The December Committee meeting had a rather different format from usual as we welcomed our local councillors, Ian Gilchrist and Jasper Becker, and two of the Beechen Cliff School governors, Phil de Glanville and Gavin Lewis. In addition, following our open invitation to all WA members, there were ten observers at the meeting. The majority of the time was spent on just two topics, the Beechen Cliff School Masterplan (pictured) and the Improving Widcombe initiative.
Beechen Cliff School Masterplan
In the light of the recent planning application for new classrooms at the school, we invited Phil de Glanville, School Governor in charge of the Masterplan, to answer our questions on how this fits in with the Plan as we currently understand it. Phil gave us some background to the development of the Masterplan and explained that this new block of eight classrooms will provide teaching space during the period taken to extend the existing buildings. In due course, this new building will be converted to a Sports Pavilion (as seen on extreme right of picture). The committee requested that, during the implementation of the Plan, the School take into account any effect on the Bath Skyline, in particular any effect due to light pollution. We also discussed opportunities for the school to engage with the local community.
Improving Widcombe
Mike Wrigley reported that, following initial meetings earlier in the year, twelve groups had been identified to work on different areas of benefit to Widcome. These all come under the broad headings of ‘Entry to Widcombe’, ‘Environment and Planning’, ‘Transport’ and ‘Widcombe Parade’. Of the groups, ten are up and running and the last two about to get going. Whilst the groups act independently, they will report back to the committee periodically. We have already had a report from the Railway Group and the Cycling Group will be reporting at our January meeting. Our local councillors are each members of at least one of these groups and this was a good opportunity to share our aspirations with them and to explore how they can help us in the future with this venture. If you would like to join one of these groups, or learn more, please contact me and I will pass on your interest.
I would also like to draw your attention to the following:
Chairman’s Charities Gala –‘An Evening of Beaus and Belles’
As Chair of Council for the year up to May 2016, Ian Gilchrist is supporting the following charities: Julian House, the Quartet foundation and the Bath Cancer Unit Support Group.
The next event in support of these charities is a Gala on Saturday February 6th in the Banqueting Hall of the Guildhall. Tickets are only £45 and include cocktails, dinner and lavish entertainment on a Georgian theme to be provided by students of Bath Spa University. Tickets can be obtained by contacting Paula Bartlett (01225-394235) or emailing Chair_office@bathnes.gov.uk.
Widcombe Calendar
Our lovely new 2016 Widcombe Calendar is selling fast, so hurry to get yours before we run out! It is on sale at Flamingo in Widcombe Parade, and Prior Park Garden Centre, or you can contact Helen Peter for your copies. Helen Peter (01225 334936). hpeterwidcombe@gmail.com
We are always glad to hear your thoughts, ideas and comments.
Liz Littlewood (Secretary)