Supporting our Armed Forces, Black History Month and a Gruffalo appearance at Bath Central Library I want to start my update by being absolutely clear that there is no intent at all for Bath to relinquish its unique double inscribed World Heritage status. Indeed, we want to work with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) on creating a city that is an exemplar to the world on how heritage can be protected, whilst tackling the growing need for affordable homes. Everyone agrees there Is a desperate need for more affordable houses in Bath and across the UK. These homes are best placed in areas that already have good transport links, and have the capacity to be designed to the best environmental levels, making them cheap to live in. To that end we are and will continue to apply pressure on central government to liaise with the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS)/UNESCO on the best way to protect the uniqueness of Bath, without limiting its capacity to grow and adapt to our changing environment. Earlier this week I was pleased to receive a letter from the Secretary of State for Defence, Wes Streeting, encouraging councils to help raise awareness of the final call to reach veterans affected by the historic ban on LGBT personnel serving in His Majesty’s Armed Forces between 1967 and 2000. It is an important reminder that we must never stop working to ensure everyone is treated with dignity and respect. Many people who served our country experienced discrimination simply for being who they were. We owe them our gratitude and support, and I encourage anyone who may be eligible, or who knows someone affected, to find out more about the help available through the Financial Recognition Scheme. October is Black History Month, providing an opportunity to honour and celebrate Black communities and to reflect on the rich histories that shape modern Britain. One event of particular significance locally this year is the commemoration of 90 Years of Ethiopia in Bath, centred around Fairfield House and the remarkable story of Emperor Haile Selassie I and the Ethiopian Royal Family's time in our city. Through this Bath has a unique connection to global history and the enduring legacy of Fairfield House is an important centre of heritage and learning. Our libraries will also be playing a key role in bringing people together this autumn. Across Bath and North East Somerset, libraries continue to offer far more than books, with activities for children and families, reading initiatives, community events, support services and opportunities to learn new skills. Whether you're a lifelong reader or looking for something new to discover, I encourage you to visit our libraries and see what's on. And speaking of libraries, we recently enjoyed a real coup when Bath Central Library welcomed children's author Julia Donaldson and illustrator Axel Scheffler for a surprise Gruffalo Granny event. Young visitors had the chance to hear stories, watch live illustrations and even meet the Gruffalo himself. I was delighted to see our library hosting such a magical experience. Events like this show the vital role our libraries play in inspiring imagination, building confidence and fostering a lifelong love of learning. Have a great weekend. Councillor Kevin Guy,
Leader of Bath & North East Somerset Council | 
