Remembrance, Royal Victoria Park, Roads and the Chew Valley Hoard
This weekend many of us will come together across Bath and North East Somerset to honour those who have served and sacrificed.
Having served in the Royal Navy and as the Member Advocate for Armed Forces and Veterans, Remembrance Sunday and Remembrance Day on Wednesday November 11 are very important to me personally.
Freedom and democracy cannot be taken for granted, so please take time to reflect on the ultimate sacrifice so many young men and women made so we can live in a tolerant and free world. For those who want to attend a Remembrance event in Bath, Keynsham, Midsomer Norton and the Chew Valley details are available on our newsroom.
Over the past few weeks there have been two issues that residents have been raising with me – the work that is happening in Royal Victoria Park and the disruption caused by roadworks across the area. I’d like to address both.
I know how much the park means to people, and I want to make sure your views are heard too. That is why senior officers and I met a group of residents today to talk about the park. We listened carefully to their concerns and as an example we put forward the option of extended free parking on Sundays. We felt this could address some of their issues but those residents attending didn’t agree.
There is however, a lot we agree on. The park is a shared space, and we all want it to remain a wonderful place for residents and visitors. People have different views about how to achieve that, which is why we need a renewed focus on developing a shared vision.
In the short term, the council, with input from a new partnership, will review the current improvement works after they have been in place for a year. We intend to bring together the park’s existing valued volunteer groups, community interests, councillors and the council through a partnership. Its initial focus would be to develop a shared vision, providing a clear framework for future priorities. It would also explore how residents and volunteers can play an even greater role in the park’s future.
I also know how frustrating it has been trying to get around Bath recently. It is clear that having so many schemes happening together has caused real disruption.
We’re doing everything we reasonably can to get the current works finished, including additional contractor shifts where possible. The main schemes, including the Manvers Street vaults work, are on track to finish this month.
There are reasons why so much work has happened at once, including delays caused by the extreme summer heat, subcontractor problems and unexpected utilities work. But none of that changes the impact on us all and I apologise for the disruption that these have caused.
Finally, it was fantastic to learn that one of the most significant treasure discoveries ever made in England will go on display at The Roman Baths in January. It is the first time The Chew Valley Hoard: Coins, Kings & Conquest will go on public display outside London marking milestone for Bath & North East Somerset.
Have a good weekend
Councillor Kevin Guy,
Leader of Bath & North East Somerset Council | 
