Spring 2024 Issue 14
SPRING events, local news and more.
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CONTENTS
Bringing together Clandown, Haydon, Radstock and Writhlington.
Hello
and welcome to the first issue of 2024! We hope you all had a good New Year and are looking forward to better weather and the upcoming Easter season. In this edition of the Wheel, you’ll find details of upcoming events, as well as updates from local projects! Want to feature in our next issue, get in touch with the team at the council or email us at news@ignyteuk.co.uk
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MAYOR’S MESSAGE THE ACTIVE WAY P.E.O.P.L.E DRAGONS’ DEN EVENT SWAN TRANSPORT HAYDON BATCH RADSTOCK IN BLOOM 5K RUN IN THE PARK BEE POLLINATOR PROJECT PRECEPT 2024/2025
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Neighbourhood 19 Development Plan SWALLOW CHARITY 1st Radstock Scouts CRI DU CANARD TOWN COUNCIL - EUNICE YOUTH CONNECT CLERK’S MESSAGE
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The next edition of The Wheel will be in May 2024. If you would like your group to be included in the next edition, please contact us on 01761 437962 before the deadline of 4th May 2024. If you have difficulty reading the print, please contact the Town Clerk for a large print copy. You can also view The Wheel on the council’s website at www.radstock-tc.gov.uk. The Wheel is produced by Ignyte Media Ltd, Bathway Farm, Bathway, Chewton Mendip, BA3 4LN. Tel 01761 410141. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure the data contained in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher nor its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party for loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause. Ignyte or Radstock Town Council does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or stored in any retrieval system in any form without the prior permission of the publisher.
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MAYOR’S MESSAGE Welcome to the Spring edition of the Wheel.
There’s a lot going on in Radstock and lots of activities you can get involved in throughout the year. I was extremely proud to see so many people involved in our Lantern Parade this month. Over 50 young people, along with their parents and carers, were involved in making lanterns over two days in the Youth Hub, and then came together on a Friday night to parade through our Town. To see so many happy people involved in and coming out to see the Parade as the procession made its way through the streets was amazing. Entertained enroute by Oli Cummings on the Rimski’s Bicycle Piano, led by a polar bear brought to life by Lamplighter Arts CIC and culminating in an amazing acrobatic performance from Justine Squire, it was an event that will live long in the memory. Photographs of the event and a video of the performance are available on the Council’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/RadstockHub. This is the first of many cultural events that will be happening in our Town over the coming year, part of a cultural programme funded by the Government’s Social Prosperity Fund. Watch out for further details
in the Wheel, on our Facebook page and on our website: https://www.radstock-tc.gov.uk. There are also a range of activities taking place in the Community Hub during the week, such as Lego Club and M/others, supporting parents and carers of young children and allowing them to use the library facilities with play workers in attendance. Find out more on our Facebook page. Radstock has a lot to offer. Why not sample some of our events as the weather improves and the days get longer and warmer? Chris Dando - Mayor of Radstock
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GET OUTSIDE AND ENJOY YOURSELF WITH The Active Way Get ready for a dose of outdoor fun!
If you’re looking for ways to get more active outdoors, look no further than The Active Way – we are offering FREE cycling, wheeling and walking activities across the Somer Valley. We are based at Hope House Surgery every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday and offer pop-up activities in Unit 14, Midsomer Norton, on Tuesdays. We are here to help you boost your health and well-being through active travel. Whether you’re looking to try something new, want support to get more physically active, need access to bikes and local walking trails, or just fancy meeting new people while enjoying the great outdoors – we’ve got something for you! You can pop into Hope House any week, come along to a pop-up in Unit 14 or visit our website to join in at www.theactivewaybathnes.co.uk The Active Way has teamed up with several wellestablished providers to bring you free personalised 1-2-1 and group cycling and walking activities: Snap & Stroll is a creative well-being group that strolls around the Somer Valley, snapping photos along the way. You can be creative or a complete beginner, come along and join us. Sustrans runs a friendly 10-week walking and cycling programme, Active Steps, to boost your confidence and activity levels. They set off from Tom Huyton Park and can provide you with a bike or E-bike. All Cycles Bath & West offer inclusive and accessible cycling for adults and young people of all ages with health, learning, physical and social needs - their accessible equipment and expertise enable wheelchair users to access cycling, ensuring everyone can discover the fun of cycling. Sessions run from Tom Huyton Park, and they welcome carers, family, or friends to attend and join in, too.
The Council’s Bikeability team supports you in increasing your cycling ability and confidence through 1-2-1 adult or family cycle training. Whether you’re new to cycling or are returning after a long period, the team will tailor the training to your needs, giving you the choice to cycle off-road or on our cycling network. Supporting Family Change provide personal 1-2-1 or small group Walk and Talk sessions. These supportive sessions are centred around your needs and physical abilities. Whether you can walk unsupported or use a wheelchair or a stick or frame, these walks are an opportunity for everyone. KiActiv is a digital physical activity behaviour change intervention offering you a 12-week programme that empowers you to track and visualise your daily movements with the support of a health coach and nifty wearable device. KiActiv is open to all adults regardless of age and physical abilities. And there’s more! We have asked GoJauntly to create and map 30 miles of walking trails in the Somer Valley. These walks are step-free and easy to navigate, which allows you to discover more of your local community. Many will be around your local GP practice or street; you just need to download their free app to learn more.
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We’re very excited as we’ve just received a fleet of bikes and e-bikes for people participating in our activities to loan for a month. Ensuring that nothing stops anyone from enjoying a ride or trying out an e-bike.
this. We are working with GP practices, Social Prescribers, and a range of other local organisations to allow everyone the opportunity to see if being more physically active can support better health and well-being.
Our Bikeability team also hosts pop-up Dr Bike sessions, ensuring your bikes are in good order by giving them a bit of TLC for free. More information and how to sign up are at the bottom of the article. We are also working with Sustrans to offer DIY Bike Maintenance workshops to teach you the ABCs of bike fixing, ensuring you’re equipped with the knowledge to care for your bike in the future.
To find out more about what’s on offer and to sign up for one of our activities, please visit us at Hope House (any Monday, Wednesday or Friday) or our website, where we have a simple self-referral form, which you can fill out. Once you’ve filled out the form, a member of our team or one of our providers will be in touch to confirm your activity and discuss what support you might need, which group is most suitable for you and get you booked in for your first session. We can’t wait for you to join us to start your journey The Active Way!
The Active Way is Bath and North East Somerset Council’s Active Travel Social Prescribing project. We are one of eleven local authorities awarded funding to see how we can support residents to increase physical activity levels and their health and well-being by offering active travel activities. It is well known that getting outdoors and being more active helps to improve physical and mental health and overall well-being, and connecting with our local landscapes through walking and cycling is a great way to achieve
Website: theactivewaybathnes.co.uk
Email: info@theactivewaybathnes.co.uk Phone: 01225 477590 Dr Bike Event: https://bit.ly/3SCxw0J
News from Radstock Museum Radstock Museum has reopened after our
Lost Pubs of the Radstock Area
In the kitchen: cooking gadgets and utensils from the Museum’s collection
Martin Horler introduces us to a few of the many public houses that have disappeared from the local area. Some have been turned into homes, some demolished, but all were once important places for their communities
winter break with two new temporary exhibitions, which will be on display until mid-May.
This spring we have delved into the backs of our storage cupboards and brought out some of our old and unusual kitchen equipment. Alongside tools that look much like something in your own kitchen, we are showing less familiar items, such as hand-cranked gadgets that mechanise the tasks you would do today in a food processor.
Our opening hours are the usual: 2pm to 5pm, Tuesday to Friday and Sunday, 11am to 5pm on Saturday, last admission at 4.30pm. We also open on Bank Holiday Mondays, 2pm to 5pm. The Tea Room closes at 4.30pm.
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The Latest from P.E.o.p.l.e The
lighter nights are nearing and we can see the beautiful changes occurring in nature telling us that spring and summer are not too far away. We will be continuing to operate our pots and potter programme and will be advertising events that we hope will enable those who have no outdoor space an opportunity to enjoy. As our town grows, it is important to remember its heritage and the culture that predates us. We are looking forward to hosting a Remember Radstock event whereby history, memories and anecdotes can be exchanged, alongside a good cuppa and cake!
Whilst there are so many positive things to be grateful for, we should not forget those who are struggling with fuel and food poverty, anxiety and social disadvantage in all its guises. As an organisation committed to social justice, we can provide support in a safe and welcoming way. We will continue to provide items to those in need. Should you or anyone you know be in need of our services, then please do not hesitate to contact us. Enjoy the new season and keep safe, well and look after each other. Jenny and Ty at PEOPLE
Love Radstock welcome Flibbertigibbet Theatre Company Love
Radstock are excited to welcome Flibbertigibbet Theatre Company to Radstock with their new production of ‘The Farmer & The Clown’, on Saturday, 23rd March at 4.00pm at Trinity Methodist Church. An old farmer, living alone, in the middle of nowhere, rescues a baby clown who has fallen from a passing circus train. He is initially reluctant, but as they spend time together on his farm, they form an unlikely friendship develops through play and laughter. They find something new in themselves by being with each other. Adapted from the wordless picture book by Marla Frazee, Flibbertigibbet will tell this charming story through silent comedy, dance, slapstick and accompanied by a specially written live musical score. Played without words, the show will be suitable for all ages, and accessible to non-English speaking audiences, as well as the D/deaf and hard of hearing
community. The story delicately explores loneliness, friendship and care, across divisions of age and community. Tickets are £3 and available on the Take Art website www.takeaert.org https://takeart.org/event/the-farmer-and-the-clown Radstock residents may also collect a FREE ticket from the Library & Community Centre.
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DRAGONS’ DEN EVENT Residents
are invited to attend our 10th community-based Dragons’ Den, taking place on the evening of Friday, 22nd March! It will be held in Westfield Sports and Community Centre, Westhill Road, BA3 3TE. Doors open at 5.30pm for a prompt 6pm start. We aim to finish by 8pm. Our Dragons’ Den community event is designed to enable residents and organisations to receive support and funds to carry out projects that will benefit and improve the communities within Radstock and Westfield (including Writhlington, Clandown, Tyning and Haydon). Importantly, it’s local people who will decide which projects are the priorities. • There will be up to ten winners! • There will be cake!
Special thanks to Somer Valley Rotary for their donation to the winner’s pot.
Please come and join us and make it a special evening for the community!
www.radstockwestfield.org.uk
Autumn 2020 Issue 1
A GUIDE TO LOCAL LIFE 2
202 SpringIssu e6
Winter 202
1 Issue 2
E TO A GUID E LIF LOCAL
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A GUID E LOCAL TO LIFE
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ANOTHER AWARD FOR SWAN TRANSPORT Swan
Transport was thrilled to be awarded an Innovation in Volunteering award following a groundbreaking project working with young people. In 2022, Sarah Williams, Swan’s CEO, obtained fundraising from the Department of Transport, distributed by the Community Transport Association. The aim of the project was to encourage young people to volunteer with the charity, initiating social interactions between young volunteers and Swan passengers. Helen Allan was appointed in September 2022 to Coordinate the 9-month project. The Community Transport Association (CTA) soon realised that the work was innovative in its practice and of significant value, as nothing like this had been tried before. Younger people have so far been overlooked in the involvement of Community Transport. The CTA commissioned a film to be made near the end of the project’s completion to highlight the benefits of inter-generational work and youth involvement. The CTA are a national organisation who organise a conference toward the end of each year for Transport operators across England and Wales to get together and discuss good practice. They also celebrate outstanding achievements in the sector with an evening award ceremony and this year, Swan was awarded ‘Innovation in Volunteering.’ Swan’s CEO Sarah Williams and Project Coordinator Helen Allen went to Birmingham in November of last year to accept the award which has been added to the growing collection. Both Sarah and Helen felt honoured to accept the award on behalf of the fantastic young people who have enriched and benefited our organisation and take us towards a more inclusive and positive future. This work is proof that our young people all over the country have so much to offer and should be valued and invited to the table.
Swan is on the lookout for more volunteer drivers to join our friendly team. If you have a little time, use of a vehicle, and want to help people without transport to get active. Contact us to find out more at office@swan-transport.co.uk or ring us for a chat on 01761 439548. We reimburse our drivers’ mileage at Inland Revenue rates and give ongoing support tailored to you.
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NOW OPEN
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Working for Wildlife at HAYDON BATCH Last year Somer Valley Rediscovered ran a
bioblitz at Haydon Batch and with the help of local botanists, including Cam Valley Wildlife Group, we recorded over 200 different species of plant on the site, including green winged orchid, vipers bugloss and birds foot trefoil. Regular surveys over the past few summers have also recorded over 20 species of butterflies present at Haydon. All this data shows what a fantastic area Haydon Batch is for species rich grassland; in fact, it is one of our most important sites in the Somer Valley. However, over the years, scrub species such as hawthorn and dogrose has gradually been taking up larger areas of the Batch, and if left unchecked, would shade out the grassland and reduce the number of plant species found. Therefore, Somer Valley Rediscovered and Radstock Town Council have been working with both volunteers and contractors to remove some selected areas of scrub. The work is carried out over the winter months to avoid disturbing nesting birds and not all the scrub is being removed as it too is an important habitat for wildlife. Our contractors have removed areas of scrub on the eastern and southern slopes, along with a
small section along the path towards Linden Close. The volunteers have been working on the top of the Batch. The work is funded through the WECA Green Recovery Fund. We will be running another bioblitz at Haydon Batch in April which is free to attend – please check out the Somer Valley Rediscovered website for further details https://somervalleyrediscovered. co.uk/events-calendar/ If you are interested in volunteering at Haydon Batch, we would love to hear from you. Please visit https:// somervalleyrediscovered.co.uk/ somer-valley/get-involved/
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Meet your new chair of Radstock IN BLOOM Hi my name is Pam Young and I have just been elected Chair of Radstock in Bloom.
I joined the In Bloom family about six years ago, when I worked for Radstock Cooperative. I am not a Radstock resident but having worked within the Co-Op for 36 years, I feel as if I am. About 8 years ago, I volunteered with my friend Jo to take over maintaining the raised beds, Coal Truck and large tubs outside the old main store. Over the years we were honoured to win 4 Gold Business Awards from Southwest In Bloom. The last few years that I worked for the Co-Op, I was given the opportunity to become their plant buyer. As we were an independent Cooperative, we were fortunate enough to be able to buy weekly. This we did from local nurseries and buying from Holland through the local Flower Market in Bristol. This process taught me a lot from costing and waste management. Anything we couldn’t sell, we usually planted in our beds, so nothing was wasted. I learned so much from my time at the Co-Op that when I retired 4 years ago, I along with Jo, took on the maintenance of the Brian Perret bed opposite the library. Sustainability is now In Bloom’s priority and with continuing support from Traders, Radstock Town Council and various voluntary groups, we hope to continue with this in the future. Although my body is ageing, my brain is still intact so I hope I can continue to work for a few more years and we will strive to keep Radstock looking Blooming Lovely.
ADVERTISE IN THE NEXT ISSUE, CALL CARMEN ON 01761 458192
The Wheel
Exciting Running Event in the Park! Run
as far as you can in 8 hours (on your own or in a relay team)! Welton Church Runners are expanding their free monthly 5k Run in the Park to include an ultra-event. The May The Fourth Ultra Loop will be an inclusive and flexible 8-hour running event with no limit on how far you can run. Within the 8 hours, you will be encouraged to run as many loops as you can. The mixed-terrain course combines Greenways and trails around a 5km loop and no matter how many loops you run, you receive a finishing time and certificate, with a fun prize for the winners in each category (Solo, Pair & Team). The event takes place at Midsomer Norton Town Park. You will be able to experience the Town Park, the ‘Batch’ (old mining spoil heap) and the beautiful Five Arches Greenway. The Somer Centre will be available during the day for refreshments, toilets and a rest should you need it. Open to solo entrants, pairs and teams of four. Entry fee £20 per person. Chip timing included with a time for every loop! Any profits from this event will go towards the creation of better paths in the Midsomer Norton Town Park! The Free Community 5k will take place as normal and everyone will start at the same time. Why not get a team together and enter now! See the Midsomer Norton Town Park 5k Facebook page to enter or visit: https://race-nation.co.uk/register/split-secondtiming-ltd/may-the-fourth-ultra-loop
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Bee Bold Pollinator Project Southfield Recreation Ground Work on the Southfield Community Garden
has continued over the last year with the Council working closely with Radstock In Bloom to deliver the project. Hard landscaping has been completed and an outdoor classroom installed. Volunteers have worked hard to install compost bins, create ‘dead hedges’, landscape, planting and much more. Interpretation boards have been created and community involvement has included visits from 1st Radstock Beavers who have enjoyed building a bug house, dead hedge and planting spring bulbs. Over the coming months, the Town Council looks forward to
welcoming numerous community groups as regular users of the Community Garden. Six Interpretation boards have arrived illustrating Wildflowers, Minibeasts, The Pollination Process, Dead Hedges, The Composting Process and Bees of Britain. We look forward to their installation. Next steps for the project will include grading of the ground in preparation for the installation of raised beds ready for winter planting. The rain harvesting system will also be put in place to capture rainfall from the outdoor classroom, helping to make the site more sustainable. There will be clearance of existing hedging and the replanting of hawthorn hedges.
2024 – Celebrating
42 YEARS
of Dance in Radstock www.suehilldance.co.uk
Locally sourced beef, pork, lamb, chicken, cheeses, butter, milk and eggs. Made here by us, sausages, burgers, meatballs, faggots, pies, pork pies, pasties, sausage rolls, scotch eggs, quiches. We also cure our own bacon. Tel: 01761 418506 Email: phil@phildaybutchers.co.uk 112 High Street, Midsomer Norton BA3 2DA Phil Day Traditional Family Butchers LTD
Over 50 classes a week in all styles of dance from 18 months to adult From £18.50 per month
01761 438885
The Wheel The Spring will see major planting of the pollination border so lots to be going on with. The project is grateful to the dedicated In Bloom team and volunteers who have given many hours to make the project reach the milestones it has. We welcome and encourage you to be a part of this wonderful project. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact us, we would love to hear from you. In 2024 we look forward to welcoming new local community groups to use the area and help with the project.
For further information, contact us: grounds@radstock-tc.gov.uk - 01761 437962 www.radstock-tc.gov.uk radstockinbloom@gmail.com
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Radstock Town Council Precept 2024/2025 The Precept
Income
The precept supports the running of the Community Hub and Library; grants to local community groups and activities, such as the Christmas lights and youth services; and maintenance of our play and outside facilities at Tom Huyton Park, Haydon Batch, Haydon Allotments, Memorial Gardens, and Southfield Recreation Ground.
Expenditure
is a levy raised by the Town Council to fund expenditure for the year, as part of our plan to make Radstock a great place to live, work and shop.
This year’s plans include the development of a new community building and relocation of the Community Hub and Library, together with continued delivery of the Radstock Regeneration Action Plan including delivery of Radstock’s Cultural programme and the development and maintenance of green spaces. The 2024 – 2025 budget had to address several challenges; a major one being rising energy costs which were previously fixed for three years and have now almost doubled. Current inflation rates have affected the council’s operating costs, but the council remains committed to seeking support and funding to provide more for our residents whilst still ensuring value. Successful efforts to identify additional external funding through grants and support has allowed us to support current and future projects. The Town Council thanks Somer Valley Rediscovered, Bath and NE Somerset Council, the West of England Combined Authority and Radstock In Bloom among others for past and future support. The 9.31% increase to the precept equates to an annual charge to residents of £174.91 for a Band D equivalent property.
Precept 309,445 Miscellaneous income 14,903 Grants 127,788 Cultural Programme 25,000 CIL Income 250,000 Rent 10,600 Allotments 1,500 Total Income 739,236
Central Services 179,527 Democratic Process/Civic 1,650 Capital/Projects 471,896 incl Trinity Methodist Church refurbishment 370,00 Fund Repayments 64,500 Loan repayments 37,396 Community Support & Events 92,415 Grants 10,500 Youth Connect 24,415 Magazine/Website 10,500 Christmas/Events 16,000 Cultural Programme 25,000 In Bloom 6,000 Community Hub / Trinity Methodist Church 30,950 Parks and Outside Spaces 52,298 Greenspaces 11,250 Southfield 2,000 Tom Huyton Park and Toilets 21,500 Miners’ Memorial Park and Gardens 6,200 Allotments 1,560 Haydon Batch 9,788 TOTAL EXPENDITURE 828,736
The Wheel On the left, is a breakdown of the income and expenditure for 2024 – 2025. You will notice there is a difference of £89,500; this represents the use of earmarked reserves for current projects enabling us to keep the precept increase as low as possible. This includes £9,500 for Christmas Lights, £70,000 allocated towards Trinity Methodist Church and £10,000 towards the salary of our cultural officer, who has delivered many exciting events in the past year. The Town Council are proud of last year’s achievements, and we hope that residents have been able to take advantage of several of our events and services.
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planned for Tom Huyton,with further phases under development for future years. With the support of Bath and NE Somerset Council, we were also able to make further improvements to the whole area including groundworks to ensure pathways were safe, fencing, carparking layout, a base for the active transport hub and the introduction of a modern Changing Places toilet. Radstock Town Centre Regeneration The Town Council has been working in partnership with Bath and North East Somerset Council to develop a plan for the regeneration of Radstock Town Centre, with elements being taken forward over the last twelve months and the coming year. Funding support has enabled the creation of a Radstock Cultural Programme including staffing to co-ordinate and deliver events for the town. For further information and to view the plan, follow the link: beta.bathnes.gov.uk/sites/default/files/ Radstock regeneration Action Plan.pdf. Green Spaces Work continues to deliver the Haydon Batch Master Plan, which saw much needed maintenance of the site including scrub clearance to ensure the species rich grassland is retained. Bee Bold Work on the Southfield Community Garden has continued over the last year with the Council working closely with Radstock In Bloom to deliver the project.
Tom Huyton Play Area upgrades In 2023-2024, Tom Huyton Park received a much anticipated and needed refurbishment which included the replacement of the zip wire and multi-play unit and, in keeping with the town’s heritage, a new bespoke train station with carriages and a ticket office. This completed the second phase of works
Hard landscaping has been completed and an outdoor classroom installed. Volunteers have worked hard to install compost bins, create ‘dead hedges’, landscape, planting and much more. Interpretation boards have been created and community involvement has included visits from 1st Radstock Beavers who have enjoyed building a bug house, dead hedge and planting spring bulbs. Over the coming months, the Town Council looks forward to welcoming numerous community groups as regular users of the Community Garden.
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Staffing - Team Expansion The council’s vision has always focused on delivering for our residents and community. To achieve this, the council has reviewed its staffing structure and has now made provision for an in-house Grounds team dedicated to improving the management of our green and open spaces, and a grant funded role for a cultural coordinator to deliver a programme of cultural events. The Town Council welcomes Sean, Rowan and Eunice to the team. Trinity Methodist Church The feasibility study for the future use of Trinity Methodist Church as a community centre at the heart of the town has continued and we are progressing our plans to acquire the building. Neighbourhood Development Plan Work has continued to progress the Neighbourhood Development Plan supported by a dedicated working group. Residents took part in a public consultation devised by the group with results that will help shape the plan. You can find out more information about the vision and goals for the plan on page 19
Grants Awarded Bath Area Play Project Haydon Village Hall Midsomer Norton and Radstock Silver Band P.E.O.P.L.E Radstock Museum
£1,000.00 £200 £1,000.00 £1,000.00 £950.00
Sight Support South West of England £1,000.00 SWALLOW £1,000.00 SWAN £1,000.00 Natural Theatre Company £1,000.00
Local Services for Local People The Town Council administers the following services and facilities: Tom Huyton Memorial play park at Somervale Road Radstock Memorial Gardens & War Memorial at Waterloo Road Recreation grounds and park at Southfield Greenspace at Church Street Community Library Services Community Hub Free PCs at the Community Hub for public use Support for Youth Provision through Youth Connect South West Grounds maintenance services Miners' Wheel memorial at Waterloo Road Public conveniences at Somervale Road Bus shelters and public seats Litter and dog waste bins Jubilee Crescent Support of Radstock in Bloom Allotments at Haydon Haydon Batch Radstock Food Club Litter Hub (with Radstock in Bloom) Used Stamp collection site for RNIB
A full list of your Town Councillors can be found on page 31
Radstock Neighbourhood Development Plan
Radstock comprises Clandown, Haydon, Radstock Centre, Tyning and Writhlington
Our vision for the future of Radstock: To create a thriving, diverse, and positive community where everyone can enjoy a happy healthy life. The challenge of climate change influences all of us. The Town Council declared a climate emergency in January 2020, and this is taken as a priority in all decisions.
What will it look like? A community where: • There are enough homes to meet local needs. • There are sufficient community spaces for activities and events. • Heritage and the environment are celebrated, protected, and enhanced. • Businesses are enabled to grow and provide local sustainable employment. • Infrastructure and services promote connectivity and support the area as a positive place to live and work.
What is a Neighbourhood Plan? Neighbourhood planning gives communities influence to set out a positive vision for how they want their local area to develop and grow over the next 20 years. Communities are consulted on the types of development which meet their needs and the infrastructure required to support it. Other issues such as employment, services, heritage and the environment can also be addressed. Introduced through the Localism Act 2011, Neighbourhood Planning is an important document with real legal force. The objective of the Neighbourhood Plan is to complement the strategic needs and priorities of the wider local area. Radstock’s Neighbourhood Development Plan, once approved, will become part of the Bath & North East Somerset Local Plan.
How we get there – Goals Housing • New developments are restricted to within the local housing development boundary. • Brown field sites are prioritised for development. • Buildings reflect local character and distinctiveness. • New homes are located within easy reach of local services and amenities. • New homes meet or exceed the Bath and North East Somerset Council’s high standards of design and energy efficiency. • Developments meet the identified needs of Radstock.
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Infrastructure and Services
Business and Employment
• Car dependence is reduced with increased access to public transport, safe cycle networks and footpaths. • Existing footpaths are well maintained with new footpaths installed linking services and facilities. • Increased availability of transport networks, reduce congestion on our major and minor roads. • Radstock has a broad range of thriving retail businesses, reducing the need to travel elsewhere. • Amenities, services, and infrastructure are enhanced to meet the needs of existing and new residents.
• Existing businesses are supported; new businesses are attracted to Radstock. • Recreational and tourism activities bring business to the area. • Existing industrial estates are safeguarded. • A thriving mix of shops are available in Radstock. • The quality and quantity of employment in Radstock is maximised to reduce out-commuting.
Community • The communities which make up Radstock are given equal attention in terms of planning, infrastructure, business development, heritage and environment. • Community facilities are developed, enhanced and benefit everyone. • Residents live healthier and more active lives with easier access to healthcare.
Heritage and Environment • The rich heritage of Radstock is preserved and celebrated. • Green spaces, rural landscape and open countryside views surrounding Radstock are protected and maintained. • Radstock’s wide range of flora and fauna are protected and enhanced. • Measures to improve the local biodiversity and the sustainability of the natural environment are established.
Radstock is a prosperous and interesting place in which to live, work and visit.
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AVON AND SOMERSET Police – OPERATION TONIC Some
6740 people were killed or serverly injured across the UK in one year as a result of driving under the influence of drink or drugs according to Government figures*. Since there is often a spike in these figures during the festive season, Avon and Somerset Police ran Operation Tonic in December 2023 to combat this. Around 2000 drivers were stopped through proactive patrols, static stop checks and targeted interventions. 324 drivers were taken off the roads as a result of failing sobriety checks. ‘Op Tonic’ was accompanied by a strong media campaign focusing on the importance of community
intelligence. Members of the public were urged to contact the Police if an individual was suspected of getting behind the wheel whilst intoxicated or under the influence of drugs. The key message was that reports from the public really can make a difference in keeping our roads safe. An example of this was a 999 call from a concerned motorist on Sunday 3rd December: a vehicle being driven erratically on the M5 near junction 25. Officers located and stopped the vehicle. The driver was breathalysed, arrested and subsequently charged. He received a 20-month driving disqualification and a fine of £120. Assistant Chief Constable Joanne Hall said: “Over the festive period, 324 drivers have been taken off the road before they could cause harm through drink or drug driving. “Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a reckless and dangerous choice that puts lives at risk. The consequences of such decisions can be catastrophic, causing irreversible harm and heartache to families and loved ones. “I would like to thank the public who are helping us to target those people that they suspect are drink or drug driving. By doing this, you are helping us to reinforce the message that getting behind the wheel while under the influence is never acceptable. Together we are keeping the roads of Avon and Somerset safer.” *estimated for 2021, Dept of Transport
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SWALLOW CHARITY are looking for Corporate Friends
Swallow a local charity, supporting teenagers and adults with learning disabilities, has launched a new scheme asking local companies to sign up to be their Corporate Friends.
The launch event took place at the SWALLOW Community Café in Radstock in November 2023 and was supported by two local Rotary Clubs – Somer Valley and Chelwood Bridge. Representatives from local companies attended, along with SWALLOW’s Patron, John Cullum, and SWALLOW Trustees, Chris Negus and John Freeman. SWALLOW’s new Corporate Friends Scheme hopes to increase engagement from local companies so that the charity can do even more to help local teenagers and adults with learning disabilities. Specifically, to
develop more meaningful employment opportunities for SWALLOW members – by increasing training opportunities and building links with local employers. SWALLOW is delighted that some local companies have already signed up to the scheme, including Sun Chemical, the Somerset Toiletry Company, Glazerite, The Radstock Co-operative Society, Robert Taylor Architect and TPM, who have all pledged their support. If you would like to know more about how your company could get involved, please contact Nicky on nickyt@swallowcharity.org or go to www.swallowcharity.org/corporate-friends.
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1st Radstock Scouts 1st Radstock Scouts have had another exciting term
and have not let the dark nights and cold weather stop them from enjoying a range of activities. The Beavers have been learning about engineering by making bridges out of spaghetti and marshmallows, all structures successfully supported various vehicles! They have also been working towards their Space Activity badge with activities, including star walks and 2 weeks ‘visiting’ the International Space Station where they had a go at space walking, using robotic arms and learning Russian. The Beavers were presented with the Radstock in Bloom Chairman’s Award for their help with Southfield Community Garden.
also had a very lovely Christmas Carol Service kindly hosted by St Nicholas’ church and led by Rev’d Ian Rousell. Each section meets weekly during term time and is open to all young people from the age of 6 to 14 and is also on the look out for adult volunteers to help meeting activities as well as committee members. For more information, please contact Janet Turner on radstockscouts@btinternet.com
Cubs have been Around the World in 24 hours, collecting stamps on their passports for each country they visited. They have also enjoyed a trip to the American Museum in Bath, in particular the Lego exhibition. Finally the Scouts have been ice skating, burnt off energy at a Wii Just Dance evening and have recently celebrated Burns Night with haggis, neeps, tatties and a glass of Irn Bru! The Group had a very busy Festive Season and would like to thank those people who attended our Christmas Fayre and also supported the Christmas Post. Along with the sectional parties the Group
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Radstock Library - so much more than books Wednesday
afternoons in the Library are noisy - its Lego time – and Radstock Library is filled with youngsters at our new drop in Lego Club. Talking, playing, learning and sharing, they spend the time between 3.30 and 5pm creating their own models or working as a team to solve simple challenges. Thanks to funding support from Little Lost Robot, a small healthy snack is provided. We do ask that parents and guardians stay, but you can sit in the Library area, read a book or use our Wi-Fi and computers for free. The Little Lost Robot Lego Club runs Wednesday afternoons from 3.30 - 5pm term time only. Wednesdays are busy in the morning too – our M/ Other group for parents of pre-school aged children meets term time only between 9.30am and 12 noon. It’s a free drop-in session with creative crafts and activities for small people run by a DBS checked trained childcare team. Adults are welcome to use the Library’s Wi-Fi, computers and printer or they can browse the books, get creative, draw, or simply dream.
We also have over 3,000 books on our shelves for you to borrow, (stories, novels, real life tales, cookery books, world and local history, Ukrainian/English) and access to 2.5 million more if you need them – all free of charge.
Our Knitting and Natter Group meets on the first Tuesday of every month 10 - 11.30am - their creations are warm, woolly and wonderful - come along and join in, or pop in to see their creations.
Little Lost Robot CIC is a not-for-profit collective of social practice artists funded by the Arts Council, Bath Spa University, Creativity Works, B&NES and the West of England CA.
Everyone is welcome any time we are open – we have a dedicated children’s area where mums, dads and carers can sit and rest while the children browse the books, play with activity toys, and sensory toys. Keep your eye on our Facebook page for details of craft sessions and competitions for various age groups on for Easter and during Summer Holidays.
Library opening hours:Tues 9am-4pm Wed 10.30am-5pm Thurs 9am-4pm
The Library staff can help you with photocopying or printing documents – return delivery labels were a popular theme after Christmas.
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INFORMATION FOR ALL FROM LIVEWELL B&NES Do you, or a family member, need care, health
or well-being information? Are you looking for local Ofsted registered childcare, or an activity for your child with additional needs? Live Well B&NES provides signposting to information, resources, services and groups. The site supports people in Bath & North East Somerset: • Children and families • Adults with care or support needs • Parent carers of children and young people with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) and young people with additional needs
Loft Boarding South West Need more storage space? Make use of your loft and create more space in your home
Loft Ladders Loft Lighting
Raised Loft Storage Insulation
Loft storage solutions for period and new build homes that do’t void your warranty
01373 813 438
www.loftboardingsou thwest.co.uk
There is a Cost-of-Living section providing information to support anyone experiencing financial challenges, including advice around benefits, energy, More than thirty Warm Spaces across the area are open and offering a warm welcome to all. Find out more: https://livewell.bathnes.gov.uk www.facebook.com/livewellbathnes www.instagram.com/Youth_Info_Bathnes or scan the QRcode
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Cri Du Canard - The Village Bal at Trinity Methodist Centre
Love Radstock are excited to be welcoming French Ceilidh trio ‘Cri Du Canard’ to Trinity Methodist Centre on Sunday March 24th at 4.00pm.
Cri Du Canard is a folk trio with an infectious energy. Much of their material is self-penned and arranged to keep French tradition at its heart. They are coming to somerset to share their traditional ‘Bal’ the French ceilidh. Audiences will have an opportunity to learn dances and bourree, schottische and polka around the room.
Put your best foot forward in this night of French dancing, this music will make you want to move! Tickets are £3 each or £10 for a family of 4 and light refreshments are included in the ticket price. Please visit Take Art website to book online at takeart.org www.takeart.org/event/the-village-bal-with-cri-ducanard We also have a limited number of free tickets available for Radstock residents which can be collected from the Library.
ADVERTISE IN THE NEXT ISSUE, CALL CARMEN ON 01761 458192
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Radstock Town Council Welcomes Eunice Hello,
my name is Eunice, I’m originally from Mexico! I’m a confident and friendly person and I like to cook, write, walk in nature, and enjoy a good movie. I came to England for love after I met my now husband. I have lived in England for nearly 9 years. I’m a wife and mother of a 6-year-old son. I started volunteering at Radstock Library in October 2022, and I have also been volunteering at Radstock Museum since February 2022. I recently joined Radstock Town Council as the Finance and Administration Officer; I’m looking forward to working with the team and to contributing my skills, as well as learning new skills. I am happy to be part of this incredible team!!
You can find me at M/Others Club on Wednesday mornings at Radstock Library where I run a session for preschool age children from 9.30 am to 12:00 pm and at Lego Club for school ages from 3:30 pm to 5:00 pm. I really enjoy contributing and working with the community.
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Youth Connect South West This winter, the team at YCSW have been running
their normal Wednesday night seniors’ youth club, 7-9pm for ages 13-19, offering a range of positive activities. This session is £1 per week and offers young people everything from cooking to sports competitions and creating unique pieces of art. New members welcome. The team have also been running some new projects, with the first being a massive success teaching young people the basics of taking a good photo and a final showcase exhibition of works at the library. These projects aim to reach new young people and offer up something new that has an end goal and gives young
people a new set of skills. The following project was bushcraft, working with Somer Valley Rediscovered, to get young people out in the local area, use green spaces and learn skills of survival. These projects have been running on Saturdays from 12-2pm starting at Radstock Youth Club. For more information about sessions in Radstock at our youth club, please email or visit our social media pages: Email - Contact@ycsw.org.uk Facebook - /YouthConnectSouthWest Instagram - @youthconnectsouthwest
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CLERK’S MESSAGE Hello all.
Signs of spring are finally coming, and it is starting to get a little warmer – hurrah! We look forward with eagerness to this year’s plans for Radstock, there is much on the horizon. This winter has been exciting, with new staff members joining the team and the launch of the Radstock Cultural Programme. We have already seen great events and extra sparkle to our regular events too. I hope you have managed to attend one or more of the events – but if you haven’t don’t worry, there are many more coming! We welcome Flibbertigibbet Theatre Company on Saturday 23 and Cri Du Canard – The Village Bal on Sunday 24 March. More information on events is available in The Wheel, by following us on Facebook or checking out the website. The Radstock Town Council team has grown, and we welcome Rowan – Cultural Programme coordinator, Sean – Grounds and Maintenance Supervisor and newest member Eunice – Finance and Administration
who now join the existing team of Diane – Office and Communications, Julia – Hub Receptionist and myself. This now means we have the team to deliver more events, projects, ensure our processes are in place and provide better maintained outside spaces. The Town Council are committed to providing better spaces for our residents and visitors and it has been amazing to work in close partnership with our Bath & North East Somerset Council officers to create the Radstock Regeneration Action Plan which includes ideas on how to shape Radstock for future. The Town Council hopes to widen the plans to include the whole of Radstock with the support of the Neighbourhood Development Plan and its fantastic working group. You can find details of both the Radstock Regeneration Plan and the Neighbourhood Development Plan on our website – www.radstock-tc.gov.uk Details of this year’s budget can be found on pages 16, 17 and 18 with highlights of the past year’s achievements including: • Bee Bold Pollinator Community Gardens at Southfields • Haydon Batch Works • Tom Huyton Play Park equipment refurbishment and Changing Places Toilet • Cultural Programme – including Story Telling, Lantern Parade, Childrens’ Christmas Party, Seniors’ Tea Many of these projects we have worked hard to find additional funding to achieve. We will continue to seek funding for future events and projects. There are many opportunities to get involved and we really couldn’t deliver it without the support of our many volunteers, groups and businesses that support us. If you would like to get more involved, please do get in touch! Thank you, George
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YOUR TOWN COUNCILLORS
Cllr Simon de Beer Radstock Haydon Ward E: c llrsimon@radstock-tc.gov.uk
Cllr Rupert Bevan Radstock Centre Ward M: 07980 607127 E: rupert.s.bevan@gmail.com
Cllr Lavinia Corrick Radstock Writhlington Ward T: 07565 921845 E: corricklavinia@gmail.com
Cllr Chris Dando - Mayor Radstock Centre Ward M: 0771 3103380 E: chrisdando3@gmail.com
Cllr Adrian Dodgson Radstock Clandown Ward M: 07812 046091 E: awdodgson@gmail.com
Cllr Liam Kirby Radstock Centre Ward E: cllr.lkirby@gmail.com
Cllr Lesley Mansell Radstock Haydon Ward T: 01761 439119 E: cllrlesleyamansell@yahoo.co.uk
Cllr Bruce Shearn Radstock Clandown Ward T: 01761 751117 E: bruceshearn@yahoo.co.uk
RADSTOCK TOWN COUNCIL Radstock Community Hub The Street Radstock Somerset, BA3 3PR Cllr Matthew Shearn Radstock Writhlington Ward M: 07710 263998 E: m.shearn3198@googlemail.com
Cllr Nick Toogood Radstock Writhlington Ward M: 07715 939804 E: n-toogood@sky.com
Cllr Dominic Tristram Radstock Centre Ward T: 01225 946946 E: d ominic.tristram @bathnesgreens.org.uk
T: 01761 437962 E: council@radstock-tc. gov.uk www.radstock-tc.gov.uk
