Frenchay Preservation Society
December 2021 - A NEW FRIENDS’ GROUP FOR FRENCHAY PARKLANDS?
Some two years ago, at the November 2019 AGM of Frenchay Preservation Society (FPS), it was proposed that FPS should sponsor the formation of a Friends’ Group to support the long-term management of the 20+ acres of hospital land being handed over as a Voluntary Village Green (VVG).
There was unanimous agreement at the AGM to this course of action after presentations from a South Glos Officer and representatives of Page Park in Staple Hill, where just such a Friends’ Group was able to bid for additional funding not available to local councils. At this point I must stress that this is a complementary activity to the planned management of the VVG as one of the ‘Parish Council Assets’ and is not in any way a criticism of the available budgets! In fact, these additional funds will help to ensure that we can optimize our response to the generally acknowledged ‘climate emergency’ in the way that we are able to look after a major addition to our natural environment as ‘Frenchay Parklands’.
So, fast-forward two years and where are we? Unfortunately, the answer is still struggling to come to terms with delays caused by the covid pandemic and various legal issues which have prevented the handover of the VVG. However, I am feeling reasonably confident of better news in 2022, which is why I am now setting out a summary of what needs to be done - in three clear stages:
The good news is that the unanimous backing at the AGM of Frenchay Preservation Society means that we have already achieved Stage 1 - the identification of a ‘sponsor organisation’.
Stage 2 is to arrange a public meeting, with some display boards and relevant information which will encourage local residents to show support by simply adding their names to a list. If we manage to persuade at least half of ‘Frenchay’ to drop in and show support then we can move on to Stage 3…
Stage 3 is to actually set-up the Friends’ Group - if the support is there! Offers of help are already available with such matters as constitution (vital when bidding for public money) and setting initial aims & objectives. In an ideal world, and subject to stage 2, we will be able to recruit a representative range of volunteers who feel able to make all this happen! (Whilst promoting Frenchays Best Interests at the same time.)
Meanwhile, back to Stage 2. I am looking for ‘short-term volunteers’ who would like to join a small group and help to organise a public meeting in the spring of 2022. The tasks are fairly straightforward: prepare some information boards (eg; what friends groups do, the 20 acres of land, examples of what others have achieved). We also need to set-up on the day, ‘meet & greet’ and make a record of those attending, with any comments. If you would like to help, my contact details are shown below.
Thank you in advance for your interest!
Hugh Whatley (Chair - FPS and vice-chair of FRA).
Mobile = 0777 552 2689. E-mail = [email protected]
PS - One of our local inspirations is ‘Grow Wilder’ (part of Avon Wildlife Trust) who are located just down Frenchay Park Road on the corner of Stoke Lane. They are holding a pre-Christmas Market on Saturday 4th December (10am to 4pm) with various craft stalls, demonstrations & refreshments.
Some two years ago, at the November 2019 AGM of Frenchay Preservation Society (FPS), it was proposed that FPS should sponsor the formation of a Friends’ Group to support the long-term management of the 20+ acres of hospital land being handed over as a Voluntary Village Green (VVG).
There was unanimous agreement at the AGM to this course of action after presentations from a South Glos Officer and representatives of Page Park in Staple Hill, where just such a Friends’ Group was able to bid for additional funding not available to local councils. At this point I must stress that this is a complementary activity to the planned management of the VVG as one of the ‘Parish Council Assets’ and is not in any way a criticism of the available budgets! In fact, these additional funds will help to ensure that we can optimize our response to the generally acknowledged ‘climate emergency’ in the way that we are able to look after a major addition to our natural environment as ‘Frenchay Parklands’.
So, fast-forward two years and where are we? Unfortunately, the answer is still struggling to come to terms with delays caused by the covid pandemic and various legal issues which have prevented the handover of the VVG. However, I am feeling reasonably confident of better news in 2022, which is why I am now setting out a summary of what needs to be done - in three clear stages:
The good news is that the unanimous backing at the AGM of Frenchay Preservation Society means that we have already achieved Stage 1 - the identification of a ‘sponsor organisation’.
Stage 2 is to arrange a public meeting, with some display boards and relevant information which will encourage local residents to show support by simply adding their names to a list. If we manage to persuade at least half of ‘Frenchay’ to drop in and show support then we can move on to Stage 3…
Stage 3 is to actually set-up the Friends’ Group - if the support is there! Offers of help are already available with such matters as constitution (vital when bidding for public money) and setting initial aims & objectives. In an ideal world, and subject to stage 2, we will be able to recruit a representative range of volunteers who feel able to make all this happen! (Whilst promoting Frenchays Best Interests at the same time.)
Meanwhile, back to Stage 2. I am looking for ‘short-term volunteers’ who would like to join a small group and help to organise a public meeting in the spring of 2022. The tasks are fairly straightforward: prepare some information boards (eg; what friends groups do, the 20 acres of land, examples of what others have achieved). We also need to set-up on the day, ‘meet & greet’ and make a record of those attending, with any comments. If you would like to help, my contact details are shown below.
Thank you in advance for your interest!
Hugh Whatley (Chair - FPS and vice-chair of FRA).
Mobile = 0777 552 2689. E-mail = [email protected]
PS - One of our local inspirations is ‘Grow Wilder’ (part of Avon Wildlife Trust) who are located just down Frenchay Park Road on the corner of Stoke Lane. They are holding a pre-Christmas Market on Saturday 4th December (10am to 4pm) with various craft stalls, demonstrations & refreshments.
November 2021 - Annual Report
Following on from the notice in last month’s edition that the AGM has been postponed because of on-going concerns about ‘Covid’ and potentially crowded indoor meetings, here is my report.
Winterbourne Parish Council (WPC) has considered the usual range of planning applications - from tree works through extensions & alterations, increasing in scale right up to the final phase of the hospital redevelopment, known as “Phase 3B”, which has a ‘P17…’ (ie; 2017) reference number. This phase is at the eastern end of the Lime Tree Avenue around the quarter circle of Public Open Space, facing towards Frenchay Park House & the Old Stables, with a number of sensitive conservation issues. Although the Parish Council is a ‘statutory consultee’, the final decisions on appearance etc., will be made by South Glos Council as the planning authority after several years of design development with Redrow.
On the other side of Lime Tree Avenue is the main area of ‘Voluntary Village Green’ which also wraps around the eastern end of the new development, past the new school site & nature reserve and back along the southern edge of Malmains Drive towards Tanners Court. There have been several cordial liaison meetings between North Bristol (Health) Trust and WPC during 2021; it is hoped that the next meeting (later this autumn) will set a date for final handover, with all outstanding legal issues finally resolved and ‘Frenchay Parklands’ secured for ever…
Meanwhile, at the western end of Lime Tree Avenue, the Museum is still exploring further options for an extension and how the setting of ‘West Lodge’ will change with highway alterations & ‘improvements’ from the mini-roundabout to serve the car park and Frenchay Beckspool Building.
Traffic Calming along Beckspool Road is still on the radar and the four Frenchay members on WPC were recently able to offer some comments to our South Glos Councillor Ben Burton on final details near the Unitarian Chapel.
The close working relationship with Frenchay Residents Association has continued to develop during 2020-21 and much of the ‘heavy lifting’ previous done by FPS is now in the very capable hands of Adrian Collins and his team. We are currently exploring the idea of a joint meeting next spring when ‘covid’ concerns are hopefully settling down into some kind of longer-term perspective.
Hugh Whatley
Chair, FPS
Following on from the notice in last month’s edition that the AGM has been postponed because of on-going concerns about ‘Covid’ and potentially crowded indoor meetings, here is my report.
Winterbourne Parish Council (WPC) has considered the usual range of planning applications - from tree works through extensions & alterations, increasing in scale right up to the final phase of the hospital redevelopment, known as “Phase 3B”, which has a ‘P17…’ (ie; 2017) reference number. This phase is at the eastern end of the Lime Tree Avenue around the quarter circle of Public Open Space, facing towards Frenchay Park House & the Old Stables, with a number of sensitive conservation issues. Although the Parish Council is a ‘statutory consultee’, the final decisions on appearance etc., will be made by South Glos Council as the planning authority after several years of design development with Redrow.
On the other side of Lime Tree Avenue is the main area of ‘Voluntary Village Green’ which also wraps around the eastern end of the new development, past the new school site & nature reserve and back along the southern edge of Malmains Drive towards Tanners Court. There have been several cordial liaison meetings between North Bristol (Health) Trust and WPC during 2021; it is hoped that the next meeting (later this autumn) will set a date for final handover, with all outstanding legal issues finally resolved and ‘Frenchay Parklands’ secured for ever…
Meanwhile, at the western end of Lime Tree Avenue, the Museum is still exploring further options for an extension and how the setting of ‘West Lodge’ will change with highway alterations & ‘improvements’ from the mini-roundabout to serve the car park and Frenchay Beckspool Building.
Traffic Calming along Beckspool Road is still on the radar and the four Frenchay members on WPC were recently able to offer some comments to our South Glos Councillor Ben Burton on final details near the Unitarian Chapel.
The close working relationship with Frenchay Residents Association has continued to develop during 2020-21 and much of the ‘heavy lifting’ previous done by FPS is now in the very capable hands of Adrian Collins and his team. We are currently exploring the idea of a joint meeting next spring when ‘covid’ concerns are hopefully settling down into some kind of longer-term perspective.
Hugh Whatley
Chair, FPS
October 2021 - Postponement of AGM
By now, in a ‘normal’ year, the committee would have met in September and begun the usual preparations for an AGM in November. However, in my view, due on-going concerns about Covid and with various recommended precautions still in place, things are still far from being back to normal. So, reluctantly, having taken soundings with Frenchay Tuckett Society (AGM postponed to next March) and Frenchay Residents Association (see the report above, I am following suit and announcing the postponement of our AGM as well. However, as mentioned in previous reports, the development of close working relationships during ‘covid’ means that the essentials are being covered.
Hugh Whatley
Chair, FPS
By now, in a ‘normal’ year, the committee would have met in September and begun the usual preparations for an AGM in November. However, in my view, due on-going concerns about Covid and with various recommended precautions still in place, things are still far from being back to normal. So, reluctantly, having taken soundings with Frenchay Tuckett Society (AGM postponed to next March) and Frenchay Residents Association (see the report above, I am following suit and announcing the postponement of our AGM as well. However, as mentioned in previous reports, the development of close working relationships during ‘covid’ means that the essentials are being covered.
Hugh Whatley
Chair, FPS
June 2021 - Mid-year Report (in lieu of a summer meeting)
By the time this June edition of FCN is being delivered at the end of May, it is widely expected that we will be only 3 weeks from the last milestone on the ‘Roadmap’ to final release from Lockdown.
However, at the time of writing this report (10th May) although some inside venues are expecting to reopen, it is too soon to assume that a return to any kind of ‘normal’ can be taken for granted. So, reluctantly it is a fairly logical decision that we will have to hang on until the autumn before trying to organise an actual - as opposed to virtual - meeting. But watch this space in future editions!
Meanwhile, the ‘Frenchay Members’ on Winterbourne Parish Council (namely Paul Kembery, Charlie Watkins, Adrian Collins and myself) have continued to meet via ‘Zoom’ twice a month for the last 12 months or so. Thus a cross-section of your committee have been able to keep abreast of events and deal with various issues which continue to arise in and around Frenchay. Unfortunately, Covid-19 has meant that many things are taking longer, including the anticipated hand-over of the ‘Voluntary’ Village Green lands from North Bristol Trust to the Parish Council.
Finally, thanks to the excellent working relationship which has been developing with Frenchay Residents Association over recent years, I can keep this report short and refer readers to the FRA report No.79 and, indeed, all the reports written by Adrian Collins and his team. I trust that everyone will manage to stay safe and well and be able to enjoy summer in Frenchay.
Hugh Whatley
Chair, FPS
By the time this June edition of FCN is being delivered at the end of May, it is widely expected that we will be only 3 weeks from the last milestone on the ‘Roadmap’ to final release from Lockdown.
However, at the time of writing this report (10th May) although some inside venues are expecting to reopen, it is too soon to assume that a return to any kind of ‘normal’ can be taken for granted. So, reluctantly it is a fairly logical decision that we will have to hang on until the autumn before trying to organise an actual - as opposed to virtual - meeting. But watch this space in future editions!
Meanwhile, the ‘Frenchay Members’ on Winterbourne Parish Council (namely Paul Kembery, Charlie Watkins, Adrian Collins and myself) have continued to meet via ‘Zoom’ twice a month for the last 12 months or so. Thus a cross-section of your committee have been able to keep abreast of events and deal with various issues which continue to arise in and around Frenchay. Unfortunately, Covid-19 has meant that many things are taking longer, including the anticipated hand-over of the ‘Voluntary’ Village Green lands from North Bristol Trust to the Parish Council.
Finally, thanks to the excellent working relationship which has been developing with Frenchay Residents Association over recent years, I can keep this report short and refer readers to the FRA report No.79 and, indeed, all the reports written by Adrian Collins and his team. I trust that everyone will manage to stay safe and well and be able to enjoy summer in Frenchay.
Hugh Whatley
Chair, FPS
November 2020 - Annual Report for 2020; in lieu of an AGM due to Covid
If like me, you had an ‘I-spy’ book when you were a kid, then this edition of FCN, with contributions from most of the ‘Frenchay Members’ on Winterbourne Parish Council (WPC) is worth noting. So, I would like to start by recording our thanks to Charlie Watkins who has already written rather more than his 1,000 words by holding the various authorities to account on such issues as outstanding land registrations on the voluntary village green, querying various apparent short-falls of legally identified expenditure from S106 monies in Frenchay and doing valuable research on alleged breaches of planning conditions.
As you may know, Charlie is also involved with the village hall and has successfully made the case to WPC for some overdue maintenance and repairs to walls and landscapes in that neck of the woods. We also have a regular monthly report from our South Glos colleagues, Ben Burton and James Griffith, who are ex-officio members of FPS committee. Recent editions of FCN have reported that Jon Hunt, our third Councillor, has had to stand down but this is my first opportunity to add thanks and best wishes from FPS.
FPS – Nov’19 AGM: The minutes were drafted soon after and noted by your committee at its February meeting. Apologies for the delay in getting a copy onto the website due to the Covid-19 lockdown, which also caused the cancellation of our June half-year public meeting.
Final legal transfer of the Voluntary Village Green: Unfortunately, the “law’s delay’s” – in the shape of a ‘Certificate A’ (which can only be issued by South Glos Council when all works have been completed by the current landowner / developer) have once again caused a postponement of this long awaited event. When it does eventually happen, it will be a significant opportunity to start a long-term plan of works for ‘Frenchay Parklands’ in conjunction with Winterbourne Parish Council and hopefully with the support of a ‘Friends Group’ which received unanimous approval at last year’s AGM. Meanwhile, as reported elsewhere, all the green spaces in Frenchay have been very well used and appreciated this year, despite or perhaps because of, the Covid pandemic restrictions and the need to ‘stay local’. Unfortunately, apart from the initial advice from Page Park, I have not been able to make as much progress with the planning and preparation for a Friends Group in Frenchay as I would have hoped. Jon Hunt offered to introduce me to the Friends Group at King George V Field but Covid intervened. I look forward to the time when we can hold a public display and consultation in Frenchay to confirm the long term interest.
Planning matters: The WPC planning committee has continued to meet every fortnight on ‘zoom’ and the applications have covered Tree-Works, house extensions and redevelopment of individual plots. Two of the more notable applications have been Malmains Field and the first phase of Land East of Harry Stoke / south of the railway line. (Yes, this is also part of ‘Frenchay’ for planning purposes!) An on-line seminar on ‘planning enforcement’ organised by South Glos was very well received by Councillors and extremely helpful for identifying and reporting potential breaches for further investigation! Some niggles remain to be clarified on the redevelopment of the former hospital site and Redrow’s final phases.
Old school building: Following a lot of uncertainty this time last year, there is now an extensive update in the current FRA report by Adrian Collins. I have been representing FPS on a small working group.
Western end of Lime Tree Avenue: Adrian has mentioned the much-improved general vistas and I have been keeping a watching brief on detailed proposals for the new road access to ‘highway standards’ from the mini-roundabout, proposed future uses for the car park by the Museum and, indeed, a second planning application for a proposed extension to the Museum.
I have also taken the lead in reminding South Glos Council (SGC) of the need for public toilets near the new play area and tennis courts. Unfortunately, despite the obvious public health risks associated with a well-used children’s play area, there is no allocated funding for public toilets. Many local residents have asked me how / why this was overlooked at the original planning stage, bearing mind that the cricket pitch has also been reinstated. So, we will keep pressing SGC for suitable funds to be identified – possibly from a ‘sports budget’… In my opinion, a public toilet is now a matter of some urgency!
FPS finances: These are relatively modest but remain in credit. Expenditure on room bookings has been minimal due to Covid-19 and Carol Thorne, our Treasurer reports a bank balance of c. £750 at the time of writing, which includes the annual grant from WPC. Donations are always welcome – and we are still looking for someone to take over the Treasurer’s role from Carol, as mentioned at last year’s AGM. Please make contact if you are interested.
Other matters; such as traffic, speeding and litter are covered elsewhere in FCN, so I will avoid repetition.
Frenchay Community News Update: recent AGMs of FPS have included a report from Kate Davison, Chair of FCN, and this year I have received the following note from her:
“First, huge thanks to all those who have contributed to the work of FCN this year. It really is a Community endeavour, made possible by those who contribute articles, the tremendous work of Edna Cause as Editor, and all those who make sure distribution runs smoothly – to nearly 1400 homes this month, not to mention those who work with our advertisers to ensure that we remain financially viable, and also to Redrow who currently sponsor us.
"Alongside FCN we have the Frenchay Community Website, ably set up and looked after by Katherine Kinlocke, though she would now like to step down once we find a suitable successor.
"Incredibly, we only stopped production for two months when Coronavirus hit. In these last few months it has been more important than ever that we all work together and communicate our news as clearly and widely as possible.”
Finally, may I add my good wishes for staying safe & well in these strange and difficult times. A daily walk, run or cycle around Frenchay, with some late-autumn colours can be very healthy and enjoyable!
Hugh Whatley
Chair, FPS
If like me, you had an ‘I-spy’ book when you were a kid, then this edition of FCN, with contributions from most of the ‘Frenchay Members’ on Winterbourne Parish Council (WPC) is worth noting. So, I would like to start by recording our thanks to Charlie Watkins who has already written rather more than his 1,000 words by holding the various authorities to account on such issues as outstanding land registrations on the voluntary village green, querying various apparent short-falls of legally identified expenditure from S106 monies in Frenchay and doing valuable research on alleged breaches of planning conditions.
As you may know, Charlie is also involved with the village hall and has successfully made the case to WPC for some overdue maintenance and repairs to walls and landscapes in that neck of the woods. We also have a regular monthly report from our South Glos colleagues, Ben Burton and James Griffith, who are ex-officio members of FPS committee. Recent editions of FCN have reported that Jon Hunt, our third Councillor, has had to stand down but this is my first opportunity to add thanks and best wishes from FPS.
FPS – Nov’19 AGM: The minutes were drafted soon after and noted by your committee at its February meeting. Apologies for the delay in getting a copy onto the website due to the Covid-19 lockdown, which also caused the cancellation of our June half-year public meeting.
Final legal transfer of the Voluntary Village Green: Unfortunately, the “law’s delay’s” – in the shape of a ‘Certificate A’ (which can only be issued by South Glos Council when all works have been completed by the current landowner / developer) have once again caused a postponement of this long awaited event. When it does eventually happen, it will be a significant opportunity to start a long-term plan of works for ‘Frenchay Parklands’ in conjunction with Winterbourne Parish Council and hopefully with the support of a ‘Friends Group’ which received unanimous approval at last year’s AGM. Meanwhile, as reported elsewhere, all the green spaces in Frenchay have been very well used and appreciated this year, despite or perhaps because of, the Covid pandemic restrictions and the need to ‘stay local’. Unfortunately, apart from the initial advice from Page Park, I have not been able to make as much progress with the planning and preparation for a Friends Group in Frenchay as I would have hoped. Jon Hunt offered to introduce me to the Friends Group at King George V Field but Covid intervened. I look forward to the time when we can hold a public display and consultation in Frenchay to confirm the long term interest.
Planning matters: The WPC planning committee has continued to meet every fortnight on ‘zoom’ and the applications have covered Tree-Works, house extensions and redevelopment of individual plots. Two of the more notable applications have been Malmains Field and the first phase of Land East of Harry Stoke / south of the railway line. (Yes, this is also part of ‘Frenchay’ for planning purposes!) An on-line seminar on ‘planning enforcement’ organised by South Glos was very well received by Councillors and extremely helpful for identifying and reporting potential breaches for further investigation! Some niggles remain to be clarified on the redevelopment of the former hospital site and Redrow’s final phases.
Old school building: Following a lot of uncertainty this time last year, there is now an extensive update in the current FRA report by Adrian Collins. I have been representing FPS on a small working group.
Western end of Lime Tree Avenue: Adrian has mentioned the much-improved general vistas and I have been keeping a watching brief on detailed proposals for the new road access to ‘highway standards’ from the mini-roundabout, proposed future uses for the car park by the Museum and, indeed, a second planning application for a proposed extension to the Museum.
I have also taken the lead in reminding South Glos Council (SGC) of the need for public toilets near the new play area and tennis courts. Unfortunately, despite the obvious public health risks associated with a well-used children’s play area, there is no allocated funding for public toilets. Many local residents have asked me how / why this was overlooked at the original planning stage, bearing mind that the cricket pitch has also been reinstated. So, we will keep pressing SGC for suitable funds to be identified – possibly from a ‘sports budget’… In my opinion, a public toilet is now a matter of some urgency!
FPS finances: These are relatively modest but remain in credit. Expenditure on room bookings has been minimal due to Covid-19 and Carol Thorne, our Treasurer reports a bank balance of c. £750 at the time of writing, which includes the annual grant from WPC. Donations are always welcome – and we are still looking for someone to take over the Treasurer’s role from Carol, as mentioned at last year’s AGM. Please make contact if you are interested.
Other matters; such as traffic, speeding and litter are covered elsewhere in FCN, so I will avoid repetition.
Frenchay Community News Update: recent AGMs of FPS have included a report from Kate Davison, Chair of FCN, and this year I have received the following note from her:
“First, huge thanks to all those who have contributed to the work of FCN this year. It really is a Community endeavour, made possible by those who contribute articles, the tremendous work of Edna Cause as Editor, and all those who make sure distribution runs smoothly – to nearly 1400 homes this month, not to mention those who work with our advertisers to ensure that we remain financially viable, and also to Redrow who currently sponsor us.
"Alongside FCN we have the Frenchay Community Website, ably set up and looked after by Katherine Kinlocke, though she would now like to step down once we find a suitable successor.
"Incredibly, we only stopped production for two months when Coronavirus hit. In these last few months it has been more important than ever that we all work together and communicate our news as clearly and widely as possible.”
Finally, may I add my good wishes for staying safe & well in these strange and difficult times. A daily walk, run or cycle around Frenchay, with some late-autumn colours can be very healthy and enjoyable!
Hugh Whatley
Chair, FPS
July 2020
The return of Frenchay Community News, once again being delivered to every household in Frenchay after two months in isolation due to Covid-19, is one welcome sign that ‘lockdown’ is gradually being eased.
However, we are a long way from getting back to normal ( old or new) with many of Frenchay’s planned summer events from VE-day commemorations at the museum to the Frenchay Flower Show in July having to be cancelled due to the on-going requirements for social and physical distancing.
One of the cancelled events is our usual June (half-year) public meeting and because of government regulations introduced in March, your committee has only managed to meet once so far this year, in February. As a result, various projects discussed at last year’s AGM, such as the formation of a ‘Friends Group’ and developing a database of members have not progressed very far. Fortunately, links with Frenchay Residents Association (FRA) continue to be reinforced by joint working on ‘all things Frenchay’.
Also, as many will know, four of the FPS committee members sit on the Parish Council at Winterbourne which has managed to adapt to electronic meetings twice a month, thanks to the organisation and efficiency of the office staff at The Greenfield Centre.
During the recent good weather, this gang of four, namely Paul Kembery, Charlie Watkins, Adrian Collins and myself have instituted a monthly walk-about to keep an eye on what is happening on our patch and to liaise with South Glos Council, Redrow and NBHT as and when necessary. Please refer to FRA Report No. 68 by Adrian Collins.
My brief update would not be complete without a big thank you’to David Fletcher, who decided to stand down from the FPS committee in 2020 after many years of service to Frenchay, including a long spell as a very informative chairman of the planning committee at Winterbourne Parish Council.
So in conclusion, I still hope that we may be able to hold an AGM in November and, in the meantime, offer best wishes for staying safe and enjoying Frenchay over the summer months.
Hugh Whatley
Chair, FPS
The return of Frenchay Community News, once again being delivered to every household in Frenchay after two months in isolation due to Covid-19, is one welcome sign that ‘lockdown’ is gradually being eased.
However, we are a long way from getting back to normal ( old or new) with many of Frenchay’s planned summer events from VE-day commemorations at the museum to the Frenchay Flower Show in July having to be cancelled due to the on-going requirements for social and physical distancing.
One of the cancelled events is our usual June (half-year) public meeting and because of government regulations introduced in March, your committee has only managed to meet once so far this year, in February. As a result, various projects discussed at last year’s AGM, such as the formation of a ‘Friends Group’ and developing a database of members have not progressed very far. Fortunately, links with Frenchay Residents Association (FRA) continue to be reinforced by joint working on ‘all things Frenchay’.
Also, as many will know, four of the FPS committee members sit on the Parish Council at Winterbourne which has managed to adapt to electronic meetings twice a month, thanks to the organisation and efficiency of the office staff at The Greenfield Centre.
During the recent good weather, this gang of four, namely Paul Kembery, Charlie Watkins, Adrian Collins and myself have instituted a monthly walk-about to keep an eye on what is happening on our patch and to liaise with South Glos Council, Redrow and NBHT as and when necessary. Please refer to FRA Report No. 68 by Adrian Collins.
My brief update would not be complete without a big thank you’to David Fletcher, who decided to stand down from the FPS committee in 2020 after many years of service to Frenchay, including a long spell as a very informative chairman of the planning committee at Winterbourne Parish Council.
So in conclusion, I still hope that we may be able to hold an AGM in November and, in the meantime, offer best wishes for staying safe and enjoying Frenchay over the summer months.
Hugh Whatley
Chair, FPS
November 2019
Report on 50th Anniversary Celebrations
Around 100 people gathered in the village hall on the evening of Saturday 28th September for a very enjoyable ‘Wine & Cheese Quiz’ which followed the style of the 40th bash in 2009. There was a very jolly and sociable atmosphere throughout the evening (judging by the general noise level) as palates and memories were tested. By the end of the evening nearly £500 had been raised from the proceeds of ticket sales and raffles etc. After a donation to the village hall expenses, approx. £220 was donated to FRA for the Beckspoo’ fund, leaving a similar, very welcome amount, for FPS funds.
Many thanks to all those who contributed to the success of the evening, including; Hobbs House Bakery for kindly donating the bread, The COOP in Downend and Winterbourne for providing biscuits and pickles and also Tesco in Staple Hill. Tim Lambert Carpentry donated 2 hours labour in the raffle and Rachael Mather a 1 hour reflexology voucher; there were also two £10 vouchers from Catherine Gibb Beauty. Thanks also to Majestic Wine for their donations and, indeed, some other private donations as well.
The list of thanks also has to include Jayne Watkins and Emma Kembery as two of the key organisers, plus Richard Hill (who appears to be an expert with the cheese knife) and many other unsung volunteers, without whom this sort of village event is just not possible! Finally, I need to mention Charlie Watkins on the bar and Paul Kembery as the out-going chairman of FPS after many years of service to Frenchay. Thank you all very much on behalf of those who attended, no doubt the funds will be put to good use.
Hugh Whatley,
(newly arrived in the chair of FPS)
Report on 50th Anniversary Celebrations
Around 100 people gathered in the village hall on the evening of Saturday 28th September for a very enjoyable ‘Wine & Cheese Quiz’ which followed the style of the 40th bash in 2009. There was a very jolly and sociable atmosphere throughout the evening (judging by the general noise level) as palates and memories were tested. By the end of the evening nearly £500 had been raised from the proceeds of ticket sales and raffles etc. After a donation to the village hall expenses, approx. £220 was donated to FRA for the Beckspoo’ fund, leaving a similar, very welcome amount, for FPS funds.
Many thanks to all those who contributed to the success of the evening, including; Hobbs House Bakery for kindly donating the bread, The COOP in Downend and Winterbourne for providing biscuits and pickles and also Tesco in Staple Hill. Tim Lambert Carpentry donated 2 hours labour in the raffle and Rachael Mather a 1 hour reflexology voucher; there were also two £10 vouchers from Catherine Gibb Beauty. Thanks also to Majestic Wine for their donations and, indeed, some other private donations as well.
The list of thanks also has to include Jayne Watkins and Emma Kembery as two of the key organisers, plus Richard Hill (who appears to be an expert with the cheese knife) and many other unsung volunteers, without whom this sort of village event is just not possible! Finally, I need to mention Charlie Watkins on the bar and Paul Kembery as the out-going chairman of FPS after many years of service to Frenchay. Thank you all very much on behalf of those who attended, no doubt the funds will be put to good use.
Hugh Whatley,
(newly arrived in the chair of FPS)
FRENCHAY PRESERVATION SOCIETY
Half year/ AGM meeting
Thursday 21st November at 7.30pm
Unitarian Chapel, Beckspool Road
An opportunity to meet your Local Councillors & Committee Members
Renew your membership, make a donation and/or pay a subscription
Updates on recent Planning issues and the work of Winterbourne Parish Council
Latest report on the handover of the ‘New Village Green Land’
‘Fifty plus 1’ – working together on the next generation of Frenchay’s legacy…
Half year/ AGM meeting
Thursday 21st November at 7.30pm
Unitarian Chapel, Beckspool Road
An opportunity to meet your Local Councillors & Committee Members
Renew your membership, make a donation and/or pay a subscription
Updates on recent Planning issues and the work of Winterbourne Parish Council
Latest report on the handover of the ‘New Village Green Land’
‘Fifty plus 1’ – working together on the next generation of Frenchay’s legacy…
June 2019
Frenchay Preservation Society
invite you to the Half Yearly meeting on
Thursday 20th June 2019 at 7.30 pm
in The Unitarian Chapel,
Beckspool Road.
invite you to the Half Yearly meeting on
Thursday 20th June 2019 at 7.30 pm
in The Unitarian Chapel,
Beckspool Road.
Agenda includes:
Lime Trees Westbourne Terrace - replacement trees were planted a few years back to mature up and were intended to replace the existing trees by the road side. We would like to consult residents on their views on the proposal subject to planning approval.
Facilities on the former hospital site - the new sports facilities, allotments, nature reserve and open spaces.
Your newly elected Frenchay Parish Councillors will be in attendance along with new South Gloucestershire Councillors to discuss these and other important issues in your community.
Your views and opinions are welcomed as always. Do you have an issue you would like to contact us about?
Lime Trees Westbourne Terrace - replacement trees were planted a few years back to mature up and were intended to replace the existing trees by the road side. We would like to consult residents on their views on the proposal subject to planning approval.
Facilities on the former hospital site - the new sports facilities, allotments, nature reserve and open spaces.
Your newly elected Frenchay Parish Councillors will be in attendance along with new South Gloucestershire Councillors to discuss these and other important issues in your community.
Your views and opinions are welcomed as always. Do you have an issue you would like to contact us about?
Frenchay Preservation Society
Invite you to
The AGM meeting on
Thursday 15th November 2018
at 7.30 pm
in The Unitarian Chapel
Beckspool Road
Invite you to
The AGM meeting on
Thursday 15th November 2018
at 7.30 pm
in The Unitarian Chapel
Beckspool Road
To cover:
Your Frenchay Parish Councillors will be in attendance along with South Gloucestershire Councillors to discuss this and other important issues in your community.
- Village Museum - Hugh Whatley will present the plans for the future development of Frenchay Museum and the entrance to Lime Tree Avenue.
- Developments to Former Hospital Site - The works that are underway and to be done on sports facilities, Village Green, nature reserve and allotments. The s106 works on the roads and 20 mph zone.
Your Frenchay Parish Councillors will be in attendance along with South Gloucestershire Councillors to discuss this and other important issues in your community.
February 2018
I was asked over the Christmas period about the sort of things the Frenchay Preservation Society (FPS) does. Whilst I presumed that most people in the village were aware of the role of FPS, I realised that perhaps not everyone knows, so I hope the following helps a little!
FPS started in 1969 by a group of Frenchay residents who primarily wanted to stop inappropriate development in the area.
The current make up of the organisation is your 4 elected Frenchay Parish Councillors who are part of Winterbourne Parish Council (WPC). Two members sit on the Finance and General Purposes committee and the other two on the Planning committee.
FPS also have a committee of local residents who debate and propose local matters. In Frenchay most of the open spaces on the commons, Tuckett Field and the pond are maintained by WPC. As are many of the trees, benches, ‘bunding’ (humps around the commons to stop vehicles driving on) and other assets.
The new Frenchay Parkland green spaces on the old hospital site and the new tennis courts which will be built in the near future, are all proposed to be managed by WPC alongside the tennis committee itself.
We liaise with South Glos. Council to change and improve paths, roads and walkways. The junction improvement at the Village Hall was an example of FPS and concerned local residents getting funding for the work.
We can recommend to WPC on grants to local organisations in Frenchay.
Paul Kembery
Chairman Frenchay Preservation Society
[email protected]
I was asked over the Christmas period about the sort of things the Frenchay Preservation Society (FPS) does. Whilst I presumed that most people in the village were aware of the role of FPS, I realised that perhaps not everyone knows, so I hope the following helps a little!
FPS started in 1969 by a group of Frenchay residents who primarily wanted to stop inappropriate development in the area.
The current make up of the organisation is your 4 elected Frenchay Parish Councillors who are part of Winterbourne Parish Council (WPC). Two members sit on the Finance and General Purposes committee and the other two on the Planning committee.
FPS also have a committee of local residents who debate and propose local matters. In Frenchay most of the open spaces on the commons, Tuckett Field and the pond are maintained by WPC. As are many of the trees, benches, ‘bunding’ (humps around the commons to stop vehicles driving on) and other assets.
The new Frenchay Parkland green spaces on the old hospital site and the new tennis courts which will be built in the near future, are all proposed to be managed by WPC alongside the tennis committee itself.
We liaise with South Glos. Council to change and improve paths, roads and walkways. The junction improvement at the Village Hall was an example of FPS and concerned local residents getting funding for the work.
We can recommend to WPC on grants to local organisations in Frenchay.
- Are you unsure or not happy with a planning application in Frenchay? Do go on South Glos. Council website as well under planning and look at or comment on the application.
- Want to see something altered or improved in the community? Want to see things not changed and preserve the Conservation Area status? It’s not always what you see changing in Frenchay, but the fact that it has been ‘preserved'.
- Want to join the FPS committee and help in your community?
Paul Kembery
Chairman Frenchay Preservation Society
[email protected]
June 2017
Frenchay Preservation Society
Invite you to the Half Year Meeting on
Thursday 15th June 2017
at 7.45 pm
in The Unitarian Chapel Beckspool Road
Invite you to the Half Year Meeting on
Thursday 15th June 2017
at 7.45 pm
in The Unitarian Chapel Beckspool Road
Meet the New Metro Mayor
Your new Metro Mayor for the West of England is Tim Bowles and we are delighted he is attending to explain his new role.
Works to the A4174 Viaduct
The partial closure of the Bromley Heath Viaduct is due to happen in July 2017 which will impact on the roads around Frenchay. We have invited South Gloucestershire Officers to attend and update us on the scheme and the reduction in length of works with extra funding.
Your Frenchay Parish Councillors will be in attendance along with South Gloucestershire Councillors to discuss this and other important issues in your community.
Your views and opinions are welcomed as always – do you have an issue you would like to contact us with?
The Frenchay Preservation Society, serving the Frenchay community since 1969.
www.frenchaypreservation.info
November 2015
A Burma Star
John King, a resident of Frenchay was called up in 1940 when he was 20 years old. He joined the artillery unit protecting the country in Devon. In 1944 he was transferred to the iInfantry to fight abroad. He was sent to Bombay and from Bombay to Doolally where they had to dye all their clothes green for jungle warfare. They were shipped down the Brahmaputra River by paddle steamer to Comilla and then flown to Burma where he joined the 2nd Battalion South Lancashires. They had to cross mountains and jungle carrying heavy kit and weapons and fighting the Japanese all the way. Rations were delivered by parachute and it depended on the wind direction whether they or the Japanese were able to pick up the rations!
They survived two monsoons eventually arriving at Rangoon on the coast 3 months before the end of the war. 8th May 1945 was VE Day for Europe, but the fight went on in Asia. John King was finally released in May 1946 and had a memorable trip home on the Mauritania to arrive in England on 24th May, his wedding anniversary. He was awarded a well deserved Burma Star.
They survived two monsoons eventually arriving at Rangoon on the coast 3 months before the end of the war. 8th May 1945 was VE Day for Europe, but the fight went on in Asia. John King was finally released in May 1946 and had a memorable trip home on the Mauritania to arrive in England on 24th May, his wedding anniversary. He was awarded a well deserved Burma Star.
FRENCHAY PRESERVATION SOCIETY AGM MEETING
26th November 2015 at the Unitarian Chapel, 7.45 pm.
The Environment Agency will be making a presentation on the recent works on the Frome in Frenchay as below:
All other important local issues will be discussed and debated as always and your opinions are welcome as always. Frenchay is a great place to live in but will continually need areas of improvement and also areas to preserve and enhance. Your 4 Frenchay Parish Councillors and committee members will be in attendance along with your South Gloucestershire Councillors so it’s the place to come and have your say!
Our new look website is www.frenchaypreservation.info
- Background to the work of our team – Hydrometry & Telemetry
- The purpose and importance of Frenchay flume
- How it works.
- What works we carried out & why.
- The challenges for the project.
All other important local issues will be discussed and debated as always and your opinions are welcome as always. Frenchay is a great place to live in but will continually need areas of improvement and also areas to preserve and enhance. Your 4 Frenchay Parish Councillors and committee members will be in attendance along with your South Gloucestershire Councillors so it’s the place to come and have your say!
Our new look website is www.frenchaypreservation.info
April 2015
Frenchay Preservation Society are delighted to inform residents after a lengthy campaign that South Gloucestershire Council have approved the Village Hall Junction improvement scheme. It is difficult to cross safely at this point so the scheme will have benefits for all residents. We hope in the future to add further improvements to safely cross at this area. Our thanks to Cllr David Fletcher who made an excellent presentation to the committee to assist our application and to Cllr. Eurof Lewis who has given his invaluable knowledge and work and to the local parents who campaigned so well for which we are grateful.
The works carried out by the contractors who keep our commons in such good order has been done on the hospital site. There is some further work to be done and areas seeded and we will continue to work with NBHT and the contractors to improve the land prior to the scheduled handover to Winterbourne Parish Council for future generations to enjoy.
Please do contact us at [email protected]
Cllr. Paul Kembery
Chairman, Frenchay Preservation Society.
Frenchay Preservation Society are delighted to inform residents after a lengthy campaign that South Gloucestershire Council have approved the Village Hall Junction improvement scheme. It is difficult to cross safely at this point so the scheme will have benefits for all residents. We hope in the future to add further improvements to safely cross at this area. Our thanks to Cllr David Fletcher who made an excellent presentation to the committee to assist our application and to Cllr. Eurof Lewis who has given his invaluable knowledge and work and to the local parents who campaigned so well for which we are grateful.
The works carried out by the contractors who keep our commons in such good order has been done on the hospital site. There is some further work to be done and areas seeded and we will continue to work with NBHT and the contractors to improve the land prior to the scheduled handover to Winterbourne Parish Council for future generations to enjoy.
Please do contact us at [email protected]
Cllr. Paul Kembery
Chairman, Frenchay Preservation Society.
History
Frenchay Preservation Society (FPS) was formed in 1969 by a group of residents, and others, who were concerned by the demolition of the cottages in Church Road. It was felt that the future development of Frenchay would be similar developments by demolition and reconversion to a bungalow environment. It was, therefore, applied for and granted from Gloucestershire County Council that Frenchay should become a Conservation Area.
Links to Parish Council
At Parish Council level, four Ward Members for election from Frenchay Preservation Society Committee stand as independent of any political party to serve village affairs. This is written into the Constitution. They represent entirely the views of the village. They are part of 16 Ward members who serve on Winterbourne Parish Council (WPC) and these Wards are voted for by the electorate. There are eight in Winterbourne, four in Winterbourne Down and Hambrook, and four in Frenchay. As Independent members, with no affiliation to any political party, FPS members have been elected to serve Frenchay although other candidates stand from time to time.
The commitment required of Councillors is to attend WPC meetings at least twice a month. They also volunteer to stand on a number of outside bodies to which the Parish Council has input. They are unpaid and have been voted for by Frenchay residents to serve the best interests of our community.
FPS Committee
The Frenchay Preservation Society Committee is made up of the three Officers plus 11 local residents which include the four elected Parish Councillors who at meetings help make decisions on local issues. As of Jan 2014, there are 2 positions vacant. Do contact us below if you feel you can positively add to the committee.
Meetings
Do put in your diary the two dates below which all residents are encouraged to attend. We regularly have 80 – 100 residents come to the meetings but if you have not been before please come along – we need your views to help shape and preserve the special place that is Frenchay.
Half Year Meeting 7.45 pm Thursday 19th June 2014
Annual General Meeting 7.45 pm Thursday 20th November 2014
Both held at the Unitarian Chapel, Beckspool Road, Frenchay.
Contact
Email – [email protected] Website – www.frenchaypreservation.info
Frenchay Preservation Society (FPS) was formed in 1969 by a group of residents, and others, who were concerned by the demolition of the cottages in Church Road. It was felt that the future development of Frenchay would be similar developments by demolition and reconversion to a bungalow environment. It was, therefore, applied for and granted from Gloucestershire County Council that Frenchay should become a Conservation Area.
Links to Parish Council
At Parish Council level, four Ward Members for election from Frenchay Preservation Society Committee stand as independent of any political party to serve village affairs. This is written into the Constitution. They represent entirely the views of the village. They are part of 16 Ward members who serve on Winterbourne Parish Council (WPC) and these Wards are voted for by the electorate. There are eight in Winterbourne, four in Winterbourne Down and Hambrook, and four in Frenchay. As Independent members, with no affiliation to any political party, FPS members have been elected to serve Frenchay although other candidates stand from time to time.
The commitment required of Councillors is to attend WPC meetings at least twice a month. They also volunteer to stand on a number of outside bodies to which the Parish Council has input. They are unpaid and have been voted for by Frenchay residents to serve the best interests of our community.
FPS Committee
The Frenchay Preservation Society Committee is made up of the three Officers plus 11 local residents which include the four elected Parish Councillors who at meetings help make decisions on local issues. As of Jan 2014, there are 2 positions vacant. Do contact us below if you feel you can positively add to the committee.
Meetings
Do put in your diary the two dates below which all residents are encouraged to attend. We regularly have 80 – 100 residents come to the meetings but if you have not been before please come along – we need your views to help shape and preserve the special place that is Frenchay.
Half Year Meeting 7.45 pm Thursday 19th June 2014
Annual General Meeting 7.45 pm Thursday 20th November 2014
Both held at the Unitarian Chapel, Beckspool Road, Frenchay.
Contact
Email – [email protected] Website – www.frenchaypreservation.info
