An award-winning Museum celebrating the History of Victorian Radstock
cast your eye towards the rolling hills to the south
Just over those hills and a few miles away lies yet another surprise
the beginning of what was the Somerset Coalfield
It is incredible to think that in past centuries
the Somerset Coalfield was home to dozens of working deep level mines
providing fuel to neighbouring Bath and other places
The last deep mine in the Somerset Coalfield closed in 1973
If you want to find out what it was really like living and working in a local mining community, then a visit to the award-winning Somerset Coalfield Life at Radstock Museum is a must
Radstock Museum is housed in the Grade II listed Victorian market hall
and includes reconstructions of a Victorian shop
a miner’s cottage as well as a school room
There are no more working deep mines in the UK
but at Radstock Museum you can still visit the reconstructed coalmine to see how dangerous it was for both men and boys as young as just five years old
working in Somerset’s famously narrow coal seams just to make a living
You'll also find a shop and tearoom on site
as well as special events and exhibitions throughout the year
Discovery Card holders receive 50p off an individual adult ticket
Visit the Radstock Museum’s website for further information
details of opening times and latest updates
20% off Museum Entry (valid all year) & 20% off Escape Rooms (valid Sun-Fri excluding school holidays)
Police are appealing for the public’s help to identify the people in this CCYV image in connection with a burglary investigation.
Officers believe they may have information on an incident which took place at a shop in Anchor Road, in Coleford, near Radstock, on March 12.
Avon and Somerset Police said in a statement: “At around 2am, three unknown people gained entry to the shop near Frome and caused damage to the building and stole cigarettes and vapes.
“Officers have so far conducted house-to-house enquiries and CCTV trawls and forensic analysis.”
Anybody who witnessed anything suspicious in the area, or are aware of anyone trying to sell large quantities of tobacco or vapes, are urged to call 101 and quote reference 5225073518.
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Date published: 2025-02-12 | Category: Delivering for local residents, Improving people's lives, Roads, travel and transport, roadworks
Works to improve crossing points and install a new parallel crossing in the centre of Radstock are set to start and will take up to three weeks to complete.
From 17 February The Street in Radstock will be closed for seven days as the council improves the existing crossing point near the roundabout
works will see footways widened and new paving installed.
From 24 February Frome Road in Radstock will be closed for twelve days as the existing crossing point will be replaced with a parallel crossing
A parallel crossing gives priority to both pedestrians and cyclists and is made up of a zebra crossing with a cycleway alongside it
This section of Frome Road is part of the National Cycle Network’s 82-mile Bath to Bournemouth route
Improvements will also be made to footways and drainage as well as with high-friction surfacing and refreshed road markings on the highway
Advanced notices have been in place to inform motorists of the upcoming works
especially around peak times and the council is advising people plan their journeys if travelling in the area.
said: “This is an area that sees a lot of foot traffic and these upgraded crossing points
particularly the new parallel crossing that’s being introduced
We’ve planned the first phase of works to take place during school half term to help reduce any disruption.”
The council is also re-aligning the crossing points on Nelson Ward Drive but will be keeping the road open to two-way traffic throughout.
Join Radstock's Annual Town Meeting for updates on the Neighbourhood Plan and have your say on the town's future development
Radstock Town Council has announced that this year’s annual town meeting will feature a key update on the progress of the Radstock Neighbourhood Plan
The Neighbourhood Plan is an important tool that
It gives town and parish councils the opportunity to shape future development based on the priorities of local residents
The plan is being prepared by a team of enthusiastic and knowledgeable volunteers who make up the Neighbourhood Planning Group
At the meeting, residents will be invited to complete an engagement questionnaire, providing feedback on various areas of the draft plan. The questionnaire will also be available at Radstock Library and Community Hub or online at www.radstock-tc.gov.uk
said: “The Neighbourhood Plan is our chance to take control of Radstock’s future — and we want it to reflect the values and vision of the whole community
In addition to the Neighbourhood Plan update
the annual town meeting will provide an opportunity for members of the public to hear from town councillors
Reports will be presented on the council’s activities over the past year
including financial matters and key projects
and attendees will be invited to ask questions
and share ideas to help shape priorities for the coming year
and all residents are warmly encouraged to attend
For more information, visit www.radstock-tc.gov.uk or contact Radstock Town Council by phone on 01761 437962 or by email at [email protected].
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The Frome’s Missing Links project aims to deliver a new multi-user path from Welshmill Lane, just north of the town centre, to the Colliers Way cycle path in Great Elm, providing an unbroken route between Radstock and Frome.
Phase two of the project, which runs from the Colliers Way terminus to Elliots Lane in Hapsford, was partially implemented in December 2018 – but the surface is currently too “loose and uneven” for horses, bicycles, scooters or wheelchairs.
Following a successful crowdfunding campaign in the autumn of 2024, this section has now been fully resurfaced in smooth Tarmac, providing an easier connection to route 24 of the National Cycle Network.
Frome’s Missing Links chairman Richard Ackroyd said: “We started this stretch back in 2015. We had about 120-odd people who came out for that first weekend, where we cleared head-high brambles, twigs, branches, trees, you name it.
“That carried on for several years, clearing all the old railway line and sleepers – along with land ownership deals and battles, with Network Rail helping out near the end.”
The phase two section runs for around 1.3 kilometres, with pedestrians and cyclists being able to join westbound from either Buckland Road in Great Elm or from the Colliers Way active travel route.
When this section was originally constructed in late-2018, volunteers cleared the route of brambles, removed the old railway track and concrete sleepers. levelled the ballast and built steps up the embankment.
The rough surfacing, made of old railway ballast, meant the route is walk-able even in cold or wet weather, but the less able-bodied or those wishing to cycle or wheel their way along face a bumpy ride.
These latest improvements, with the ballast being replaced with smooth Tarmac, will make it easier for people of all abilities to utilise this route to avoid the numerous narrow country lanes between Radstock and Frome.
Geoff Pell from Frome’s Missing Links said: “This is all about getting people out and about so they can exercise in safety.
“I cycle on the roads myself, but I understand that for many people that seems too dangerous – and this gives them the safe route that they need.”
The Crowdfunder raised more than £27,000 once gift aid has been taken into account – giving the charity some much-needed spare cash to put towards the remaining ‘missing links’ on either side of the town.
Two further phases of the Frome’s Missing Links have already been delivered, with phase one running north from Welshmill Lane for 950 metres, skirting around the Rossett House care home and the town’s waste water treatment plant up to Whatcombe Fields. Phase three runs north from Whatcombe Fields along the river to just south of the railway line.
Frome Missing Links forms part of the wider Somerset Circle project which, when completed, will form a 76-mile traffic-free circuit linking Bristol, Bath, the Mendip Hills and the Somerset Levels.
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Residents watched as several police cars were seen leaving Radstock Hotel before moving towards the scene.
Armed officers were in the area, with several police vehicles blocking access to the road during the incident.
Avon and Somerset police said in a statement: “At 9.38am on Wednesday (April 10), we received a report of a man with what was believed to be a firearm in Stanley Terrace, Radstock.
“Armed officers, supported by the National Police Air Service, attended and arrested a man aged in his 50s on suspicion of possessing a firearm. He has since been released under investigation while enquiries continue.
“Two suspected air rifles were also seized in a subsequent search.
“Anyone with information that may help our investigation should call 101 and give the call handler the reference number 5225101818.”
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Date published: 2024-07-15 | Category: Communities and volunteering, Community Funding, Regeneration and Development, Somer Valley
a new home for the community library and space for community and cultural events is set to be created in Radstock town centre following the purchase of the Trinity building by Radstock Town Council
The new community hub will be developed as part of a wider plan to regenerate the town centre and it is planned that the building will offer an accessible space where the community can gather
The development is a key milestone in the delivery of the Radstock Regeneration Action Plan which brings together projects to make the town centre more vibrant including repurposing of vacant units
reuse of brownfield sites and new community spaces.
The action plan has been developed in partnership between Bath & North East Somerset Council and Radstock Town Council
and has already unlocked over £700,000 investment with the town council having formally acquired Trinity Church on May 31 this year
Initial works will be to undertake maintenance
with plans for the redevelopment to follow with additional fundraising needed
Radstock was the first town in Bath and North East Somerset to benefit from town centre regeneration action plans funded from the West of England Combined Authority’s Housing and Regeneration Enabling Fund.
Cabinet Member for Economic and Cultural Sustainable Development
said: “There has been a longstanding aspiration for a town centre community space in Radstock where people can come together to enjoy a range of activities
The community hub will provide a home for the town council and the library
bringing local services together under one roof
The hub is an important step in continuing to deliver the Radstock Regeneration Action Plan and it’s fantastic news that the town council has acquired the building
so we can begin working together to make the vision for Trinity Church a reality.”
after a long period of negotiation and preparation
that we have finally acquired this building for our community
People will soon start to see improvements in the new Trinity Hub
as we turn it into a welcoming space for all. This is the next step in an exciting journey for Radstock and I'm grateful for all the people who are working with us on our regeneration plan for our town.
Rooms at Trinity Hub can be booked online at: https://hallbookingonline.com/trinityradstock/
The acquisition of Trinity Church was supported by UK Government funding
The Town Council has also secured a Public Works Board Loan and other funding has been allocated from Bath & North East Somerset Council’s Community Infrastructure Levy
Further funding will be sought to carry out the works
Find out about all the ongoing and planned regeneration projects across B&NES
Members of Norton Radstock Tangent express gratitude to Julia Ball for her successful tenure as Chair, celebrating a year filled with exciting activities and charity fundraisers.
Members of Norton Radstock Tangent gathered to thank Julia Ball for her successful year running the club as chair at the AGM.
The year has been filled with varied activities such as walking tennis, boules and wreath making at Christmas as well as fund raising events to raise money for local charities.
Julia thanked members for their support over the year with a special appreciation to vice chair, Lesley Barber, who would reply “and why not?!” to suggestions of new activities for the year.
The Norton Radstock club is part of the National association of Tangent clubs which is one of the largest women’s organisations in the UK, with around 400 Clubs and 8,000 members.
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Important repairs are planned at Radstock’s beautiful church as the town council plans to turn it into a “flagship” library and hub for the town
Radstock’s Trinity Methodist Church sits in the heart of the town with a grand frontage on Fortescue Road leading to a complex of rooms
The church was built with the support of the mining community in 1902
with a building now too large and expensive to maintain for the dwindling confederation
But the iconic building was saved from being sold off to developers
with Radstock Town Council buying with support of government and Bath and North East Somerset Council funding in 2024
Now important repairs are planned to the roofing and stonework
A statement submitted with the planning application said: “Radstock Town Council have purchased the former Trinity Methodist Church to re-purpose and re-generate the building as a community hub to accommodate the public library
“It is intended to be a flagship building for the town
The existing building is in a poor state of repair and a number of roofs are leaking significantly
causing on-going damage to the fabric of the building.”
The plans will also see a double door on the side of the building replaced with a new door with powered opening and a lightweight metal ramp
The statement said: “Time has been spent considering access options to all the various existing entrances
The proposed solution seeks to balance the need for access for all against the existing fabric of the building recognising its architectural features and constraints that these provide.”
View the plans here: https://www.bathnes.gov.uk/webforms/planning/details.html?refval=25%2F01484%2FFUL#details_Section
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Radstock will come alive with colour, creativity, and community spirit for the launch of the Greenway Arts Trail—a vibrant new cultural initiative transforming the Colliers Way into a dynamic open-air gallery.
This free, family-friendly event on Sunday, May 11, invites visitors to explore a trail filled with live performances, interactive art, and immersive installations, all created in collaboration with local artists, schools, and community groups.
In the run-up to the event, the trail is already taking shape through a series of inspiring community projects, with even more to experience on the day itself.
In preparation, local poet and performer Poppy has delivered nine haiku workshops across three primary schools. On launch day, she’ll perform a selection of these poems—alongside commissioned work—on the Community Stage.
The full day will be packed with creative activities and performances, including circus workshops and acts at Tom Huyton Park, children’s singing workshops with Willow Harwood, live storytelling with Michael Loader, performances by the Radstock Folk Band and rising local folk talent Owen Seward, free face painting by Rose Popay, and much more.
“This is a real celebration of Radstock—its creativity, its history, and its incredible community,” says event producer Rowan Fae. “We’ve brought together local schools, artists, makers, musicians, and families to create something really special, and we can’t wait to share it.”
The Greenway Arts Trail has been developed in partnership with The Active Way, Radstock Town Council, and Radstock in Bloom, with funding from the UK Government’s cultural programme. The permanent installations will remain in place for the public to enjoy year-round, encouraging active travel and cultural exploration through Radstock’s cherished Greenway path.
The event will be held from 11am until 4pm at Tom Huyton Park to Five Arches, Radstock.
Works to improve road safety, which includes installing a new parallel crossing in Radstock, will take up to three weeks to complete.
From February 17, The Street will be closed for seven days as the council improves the existing crossing point near the roundabout. Work to widen footways and install new paving will also be carried out.
From February 24, Frome Road will be closed for 12 days as the existing crossing point will be replaced with a parallel crossing, giving priority to pedestrians and cyclists.
Footways will also have high-friction surfacing and new road markings will also be provided.
The council is also re-aligning the crossing points on Nelson Ward Drive but will be keeping the road open to two-way traffic throughout.
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has retired after three decades of voluntary service at Radstock Museum
marking the end of a significant contribution to local heritage
Local resident Patience Barnes has retired from her voluntary role at Radstock Museum after more than three decades of dedicated service
marking the end of a longstanding contribution to local heritage
Patience studied biochemistry at Somerville College
Patience carried out research at Northwestern University
the University of Toronto and universities in New York and London before taking a position at Bristol University in the School of Biochemistry
located in the former Market Hall in the centre of Radstock
tells the story of the North Somerset coalfield and the lives of those who lived and worked in the area
It is run largely by volunteers and plays an important role in preserving the social
industrial and geological history of the local communities
Both Patience and her husband Richard became members of the Radstock
Midsomer Norton and District Museum Society in the 1980s
she began volunteering at the museum when it opened its doors
The Museum first opened at The Barn in Haydon in 1989 before relocating to the Market Hall in 1999
a move which marked a major turning point in its development
Volunteers like Patience were instrumental in the complex task of preparing the collection for the move
She was a steward at weekends and on bank holidays for 10 years and was part of the team who cleaned and packed all the artefacts for the museum’s move to the Market Hall
Patience’s main volunteering role was as an archivist; she specialised in evaluating and cataloguing collections and has been a valued member of the museum’s documentation team
She will be very much missed by the museum volunteers and especially those she has worked closely alongside for many years
all of whom are museum documentation specialists
The whole team gathered for a celebration on Tuesday
at the museum to recognise Patience’s long-standing contributions
Patience was presented with a generous book token
and a beautifully cross-stitched card made by museum volunteer and head of acquisitions
documentation specialist volunteer Izzy Robinson baked a homemade cake
The celebration provided an opportunity for colleagues to express their gratitude and reflect on Patience’s significant impact on the museum over the years
Radstock Museum welcomes enquiries from those interested in volunteering
Opportunities are available in a range of roles
Those wishing to learn more can speak to manager Nick Turner at the front admissions desk or contact the museum by emailing [email protected]
Those who wish to visit Radstock Museum or learn more about its collections and opening hours should visit their website at www.radstockmuseum.co.uk or contact the museum directly.
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The night sky will be lit up once again when the Radstock Winter Lantern Parade returns for 2025
Organised by Radstock Town Council in collaboration with Lamplighter Arts CIC
this much-loved community event invites people across the community to carry a lantern through the town to bring light to the depths of winter
This year’s theme is ‘cygnus and the stars’
inspired by the folkloric traditions connecting Brigid
Cygnus is one of the many constellations in the night sky
gaining its name from the latin name for ‘swan’
and will with the traditional gaelic festival Brigid’s Day or Imbolc
community members are invited to create their own lanterns during free
open-to-all workshops at Trinity Hub (Radstock
These drop-in sessions require no booking and it takes about an hour to complete each lantern
Younger participants are welcome but may need assistance from an adult or older child
Those crafted late on Saturday can be collected the following day
Participants will gather at the Trinity Hub at 4.30pm before setting off at 4.45pm to follow the parade route through Radstock
The event will culminate in a spectacular circus and dance performance at St
offering a magical close to this community celebration
For those attending the Midsomer Norton Wassail earlier in the day
Trinity Hub will open from 3.00pm as a designated warm space
with hot drinks available to welcome visitors
For further details, contact: [email protected]
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A Radstock councillor, who was instrumental in voting down a plan for the Avon Pension Fund to divest from the arms industry, works for the Ministry of Defence and represents defence sector workers in the Public and Commercial Services Union.
Campaigners who have been calling for the fund to divest have argued that this is a “serious conflict of interest” for Chris Dando, who is a Labour councillor for Radstock on B&NES Council and member of the Avon Pension Fund committee.
But the head of the Avon Pension Fund has insisted it is not a conflict of interest as the MoD is an acquirer, not a supplier, of defence products and Mr Dando’s role is not related to procurement.
The Avon Pension Fund runs the Local Government Pension Scheme for 140,000 members who work, or worked, for over 450 organisations in the West of England.
The fund has been under pressure to stop investing in the arms industry over warnings that arms firms are complicit in Israel’s breaches of international law in Palestine. But when the Avon Pension Fund Committee met to debate the matter on March 28, it voted 10-3 in principle to continue with its current investment strategy.
Papers which went before the meeting warned that divesting from arms would raise one off transition costs and ongoing fees and would exclude high growth companies which had historically delivered high returns. The papers set out the two options of divesting from arms, or continuing with the current investment strategy.
Mr Dando proposed that the fund follow the second option and not divest. But fund members who have been calling for it to divest from arms said he should have declared his job at the MoD and role as president of the defence sector group at the PCS trade union as an interest.
The campaigners told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: “He makes his living from the military as well as being the trade union representative at his place of work. We are therefore extremely concerned about the strength of councillor Chris Dando’s influence on the direction that the Avon Pension Fund Committee has taken.
“Councillor Dando didn’t just take part in the vote — he was the main ‘mover and shaker’ for option two (not to divest). He tabled the motion, he argued for it, and he summed up at the end.”
Nick Dixon, head of Avon Pension Fund, told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: “There is no conflict of interest for councillor Chris Dando in his role as a pension committee member including in the committee’s recent decision on aerospace and defence.
“Mr. Dando is not an employee of any of the companies in question including BAe Systems. Nor is he a shareholder in any of these companies. There is no financial conflict. His role in the MoD is not procurement related. Mr. Dando is employed by the MoD – the acquirer of defence products – and is not directly linked to suppliers which the issue of conflicts seeks to address.”
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Radstock is among the top 20 most dangerous towns in Somerset, according to research by a specialist data company.
Brighton-based CrimeRate.co.uk uses data analysis and geographic information systems to assess crime trends in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
The latest figures according to recent analysis has listed Radstock as being within the top 20 ‘most dangerous’ places out of 414 towns, villages and cities across the county.
In 2023, research claims the most common crimes reported in the town were violence and sexual offences, with 94 offences during 2023. This is 15 per cent higher than 2022's figure of 169 offences.
CrimeRate.co.uk states: “We aggregate open police force data, social media signals and file freedom of information requests with local police departments to build a complete catalogue of crime and safety information in a region.
“The overall crime rate in Radstock in 2023 was 106 crimes per 1,000 people. This compares poorly to Somerset's overall crime rate, coming in 61 per cent higher than the Somerset rate of 66 per 1,000 daytime population.
“For England, Wales, and Northern Ireland as a whole, Radstock is the 535th most dangerous ‘village’, and the 886th most dangerous location out of all towns, cities, and villages.
In January 2023, Radstock had the worst crime rate in Somerset for theft from the person, with one crime reported and a crime rate of 0.22 per 1,000 daytime population. June 2023 was also a bad month for Radstock residents, when it was Somerset's most dangerous area for shoplifting, recording 15 crimes at a rate of 3.2 per 1,000 daytime population.
Avon and Somerset Police has been asked whether it recognises this site as an accurate date source.
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The Frome’s Missing Links project aims to deliver a new multi-user path from Welshmill Lane, just north of the town centre, to the Colliers Way cycle path in Great Elm, providing an unbroken route between the towns.
The charity launched a Crowdfunder in early-September to allow phase two to be brought up to the same standard as the other existing sections of the route.
The group has confirmed it has hit its fundraising target for the project – meaning the work can be carried out in the spring of 2025.
The phase two section runs for around 1.3 kilometres (just under one mile), with pedestrians and cyclists being able to join westbound from either Buckland Road in Great Elm or from the Colliers Way active travel route itself (which forms part of National Cycle Network route 24).
The latest improvements will see the ballast replaced with smooth Tarmac, making it easier for people of all abilities to utilise this route to avoid the numerous narrow country lanes.
Trustee Ruth Knagg confirmed that the project was fully funded on the charity’s official Crowdfunder page – which is still accepting donations for the remaining phases of the route.
She said: “This is completely brilliant – we reached our target. Heartfelt thanks to each and every one of you who has supported this campaign.
“We are right now in the process of selecting and appointing a contractor to do the surfacing work, which needs to be completed before the end of next March – so please keep your fingers cross that this step goes smoothly.
“We have left this campaign page open for anyone who finds their way to this page after the initial deadline, because we will simply use any extra funds towards the next (and hopefully final) phase of Frome’s Missing Link.”
The work to Tarmac this section of the route will cost around £120,000, with Sustrans and an anonymous local donor each providing £50,000 on the condition that the work can be completed by April 2025.
As of Wednesday, November 28, the Crowdfunder has raised £21,565, with a further £4179.75 being able to be claimed back via GiftAid – more than enough to bridge the funding gap.
The Frome’s Missing Links forms part of the wider Somerset Circle project which, when completed, will form a 76-mile traffic-free circuit linking Bristol, Bath, the Mendip Hills and the Somerset Levels.
The Friends of Windsor Hill Tunnels are currently progressing a safe route north of Shepton Mallet towards Emborough and Binegar, with an aspiration that the route will eventually link up to Radstock.
To donate to the Frome’s Missing Links Crowdfunder for future phases, visit www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/surfacing-phase-2.
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Freedom of Information releases and corporate reports
The Competition and Markets Authority’s (CMA) independent inquiry group has cleared Boparan’s proposed purchase of ForFarmers’ Burston and Radstock feed mill sites
following an in-depth Phase 2 investigation
ForFarmers and Boparan (through 2Agriculture) both manufacture and supply chicken feed and other types of poultry feed in the UK
The inquiry group’s investigation has found that Boparan’s purchase of ForFarmers’ Burston feed mill site could reduce the capacity available to manufacture chicken feed for chicken suppliers in the area around the mill in East Anglia
these suppliers will still have choice and the option to switch providers due to competition from other chicken feed providers in the market
including the single response received from the parties in response to its interim report
the inquiry group does not believe the merger would lead to a substantial lessening of competition
Having assessed the evidence and feedback to our interim report
which suggested that competition would not be harmed
we have given this acquisition clearance to proceed
For more information, visit the Boparan / ForFarmers (Burston and Radstock mills) case page
ForFarmers is a European manufacturer and supplier of animal feed
is one of the UK’s largest suppliers of poultry feed and supplies feed to Hook 2 Sisters
the CMA concluded that Boparan’s purchase of the Radstock feed mill site does not raise competition concerns and the sale of this mill has completed
All media enquiries should be directed to the CMA press office by email on press@cma.gov.uk
Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details
POLICE are appealing for information after youths in balaclavas on motorbikes are continuing to cause ‘issues’ in Radstock.
The Radstock Neighbourhood Team has appealed for residents to come forward with information in a post on social media.
Police said online: “We are asking members of the public to come forward with information, evidence and intelligence to help us to identify these youths.
“Please call 101 with this information or 999 if its happening there and then. Photo, video and CCTV evidence is vital in catching those responsible.
”The neighbourhood team is working to tackle these issues, but are limited in tactical options due to rider safety.
“However, we are keen to identify these riders ASAP to prevent any danger to members of the public. A note to parents and carers, if your child is involved in this please act now as this could safe a life.
“Pictured is a bike of interest to Radstock police. Anybody with information on its whereabouts, please contact us.”
Call Avon and Somerset Police on 101 or complete an appeals form on the force website.
THE Midsomer Norton and Radstock Scouts have announced the return of their annual Scout Christmas Post for 2024
The service offers local residents the opportunity to have their Christmas Cards delivered within the area while supporting fundraising efforts for the Scouts
This community initiative has become a seasonal tradition
combining festive convenience with support for youth activities
Stamps for 50p are available to buy from Saturday
December 13 at the following locations: Midsomer Norton: Brookes News (Redfield Road): Edwards Opticians
Norton Sports and Camping and Rose Crafts on the High Street; and Charlton News (Charlton Road)
Residents are encouraged to drop their Christmas Cards into designated Scout post boxes
which are located at the same venues as in previous years
You can find details about the areas covered by the Scout Christmas Post on the boxes or at the stores where they’re placed
A spokesperson for the club said: “Thank you to all those who continue to support your local scouting groups
your support helps us to provide skills for life for our young people
helping them to build friendships and experience adventure.”
The Scouts are always on the lookout for volunteers to help run the programme or assist behind the scenes. Anyone who can spare a few hours a month is encouraged to get in touch via [email protected] to explore the range of opportunities and events available.
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Bath and North East Somerset Council (B&NES) has told the Midsomer Norton and Radstock Journal the new charges will be in force from Tuesday (March 4)
The charges will be implemented at Midsomer Norton’s South Road car park and Radstock’s Church Street and Waterloo Road car parks
Parking will remain free for the first two hours
The charges were proposed as part of the council’s 2024/25 budget, aiming to improve air quality, encourage the use of public transport and raise £195,000 for the council.
The charges have proved controversial with Councillor Shaun Hughes (Independent Midsomer Norton North) describing them as a “tax on the poor” at a council meeting in November
A public consultation held by B&NES Council resulted in changes being made to the charges initially proposed
which include lower rates and no charges for motorbikes
The council said after announcing the changes that 4,322 people responded to the consultation
with 77 per cent expressing concerns about air quality
Full details over parking prices will be available to view on the council’s website when they come info effect.
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A suspected arson attack has led to the destruction of newly-installed benches at Tom Huyton Park in Radstock
Avon Fire and Rescue Service were called to the scene just before 9.30pm on Friday
by a member of the public who saw the flames
An investigation is underway as emergency services believe the fire was started deliberately
The park has remained closed by Radstock Town Council since the fire took place so the debris can be cleared up
but the council hopes to have it reopened by Wednesday (March 12)
The fire damaged brand new public property that had recently been installed at the park with two bins and three accessible picnic benches and tables having been destroyed by the blaze
The benches had had only been installed by the council’s grounds team two weeks before the incident
READ MORE: Fire crews extinguish pig barn blaze in Shepton Montague
The benches and bins cost the council around £4,000 but there is hope an insurance payout will cover the cost of the damages, which will mean any donations made can be used to further improve the area.
The improvements include the installation of new play equipment and the refurbishment of public toilets.
The council has thanked the fire crew which was called put out the fire, the police, and residents who raised the alarm. The council also encourage anyone with relevant information to come forward.
A spokesperson for Avon Fire and Rescue Service said: “Officers attended Tom Huyton Park in Radstock at just before 9.30pm on Friday, March 7, after a member of the public reported a fire within the play area.
“The fire and rescue service was at the scene and therefore able to put out the fire, which damaged three benches and two bins. The fire is being treated as deliberate.
“An investigation into this incident is underway and we’ll be reviewing all available CCTV and other forms of footage to identify those responsible.
“If you have any information or relevant footage, please call us on 101 and give the call handler the reference number 5225069846.”
Chris Dando, mayor and chairman of Radstock Town Council (Radstock Centre Ward, Labour) said: “Vandalism is so frustrating and disappointing for everyone. Radstock Town Council is a small team and this really does make us all sad as we all put a lot of time and effort into creating a space for everyone to enjoy.
“While I am sure the benches and bins will be covered by insurance, it would be great to turn this negative into a positive and have funds to support further improvements to the park.
“The town council has completed two of the five phases. The next stages will be to improve the landmark octi-play, the small children’s area and the original toilets. Radstock is an amazingly resilient and great community we come back bigger and better.”
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RADSTOCK Town Council has secured the former Trinity Methodist Church to serve the community of Radstock
Following the purchase of what is now named Trinity Hub in May this year
the town council has been collaborating closely with Bath and North East Somerset Council to manage the redevelopment of the venue into a multi-purpose community building for all
said: "This initiative is very positive for Radstock
benefiting not just the town centre but the entire community
It will provide various facilities and consolidate the offices of the town council in one location
This development will enable us to host cultural activities
which have not been possible until now."
contractors arrived to begin installing scaffolding for opening up works
These investigation works will be crucial in helping to understand the structure of Trinity
the council is ensuring all necessary safety and compliance is reviewed to meet current standards
They have launched a donation fund and those who would like to donate or want more information should visit the town council website
For further information on Trinity Community Hub and the Radstock Town Centre Regeneration Plan, please see the Town Council website www.radstock-tc.gov.uk. Contact: - Radstock Town Council telephone: 01761 437962 E mail: [email protected]
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Rayogreatest hitssomersetnewsArrest following reports of man with a firearm in RadstockOfficers were called to Radstock Terrace yesterday morning (10th April)
A man in his 50s has been arrested in Radstock
following reports to police of a man carrying a firearm
Officers were called to Stanley Terrace at around 9.40am yesterday (Thursday 10th April)
Armed police and the National Police Air Service helicopter were deployed as part of the response
Two suspected air rifles were seized during a search
on suspicion of possessing a firearm has since been released on bail
There's now an appeal for anyone who witnessed the incident
or might have information to contact Avon and Somerset Police on 101
You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111
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An update on the former RADCO site has been provided by Radstock Co-operative Society’s CEO
Mr Morris informed members at the Society’s AGM on June 11 regarding the redevelopment plans
As had previously been announced in June 2023
the planning permission granted by B&NES Council is not viable in its current form and the society has been undergoing a process to bring forward amended plans with a development partner and registered housing provider
The commitment remains to provide a sustainable mixed-use scheme
which will include a new retail store and office space that will provide new headquarter offices for the society
The society will provide further details for the site in due course
the society is thrilled to announce it is collaborating with students from Fosse Way School
who are creating artwork to enhance another section of the hoarding around the site
They are drawing inspiration from the local area and the values of Radstock Co-operative Society for their art pieces
Radstock Co-operative Society welcomes other local groups and schools who are interested in contributing to the artwork to get in touch. For further information, please contact: [email protected].
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Date published: 2024-10-28 | Category: Bath, Giving people a bigger say, Parking and Travel, Tackling the climate and ecological emergency
Bath & North East Somerset Council car park charges are set to come into force including changes made to the initial proposals following feedback.
Emission-based parking charges will be introduced at all council-owned car parks in Keynsham
and Saltford as well as all on-street parking locations in Bath
Parking charges will also see a modest increase over the next two years
The changes will be phased into council-owned car parks in Bath
Changes to on-street parking charges in Bath will be introduced in January 2025.
After considering the feedback it received
the council is amending its proposals affecting car parks in Midsomer Norton and Radstock
where two-hours of free parking will form part of the changes in implementing charging
also with a reduction in the hourly rate from what was initially proposed
The new charges will be introduced from January 2025
All emission-based charge tariffs will be published on the council’s parking and travel webpages when they go live but can be viewed now in the outcome report from the public consultation on the council’s website
Once the changes have been implemented a one-hour stay in a council-owned Bath car park will cost between £1.80 - £2.60
Introducing emission-based charges for motorbikes has been withdrawn due to feedback received through the public consultation and technical challenges in providing them a lower parking charge
The council plans on reviewing those proposed charges through a new consultation process at a later date.
The council’s consultation on the proposed parking charges received 4,322 individual responses
In the consultation 77 percent of respondents expressed concerns about air quality and its impact on health
while 58 percent felt it important to tackle and improve air quality
Emission-based parking charges affects motorists with more polluting vehicles which are charged at a higher rate. Motorists can check their vehicle’s emissions on the Government’s website
but do not need to know their vehicle emissions or engine size when paying for their stay.
A recent report shows air quality across Bath and North East Somerset is continuing to improve with nitrogen dioxide concentrations decreasing
said: “We’ve had great feedback from our consultation
and I’d like to thank all those that took the time to share their views with us
We’ve listened and made changes to what was originally put forward and will now introduce two hours free parking in Midsomer Norton and Radstock car parks with a reduced tariff for longer stays
Currently there will be no parking charges for motorbikes
These changes reflect our policy and also show we listen and adapt proposals in light of feedback
and do not have a one size fits all mentality when it comes to the implementation of our schemes.”
“Air quality in Bath & North East Somerset is improving
we know it’s a concern for people living here and the changes we’re making to parking charges is another step to improve further. While targets and legal levels exist for air pollution
change behaviours and encourage more sustainable ways to travel.”
Signage will be updated where required to reflect the new charging structure and the council is advising customers to check this signage when paying for their stays.
In Keynsham, the 30 minutes free parking in dedicated bays will remain. Parking at the council’s three Park & Ride sites will remain free for those using the bus service
A ‘MISSING link’ between Frome and Radstock could be completed by next spring following the success of a crowdfunding page
The Frome Missing Links project looks to connect Frome to the Colliers Way in Great Elm
a traffic free link to Radstock which connects with Sustrans’ Route 24 to Bath
a 1.3km stretch of path which runs between Elliots Lane in Hapsford and the Colliers Way
but it was not deemed to be suitable for users due to its uneven surface
launched a Crowdfunder in September to help pay for the path to be surfaced which has now exceeded its £20,000 target
The charity said any money left over from the crowdfunding page would be used for the next stage of the link
Frome’s Missing Links received additional funding from Sustrans
“We are now ready to appoint a contractor for this work,” said Frome’s Missing Link chair Richard Ackroyd
“Thank you so much to everyone who contributed and made this possible.”
He added: “We’ve had so many lovely messages of support during the campaign
“It is clear that people appreciate having these paths to connect them with nature and help them stay active.”
“Many volunteer hours have gone into preparing this section of path to get it ready for surfacing
“a spokesperson for the charity said
“Regular work sessions have helped to remove old railway sleepers
clear scrub back from the path and put in fencing where necessary.”
Volunteers will be needed when work begins on the surfacing to help monitor entrances to the work site
People can find out more about the volunteering by emailing mail@fromesmissinglinks.org.uk
The Crowdfunding page is still live.
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RADSTOCK Police are currently investigating theft and public nuisance offenses involving road signs in the Radstock and Midsomer Norton area.
One instance is the "Welcome to the City of Wells" sign that has been placed near Tesco in Midsomer Norton. Enquiries are continuing using private and public CCTV systems.
At this time, it is believed two BMW’s are involved in the incidents. Police are looking to identify the two males pictured in the photo below.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Avon and Somerset Police, quoting crime reference 5224202052, via 101 or Crimestoppers. Those involved are encouraged to come forward to help resolve the matter.
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Radstock’s local community came together to enjoy the 2025 Radstock Winter Lantern Parade.
Dozens of residents paraded with lights as day became night as the waning moments of winter began to make way for spring.
The running of the event was delivered by Radstock Town Council as part of the government funded Radstock cultural programme.
The dates of February 1 and February 2 are celebrated across many cultures, and has been given many different names over the years, such as Candlemass, Imbolc, and Groundhog Day.
The celebration looks to welcome in the start of spring, and is one of renewal, hope, new life, and sowing seeds for harvest for the coming year.
Drawing on themes and imagery associated with Imbolc, the event celebrated swans, stars, snowdrops, and the magic of the night sky under the theme ‘Cygnus and the stars’.
The parade led participants through central Radstock before culminating at St Nicholas’ Church field. Participants were treated to spoken word, live music and a high-octane aerial dance finale from Eloise Currie from Of The Wild Circus.
The event saw a large number of local school children have access to lantern making workshops delivered by Lamplighter Arts CIC within classrooms at St Nicholas’ church school, Trinity church school, and St Mary’s Church of England primary school.
Workshops were also delivered to a group of adults at Connections in Writhlington.
The event was received well by all and event organisers look forward to producing something similar for residents again next year.
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which specialises in supporting individuals with learning disabilities
is hosting a curry and quiz night at SWALLOW Community Café in Radstock
The cost is £10 per person and offers an enjoyable evening of food
all while supporting SWALLOW’s important work
SWALLOW is a charity supporting people with learning disabilities
helping them build independence and connect with their community
Tickets are available now through the charity’s website. For more details and to purchase tickets, visit https://www.swallowcharity.org/
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Radstock Town Council has secured the former Trinity Methodist Church for use by the community
Trinity Methodist Church was built in 1902
with their final service taking place in January 2022
which consisted of two churches in Westfield and Radstock
first announced one of their churches could close in June 2021
Both churches had a combined congregation size of around 53 at the time
making it difficult to find funds to keep both buildings open
An online petition - which gathered 546 signatures - was started by Radstock Town Council in March 2022 to save the church for community use
Radstock Town Council has worked with Bath & North East Somerset Council
groups and charities to secure the future of this building for the community
The town council is delighted to confirm that the building
with aspirations to create a community space for local groups and residents situated in the heart of Radstock
Radstock Town Council has worked in close partnership with Bath and North East Somerset Council’s regeneration team to create an action plan focussing on the regeneration of the town centre
One of the key aims of the plan is to protect and develop a central space for the community and expand and improve local services to provide a warm
work has been carried out to support the future development and use of the building
This includes architectural drawings and feasibility studies
Relocation of the town council’s operations
to the building will ensure the long-term viability of Trinity Community Hub
Acquisition of the building has been made possible by a Public Works Board Loan
allocation of funds from the Community Infrastructure Levy and grants from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund
Radstock Town Council is now looking for further funding to support the project
Radstock Town Council said: “An enormous thank you goes to all who have supported the journey to secure Trinity Community Hub and look forward to welcoming local residents to enjoy this much needed community space.”
For further information on Trinity Community Hub and the Radstock Town Council Regeneration Plan, please see the town council; website www.radstock-tc.gov.uk or: contact Radstock Town Council via telephone: 01761 437962 or email: [email protected]
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Radstock Museum's 2025 programme of Bygone Days Talks will start with a captivating presentation by Norman Andrew on the Kilmersdon Colliery and Gravity Incline Railway.
Due to popular demand, Mr Andrew will return after nearly seven years to repeat his presentation on the colliery and railway, which will taking place on Tuesday, February 4, at 7:30pm. The event will be held at The Somer Centre, Midsomer Norton.
As a young train enthusiast in the 1960s, Norman spent his summer holidays with his grandmother in Radstock, where his uncle Bill worked at the Kilmersdon Colliery in Haydon, and he spent countless hours by the railway, riding the little engine Jinty as it hauled coal trucks up the steep incline to the top of the hill above Radstock.
Once the coal trucks reached the top, they were attached to a metal line or rope, and a hand-operated braking mechanism was used to release the full trucks down the slope to the railway sidings in Radstock. The trucks would then be loaded onto trains for transportation to their final destination.
The incline railway worked using a looped metal line, where the weight of the full trucks coming down the hill would pull the empty trucks back up to the top.
This talk will offer a “then and now” look at the Kilmersdon Colliery and the incline, blending Norman’s childhood memories with a recent revisit to the area. Attendees will be able to view many historical slides and footage, including footage of Norman riding in Jinty.
Norman will also share photos showing what remains of the incline railway, which can still be explored between Radstock and Haydon.
Admission is £5, with funds going to Radstock Museum (Charity no: 1151573). No booking is required; simply turn up on the night.
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NORTON Radstock Swimming Club is enjoying life at its new home at Downside School
the club has seen its membership grow in numbers
including welcoming back some returning members
The club has twice increased the amount of pool time it uses since the move
to enable all of its members to access the sessions they want to
The committee have managed to reduce the swim fees now that the financial pressures on the club have been significantly reduced
A majority of NRSC swimmers like to train in a club environment for personal fitness
mental health or social benefits and do not compete for the club at swim meets
NRSC does provide the opportunity to attend meets
they had several swimmers qualify for the Somerset County Championships
with members also qualifying for regional and national championships
Shepton Mallet or the surrounding area and want to train in a swim club environment
NRSC would love to welcome you for a free trial
The club recommend swimmers to have achieved Level 7 of the Swim England Learn To Swim programme
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Five primary schools in Bath and North East Somerset collaborated to celebrate Easter through a virtual event, using music and sign language to connect children from different communities.
Five primary schools in Bath and North East Somerset have come together to take part in a virtual Easter celebration, uniting children from different communities through music and sign language.
The Church of England schools in Bath, Cameley, Farmborough, Marksbury and Radstock have filmed their own version of ‘Sign Your Cross’ by Nick and Becky Drake to share with family and friends.
The five schools — Cameley CEVC Primary and Nursery in Temple Cloud, Farmborough C of E VC Primary, Marksbury C of E Primary, St Mary’s C of E Primary and Nursery in Writhlington, and Weston All Saints CE Primary in Bath — are all members of The Partnership Trust, a multi-academy trust that oversees 17 schools across Bath and North East Somerset and Somerset.
They are also part of the Diocese of Bath and Wells, sharing a commitment to Christian values and collaborative learning.
With rising transport costs, and the rural location of some of the schools, it was proving difficult for all five to meet together and share an Easter service. The headteachers, and the partnership trust’s director of school improvement, Vicky Dupras, came up with the idea of sharing a virtual celebration instead, following the success of a similar initiative last Christmas.
Vicky said: “One of the benefits of being a multi-academy trust is that we can share ideas and resources. Although the five church schools couldn’t celebrate in person, by learning and filming ‘Sign Your Cross’ they can be united by song this Easter.”
Effie-Mae, from Year 4 at St Mary’s C of E School in Writhlington, said: “I think singing together as a whole school feels like a big family in one room.
“I feel excited and happy when I’m singing: It makes me feel good. The Easter song fits well with our Christian Values. Learning sign language really helps explain the words in the song.”
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Scrub management is taking place throughout January in Midsomer Norton Town Park and Haydon Batch by Somer Valley Reimagined
Contractors in Midsomer Norton are removing some areas of vegetation on the slopes of the batch
along with a small section along the batch footpaths
In Haydon Batch the contractors are focussing on removing scrub on a south westerly facing slope
The work in Midsomer Norton is currently taking place
The work in Haydon Batch takes place next week
Midsomer Norton Town Park Batch and Haydon Batch are fantastic areas for species-rich grassland
over the years scrub species such as hawthorn
bramble and dogrose have gradually been taking up larger areas of the batches
and if left unchecked would shade out the grassland and reduce the number of plant species found
This work is being undertaken as grasslands are less common than both scrub and woodland
yet they provide vital habitats for valuable ecosystems that include diverse flowering plants
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
Areas of scrub and woodland edges will be left around the grassland areas to serve as forage and refuge for birds
This work is funded is funded by Westfield Parish Council
West of England Mayoral Combined Authority
Visitors are asked to take care when visiting the sites
Keep dogs on leads and be mindful of contractors and machinery at work
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despite plans to implement them this month
The proposal to bring in the new parking fees began in early 2024 when Bath and North East Somerset Council decided it could roll them out as part of measures to reduce pollution
the council announced in October 2024 that Midsomer Norton and Radstock would retain two hours of free parking
the council told the Midsomer Norton and Radstock Journal on Thursday (January 16) it is yet to finalise a start date for the controversial new charges - creating uncertainty for residents and businesses
A B&NES Council spokesperson said: “Following feedback from the public consultation
Midsomer Norton and Radstock car parks will continue to offer free parking with a two-hour time limit and a reduced tariff for longer stays
READ MORE: Public outcry leads to changes in Midsomer Norton parking charge plans
READ MORE: 'Our lives won't function' if severe needs care home close, says devastated parent
“These changes will be introduced later this month alongside emission-based parking charges at all council-owned car parks
Air quality in Bath and North East Somerset is improving
we know it’s a concern for people living here and the changes to parking charges is another step to improve it
“We want to reduce congestion, change behaviours and encourage more sustainable ways to travel. However, we are not able to confirm a date as of yet.”
The council introduced the new charges to Bath in 2024
The reception towards these measures has been mixed
Some residents and local businesses have expressed concerns
labelling the charges as a "tax on the poor" arguing they disproportionately affect those who rely on older
Midsomer Norton) said: “The introduction of emission-based charges is simply a tax on the poorest - those who rely on a car but cannot afford the latest fuel efficient or electric vehicle
“Within our area cars are a necessity not a luxury
with many of our residents on low income and needing a car for work and to access essential services such as banks
professional services and to support local shops
For those on a low income working in our High Street this will add an unnecessary financial burden at a time when household budgets are stressed.”
“The Liberal Democrats claim they are doing this to protect us from emissions but has no data to support it
Midsomer Norton does not have an issue with high levels of emissions and no air quality reports or data has been gathered to demonstrate otherwise.”
All emission-based charge tariffs will be published on the council’s parking and travel webpages when they go live but can be viewed now in the outcome report from the public consultation on the council’s website.
Visit https://www.bathnes.gov.uk/parkingchargereview for more information regarding on going changes to parking charges here.
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A huge blaze has broken out at an industrial estate in Somerset, triggering a significant emergency response.
Newsletter Sign upGet your latest local news for free in your email inboxSubmit I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Midsomer Norton, Radstock & District Journal. Read our privacy noticeA large fire has broken out at Haydon Industrial Estate in Radstock this afternoon (Friday
sending huge clouds of black smoke into the air
A local resident who lives nearby said: “The smoke was so thick and high it blocked out the sun for a moment
Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service has confirmed that crews are on the scene and actively working to bring the fire under control
Further updates will follow as more information becomes available
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THE Museum of Somerset Coalfield Life in Radstock is seeking new trustees to support its ongoing work and development
Individuals are invited to contribute four to six hours per week and play an active role in the operation of this award-winning centre
focused on preserving and showcasing the history of the Somerset coalfield
While no prior experience as a trustee is required
previous business and other relevant experience would be beneficial
Candidates will join an established team of current trustees
The museum’s trustees are all volunteers who dedicate their time and expertise to ensure the smooth operation and continued success of this vital local resource
helping to preserve and share history with the community
One of the trustee roles that needs to be filled is that of company secretary
The current secretary is stepping down in November 2025 and will be available to work with their replacement throughout the year
with a view to handing over responsibility at the 2025 AGM
The current chair is stepping down next March
While this role may be taken by an existing trustee
we would like to hear from anyone interested in becoming a trustee who has held a similar role themselves
People who have an interest in local heritage and would like to help shape its future, or who would like further information, are asked to email Simon Carter, chair of Trustees, at [email protected].
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Westfield and Midsomer Norton last month – with thieves breaking into properties to steal car keys
three men dressed in dark clothes broke into two houses and stole car keys
They attempted to break into a third property but were unsuccessful
They subsequently used the car keys to gain access to vehicles parked on the victims’ drives and stole them
One of the three stolen vehicles has since been recovered and enquiries are ongoing to locate the other two stolen vehicles
The incidents took place in Holly Walk in Radstock
said: “We understand that incidents like this can be incredibly distressing for many people
“We are working with our colleagues in the Neighbourhood Policing Team to carry out patrols in the area and ask anyone who sees anything suspicious to get in touch
“We are doing everything we can to investigate these crimes
or have any relevant footage of Holly Walk
call 101 and quote the appropriate reference for the road you are calling about: 5224226002 (Holly Walk)
5224225890 (Beauchamp Avenue) or 5224225639 (Waterside Road)
You can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers 100 per cent anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via their Anonymous Online Form
information cannot be traced or recorded and you will not go to court or have to speak to police when contacting Crimestoppers
PLANS to end free parking in Midsomer Norton and Radstock have been ‘watered down’ after a public outcry and plans to charge motorbikes and scooters to park have been scrapped altogether.
Last December, Bath and North East Somerset Council announced plans to extend emissions-based parking charges, similar to those in Bath, to free car parks in Midsomer Norton and Radstock and to introduce parking fees for motorbikes.
However, locals in Midsomer Norton warned that the charges would “kill the town,” and independent councillor Shaun Hughes for Midsomer Norton North described them as “a tax on the poor.”
Now the council has said that the charges will come into force in January 2025 but that changes have been made following public feedback. Charges for Midsomer Norton and Radstock’s currently free car parks will be lower than what had been proposed, and people will be able to park for free for two hours.
Plans to charge motorbikes for parking have also been dropped. Members of the Motorcycle Action Group had ridden to the district to warn the council that the charges would be “disproportionate” and would see them pay more to park than some more polluting cars. But the council plans on looking again at charging motorbikes through a separate consultation in future.
Manda Rigby, the council’s cabinet member for highways, said: “We’ve had great feedback from our consultation, and I’d like to thank all those that took the time to share their views with us. We’ve listened and made changes to what was originally put forward and will now introduce two hours free parking in Midsomer Norton and Radstock car parks with a reduced tariff for longer stays.
“Parking at Midsomer Norton’s South Road car park and the Church Street and Waterloo Road car parks in Radstock will cost 10p less than parking in Keynsham. Three hours parking will cost between £1.20 and £1.80, depending on how polluting your vehicle is.
“You don’t need to know your vehicle’s emissions to park. Pay and display machines automatically retrieve emissions data from the DVLA and apply charges based on carbon output. If emissions information isn’t available, the charge is determined by engine size instead.
“Despite the changes to the plan, Mr Hughes said the council were still “not listening.” He said: “The public have made it clear. Over 4,000 responses that they don’t want the parking changes, it will damage the town and they have just ignored it.”
Some 4,322 people responded to the council’s consultation on the parking charges, as well as two signed petitions. 80% of respondents said they were opposed to rolling out emissions-based parking charges to all council paid for parking.
The highest levels of opposition were for parking charges to be rollout out to the free car parks in Midsomer Norton and Radstock, where 82% and 80% respectively of respondents were opposed to charges being introduced. Just 7% supported it in the two car parks.
Three quarters of respondents expressed concerns about air quality and its impact on health, while 58% felt it important to tackle and improve air quality.
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POLICE have announced a road has closed due to an ‘incident’ in Radstock.
Emergency services are currently dealing with an incident near the car wash on the A367 Bath New Road in Radstock.
Bath and North East Somerset Neighbourhood Policing confirmed the incident on Facebook this afternoon (October 23).
Police added in the post: “The road is closed from the junction with Bath New road along the A367 to the junction with Skinners Hill. There is no access to this section of road, please avoid the area.”
In a further statement, Avon and Somerset Police said “The A367 Bath New Road is closed near Radstock following a two-car collision which happened just before 2pm on Wednesday 23 October. Emergency services are at the scene.
"Four people have reported injuries but thankfully none are currently being described by the ambulance service as either life-threatening or life-changing. The road remains closed between its junctions with Bath Old Road and Smallcombe Road, Clandown pending recovery of the vehicles."
They also clarified that all vehicles were recovered from the site by 4:22pm, and that those injured have been taken to hospital.
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woven from prehistoric times through the Roman era and into the industrial age
numerous archaeological finds have shed light on the region's vibrant past
offering glimpses into the lives of its ancient inhabitants
The remains of Roman roads and possible villa sites highlight the strategic importance of this location in ancient times
and indicate the area's prosperity and its connections to broader Roman trade networks
Frome, with its narrow streets and historic buildings, has long fascinated historians and archaeologists alike. The town's origins date back to the Saxon era, and numerous finds have provided insights into its early development.
Frome's medieval past is also well-documented through archaeological finds. Excavations in the town center have revealed remnants of medieval buildings, pottery, and everyday items, painting a vivid picture of life in a bustling market town during the Middle Ages.
Radstock, once a thriving coal mining town, has a different but equally fascinating archaeological narrative. The town's industrial heritage is evident in the remains of its once-prominent coal mines and associated infrastructure.
Archaeological surveys in Radstock have uncovered the remnants of 19th-century mine buildings, railways, and workers' cottages. These finds provide a tangible connection to the town's role in the Industrial Revolution and its impact on the local community.
A particularly significant discovery in Radstock was the unearthing of a medieval settlement beneath the modern town. This earlier layer of habitation included building foundations, pottery shards, and agricultural tools, indicating that Radstock's history extends far beyond its industrial era.
The archaeological finds in Midsomer Norton, Frome, and Radstock are more than just remnants of the past; they are vital pieces of the puzzle that help us understand the historical trajectory of Somerset.
Local museums, such as the Radstock Museum and Frome Museum, play a crucial role in preserving and displaying these artefacts, making history accessible to the public. They provide educational opportunities and foster a deeper appreciation for the region's rich heritage.
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Ending free parking in two towns will “unfairly affect the poorest” and is like something the Sheriff of Nottingham would do
A bid to stop new parking charges in Midsomer Norton and Radstock was voted down at a full meeting of Bath and North East Somerset Council on November 21
The council will now introduce parking charges to the currently free Church Road and Waterloo Road car parks
The new charges will be “emissions-based” where cars are charged an additional amount based on how polluting the engine is
This policy is in use in council car parks in Bath but rolling it out to the Somer Valley towns has been controversial
Independent) told the council meeting: “The emissions based charges are
putting an additional charge on people who can’t afford the latest electric vehicle
These people work primarily in low income jobs — they work in hospitality
But these are the people who need to be able to park all day.”
Labour) added: “We are going to see this unjust charge unfairly affect the poorest people who can’t afford to get a posh electric car
“I think we are going to need that great Yorkshireman again
because he contested the system of taxing the poor and the money being carried off by the wealthy
Introducing a motion to suspend the introduction of the parking charges
Mr Hughes said: “The reason this motion is here is because our businesses and their staff are genuinely in fear of losing their livelihoods
“A lot of our residents struggle not to be stranded and isolated through the lack of public transport.”
Conservative) warned the council the charges might not even make it any money
Cabinet member for highways at B&NES Councillor Manda Rigby (Bathwick
said: “We acknowledge each of our areas within Bath and North East Somerset is unique
“We therefore spent time and money consulting to be able to amend our proposals in the light of feedback
in the light of listening to feedback there will be two free hours parking provided in Midsomer Norton and Radstock and a 25 per cent reduction to the proposed hourly charge
“This reduces the financial impact of the proposals on the motorists using the council car parks while offsetting the costs of running them to the council and the residents.”
She said giving people two hours of free parking would cost the council £31k, which it hopes to recover through increased car park use.
Mr Hughes said: “This is going to do irreversible harm to our economy in Midsomer Norton without any justifiable benefits.”
The motion to suspend the introduction of the charges was voted down by 29 votes to 16.
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The final four Labour candidates left in the race to be the party’s candidate at next year’s West of England metro mayor election can be revealed.
Former Bristol city councillors and members of ex-mayor Marvin Rees’s cabinet, Nicola Beech and Helen Godwin, Bath and North East Somerset Cllr Lesley Mansell, who finished second in the inaugural election behind Conservative Tim Bowles, and Bristol opposition Labour group leader Cllr Tom Renhard remain in contention.
Both South Gloucestershire councillors who threw their hats in the ring, cabinet member Cllr Sean Rhodes and backbencher Cllr Ian Scott, fell at the first hurdle when they were eliminated by the selection panel, it is understood.
No announcement has been made but sources have told the Local Democracy Reporting Service that four contenders are left to battle it out to succeed Labour incumbent Dan Norris, who is also MP for North East Somerset and Hanham and therefore cannot stand at the election next May because of new party rules that prevent second jobs in elected office.
The next stage of the internal process is for Constituency Labour Parties and trade unions to nominate their preferred candidate.
This closes on Sunday, October 27, followed by the panel interviewing those who receive at least two nominations before it decides the final shortlist.
Ballots are then issued to local Labour members on Wednesday, November 6, who have two weeks to vote.
Mr Norris narrowly defeated Ms Godwin to be Labour’s candidate at the last poll in 2021.
She resigned her role as a city councillor in December 2021 after joining accountancy consultancy giants PricewaterhouseCoopers.
Ms Beech decided not to seek reelection in May after eight years as a councillor.
Cllr Renhard was previously cabinet member for housing delivery and homelessness before the Greens became the biggest party in the chamber and now lead the authority in a new committee system.
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which is believed to have been started deliberately
was spotted by egaled-eyed neighbours living opposite the grounds who called emergency services immediately
Half of the seats from the home team’s dugout have been destroyed and superficial damage was caused to the grandstand
A traffic cone and debris were left at the stand
Avon and Somerset Police are following up lines of enquiry and confirmed high-visibility patrols will be conducted over coming days
said: “At around 2am I woke up to loud voices and a lot of banging going on
Then around 3-3.30am the lights came on and the fire brigade turned up
someone phoned it in when they did because if it had gone on any longer the whole lot would’ve gone up like a tinderbox
“The biggest worry of course is that those resposnible could return and cause more damage.”
said the emergency services “arrived at just the right time” and went on to explain how the damage could have been much worse
the trees surrounding would’ve caught fire
possibly part of the fence and potentially the clubhouse as well
“It just doesn’t bare thinking about what could’ve happened.”
Police attended the scene along with crews from Avon Fire and Rescue Service
Avon and Somerset Police issued the following statement: “Police were called to support fire crews attending Radstock Town Football Club in Southfield at about 3am on Tuesday
“The local neighbourhood team is planning to conduct high-visibility patrols in the coming days.”
Radstock Town Football Club hopes to erect more fencing around the perimeter of the grounds to prevent future incidents.
Police enquiries are continuing and anyone with any information is asked to call 101 and give the reference 5224156841.
Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers 100 percent anonymously by calling 0800 555 111, or online at https://crimestoppers-uk.org/give-information
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