:
http://www.southglos.gov.uk/education-and-learning/schools-and-education/schools-policies-advice-and-guidance/frenchay-church-england-primary-school-proposals/
Following this period of informal consultation, SGC members are required to take a decision to move to a formal period of consultation. This will also last a period of 4 weeks. Subsequently, members will take a final decision towards the end of the academic year. The plan remains to complete the school in time for opening in September 2020.
Cllr Trevor Jones,
SGC, Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
As I write this I have spent most of the morning investigating a parking problem at Shaftesbury Park, not for one of their own matches, but for the Combination Cup final, which couldn’t be held at the Memorial Ground and was therefore a one-off!
Looking across the M32 from Shaftesbury Park, I have been asked to explain what the extensive digging activity is on fields that were previously owned by the Roberts family. This work is archaeological excavation in advance of the development of the UWE rugby facility. This was long-used agricultural land and one might anticipate some evidence of use over a very long period.
By the time you read this, the consultation document for the new Frenchay Primary School will have been made available to parents/carers, members of staff and the governing body. Details of the consultation will also have been signposted in the School’s newsletter.
A drop-in event will be held on Thursday 24 May 2018 at Frenchay Village Hall between 4.15pm and 6pm. The consultation deadline for responses is Friday 1 June 2018. Response forms can be found at:
http://www.southglos.gov.uk/education-and-learning/schools-and-education/schools-policies-advice-and-guidance/frenchay-church-england-primary-school-proposals/
Following this period of informal consultation, SGC members are required to take a decision to move to a formal period of consultation. This will also last a period of 4 weeks. Subsequently, members will take a final decision towards the end of the academic year. The plan remains to complete the school in time for opening in September 2020.
Cllr Trevor Jones,
SGC, Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
It’s all On the Buses! May 2018
Last week I was delighted to take a call from one of my constituents, who just happens to be the South Glos Council, Operations Manager (Public Transport). Wayne confirmed that he had received the registrations for the amended 19 and 19A bus service which will now return to the roads of Frenchay! From 29 April 2018 buses will, once again, serve Bristol Road, Frenchay Park Road and Stoke Lane on their way to and from UWE.
Even a few months ago, while continuing my conversations with James Freeman, the General Manager at First Bus, this change was described as unlikely, I will pass our grateful thanks on to him!
As I write this we have just been told that Frenchay will also have access to the Metrobus M3 route, from Emersons Green to the City Centre from 29 May, with all journeys being free until 9 June! Initially services will run every 20 minutes from 0600-1900 and every 30 minutes until 2100, Monday to Saturday.
At the same time it has been announced that Bristol Community Transport will, under contract to First West, provide the M1 service from South Bristol to UWE and Cribbs Causeway, using a fleet of 21 biogas buses.
Congratulations to Dings Crusaders RFC, who, having recently moved to Frenchay, are now the Champions of the South West Premier League and will play in the National League 2 (South) next season.
Cllr Trevor Jones,
SGC, Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Last week I was delighted to take a call from one of my constituents, who just happens to be the South Glos Council, Operations Manager (Public Transport). Wayne confirmed that he had received the registrations for the amended 19 and 19A bus service which will now return to the roads of Frenchay! From 29 April 2018 buses will, once again, serve Bristol Road, Frenchay Park Road and Stoke Lane on their way to and from UWE.
Even a few months ago, while continuing my conversations with James Freeman, the General Manager at First Bus, this change was described as unlikely, I will pass our grateful thanks on to him!
As I write this we have just been told that Frenchay will also have access to the Metrobus M3 route, from Emersons Green to the City Centre from 29 May, with all journeys being free until 9 June! Initially services will run every 20 minutes from 0600-1900 and every 30 minutes until 2100, Monday to Saturday.
At the same time it has been announced that Bristol Community Transport will, under contract to First West, provide the M1 service from South Bristol to UWE and Cribbs Causeway, using a fleet of 21 biogas buses.
Congratulations to Dings Crusaders RFC, who, having recently moved to Frenchay, are now the Champions of the South West Premier League and will play in the National League 2 (South) next season.
Cllr Trevor Jones,
SGC, Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Shaftesbury Park christened with a win April 2018
I was one of a large crowd who watched as our Rugby club, Dings Crusaders, fought back from conceding an early try to beat the visitors, Weston-super-Mare 34-26 in the first League match at the new ground on 17 February. Players and visitors alike were very impressed by the new facilities. I am sure that, in future, many visitors will copy me, in using the bus with the stop being right outside the entrance!
The club’s facilities are available for the use of residents. I am sure that Ben, the General Manager will welcome enquiries/bookings. He can be contacted on 07480 268280 or by email at: [email protected]
The two planning applications to extend Clic Cottage were refused by the majority of the DC (West) Committee on 22nd February on the grounds of the effect on the historical settings of both Frenchay Park House and Clic Cottage and the effect on the Frenchay Conservation Area.
Some of you will be aware that there is another extant planning application for a further house within the Conservation Area off Pearce’s Hill.
I understand that the movement of “brick crush” from the hospital site has now ceased and have asked the local Highways Implementation Officer to monitor cleaning activities.
Cllr Trevor Jones,
SGC, Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
I was one of a large crowd who watched as our Rugby club, Dings Crusaders, fought back from conceding an early try to beat the visitors, Weston-super-Mare 34-26 in the first League match at the new ground on 17 February. Players and visitors alike were very impressed by the new facilities. I am sure that, in future, many visitors will copy me, in using the bus with the stop being right outside the entrance!
The club’s facilities are available for the use of residents. I am sure that Ben, the General Manager will welcome enquiries/bookings. He can be contacted on 07480 268280 or by email at: [email protected]
The two planning applications to extend Clic Cottage were refused by the majority of the DC (West) Committee on 22nd February on the grounds of the effect on the historical settings of both Frenchay Park House and Clic Cottage and the effect on the Frenchay Conservation Area.
Some of you will be aware that there is another extant planning application for a further house within the Conservation Area off Pearce’s Hill.
I understand that the movement of “brick crush” from the hospital site has now ceased and have asked the local Highways Implementation Officer to monitor cleaning activities.
Cllr Trevor Jones,
SGC, Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
New School News plus Bromley Heath Viaduct…..the size of the task! March 2018
On behalf of the governing body, thank you to everyone who contributed to the public consultation on options for the development of the new primary school. Having spent three hours listening to residents, I was able to speak in support of the scheme to the Council’s Cabinet last week. Cabinet has now approved the capital expenditure on the scheme with a proposed completion date of September 2020! A six week period of public consultation on the enlargement of the school will commence shortly. This will be the second new school build I have been involved in. They are always challenging and well worth it for the end result!
I am looking forward to visiting the Bromley Heath Viaduct site with Councillor colleagues shortly. The figures behind the scheme are extraordinary (http://sites.southglos.gov.uk/newsroom/transport/work-on-the-bromley-heath-viaduct-nears-completion-progress-update/).
While the contraflow on the A4174 was originally scheduled to be lifted at the end of March that will need to be extended while extra work is completed and we would like to apologise in advance for any inconvenience this will cause. We are continuing to work seven days a week to complete the remaining work as quickly as possible so that the contraflow can be removed by the end of April.
As I prepare for an all day Saturday conference I am looking forward to the first Dings Rugby match on the new Shaftesbury Park the following week and will report back next month!
Cllr Trevor Jones,
SGC, Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
On behalf of the governing body, thank you to everyone who contributed to the public consultation on options for the development of the new primary school. Having spent three hours listening to residents, I was able to speak in support of the scheme to the Council’s Cabinet last week. Cabinet has now approved the capital expenditure on the scheme with a proposed completion date of September 2020! A six week period of public consultation on the enlargement of the school will commence shortly. This will be the second new school build I have been involved in. They are always challenging and well worth it for the end result!
I am looking forward to visiting the Bromley Heath Viaduct site with Councillor colleagues shortly. The figures behind the scheme are extraordinary (http://sites.southglos.gov.uk/newsroom/transport/work-on-the-bromley-heath-viaduct-nears-completion-progress-update/).
While the contraflow on the A4174 was originally scheduled to be lifted at the end of March that will need to be extended while extra work is completed and we would like to apologise in advance for any inconvenience this will cause. We are continuing to work seven days a week to complete the remaining work as quickly as possible so that the contraflow can be removed by the end of April.
As I prepare for an all day Saturday conference I am looking forward to the first Dings Rugby match on the new Shaftesbury Park the following week and will report back next month!
Cllr Trevor Jones,
SGC, Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Another Busy Year February 2018
As I continue to fight the winter bugs, I look forward to the public consultation on the development options for the new Primary School which will have taken place prior to you reading this.
While the event was published below, if you should miss it please feel free to submit your thoughts directly to me and I will ensure they are shared with the Cabinet Member and Officers.
It now looks likely that the first Dings Rugby match on the new Shaftesbury Park pitch will occur towards the end of January, I look forward to seeing some of you there.
Following concerns raised by a resident, I was able to have a conversation with James Freeman at First Bus about continuing use of the Metrobus stop at Hambrook by the 19/19A service. I was very glad to hear that the rumour was “false news” and that the service will continue to use those stops. I will continue to discuss Frenchay services with James at every opportunity
Apart from “late news” about a further planning application adjacent to the Newlands I believe that’s it for this month!
Cllr Trevor Jones,
SGC, Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
As I continue to fight the winter bugs, I look forward to the public consultation on the development options for the new Primary School which will have taken place prior to you reading this.
While the event was published below, if you should miss it please feel free to submit your thoughts directly to me and I will ensure they are shared with the Cabinet Member and Officers.
It now looks likely that the first Dings Rugby match on the new Shaftesbury Park pitch will occur towards the end of January, I look forward to seeing some of you there.
Following concerns raised by a resident, I was able to have a conversation with James Freeman at First Bus about continuing use of the Metrobus stop at Hambrook by the 19/19A service. I was very glad to hear that the rumour was “false news” and that the service will continue to use those stops. I will continue to discuss Frenchay services with James at every opportunity
Apart from “late news” about a further planning application adjacent to the Newlands I believe that’s it for this month!
Cllr Trevor Jones,
SGC, Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Consultation on Proposal to Enlarge Frenchay CE Primary School
South Gloucestershire Council is seeking your views on a proposal to enlarge Frenchay CE Primary School.
If you have an interest in the proposal and want to share your views or comments, please complete the attached proforma and submit it no later than 5pm Wednesday 24 January 2018 by email to : [email protected]
Or, by post to the following address:
Tanya Smith
Strategic Lead - School Place Planning
Department for Children, Adults and Health
PO Box 1955, Bristol. BS37 0DE
The consulation document:
| consultation_-_frenchay_ce__primary_school_9_jan_2018_final_for_publication_1_.docx |
Drop-In Event: Proposal to Enlarge Frenchay CE Primary School - Mon 15 Jan 3:30pm - 8:30pm
New Year, New Opportunities January 2018
As I sit writing this piece with just three weeks to go to Christmas Day, I look back on another busy year in Frenchay and forward to completion of some works and several interesting challenges.
By the time you read this I hope that Dan Bramwell will be “back on duty” after a couple of operations including a replacement knee, possibly to be followed by a hip replacement to come. I have already wished him well for a rapid recovery and am happy to deal with any referrals in his absence.
Following lengthy conversations with Redrow about road soiling, Andy Huband, the South Glos Council Highways Implementation Officer is walking and driving Bristol Road/Frenchay Park Road regularly, feeding back to myself and the Redrow Site Managers as necessary. Hopefully the bulk removal of spoil from the site will be completed in Spring 2018.
Unfortunately, the deadline for this month’s FCN comes a day before I am due to meet with Council Cabinet Members and senior officers to discuss modifications to the Bromley Heath Viaduct Project traffic orders. There is a need to be flexible with arrangements as we pass through the short days and onward towards spring.
Having been honoured to be asked to play a part in the Commissioning Church Service for Katherine Marks, the new Headteacher at Frenchay Primary recently, I believe there may be some further news on the new Primary School early in the New Year. I will let you know as soon as I have further details.
Cllr Trevor Jones,
SGC, Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
As I sit writing this piece with just three weeks to go to Christmas Day, I look back on another busy year in Frenchay and forward to completion of some works and several interesting challenges.
By the time you read this I hope that Dan Bramwell will be “back on duty” after a couple of operations including a replacement knee, possibly to be followed by a hip replacement to come. I have already wished him well for a rapid recovery and am happy to deal with any referrals in his absence.
Following lengthy conversations with Redrow about road soiling, Andy Huband, the South Glos Council Highways Implementation Officer is walking and driving Bristol Road/Frenchay Park Road regularly, feeding back to myself and the Redrow Site Managers as necessary. Hopefully the bulk removal of spoil from the site will be completed in Spring 2018.
Unfortunately, the deadline for this month’s FCN comes a day before I am due to meet with Council Cabinet Members and senior officers to discuss modifications to the Bromley Heath Viaduct Project traffic orders. There is a need to be flexible with arrangements as we pass through the short days and onward towards spring.
Having been honoured to be asked to play a part in the Commissioning Church Service for Katherine Marks, the new Headteacher at Frenchay Primary recently, I believe there may be some further news on the new Primary School early in the New Year. I will let you know as soon as I have further details.
Cllr Trevor Jones,
SGC, Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Changes! December 2017
I hope that, by the time you read this Pearce’s Hill will be, or about to be re-opened to traffic. Following comments from residents, we have asked South Glos Council Highways officers to look again at parking on and at the bottom of the hill as part of the future re-evaluation of parking across Frenchay.
I know that, following a meeting Dan Bramwell and I had with Redrow, Dan will undoubtedly have provided an update elsewhere in this issue on lorry traffic in and out of the Frenchay Park site as development continues apace.
Meanwhile the Council’s Bromley Heath Viaduct Project Team are trialling another modification of the traffic plan, see image below. The team are committed to remain flexible on the traffic management aspect of the scheme, aiming to keep traffic moving as freely as possible throughout the contraflow and surrounding area. This change was one of the subjects discussed at the recent Community Engagement Forum, held in Winterbourne. The next is scheduled for Tuesday 6 March at 7:30pm.
I hope that, by the time you read this Pearce’s Hill will be, or about to be re-opened to traffic. Following comments from residents, we have asked South Glos Council Highways officers to look again at parking on and at the bottom of the hill as part of the future re-evaluation of parking across Frenchay.
I know that, following a meeting Dan Bramwell and I had with Redrow, Dan will undoubtedly have provided an update elsewhere in this issue on lorry traffic in and out of the Frenchay Park site as development continues apace.
Meanwhile the Council’s Bromley Heath Viaduct Project Team are trialling another modification of the traffic plan, see image below. The team are committed to remain flexible on the traffic management aspect of the scheme, aiming to keep traffic moving as freely as possible throughout the contraflow and surrounding area. This change was one of the subjects discussed at the recent Community Engagement Forum, held in Winterbourne. The next is scheduled for Tuesday 6 March at 7:30pm.
I was disappointed to hear of another item raised at that meeting namely the amount of detritus recently left beside the church after a Saturday night gathering of young people. I do hope that such gatherings are not also the source of continuing vandalism on the Frenchay Park site where a further picnic bench set has been burnt out in the Nature Reserve area and more damage caused to the Isolation building. All items have been reported to the police. Please, contact me directly if you are made aware of further incidents.
As I write this I am aware of an upcoming meeting to agree the finishing touches to the Shaftesbury Park rugby ground. Having brought residents’ concerns about licensing hours to the notice of the club, I understand that neighbours have been contacted directly with explanations.
In closing, I will take the opportunity to wish you all a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Contact: [email protected]
Good News, less good news! November 2017
As I write this update, the fortnight of night-time closures of Coldharbour Lane to facilitate resurfacing has started. That should signal largely undisturbed traffic flows up and down Stoke Lane! Unfortunately, in the short-term the number 10 service has been unable to run along Bristol Road at night.
Further good news has been received from the South Gloucestershire Council Structures Team, the much-extended stabilisation and strengthening works on the retaining wall which supports Pearces Hill are now expected to be completed at the end of October!
Meanwhile the works on the Bromley Heath Viaduct are progressing according to schedule, the consensus appears to be that, so far, disruption has been less than anticipated!
Network Rail, in progressing the works on the fourth platform have identfied weekend closures in November, with no trains calling at Parkway on 4-5,11-12,18-19 November. Diversions will be in place and buses will be running instead of trains for some journeys.
Voluntary and Community Sector (VCSE) provide important services to our communities and vital one to one support with residents. Although the risk of terrorism in South Gloucestershire is low, radicalisation and terrorism can happen anywhere. Vigilance must be maintained when considering those who may be vulnerable to radicalisation in our communities. To that end South Glos Council are continuing to raise awareness of safeguarding in our communities by providing a free Home Office accredited 'Prevent Duty' training/ workshop to organisations. The final sessions for 2017 are scheduled for 21 November at the Armadillo Youth Venue & Café, Yate 1030-1300 and 1400-1530
In closing, I look forward to seeing many of you at the AGM of Frenchay Preservation Society on 16 November (Unitarian Chapel at 1930).
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Contact: [email protected]
As I write this update, the fortnight of night-time closures of Coldharbour Lane to facilitate resurfacing has started. That should signal largely undisturbed traffic flows up and down Stoke Lane! Unfortunately, in the short-term the number 10 service has been unable to run along Bristol Road at night.
Further good news has been received from the South Gloucestershire Council Structures Team, the much-extended stabilisation and strengthening works on the retaining wall which supports Pearces Hill are now expected to be completed at the end of October!
Meanwhile the works on the Bromley Heath Viaduct are progressing according to schedule, the consensus appears to be that, so far, disruption has been less than anticipated!
Network Rail, in progressing the works on the fourth platform have identfied weekend closures in November, with no trains calling at Parkway on 4-5,11-12,18-19 November. Diversions will be in place and buses will be running instead of trains for some journeys.
Voluntary and Community Sector (VCSE) provide important services to our communities and vital one to one support with residents. Although the risk of terrorism in South Gloucestershire is low, radicalisation and terrorism can happen anywhere. Vigilance must be maintained when considering those who may be vulnerable to radicalisation in our communities. To that end South Glos Council are continuing to raise awareness of safeguarding in our communities by providing a free Home Office accredited 'Prevent Duty' training/ workshop to organisations. The final sessions for 2017 are scheduled for 21 November at the Armadillo Youth Venue & Café, Yate 1030-1300 and 1400-1530
In closing, I look forward to seeing many of you at the AGM of Frenchay Preservation Society on 16 November (Unitarian Chapel at 1930).
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Contact: [email protected]
Wessex Bus Service 10 (and 11) October 2017
I am sure that many residents are already aware that First discontinued the 18/18A bus service from the beginning of September. After much hard work by South Glos Council officers, the Council has contracted a Monday to Saturday replacement service, provided by Wessex as the number 10 service between Lyde Green and Southmead Hospital. Wessex are also servicing the 11 service which covers the route from Southmead Hospital to Avonmouth.
Unfortunately, there is currently no replacement provision of a Sunday service. Wessex 10 timetable.
Work continues apace on the Bromley Heath Viaduct. We anticipate an increase in traffic and associated delays from early September when students and pupils return. To help with journeys, there will be extra buses on the number 10 route during peak travel times and a park and ride facility is open at Lyde Green, in Emersons Green to allow drivers to park and make their onward journey using public transport, car sharing, walking or cycling.
The park and ride is located off the A4174, near the Rosary Roundabout on Willowherb Road, and is signposted from the ring road. There are 102 spaces, 16 disabled bays, 24 cycle spaces and one motorcycle bay open for use. A further 144 overflow spaces are also available if required. A number of bus services already serve the park and ride including the X48, 10, 462 and 86. Please visit www.travelwest.info for details.
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Contact: [email protected]
I am sure that many residents are already aware that First discontinued the 18/18A bus service from the beginning of September. After much hard work by South Glos Council officers, the Council has contracted a Monday to Saturday replacement service, provided by Wessex as the number 10 service between Lyde Green and Southmead Hospital. Wessex are also servicing the 11 service which covers the route from Southmead Hospital to Avonmouth.
Unfortunately, there is currently no replacement provision of a Sunday service. Wessex 10 timetable.
Work continues apace on the Bromley Heath Viaduct. We anticipate an increase in traffic and associated delays from early September when students and pupils return. To help with journeys, there will be extra buses on the number 10 route during peak travel times and a park and ride facility is open at Lyde Green, in Emersons Green to allow drivers to park and make their onward journey using public transport, car sharing, walking or cycling.
The park and ride is located off the A4174, near the Rosary Roundabout on Willowherb Road, and is signposted from the ring road. There are 102 spaces, 16 disabled bays, 24 cycle spaces and one motorcycle bay open for use. A further 144 overflow spaces are also available if required. A number of bus services already serve the park and ride including the X48, 10, 462 and 86. Please visit www.travelwest.info for details.
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Contact: [email protected]
Confirmation September 2017
I am pleased to confirm that the 18 bus service will continue to serve Frenchay, albeit provided by a different company. Please let me know of any other bus problems, I am about to have a conversation with First about some suggested tweaks to timings on the 46 service.
Well, the Bromley Heath Viaduct (BHV) scheme is underway, I have dealt with questions and concerns raised by several residents. All seems to be working well as I write this, but the big test will be the return to school/university/work in early September, which might involve some fine-tuning!
Meanwhile, following on from recent work on behalf of residents, I was pleased to acknowledge the recent award of £3.4 million from the Challenge Fund to improve the flood resilience of roads in South Gloucestershire. Beckspool Road is one of the ten projects which will upgrade drainage infrastructure and reduce the need for reactive maintenance works, ultimately saving us money. That should be the end of the periodic flooding of the section of Beckspool Road adjacent to Becks Pool itself!
The latest expansion of sports provision on Filton Road, pitches on the opposite side of the M32 to the Shaftesbury Park site, was approved last month, but only after I gained a reduction of floodlighting hours to 10pm.
Finally, might I remind you that Parkway Station will be closed from 2-15 September while the existing platforms are extended and work begins on the fourth platform. Replacement bus services are in place.
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Contact: [email protected]
Contrary to the rumours August 2017
While I await the full detail, I am reliably informed that, contrary to popular rumour, and indeed some very badly worded notices on the First Bus fleet, the 18 bus service will continue to serve Frenchay!
The service, which will, undoubtedly be affected by the Bromley Heath viaduct works will be provided by another bus company, First Bus having decided to relinquish it! My understanding is that other “threatened” services that you may use, such as the 77 and 82 have also been the subject of intervention by the West of England Combined Authority and Mayor Tim Bowles.
Turning to the Bromley Heath viaduct, I am sure that, like me, you were pleased to hear that, with extra WECA funding, the viaduct project is expected to be completed in 36 weeks, and, by the time you read this we will already be a couple of weeks into the scheme. South Glos Officers have used all their experience, together with that of other contractors to develop a complex scheme of redirections, designed to minimise delay. One might anticipate “fine-tuning” during the scheme.
Following concerns raised by myself and officers over safety and security I understand that security of the wider Hospital site will be improved in advance of the summer holidays, to address the possibility of any further incursion of caravans onto the site.
Finally, while the Pearce’s Hill closure continues, we understand that officers have identified a scheme of works to deal with the additional discovery, not quite on the scale of railway embankment works elsewhere in my ward.
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Contact: [email protected]
While I await the full detail, I am reliably informed that, contrary to popular rumour, and indeed some very badly worded notices on the First Bus fleet, the 18 bus service will continue to serve Frenchay!
The service, which will, undoubtedly be affected by the Bromley Heath viaduct works will be provided by another bus company, First Bus having decided to relinquish it! My understanding is that other “threatened” services that you may use, such as the 77 and 82 have also been the subject of intervention by the West of England Combined Authority and Mayor Tim Bowles.
Turning to the Bromley Heath viaduct, I am sure that, like me, you were pleased to hear that, with extra WECA funding, the viaduct project is expected to be completed in 36 weeks, and, by the time you read this we will already be a couple of weeks into the scheme. South Glos Officers have used all their experience, together with that of other contractors to develop a complex scheme of redirections, designed to minimise delay. One might anticipate “fine-tuning” during the scheme.
Following concerns raised by myself and officers over safety and security I understand that security of the wider Hospital site will be improved in advance of the summer holidays, to address the possibility of any further incursion of caravans onto the site.
Finally, while the Pearce’s Hill closure continues, we understand that officers have identified a scheme of works to deal with the additional discovery, not quite on the scale of railway embankment works elsewhere in my ward.
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Contact: [email protected]
Addressing Concerns June 2017
We were disappointed to see some negative bus service changes included in the new timetables implemented recently. We had been told that no major changes would be made in advance of the West of England Mayoral election! The upcoming viaduct works will obviously affect bus services like all other traffic for the rest of the year. We will seek further improvements.
The purdah period implemented in advance of the General Election not only prevented the update of information on the community hospital development but also a further update on local school provision.
Meanwhile we continue to address concerns about road safety, both new ones arising out of local works and others which reoccur on a regular basis. Clear identification of vehicles involved in incidents makes it much more likely that action can be taken to solve the problem. The safety of residents is paramount and we will do everything we can to address concerns as they occur.
We were pleased to be able to support and attend the recent open day held by the local sports clubs based on and around Filton Road. Taster sessions were supported enthusiastically and will hopefully strengthen all the clubs involved while also encouraging members of the community, of all ages, to make the most of local facilities, old and new.
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Contact: [email protected]
We were disappointed to see some negative bus service changes included in the new timetables implemented recently. We had been told that no major changes would be made in advance of the West of England Mayoral election! The upcoming viaduct works will obviously affect bus services like all other traffic for the rest of the year. We will seek further improvements.
The purdah period implemented in advance of the General Election not only prevented the update of information on the community hospital development but also a further update on local school provision.
Meanwhile we continue to address concerns about road safety, both new ones arising out of local works and others which reoccur on a regular basis. Clear identification of vehicles involved in incidents makes it much more likely that action can be taken to solve the problem. The safety of residents is paramount and we will do everything we can to address concerns as they occur.
We were pleased to be able to support and attend the recent open day held by the local sports clubs based on and around Filton Road. Taster sessions were supported enthusiastically and will hopefully strengthen all the clubs involved while also encouraging members of the community, of all ages, to make the most of local facilities, old and new.
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Contact: [email protected]
Bromley Heath Viaduct May 2017
Well, I am pleased to report that, on several occasions over the last few weeks I have actually been a passenger on buses that have had to make one, and sometimes more halts to their journey as they are running ahead of schedule!
I write this report, having just returned from a South Glos Council Policy and Resources Committee where we have committed to add a further £3.7m Scheme to the Council’s Capital Programme. This will facilitate completion of the Bromley Heath Viaduct project, scheduled to commence in July, in just 30 weeks, rather than 52, thereby significantly reducing the total amount of disruption and the amount of environmental pollution that will occur. Obviously working hours will be extended, which may impinge on some residents living close to the scheme. It is hoped that the extra monies will be recovered from the West of England Local Enterprise partnership in due course.
I have just received a note from Planning Enforcement Officers, who failed to identify the lorry that was reported to have turned left out of the Beckspool Road entrance to the hospital site, leaving mud all over the road. Should anything similar happen again it would be extremely helpful if you could note down the registration number and pass it on to me.
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Contact: [email protected]
Well, I am pleased to report that, on several occasions over the last few weeks I have actually been a passenger on buses that have had to make one, and sometimes more halts to their journey as they are running ahead of schedule!
I write this report, having just returned from a South Glos Council Policy and Resources Committee where we have committed to add a further £3.7m Scheme to the Council’s Capital Programme. This will facilitate completion of the Bromley Heath Viaduct project, scheduled to commence in July, in just 30 weeks, rather than 52, thereby significantly reducing the total amount of disruption and the amount of environmental pollution that will occur. Obviously working hours will be extended, which may impinge on some residents living close to the scheme. It is hoped that the extra monies will be recovered from the West of England Local Enterprise partnership in due course.
I have just received a note from Planning Enforcement Officers, who failed to identify the lorry that was reported to have turned left out of the Beckspool Road entrance to the hospital site, leaving mud all over the road. Should anything similar happen again it would be extremely helpful if you could note down the registration number and pass it on to me.
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Contact: [email protected]
Bromley Heath Viaduct and Health April 2017
With positive reports on two-way traffic flow via Stoke Lane, SGC Streetcare is now able to allow some weekend highways licences on Bristol Road. That will enable Openreach and Virgin to address broadband faults in that area. Please contact me if you experience similar problems (while I can’t promise).
By the time you read this, we will have completed the first round of public liaison meetings for the Bromley Heath Viaduct project, now scheduled to commence in July. Unfortunately I was not able to attend the one scheduled for Frenchay Village Hall as it clashed with a SGC Full Council Meeting. I have, however, had direct discussions with Mark King, the Head of Streetcare with the aim of minimising the effects on Frenchay.
With the Phase 2 Housing application for the Hospital site now submitted we note further progress with reference to the Sirona Community Health facilities. Sirona have been awarded £1million by the Homes and Communities Agency towards the development of Extra-Care Housing. That has prompted further design work.
The Clinical Commissioning Group have suggested that it might still be possible for construction to start in late 2017 with “phased/opening during 2019/2020”. I have my doubts!
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Contact: [email protected]
With positive reports on two-way traffic flow via Stoke Lane, SGC Streetcare is now able to allow some weekend highways licences on Bristol Road. That will enable Openreach and Virgin to address broadband faults in that area. Please contact me if you experience similar problems (while I can’t promise).
By the time you read this, we will have completed the first round of public liaison meetings for the Bromley Heath Viaduct project, now scheduled to commence in July. Unfortunately I was not able to attend the one scheduled for Frenchay Village Hall as it clashed with a SGC Full Council Meeting. I have, however, had direct discussions with Mark King, the Head of Streetcare with the aim of minimising the effects on Frenchay.
With the Phase 2 Housing application for the Hospital site now submitted we note further progress with reference to the Sirona Community Health facilities. Sirona have been awarded £1million by the Homes and Communities Agency towards the development of Extra-Care Housing. That has prompted further design work.
The Clinical Commissioning Group have suggested that it might still be possible for construction to start in late 2017 with “phased/opening during 2019/2020”. I have my doubts!
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Contact: [email protected]
March 2017
We were pleased to note that the restoration of two-way traffic on Stoke Lane occurred, on-time, as promised at the end of January. Please remember that some MetroBus work will continue on Stoke Lane until the summer of 2017, and may necessitate occasional, short duration, temporary traffic lights for specific pieces of work. This may also delay other works on Bristol Road.
The next set of bus timetable alterations are scheduled for April, one might anticipate no changes to services through Frenchay until later in the year.
I will provide further details of the work programme to renovate and improve the west-bound lane on the A4174 over the Bromley Heath Viaduct as they are notified. To that end a Footpath Closure Notice, effective from 3 April for six months maximum, has been published for footpath LWB86X/10 and the Frome Valley Walkway. The actual closure will probably only be for two weeks.
Meanwhile we continue to monitor proposals for housing, healthcare and school provision on the hospital site, together with those for the LEOHS development opposite the Holiday Inn, Hambrook, which currently proposes new Medical Centre provision within a local centre adjacent to the southern end of the new Transport Link.
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Contact: [email protected]
We were pleased to note that the restoration of two-way traffic on Stoke Lane occurred, on-time, as promised at the end of January. Please remember that some MetroBus work will continue on Stoke Lane until the summer of 2017, and may necessitate occasional, short duration, temporary traffic lights for specific pieces of work. This may also delay other works on Bristol Road.
The next set of bus timetable alterations are scheduled for April, one might anticipate no changes to services through Frenchay until later in the year.
I will provide further details of the work programme to renovate and improve the west-bound lane on the A4174 over the Bromley Heath Viaduct as they are notified. To that end a Footpath Closure Notice, effective from 3 April for six months maximum, has been published for footpath LWB86X/10 and the Frome Valley Walkway. The actual closure will probably only be for two weeks.
Meanwhile we continue to monitor proposals for housing, healthcare and school provision on the hospital site, together with those for the LEOHS development opposite the Holiday Inn, Hambrook, which currently proposes new Medical Centre provision within a local centre adjacent to the southern end of the new Transport Link.
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Contact: [email protected]
February 2017
Additional Roadworks
While we await further news on possible additional bus service support for Frenchay, it is pleasing to note the progress on the eastbound Metrobus stop at the Hambrook junction.
As I write this, we have not experienced any weather which might delay the restoration of two-way traffic on Stoke Lane by the beginning of February 2017. Please remember that some MetroBus work will continue on Stoke Lane until the summer of 2017, with occasional short duration, short length temporary traffic lights for specific pieces of work.
We have also been notified of a Traffic Order to close Hambrook Lane at some point after 6 February for a period of three weeks during the next 18 months, to permit finishing of the junction with the Stoke Gifford Transport Link.
In addition there is also a consultation on suggested safety works around the slip road into the Holiday Inn off the A4174 and Highways England are running partial closures overnight as they install new lighting on the M4.
Discussions continue about the work programme to renovate and improve the west-bound lane on the A4174 over the Bromley Heath Viaduct. Currently my South Glos Council colleagues are applying to the Secretary of State for extra funding which could shorten the period of works to around six months.
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Contact: [email protected]
Additional Roadworks
While we await further news on possible additional bus service support for Frenchay, it is pleasing to note the progress on the eastbound Metrobus stop at the Hambrook junction.
As I write this, we have not experienced any weather which might delay the restoration of two-way traffic on Stoke Lane by the beginning of February 2017. Please remember that some MetroBus work will continue on Stoke Lane until the summer of 2017, with occasional short duration, short length temporary traffic lights for specific pieces of work.
We have also been notified of a Traffic Order to close Hambrook Lane at some point after 6 February for a period of three weeks during the next 18 months, to permit finishing of the junction with the Stoke Gifford Transport Link.
In addition there is also a consultation on suggested safety works around the slip road into the Holiday Inn off the A4174 and Highways England are running partial closures overnight as they install new lighting on the M4.
Discussions continue about the work programme to renovate and improve the west-bound lane on the A4174 over the Bromley Heath Viaduct. Currently my South Glos Council colleagues are applying to the Secretary of State for extra funding which could shorten the period of works to around six months.
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Contact: [email protected]
January 2017
Alterations to the Metrobus works traffic arrangements
Happy New Year everyone!
As I sit writing this update three weeks before Christmas I have my fingers crossed, that, by the time you read this, I will have managed to source a solution to the hole in the bus services for the village which resulted from the change of direction of one-way traffic on Stoke Lane. If not, I anticipate that I will have spoken to many of you in the lead up to Christmas!
This change, implemented in mid-December, which arose out of complaints, mainly from commuters was expected to make it easier for them to reach UWE and Abbey Wood during the morning peak period. It was also suggested that, by reversing the one-way system it will enable the contractors to reschedule their work programme and restore Stoke Lane to two-way traffic by the beginning of February 2017, weather permitting.
Once two-way traffic is restored, MetroBus work will continue until the summer of 2017 with occasional short duration, short length temporary traffic lights for specific pieces of work.
You will note reports elsewhere on the handover of the Hospital site to Redrow Homes and the completion of the Village Green registration process. Both have involved myself and Parish Councillors in many meetings to “oil the wheels”. That process will continue as we look forward to progress on the agreed s106 funding streams for highway improvements and community facility developments including the school,
In addition we are all in discussions about the work programme to renovate and improve the west-bound lane on the A4174 over the Frome viaduct. Work will need to start on the £5million project to renovate and improve that bridge as it approaches its 50th birthday, once the Metrobus traffic delays are reduced.
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Contact: [email protected]
Alterations to the Metrobus works traffic arrangements
Happy New Year everyone!
As I sit writing this update three weeks before Christmas I have my fingers crossed, that, by the time you read this, I will have managed to source a solution to the hole in the bus services for the village which resulted from the change of direction of one-way traffic on Stoke Lane. If not, I anticipate that I will have spoken to many of you in the lead up to Christmas!
This change, implemented in mid-December, which arose out of complaints, mainly from commuters was expected to make it easier for them to reach UWE and Abbey Wood during the morning peak period. It was also suggested that, by reversing the one-way system it will enable the contractors to reschedule their work programme and restore Stoke Lane to two-way traffic by the beginning of February 2017, weather permitting.
Once two-way traffic is restored, MetroBus work will continue until the summer of 2017 with occasional short duration, short length temporary traffic lights for specific pieces of work.
You will note reports elsewhere on the handover of the Hospital site to Redrow Homes and the completion of the Village Green registration process. Both have involved myself and Parish Councillors in many meetings to “oil the wheels”. That process will continue as we look forward to progress on the agreed s106 funding streams for highway improvements and community facility developments including the school,
In addition we are all in discussions about the work programme to renovate and improve the west-bound lane on the A4174 over the Frome viaduct. Work will need to start on the £5million project to renovate and improve that bridge as it approaches its 50th birthday, once the Metrobus traffic delays are reduced.
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Contact: [email protected]
December 2016
Possible alterations to the Metrobus works traffic arrangements:
As I sit writing this update I am mindful of the update I provided for the FRA AGM just one week ago. Those of you who attended will be aware that discussions have taken place between Officers and Members of Bristol City and South Gloucestershire Councils to consider whether any changes to the Stoke Lane traffic flows would improve the situation and address the frustrations voiced by residents,
I had hoped that I would, at least, have more detail of the three proposed public consultation meetings but nothing has arrived from the West of England office in time to meet the Editor’s deadline. I will endeavour to get news to you as soon as possible via various websites, email lists and word of mouth.
Last week I was also pleased to be able to report that the maintenance works required by South Glos Council of the new owners of the Becks Pool have been carried out to the satisfaction of Stella Davies, South Glos Council’s Drainage Manager. I have taken the liberty of thanking her on behalf of residents for her persistence in “encouraging” the owners to address her requirements.
Thirdly I addressed questions about the proposed new GP provision within the Land East of Harry Stoke development which is currently the subject of planning applications with the Council. Having worked with Officers for 3 years on the scheme, it appears that we have successfully encouraged placement just across the A4174 from the Holiday Inn, adjacent to the Transport Link.
As I sit here, listening to a cacophony of firework explosions it only remains to thank you all for your help and advice and to wish one and all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Contact: [email protected]
Webmaster's Note:
From the 12th December:
Possible alterations to the Metrobus works traffic arrangements:
As I sit writing this update I am mindful of the update I provided for the FRA AGM just one week ago. Those of you who attended will be aware that discussions have taken place between Officers and Members of Bristol City and South Gloucestershire Councils to consider whether any changes to the Stoke Lane traffic flows would improve the situation and address the frustrations voiced by residents,
I had hoped that I would, at least, have more detail of the three proposed public consultation meetings but nothing has arrived from the West of England office in time to meet the Editor’s deadline. I will endeavour to get news to you as soon as possible via various websites, email lists and word of mouth.
Last week I was also pleased to be able to report that the maintenance works required by South Glos Council of the new owners of the Becks Pool have been carried out to the satisfaction of Stella Davies, South Glos Council’s Drainage Manager. I have taken the liberty of thanking her on behalf of residents for her persistence in “encouraging” the owners to address her requirements.
Thirdly I addressed questions about the proposed new GP provision within the Land East of Harry Stoke development which is currently the subject of planning applications with the Council. Having worked with Officers for 3 years on the scheme, it appears that we have successfully encouraged placement just across the A4174 from the Holiday Inn, adjacent to the Transport Link.
As I sit here, listening to a cacophony of firework explosions it only remains to thank you all for your help and advice and to wish one and all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Contact: [email protected]
Webmaster's Note:
From the 12th December:
- Stoke Lane traffic flow will change from its current direction of North to South to South to North
- The 2 plus lane from UWE roundabout going North to the A4174 will be suspended to allow all traffic to use it
- The 2 plus lanes ( East and West bound) on the A4174 between Coldharbour Lane Junction and the M32 Junction 1 will be suspended to allow all traffic to use them.
November 2016
First Bus Harford Drive A4174 bus stop update
Following further concerns raised by residents, the Council’s Public Transport Officer was kind enough to locate copies of the training packages given to First Bus drivers earlier in the summer for the new bus stop on the A4174 adjacent to Harford Drive. In addition, I was pleased to note that the immoveable yellow container disappeared a few days after I questioned its positioning.
In addition to the 16, and 48A services from Frenchay to UWE and beyond, plus 18 and 18A travelling to Downend and Emersons Green we now have more services using the new Metrobus stop.
While the 18, 18A and 19 services link Frenchay to UWE the X47 and X48 services to Bristol are also scheduled to use the new stop.
First Bus Harford Drive A4174 bus stop update
Following further concerns raised by residents, the Council’s Public Transport Officer was kind enough to locate copies of the training packages given to First Bus drivers earlier in the summer for the new bus stop on the A4174 adjacent to Harford Drive. In addition, I was pleased to note that the immoveable yellow container disappeared a few days after I questioned its positioning.
In addition to the 16, and 48A services from Frenchay to UWE and beyond, plus 18 and 18A travelling to Downend and Emersons Green we now have more services using the new Metrobus stop.
While the 18, 18A and 19 services link Frenchay to UWE the X47 and X48 services to Bristol are also scheduled to use the new stop.
|
| ||||
If residents experience any further problems, please report them to me (0117 979 3072), as soon as possible, with a date and time and, if you can get it, the vehicle fleet number, which is normally a five figure number on the rear of the vehicle, or the registration number, and I will raise the matter again with my new First Bus contact.
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Contact: [email protected]
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Contact: [email protected]
October 2016
First Bus reprimanded
Concerns were raised by residents detailing failures in the delivery of services 18 and 19, at the new stop on the A4174 adjacent to Harford Drive. Following this, we have received assurances from First Bus that, while the metal container which restricts the length of the bus stop will remain, all drivers have been reminded that the bus stop is active and that they must stop there when required.
If residents experience any further problems, please report them to me (0117 979 3072) , as soon as possible, with a date and time and, if you can get it, the vehicle fleet number (a five figure number on the rear of the vehicle) or the registration number. I will then raise the matter again with my First Bus contact.
With the start of the new UWE term, the Metrobus team have contingency plans should traffic delays worsen. Should these be implemented I will endeavour to post details via the FCN and FPS websites
Village Hall Junction footway upgraded
Residents will have noticed that the above scheme, was completed on time. I have shared the positive responses I have received with officers, together with thanks on your behalf to project managers who found the gap to progress the scheme earlier than expected. I am now having similar conversations about the proposed speed calming measures for Beckspool Road!
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Contact: [email protected]
First Bus reprimanded
Concerns were raised by residents detailing failures in the delivery of services 18 and 19, at the new stop on the A4174 adjacent to Harford Drive. Following this, we have received assurances from First Bus that, while the metal container which restricts the length of the bus stop will remain, all drivers have been reminded that the bus stop is active and that they must stop there when required.
If residents experience any further problems, please report them to me (0117 979 3072) , as soon as possible, with a date and time and, if you can get it, the vehicle fleet number (a five figure number on the rear of the vehicle) or the registration number. I will then raise the matter again with my First Bus contact.
With the start of the new UWE term, the Metrobus team have contingency plans should traffic delays worsen. Should these be implemented I will endeavour to post details via the FCN and FPS websites
Village Hall Junction footway upgraded
Residents will have noticed that the above scheme, was completed on time. I have shared the positive responses I have received with officers, together with thanks on your behalf to project managers who found the gap to progress the scheme earlier than expected. I am now having similar conversations about the proposed speed calming measures for Beckspool Road!
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Contact: [email protected]
September 2016
Beckspool Log Cabin application withdrawn
In my previous update I reported that the applicant had withdrawn his application and is now working with Ecology Officers to determine how and when he can commence remedial works on the Beckspool Pond.
In addition I have been in discussion with SGC officers about potential drainage improvement schemes on Beckspool Road.
Village Hall Junction footway upgrade scheme
Residents will also have noticed that the above scheme, officially delayed due to the Stoke Lane closure, potentially until 2017, commenced on Monday, 1 August. As the work is anticipated to take three weeks, it should be completed by the time you read this!
Further changes to Bus services for Frenchay from 4 September:
Timetable changes to the new First 18 and 18A, from Parkway and UWE to Downend and Emerson’s Green will enhance evening and weekend services to provide a 30 minute frequency Monday to Saturdays. The 18 will also run hourly on Sundays and Bank Holidays through to the Lyde Green Park and Ride.
I can confirm that both 18 and 19 services, heading towards UWE now pick up at the new stop on the A4174 adjacent to Harford Drive.
The 81 service will be replaced by the 16 service between Kingswood and, Parkway, where, in most cases, it will connect with the 82 for onward travel to Yate.
With the start of the new UWE term, the frequency of the 48A service will increase from every 20 to every 10 minutes, Monday - Friday daytime.
Meanwhile, while the X5 will no longer travel from Parkway to UWE, the X74 from UWE to the Centre will be replaced by a term-time “Service UWE”. Monday to Friday this will run every 10 minutes peak, 15 minutes off-peak and 20 minutes in the evenings. It will also run every 30 minutes during Saturday and Sunday daytime.
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Contact: [email protected]
Beckspool Log Cabin application withdrawn
In my previous update I reported that the applicant had withdrawn his application and is now working with Ecology Officers to determine how and when he can commence remedial works on the Beckspool Pond.
In addition I have been in discussion with SGC officers about potential drainage improvement schemes on Beckspool Road.
Village Hall Junction footway upgrade scheme
Residents will also have noticed that the above scheme, officially delayed due to the Stoke Lane closure, potentially until 2017, commenced on Monday, 1 August. As the work is anticipated to take three weeks, it should be completed by the time you read this!
Further changes to Bus services for Frenchay from 4 September:
Timetable changes to the new First 18 and 18A, from Parkway and UWE to Downend and Emerson’s Green will enhance evening and weekend services to provide a 30 minute frequency Monday to Saturdays. The 18 will also run hourly on Sundays and Bank Holidays through to the Lyde Green Park and Ride.
I can confirm that both 18 and 19 services, heading towards UWE now pick up at the new stop on the A4174 adjacent to Harford Drive.
The 81 service will be replaced by the 16 service between Kingswood and, Parkway, where, in most cases, it will connect with the 82 for onward travel to Yate.
With the start of the new UWE term, the frequency of the 48A service will increase from every 20 to every 10 minutes, Monday - Friday daytime.
Meanwhile, while the X5 will no longer travel from Parkway to UWE, the X74 from UWE to the Centre will be replaced by a term-time “Service UWE”. Monday to Friday this will run every 10 minutes peak, 15 minutes off-peak and 20 minutes in the evenings. It will also run every 30 minutes during Saturday and Sunday daytime.
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Contact: [email protected]
August 2016
Bus services for Frenchay:
Timetable changes effective from 24 July result in a renumbering of the First 18 services to 18 AND 18A. Both will continue to run onto Stoke Lane and Frenchay Park Road heading from UWE to Downend and Emerson’s Green (Every 30mins Mon-Fri and hourly on Saturdays), with a slightly earlier start and finish. Both services will serve Southmead Hospital.
In the opposite direction, towards UWE and Southmead Hospital, the 18 services will use the A4174. I have it “on good authority” that those northward services can now be accessed from the new Metrobus stop on the A4174 adjacent to the Harford Drive flats!
While the Wessex 13 and 13A services cease on 22 July, the other Frenchay connections remain unchanged, namely the 48A, (every 20 minutes Mon-Sat); 81 (hourly, Mon-Sat) and, of course the 46 into Bristol.
Bus services for Frenchay:
Timetable changes effective from 24 July result in a renumbering of the First 18 services to 18 AND 18A. Both will continue to run onto Stoke Lane and Frenchay Park Road heading from UWE to Downend and Emerson’s Green (Every 30mins Mon-Fri and hourly on Saturdays), with a slightly earlier start and finish. Both services will serve Southmead Hospital.
In the opposite direction, towards UWE and Southmead Hospital, the 18 services will use the A4174. I have it “on good authority” that those northward services can now be accessed from the new Metrobus stop on the A4174 adjacent to the Harford Drive flats!
While the Wessex 13 and 13A services cease on 22 July, the other Frenchay connections remain unchanged, namely the 48A, (every 20 minutes Mon-Sat); 81 (hourly, Mon-Sat) and, of course the 46 into Bristol.
As I write this, I am mindful that contractors are due to move onto the Shaftesbury Park community sports development on Bristol Road, by the middle of July. They will obviously take every care to minimise the chance of our recent visitors returning.
Although the Beckspool “Log Cabin” planning application is actually situated in the Hambrook part of Winterbourne Ward, I am keeping a watching brief on the situation.
In closing, I would like to pay tribute to Mrs Liz Edwards who retires from the teaching role she has filled for many years at Frenchay Primary School. Liz will be missed by Governors, staff, parents and pupils alike.
Beckspool Road
Log Cabin application withdrawn!
PT16/3530/O | Erection of 1no. log cabin for use as Holiday Let (Outline), with access and layout to be determined. All matters reserved. | Beckspool Pond Beckspool Road Frenchay South Gloucestershire BS16 1NT
Officers having previously indicated to Councillors that they were likely to refuse this application, I can now report that the applicant has withdrawn his application and is working with Ecology Officers to determine how and when he can commence remedial works on the “Beckspool Pond” at the end of the bird-nesting season.
Should he fail to do so, then Council Officers will be able to serve an Enforcement Notice on him.
Village Hall Junction footway upgrade scheme to begin on 1 August
Residents will remember that this scheme was delayed due to the Stoke Lane closure, potentially until 2017.
Following the questions I raised, I have just been informed by the Project Technician that the scheme will start on Monday 1 August and is anticipated to take three weeks, meaning it should be completed for the start of Autumn Term!
As always, please feel free to contact me at any time.
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Contact: [email protected]
Although the Beckspool “Log Cabin” planning application is actually situated in the Hambrook part of Winterbourne Ward, I am keeping a watching brief on the situation.
In closing, I would like to pay tribute to Mrs Liz Edwards who retires from the teaching role she has filled for many years at Frenchay Primary School. Liz will be missed by Governors, staff, parents and pupils alike.
Beckspool Road
Log Cabin application withdrawn!
PT16/3530/O | Erection of 1no. log cabin for use as Holiday Let (Outline), with access and layout to be determined. All matters reserved. | Beckspool Pond Beckspool Road Frenchay South Gloucestershire BS16 1NT
Officers having previously indicated to Councillors that they were likely to refuse this application, I can now report that the applicant has withdrawn his application and is working with Ecology Officers to determine how and when he can commence remedial works on the “Beckspool Pond” at the end of the bird-nesting season.
Should he fail to do so, then Council Officers will be able to serve an Enforcement Notice on him.
Village Hall Junction footway upgrade scheme to begin on 1 August
Residents will remember that this scheme was delayed due to the Stoke Lane closure, potentially until 2017.
Following the questions I raised, I have just been informed by the Project Technician that the scheme will start on Monday 1 August and is anticipated to take three weeks, meaning it should be completed for the start of Autumn Term!
As always, please feel free to contact me at any time.
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Contact: [email protected]
July 2016
Further Changes to Stoke Lane closure agreed by Bristol City Council
Following their review of the programme and modelling of the various options, Bristol City Council (BCC) and Metrobus organised a meeting at very short notice on 7 June, “to give certainty to local residents, the university, bus operators and Metrobus contractor.”
The traffic management arrangements on Stoke Lane are now expected to change to a one-way system on 26 June, with Stoke Lane closed to northbound traffic but open to southbound traffic, reportedly for a maximum of six months. It would appear that the length of closure might be further reduced if 0800-2000 working and longer working hours at weekends can be agreed.
BCC are to investigate the possibility of running a shuttle bus service to Southmead Hospital. In the meantime, the First 18 service continues to run onto Stoke Lane and Frenchay Park Road heading from UWE to Downend and Emerson’s Green (every 30mins Mon-Fri and hourly on Saturdays). Some minor timetable changes apply from 24 July.
In the opposite direction, towards UWE and Southmead Hospital, the 18 service will use the A4174, with Frenchay connections being served by the 48A, (every 20 minutes Mon-Sat); 81 (hourly, Mon-Sat) and Wessex 13A (every 45 mins Mon-Fri). The 13A service ceases on 22 July.
Briefing notes, updates and questions and answers will be available on the www.travelwest.info/metrobus website.
You can contact the Metrobus construction team on 0845 86 22 327, between 8am and 6pm Monday to Saturday. (Calls will cost you 2p per minute plus your call providers access charge)
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Contact: [email protected]
Further Changes to Stoke Lane closure agreed by Bristol City Council
Following their review of the programme and modelling of the various options, Bristol City Council (BCC) and Metrobus organised a meeting at very short notice on 7 June, “to give certainty to local residents, the university, bus operators and Metrobus contractor.”
The traffic management arrangements on Stoke Lane are now expected to change to a one-way system on 26 June, with Stoke Lane closed to northbound traffic but open to southbound traffic, reportedly for a maximum of six months. It would appear that the length of closure might be further reduced if 0800-2000 working and longer working hours at weekends can be agreed.
BCC are to investigate the possibility of running a shuttle bus service to Southmead Hospital. In the meantime, the First 18 service continues to run onto Stoke Lane and Frenchay Park Road heading from UWE to Downend and Emerson’s Green (every 30mins Mon-Fri and hourly on Saturdays). Some minor timetable changes apply from 24 July.
In the opposite direction, towards UWE and Southmead Hospital, the 18 service will use the A4174, with Frenchay connections being served by the 48A, (every 20 minutes Mon-Sat); 81 (hourly, Mon-Sat) and Wessex 13A (every 45 mins Mon-Fri). The 13A service ceases on 22 July.
Briefing notes, updates and questions and answers will be available on the www.travelwest.info/metrobus website.
You can contact the Metrobus construction team on 0845 86 22 327, between 8am and 6pm Monday to Saturday. (Calls will cost you 2p per minute plus your call providers access charge)
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Contact: [email protected]
June 2016
18 Bus Service
Following on from my discussions with Council officers, I am very pleased to confirm that the 18 service from UWE to Downend and Emersons Green will be re-introduced to its route through Frenchay as soon as the timetable is approved. I will then supply the relevant links.
Stoke Lane
The traffic management arrangements on Stoke Lane will change to a one way system on 22nd May, meaning that Stoke Lane will be closed to northbound traffic but open to southbound traffic. Cyclists and pedestrians will be able to travel in both directions. This arrangement is likely to be in place for 12 months, but allows the works on Stoke Lane to be completed much quicker than if the current two-way working is maintained.
To clarify, the bus lanes that are being built on Stoke Lane will be able to be used by local bus services in addition to the MetroBus services.
First have agreed to divert the 18 service back onto Stoke Lane and Frenchay Park Road heading from UWE to Downend and Emerson’s Green.
In the opposite direction, towards UWE and Southmead Hospital, the 18 service will use the A4174, with Frenchay connections being served by the 48a, 81 and 13 services. Once the service changes are registered, the change will be advertised and the date of introduction confirmed.
Briefing notes, updates and questions and answers will be available on the www.travelwest.info/metrobus website.
You can contact the Metrobus construction team on 0845 86 22 327
Between 8am and 6pm Monday to Saturday. (Calls will cost you 2p per minute plus your call providers access charge)
18 Bus Service
Following on from my discussions with Council officers, I am very pleased to confirm that the 18 service from UWE to Downend and Emersons Green will be re-introduced to its route through Frenchay as soon as the timetable is approved. I will then supply the relevant links.
Stoke Lane
The traffic management arrangements on Stoke Lane will change to a one way system on 22nd May, meaning that Stoke Lane will be closed to northbound traffic but open to southbound traffic. Cyclists and pedestrians will be able to travel in both directions. This arrangement is likely to be in place for 12 months, but allows the works on Stoke Lane to be completed much quicker than if the current two-way working is maintained.
To clarify, the bus lanes that are being built on Stoke Lane will be able to be used by local bus services in addition to the MetroBus services.
First have agreed to divert the 18 service back onto Stoke Lane and Frenchay Park Road heading from UWE to Downend and Emerson’s Green.
In the opposite direction, towards UWE and Southmead Hospital, the 18 service will use the A4174, with Frenchay connections being served by the 48a, 81 and 13 services. Once the service changes are registered, the change will be advertised and the date of introduction confirmed.
Briefing notes, updates and questions and answers will be available on the www.travelwest.info/metrobus website.
You can contact the Metrobus construction team on 0845 86 22 327
Between 8am and 6pm Monday to Saturday. (Calls will cost you 2p per minute plus your call providers access charge)
May 2016
Bus Service Changes confirmed for late April
Last month I advised on proposed changes to bus services from late April. These have now been confirmed and are reflected here.
Closure of Stoke Lane from its junction with Frenchay Park Road
Some bus services through Frenchay will also be affected by the recent decision to close Stoke Lane to north-bound traffic for up to 12 months from 24 April (ed: now 22 May), to facilitate the building of a large retaining wall on the Metrobus route. While this closure has been determined as resulting in the shortest period of disruption, we were only notified of this closure by the Department for Transport on 4 April and we await further details.
We have also been notified of two public drop-in sessions, staffed by the Metrobus contractors, scheduled for Monday 18th and Tuesday April 19th, I would hope to attend both of these meetings, details can be found at:
http://community.alungriffiths.co.uk/works-in-your-area/metrobus-north-fringe-to-hengrove-package/
You can contact the Metrobus construction team on 0845 86 22 327
Between 8am and 6pm Monday to Saturday. (Calls will cost you 2p per minute plus your call providers access charge)
Alternatively, you can email them on [email protected]
While further detail is available at http://community.alungriffiths.co.uk and www.metrobusbuild.info
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Contact: [email protected]
Bus Service Changes confirmed for late April
Last month I advised on proposed changes to bus services from late April. These have now been confirmed and are reflected here.
Closure of Stoke Lane from its junction with Frenchay Park Road
Some bus services through Frenchay will also be affected by the recent decision to close Stoke Lane to north-bound traffic for up to 12 months from 24 April (ed: now 22 May), to facilitate the building of a large retaining wall on the Metrobus route. While this closure has been determined as resulting in the shortest period of disruption, we were only notified of this closure by the Department for Transport on 4 April and we await further details.
We have also been notified of two public drop-in sessions, staffed by the Metrobus contractors, scheduled for Monday 18th and Tuesday April 19th, I would hope to attend both of these meetings, details can be found at:
http://community.alungriffiths.co.uk/works-in-your-area/metrobus-north-fringe-to-hengrove-package/
You can contact the Metrobus construction team on 0845 86 22 327
Between 8am and 6pm Monday to Saturday. (Calls will cost you 2p per minute plus your call providers access charge)
Alternatively, you can email them on [email protected]
While further detail is available at http://community.alungriffiths.co.uk and www.metrobusbuild.info
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Contact: [email protected]
April 2016
Cleeve Road Bridge Investigation
I write this just after returning from the SGC Southern Brooks Area Forum where, despite competition, we approved a scheme to investigate the possibility of installing traffic lights on the Cleeve Road Bridge. The investigation scheme will be progressed during the financial year 2016-17.
Further Bus Service Changes in April
Operators’ proposals to amend services from 24 April have been made available to the Council and are now being checked. Several services operating through Downend and UWE have had running times amended to improve punctuality.
Two routes servicing Frenchay are affected. First Bus propose to remove the Sundays and Bank Holidays service on the 18 route and evening services. Meanwhile First’s 319 service will be renumbered as 19 which will follow the same route and frequency as the 319 but with extended evening journeys serving Bath and Bitton. The 19 service will also have a new Sunday and Bank Holiday service running hourly.
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Contact: [email protected]
Cleeve Road Bridge Investigation
I write this just after returning from the SGC Southern Brooks Area Forum where, despite competition, we approved a scheme to investigate the possibility of installing traffic lights on the Cleeve Road Bridge. The investigation scheme will be progressed during the financial year 2016-17.
Further Bus Service Changes in April
Operators’ proposals to amend services from 24 April have been made available to the Council and are now being checked. Several services operating through Downend and UWE have had running times amended to improve punctuality.
Two routes servicing Frenchay are affected. First Bus propose to remove the Sundays and Bank Holidays service on the 18 route and evening services. Meanwhile First’s 319 service will be renumbered as 19 which will follow the same route and frequency as the 319 but with extended evening journeys serving Bath and Bitton. The 19 service will also have a new Sunday and Bank Holiday service running hourly.
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Contact: [email protected]
March 2016
Having recently received complaints about mud being deposited on the roads around the hospital site as demolition of the old buildings approaches completion, I have had conversations with officers. Approved demolition plans do not include wheel-washing requirements.
If you have concerns at any time please contact me and I will ask Streetcare to address them: [email protected] (0117 979 3072)
Changes to Library Services
The South Gloucestershire Council Communities Committee has approved plans to consult with the public, community groups and staff about potential changes to library services. The consultation process will begin in February, but no service changes would take effect until October 2017.
The council’s aim is to work with community-based partners to ensure South Gloucestershire library services are sustainable for the long term, despite reduced funding from government. It is hoped that local groups, individuals and potentially town and parish councils will be able to make a valuable contribution to maintain library opening hours and support existing paid staff.
The council needs to save £640,000 from the budget for the service and while the proposed new model involves reducing some library opening hours, closing Chipping Sodbury library and ending the Mobile Library service, it is anticipated that through discussions with the community over the next year, many of these reductions could be avoided.
Chair of the Communities Committee, Councillor Heather Goddard said: “We appreciate that our libraries are a very valuable resource for many residents and that the services people use, and the support they receive from our dedicated staff, extend far beyond borrowing books.
“In order to preserve our libraries in a sustainable way, we do have to look at changing the way we deliver the service, however, before we make any decisions, we want to hear the views of the community.
“The proposals in the consultation are really a starting point. We fully expect that we will find common cause with residents, community groups and our colleagues in town and parish councils in looking for ways we can continue to deliver library services to people together.”
The Committee also discussed plans for ‘Community Hubs’ and adopted a policy to develop a model of co-located services, including libraries, One Stop Shops (OSS) and potentially other public sector organisations in single, easy-to-access facilities, where possible.
Priority areas to look at delivering services in this way will be Kingswood, Patchway and Yate and the Committee also agreed that the council should develop plans to pilot new technological ways of providing access to services in Thornbury.
Cllr Goddard said: “Although there is reduced funding for the council to provide services, we know there is no reduction in demand. We know that residents like the idea of services being available together and so we will pursue the idea of Community Hubs as a way of potentially reducing some overhead costs, while not reducing peoples’ access to front-line assistance.”
The Committee also agreed to adopt a policy to keep the council’s existing public toilet facilities under review. South Gloucestershire maintain 15 public conveniences, at a cost of more than £175,000 each year. An assessment of the facilities condition was presented to councillors that indicated an additional maintenance bill for £75,000 was likely in the next five years.
Councillors agreed that council facilities could potentially close where suitable alternative facilities could be identified within half a mile.
The Library Service consultation process will begin on 22 February and run for 12 weeks. Details will be published online at www.southglos.gov.uk/consultation
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Contact: [email protected]
Having recently received complaints about mud being deposited on the roads around the hospital site as demolition of the old buildings approaches completion, I have had conversations with officers. Approved demolition plans do not include wheel-washing requirements.
If you have concerns at any time please contact me and I will ask Streetcare to address them: [email protected] (0117 979 3072)
Changes to Library Services
The South Gloucestershire Council Communities Committee has approved plans to consult with the public, community groups and staff about potential changes to library services. The consultation process will begin in February, but no service changes would take effect until October 2017.
The council’s aim is to work with community-based partners to ensure South Gloucestershire library services are sustainable for the long term, despite reduced funding from government. It is hoped that local groups, individuals and potentially town and parish councils will be able to make a valuable contribution to maintain library opening hours and support existing paid staff.
The council needs to save £640,000 from the budget for the service and while the proposed new model involves reducing some library opening hours, closing Chipping Sodbury library and ending the Mobile Library service, it is anticipated that through discussions with the community over the next year, many of these reductions could be avoided.
Chair of the Communities Committee, Councillor Heather Goddard said: “We appreciate that our libraries are a very valuable resource for many residents and that the services people use, and the support they receive from our dedicated staff, extend far beyond borrowing books.
“In order to preserve our libraries in a sustainable way, we do have to look at changing the way we deliver the service, however, before we make any decisions, we want to hear the views of the community.
“The proposals in the consultation are really a starting point. We fully expect that we will find common cause with residents, community groups and our colleagues in town and parish councils in looking for ways we can continue to deliver library services to people together.”
The Committee also discussed plans for ‘Community Hubs’ and adopted a policy to develop a model of co-located services, including libraries, One Stop Shops (OSS) and potentially other public sector organisations in single, easy-to-access facilities, where possible.
Priority areas to look at delivering services in this way will be Kingswood, Patchway and Yate and the Committee also agreed that the council should develop plans to pilot new technological ways of providing access to services in Thornbury.
Cllr Goddard said: “Although there is reduced funding for the council to provide services, we know there is no reduction in demand. We know that residents like the idea of services being available together and so we will pursue the idea of Community Hubs as a way of potentially reducing some overhead costs, while not reducing peoples’ access to front-line assistance.”
The Committee also agreed to adopt a policy to keep the council’s existing public toilet facilities under review. South Gloucestershire maintain 15 public conveniences, at a cost of more than £175,000 each year. An assessment of the facilities condition was presented to councillors that indicated an additional maintenance bill for £75,000 was likely in the next five years.
Councillors agreed that council facilities could potentially close where suitable alternative facilities could be identified within half a mile.
The Library Service consultation process will begin on 22 February and run for 12 weeks. Details will be published online at www.southglos.gov.uk/consultation
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Contact: [email protected]
February 2016
Looking out over a very damp garden, I have been poring over the bus timetable changes, applicable from 10 January. The good news is that the 81 service returns to serve Frenchay Park Road. With financial support from South Gloucestershire Council the service is now extended beyond Kingswood to Hanham.
While the timetables for 319 and 18 services remain unchanged please check the 46/X46 timetables. Both services have been “adjusted to address punctuality and reliability issues”! In addition, evening no. 46 journeys departing Bristol after 1910 will also serve Brimsham Park in Yate.
I am sure that everyone has noticed the amount of work currently taking place on the new Metrobus route. While I am always happy to raise residents’ queries with the MetroBus team, if you would like to communicate with them directly, they can be contacted at [email protected]
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Contact: [email protected]
Looking out over a very damp garden, I have been poring over the bus timetable changes, applicable from 10 January. The good news is that the 81 service returns to serve Frenchay Park Road. With financial support from South Gloucestershire Council the service is now extended beyond Kingswood to Hanham.
While the timetables for 319 and 18 services remain unchanged please check the 46/X46 timetables. Both services have been “adjusted to address punctuality and reliability issues”! In addition, evening no. 46 journeys departing Bristol after 1910 will also serve Brimsham Park in Yate.
I am sure that everyone has noticed the amount of work currently taking place on the new Metrobus route. While I am always happy to raise residents’ queries with the MetroBus team, if you would like to communicate with them directly, they can be contacted at [email protected]
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Contact: [email protected]
January 2016 - Road Safety Matters
As I write this, with the daylight hours still shortening, I am pleased to report that the Speed Visor’s smiley face is about to reappear on Beckspool Road, recording traffic speeds in both directions. It will be interesting to compare this year’s statistics with last!
In addition I am about to finalise the meeting between elected Members and Council officers re highway safety in both the short and longer term. Hopefully, this will also include the School’s Travel Plan Co-ordinators.
Many thanks to those residents who attended the recent AGM of the Frenchay Preservation Society and provided me with overwhelming support to address Highways Officers’ concerns about progressing the proposed improvement to the Village Hall junction, following a very limited consultation response. The scheme is now recommended for implementation in the next financial year!
On behalf of all the Elected Councillors ….Happy New Year!
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
As I write this, with the daylight hours still shortening, I am pleased to report that the Speed Visor’s smiley face is about to reappear on Beckspool Road, recording traffic speeds in both directions. It will be interesting to compare this year’s statistics with last!
In addition I am about to finalise the meeting between elected Members and Council officers re highway safety in both the short and longer term. Hopefully, this will also include the School’s Travel Plan Co-ordinators.
Many thanks to those residents who attended the recent AGM of the Frenchay Preservation Society and provided me with overwhelming support to address Highways Officers’ concerns about progressing the proposed improvement to the Village Hall junction, following a very limited consultation response. The scheme is now recommended for implementation in the next financial year!
On behalf of all the Elected Councillors ….Happy New Year!
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
December 2015 - Tying things up for Christmas!
I am about to sit and study the conditions suggested for the Dings Crusaders’ application for their new rugby pitches. There is still no news on the “sister application” for the demolition of the old ground.
Recent complaints about the parking of mobile homes at the top of Frenchay Hill have been referred to the local police team. If any vehicles cause an obstruction they should be reported directly to the police.
Following the near miss incident on Beckspool Road, I am organising a meeting between elected Members and Council officers re highway safety in both the short and longer term. A resident has offered to manage a Frenchay Speedwatch volunteer team.
Following a significant amount of work with Council officers, Streetcare will clean up Beck's Pool and the cost will be charged to the landowner.
Lastly, may we take the opportunity to wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy 2016!
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
I am about to sit and study the conditions suggested for the Dings Crusaders’ application for their new rugby pitches. There is still no news on the “sister application” for the demolition of the old ground.
Recent complaints about the parking of mobile homes at the top of Frenchay Hill have been referred to the local police team. If any vehicles cause an obstruction they should be reported directly to the police.
Following the near miss incident on Beckspool Road, I am organising a meeting between elected Members and Council officers re highway safety in both the short and longer term. A resident has offered to manage a Frenchay Speedwatch volunteer team.
Following a significant amount of work with Council officers, Streetcare will clean up Beck's Pool and the cost will be charged to the landowner.
Lastly, may we take the opportunity to wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy 2016!
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
November 2015 - It's Been a Busy Month
Many of you will be aware that towards the end of last month, and despite my expressions of concern about the effects of late night activity on local residents, the Dings Crusaders’ application to develop new rugby pitches on green-belt land adjacent to Frenchay Park Road was approved.
In addition to working with the Parish Councillors and NBT on the future management of the Voluntary Village Green we have also, with the help of residents and SGC Highways officers, addressed a parking problem on Frenchay Hill and should shortly have a solution for the problems encountered by traffic turning right at the junction of Beckspool Road and the Hambrook end of Bristol Road.
Only a few days ago we were made aware of a near miss incident at the crossing point on Beckspool Road adjacent to the Church car park and are currently in discussion with Council officers.
I hope to be able to provide further detail in due course.
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Many of you will be aware that towards the end of last month, and despite my expressions of concern about the effects of late night activity on local residents, the Dings Crusaders’ application to develop new rugby pitches on green-belt land adjacent to Frenchay Park Road was approved.
In addition to working with the Parish Councillors and NBT on the future management of the Voluntary Village Green we have also, with the help of residents and SGC Highways officers, addressed a parking problem on Frenchay Hill and should shortly have a solution for the problems encountered by traffic turning right at the junction of Beckspool Road and the Hambrook end of Bristol Road.
Only a few days ago we were made aware of a near miss incident at the crossing point on Beckspool Road adjacent to the Church car park and are currently in discussion with Council officers.
I hope to be able to provide further detail in due course.
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
October 2015 - Alterations to local bus services from 23 August
These will include 24/7 bus services to and from the UWE Bus Hub which is becoming increasingly important as an interchange.
The only real change to the service through Frenchay village is the anticipated loss of the remainder of the 312 service. With the demise of the 83 service from Kingswood, which used Stoke Lane, the link to Thornbury is now via the 18 and 319 to Parkway where one can pick up the new 77 service.
The X18 from UWE and Parkway now travels via the new Lyde Green development and Emersons Green to Kingswood.
An alternative routes to the Centre, the new 48A service from UWE can be joined at the Frenchay Park Road/Stoke Lane junction.
Don’t forget Megabus services also run from UWE. I have just booked my trip to London for £20 return, only a week before the event, much cheaper than the train!
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
These will include 24/7 bus services to and from the UWE Bus Hub which is becoming increasingly important as an interchange.
The only real change to the service through Frenchay village is the anticipated loss of the remainder of the 312 service. With the demise of the 83 service from Kingswood, which used Stoke Lane, the link to Thornbury is now via the 18 and 319 to Parkway where one can pick up the new 77 service.
The X18 from UWE and Parkway now travels via the new Lyde Green development and Emersons Green to Kingswood.
An alternative routes to the Centre, the new 48A service from UWE can be joined at the Frenchay Park Road/Stoke Lane junction.
Don’t forget Megabus services also run from UWE. I have just booked my trip to London for £20 return, only a week before the event, much cheaper than the train!
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
September 2015 - Food Waste Initiative
Further to my dealing with a waste collection problem in the village recently, I thought I would share with you details of the SGC Food Waste presentation made at the last Southern Brooks Area Forum.
While the proportion of our rubbish that is recycled has increased over the years there are still further improvements to aim for. Based on a survey last autumn, only 48% of our remaining black bin rubbish could be recycled, including 4% textiles, 5% garden rubbish, 20% that should be recycled via the green box scheme, glass, plastics, etc and 23% food waste.
Only one third of food waste is currently collected for recycling leaving 12,000 tonnes going to landfill annually! Every extra tonne recycled saves us £58.
More information can be found at: http://www.southglos.gov.uk/environment-and-planning/recycling-rubbish-and-waste/feed-me-and-win/ or http://www.feedmeandwin.co.uk/
If, instead, anyone would like me to visit them, new computer in hand, feel free to phone me (0117 979 3072) or drop me an email at [email protected]
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Further to my dealing with a waste collection problem in the village recently, I thought I would share with you details of the SGC Food Waste presentation made at the last Southern Brooks Area Forum.
While the proportion of our rubbish that is recycled has increased over the years there are still further improvements to aim for. Based on a survey last autumn, only 48% of our remaining black bin rubbish could be recycled, including 4% textiles, 5% garden rubbish, 20% that should be recycled via the green box scheme, glass, plastics, etc and 23% food waste.
Only one third of food waste is currently collected for recycling leaving 12,000 tonnes going to landfill annually! Every extra tonne recycled saves us £58.
More information can be found at: http://www.southglos.gov.uk/environment-and-planning/recycling-rubbish-and-waste/feed-me-and-win/ or http://www.feedmeandwin.co.uk/
If, instead, anyone would like me to visit them, new computer in hand, feel free to phone me (0117 979 3072) or drop me an email at [email protected]
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
Feed Me and Win
A campaign to encourage residents to recycle more food waste, is running until 16 March 2016. As part of the 'Feed Me and Win' campaign, randomly selected households are awarded a £50 voucher for putting out a food bin containing food waste. For more information download the attached presentation.:
A campaign to encourage residents to recycle more food waste, is running until 16 March 2016. As part of the 'Feed Me and Win' campaign, randomly selected households are awarded a £50 voucher for putting out a food bin containing food waste. For more information download the attached presentation.:
| food_collections_areaforums.ppt |
August 2015 - Transport Matters
Further to last month’s update on the future of GP provision, residents have asked me to provide a summary of how the Metrobus scheme will serve Frenchay.
As I am sure you are aware, the Metrobus scheme is designed to provide a frequent, limited stop service between the centre of Bristol, Emersons Green and Cribbs Causeway via Parkway station and UWE. Copious plans can be found at this link:
http://www.frenchaycommunity.co.uk/from-our-south-gloucestershire-councillors.html
In summary, Frenchay residents will be able to access the network at:
- the new M32 exchange at the bottom of Stoke Lane,
- a pair of new bus stops at the Hambrook Lane junction with the A4174 on Bromley Heath Road,
- stops at the bottom end of the Stoke Gifford Transport Link which will run from the new junction with the A4174 opposite the Holiday Inn at Hambrook, across the “Land East of Harry Stoke” to Parkway station and beyond.
Having just discovered, via the grapevine, that the FRA AGM is cancelled, I can also report that the proposed junction and footpath improvements around the Village Hall should be out for consultation at the end of the summer. Consultation on any proposed traffic schemes to address the effects of the Hospital site redevelopment will follow in the future.
If, instead, anyone would like me to visit them, new computer in hand, feel free to phone me (0117 979 3072) or drop me an email: [email protected]
Cllr Trevor Jones
July 2015: Future GP provision for Frenchay
Firstly a belated huge thank you for the support we received during the recent elections. I am sure I speak for the other five re-elected Councillors as well, in looking forward to continuing our work with, and for residents in the future.
Following on from the obvious misapprehension at the recent FRA public meeting about the s106 funding of GP facilities. While, in 2010, the Frenchay Project Board proposed that the NHS “set aside a parcel of land (on the Hospital site) suitable for the development of a GP practice', NHS doctrine now requires new GP provision to be in larger, financially sustainable Centres, usually housing between 4 and 6 GPs, together with support services.
In this case the developing Masterplan for the “Land East of Harry Stoke” between the A4174 and the M32 suggests the positioning of such a Centre adjacent to the A4174 just over the border in Hambrook!
Firstly a belated huge thank you for the support we received during the recent elections. I am sure I speak for the other five re-elected Councillors as well, in looking forward to continuing our work with, and for residents in the future.
Following on from the obvious misapprehension at the recent FRA public meeting about the s106 funding of GP facilities. While, in 2010, the Frenchay Project Board proposed that the NHS “set aside a parcel of land (on the Hospital site) suitable for the development of a GP practice', NHS doctrine now requires new GP provision to be in larger, financially sustainable Centres, usually housing between 4 and 6 GPs, together with support services.
In this case the developing Masterplan for the “Land East of Harry Stoke” between the A4174 and the M32 suggests the positioning of such a Centre adjacent to the A4174 just over the border in Hambrook!
April 2015: Village Hall Junction News
With one pavement improvement scheme on the northern section of Beckspool Road already reported, and awaiting residents’ views on amendments, I am very pleased to report that local Councillors secured further funding at this month’s Southern Brooks Area Forum for significant improvements at the Village Hall junction.
Following my promotion of an officer investigation scheme last year which prioritised this scheme against others across the “North Fringe” area, the scheme was promoted for funding under the Local Capital Transport Scheme in 2015/16.
Supporting statements having being presented by Cllr David Fletcher, the Area Committee shortlisted several schemes, including ours, which were then unanimously supported by the Committee of 13 South Gloucestershire Councillors.
The draft design for the improvements, prepared by the Council’s Highway Engineers, will be brought forward for consultation with local residents during the next financial year. The two schemes, which will benefit young and mature residents alike, are recognised as first steps, to be followed, hopefully, by further improvements in response to the changing pedestrian and cycle requirements arising from the redevelopment of the Hospital site.
Cllr Trevor Jones
With one pavement improvement scheme on the northern section of Beckspool Road already reported, and awaiting residents’ views on amendments, I am very pleased to report that local Councillors secured further funding at this month’s Southern Brooks Area Forum for significant improvements at the Village Hall junction.
Following my promotion of an officer investigation scheme last year which prioritised this scheme against others across the “North Fringe” area, the scheme was promoted for funding under the Local Capital Transport Scheme in 2015/16.
Supporting statements having being presented by Cllr David Fletcher, the Area Committee shortlisted several schemes, including ours, which were then unanimously supported by the Committee of 13 South Gloucestershire Councillors.
The draft design for the improvements, prepared by the Council’s Highway Engineers, will be brought forward for consultation with local residents during the next financial year. The two schemes, which will benefit young and mature residents alike, are recognised as first steps, to be followed, hopefully, by further improvements in response to the changing pedestrian and cycle requirements arising from the redevelopment of the Hospital site.
Cllr Trevor Jones
March 2015: Bristol Road and Beckspool Road Updates
Following a recent conversation with Cllr Paul Kembery, I raised residents’ concerns about tailbacks from the Hambrook junction on the A4174.
Head of Streetcare Mark King reported that:
“Following the works to install new cycle/pedestrian facilities at the Hambrook junction, the signal timings for the whole junction have had to be reviewed.
On site observations on numerous occasions in the morning and evening peaks have sought to ensure that the flows (and queuing) at the junction are “balanced”. Whilst green time to Frenchay has been reduced (from a maximum of 12 second to 10 seconds) queuing traffic from Frenchay has been observed to clear through the junction within a couple of complete cycles of the traffic lights.
Further works at the junction are still to take place and once the carriageway widening on the Northern (Winterbourne) side is complete then we will have to review the timings once again.”
With one pavement improvement on Beckspool Road already started I am hoping to secure further funding at this month’s Area Forum for significant improvements at the Village Hall junction. The two schemes, designed by South Gloucestershire Council’s expert Highway Engineers, will benefit young and mature alike in reducing the need to walk on the highway.
Cllr Trevor Jones
Following a recent conversation with Cllr Paul Kembery, I raised residents’ concerns about tailbacks from the Hambrook junction on the A4174.
Head of Streetcare Mark King reported that:
“Following the works to install new cycle/pedestrian facilities at the Hambrook junction, the signal timings for the whole junction have had to be reviewed.
On site observations on numerous occasions in the morning and evening peaks have sought to ensure that the flows (and queuing) at the junction are “balanced”. Whilst green time to Frenchay has been reduced (from a maximum of 12 second to 10 seconds) queuing traffic from Frenchay has been observed to clear through the junction within a couple of complete cycles of the traffic lights.
Further works at the junction are still to take place and once the carriageway widening on the Northern (Winterbourne) side is complete then we will have to review the timings once again.”
With one pavement improvement on Beckspool Road already started I am hoping to secure further funding at this month’s Area Forum for significant improvements at the Village Hall junction. The two schemes, designed by South Gloucestershire Council’s expert Highway Engineers, will benefit young and mature alike in reducing the need to walk on the highway.
Cllr Trevor Jones
Frenchay Hospital Site Redevelopment - Questions about dust monitoring,
from Cllr Trevor Jones, South Gloucestershire Council, 3 Nov, 2014
As a Member of South Gloucestershire Council’s Public Health and Health Scrutiny Committee I can report that, during the meeting held on Wednesday 22 October 2014 a resident of Frenchay, who is also a parent of a child at Frenchay Primary School made the following submission:
“Frenchay residents, and in particular, parents of children at the local school, are very concerned about the removal of asbestos and the risk of air pollution resulting from it.
Despite our extensive efforts to engage with local government bodies like HSE, the South Gloucestershire Health and Safety Adviser and also North Bristol Trust, residents remain concerned that little seems to be happening to safeguard the public.
What measures is South Gloucestershire Council, and in particular, the Public Health & Health Scrutiny Commission taking to ensure that all appropriate action is taken to safeguard residents from harmful dust?”
My thanks to Ben Bennett, (Programme Director SW Commissioning Support Unit) who, having contacted North Bristol NHS Trust during the Meeting was later able to confirm that the following information is already available on the Trust website:
Decommissioning and demolition of the old Frenchay Hospital buildings
Buildings have been secured when they were vacated in May and hoardings have been erected around the site. Decommissioning of the buildings, which involves emptying them of equipment, surveying them, stripping out wiring and plumbing will take approximately 8 months and should be completed in early 2015.
Also in the Autumn the Trust will be completing asbestos surveys on all the buildings to be demolished using a specialist company.
The timeframe to safely decontaminate and demolish the buildings is not yet confirmed, however this is likely to begin in spring/summer 2015 and continue for a period of c. 12-15 months.
NBT and any developer will be bound by very rigorous statutory requirements and indeed local South Gloucestershire Council requirements. NBT have the experience and resource to manage this if required following the complex phased works it has carried out and is still carrying out at the live Southmead site. If this work is carried out by a developer then they too have in depth experience of developing brownfield sites such as Frenchay.
All this work will take place in line with the planning permission agreement and we aim to minimise any disruption to local residents. We have a good track-record of working with our neighbours during the building of the new Brunel building at Southmead Hospital. We will ensure our contractors adhere to strict guidance within their contracts, such as dust management, parking and the level of recycling of materials.
http://www.nbt.nhs.uk/our-hospitals/frenchay-hospital/frenchay-hospital-site-redevelopment/frenchay-hospital-site
Following my discussions with Officers at the end of the Meeting, the Council’s Environmental Health Manager, Gerard Madden, has confirmed that the HSE lead on issuing and ensuring contractors are licensed to remove/handle asbestos and that North Bristol Trust have committed to use licensed contractors.
With respect to the additional concerns about dust from site possibly affecting residents and pupils/staff at Frenchay Primary School, Chris Gillett, Team Leader, Environmental Protection has reported that their consultation response to Planning application PT14/1027/PND (Prior Notification of intention to demolish Frenchay Hospital) stated: “Further details regarding the method of demolition to be employed including operation times will be required prior to making a decision. This is in order to protect the local amenity”. This will ensure that the applicant provides information as part of any subsequent outline/full application.
Planning Officers concluded that “in light of the method of demolition information that has been submitted in support of this application and the conditions that will be in place through both the outline approval and the listed building consent, the scope of the demolition works will be sufficiently regulated to ensure that the amenities of the locality are protected”.
Having spoken to the Case Officer, Rob Nicholson, the outline consent when granted will require that the applicant provides a Construction Management Plan for the council to approve, and this will include a dust management strategy.
Should complaints about Dust arise they would be investigated by the Environmental Protection team in accordance with the Council’s Nuisance procedure ( http://www.southglos.gov.uk/environment-and-planning/pollution/pollution-control-noise/nuisance-from-building-sites/ ) and in accordance with any agreed construction management plan to be conditioned in the outline consent.
Any mobile crushing plant operated on site following demolition would be permitted by its home authority, and should be operated in accordance with the permit so as not to cause dust issues. Any complaints received of dust from mobile crushing plant would be investigated by Environmental Protection staff.
Cllr Trevor Jones
South Gloucestershire Council
Frenchay and Stoke Park Ward
0117 979 3072
[email protected]
