The Knowledge - Spring 2022 by Knowle West

SPRING 2022

www.knowlewest.co.uk

In partnership with Knowle West Alliance

Western Slopes. Picture Danica Priest.

Community demonstrates value of green space as two housing plans shelved Knowle West residents who came together to “demonstrate the value” of green space are celebrating their success – with the council shelving two housing schemes in the area. And community groups are now looking forward to seeing how these spaces on the Western Slopes (Novers Hill) and at Knowle West Health Park can be used and improved for people to enjoy. Bristol City Council announced earlier this year, following an ecological report, that controversial proposals for new homes on the Slopes would be scaled down to protect “the important wildlife corridor”. The land was originally earmarked by Goram Homes for 360 houses on the southern part of the site, which is council-owned.

New building for Youth Moves p 18

The developer has now been allocated a smaller area of brownfield land on the old school site near Belstone Walk and part of the stables – where around 70 homes can be built. The council will also be holding a public consultation with South Bristol residents to discuss the Western Slopes in the spring. Friends of the Western Slopes, a group battling to save the nature-rich site, says members are “proud and relieved” - and want it to be officially named a Site of Nature Conservation Interest. Continued on p 2

Members of Friends of the Western Slopes meeting Avon Wildlife Trust. Picture Ed Cheney.

Health Park users celebrate their green space is saved p 2

Who are we?

fficially launched in spring 2019, the Knowle West Alliance is a growing network of local residents, organisations and business.

What do we do?

nowle West Alliance (KWA) is about working together - we collaborate and we support each other.  We believe that everyone has something to contribute, and we seek out opportunities for people to have a say on things that matter to them. We know that people have different opinions about what is important,

Working Group Voices Emily Culblaith

I've been a resident of Knowle since 2004 and I’ve got children who go to school locally. I became a member of the Alliance because I wanted to be more involved in the community and see if I could give back. I was also (Continued from front page) A spokesperson said: “Our ultimate goal is to have all of the Slopes declared a nature reserve once and for all.” But the group says the fight is not over - with Lovell Homes submitting plans last October for 157 homes on private land to the north of the site. The scheme to build 50 new homes on well-used green space at Knowle West Health Park on Downton Road was dropped at the same time – following intense local opposition. A Bristol City Council spokesperson said: “In response to feedback from two public consultations, Knowle West Health Park will be removed from the pipeline of sites allocated to Goram Homes, and the council will no longer pursue the development of this site…”

Everyone is welcome and we believe that by working together, we can achieve more. We currently have two part-time employees - Lucy Holburn (Alliance Coordinator) and Frances Coates (Community Development Worker). Our Working Group, made up

of active local residents and workers, meets monthly to direct the Alliance work. Representatives of the founding organisations (re:work, KWMC, The Health Park, The Park and Filwood Community Centre) provide strategic and practical support.

and that every voice should be heard. We believe in locally-led, grassroots action - which is why we run a Small Grants Programme (see p 3). We believe in the power of a connected community - which is why we are proud to partner with so many residents, local groups and organisations; providing support and opportunities to come together,

learn and take action about important local issues.    Everyone is welcome, anyone who wants the best for Knowle West is part of the picture – together we are better! #WeAreKnowleWest

www.knowlewestalliance.co.uk

concerned about all the planning coming through and our green spaces. The Alliance is great because it encompasses lots of groups. I love the people in Knowle West because they’re nice and friendly. When I help deliver The Knowledge, I get to stop and meet residents I wouldn’t normally talk to. Some of the local children have now started to help me with delivery! The Knowle West Health Park Community group was set up to fight the plans for the site - popular with people exercising, children and dog walkers. Founder Rhiannan Searle said: “…The community came together and demonstrated clearly the value of the Health Park.” CEO of Knowle West Health Park Company, Heather Williams, thanked organisations in the Health Park and users “for their commitment to challenge the development.” She said it was important those who gave their views continued to use the green space and ensured it was “developed as a brilliant outdoor space for the community for many decades to come.”

Green space at the Health Park used by the community.

Knowle West Alliance Thrive Funding Last year Knowle West Alliance secured Thrive funding for local activities to improve wellbeing and tackle social isolation. Between September 2021 and March 2022, we were able to award grassroot grants to 13 local projects. These included building a new potting shed in the Inns Court Kitchen Garden, wellbeing activities for the Fun & Fab group (based at the Healthy Living

Centre) and helping to fund the development of a new community garden at Belfast Walk (see p 10). We also supplied resources for Filwood Community Market, The Inns Court Residents Group and the Northern Slopes Initiative - to support the valuable role they all play in bringing people together. You can find out more about some of these projects on the KW Alliance YouTube channel. To add to this focus on wellbeing, local workers, volunteers and community activists were offered a variety of free mental health

upgrades for The Sprint, new computer equipment for the IT room at Filwood Community Community Infrastructure Levy Centre and funding for Inns Court (CIL) money is paid to the council Residents Group for the two by developers to be spent on the green spaces they’re working on city’s infrastructure. as well as double yellow lines on Some 15 per cent of this money The Bridleway. is allocated to community projects The deadline for proposals for - and local organisations can the next round is 4 April. For more apply for this funding. information, visit: www.bristol.gov. Last year, four projects in uk/people-communities/ Filwood were successful - vehicle funding-local-projects

training workshops. To find out more about KW Alliance Small Grants, visit our website: www. knowlewestalliance.co.uk/grants/

Children from CTK school enjoying their outdoor area - funded from a Filwood Fantastic/KWA Small Grant.

CIL money for local projects

Celebrating Diversity in Knowle West! Local resident, Jamila Morris, is organising a diversity fun day in April at Filwood Community Centre to celebrate the many cultures in Knowle West. Come along and enjoy entertainment, stalls and Caribbean food along with children’s activities and games and a raffle. Everyone is welcome! Community drop-ins Knowle West Alliance is running monthly drop-ins around the community – with the first one launched at the Novers Café in February. Claire John who runs the café said: “We enjoyed the drop-in at the Novers Park Community Centre very much. It was lovely to see different people - hopefully we can do a few more at the club and bring in more people.”

Members of Inns Court Residents group working on a green space in the area.

The event takes place on Saturday For more info about either of these projects email: frances. 23 April from 1 – 4.30pm. Are you a Muslim living in Knowle coates@kwalliance.co.uk. West? Local residents Naima Abdillahi Ahmed and Fatoumata Ba are organising monthly events to bring Muslim families together to get to know one another in a friendly environment while the children play. They are hoping to organise an Eid party at the beginning of May. Naima Abdillahi Ahmed

If you're a local resident, pop along for a chat and a free cuppa. Share your ideas, find out what else is going on in Knowle West and meet other residents and local community workers. Community drop-ins take place monthly on Tuesdays from 10am – 12pm. Next ones are: Filwood Community Centre on 5 April, Knowle West Media Centre, BS4 1NL on 10 May and Bristol Community Links South, BS4 1TN, on 7 June.

Community drop-in at Novers Cafe

COVID Information The Knowle West Alliance COVID Support Hub remains open - if you need help to self-isolate contact us via the We Are Bristol (free) phone number – 0800 694 0184. Massive and ongoing thanks to all of the generous volunteers helping with shopping, dog walking and prescription collection. #WeAreKnowleWest

Keeping our community safe The evidence tells us: • Wearing a face covering reduces the chance of infection. • Testing identifies positive cases as well as people who are positive and have no symptoms. • Isolation of positive cases prevents it spreading further. • Fresh air and ventilation reduces the spread of COVID. • Vaccination reduces harm and saves lives. Let’s continue to protect ourselves and others: •

Get vaccinated and get your booster dose.

•

Consider wearing a face covering in crowded, enclosed space.

•

If you meet indoors, open the windows. Meeting outdoors is safer.

•

Get tested and self-isolate if required.

For up-to-date information and to book your vaccine: https://bnssghealthiertogether.org.uk/book-your-vaccine/covid/ For up-to-date COVID information: https://www.bristol.gov.uk/coronavirus/what-you-need-to-know

PLANNING

ew plans for the £150 million redevelopment of Broadwalk Shopping Centre could see the existing centre and carpark demolished and transformed into a “community hub”. Under the mixed-use scheme the centre would be renamed Redcatch Quarter and up to 800 homes would be built in multi-storey apartment blocks. The proposals also include a small supermarket, shops and cafes as well as a new pedestrianised street between Wells Road and Redcatch Park. The Redcatch Development Partnership says it is hoping to transform the “tired” Broadwalk Shopping Centre into a “new, vibrant destination” which would see the “biggest investment in Knowle in a generation”.

Unveiling the plans, project manager Francis Hilton said: “We are determined to bring forward this scheme and ensure that the next 50 years sees a fantastic heart to Knowle.” Built in the 1970s, Broadwalk currently houses stores such as B & M Bargains, Iceland and Poundland. It is not yet known which shops will remain – but developers say the pharmacy, library and dental practice will have space in the scheme. The original £100 million plans for the centre were given outline planning permission by Bristol City Council in March 2019 but were only for the rear of the centre. Developers say the new plans will work to “key parameters set from the previous consent” that includes the access, height of the apartment blocks and amount of affordable housing.

Image: Redcatch Development Partnership.

Plans for £150m redevelopment of Broadwalk Shopping Centre

A major part of the development would be encouraging sustainable transport to the centre. To find out more visit www.redcatch quarter.com, the consultation banners in Broadwalk Shopping Centre or call 0117 441 4004. The consultation ends on 25 March - with proposals due to be submitted in the spring, when people will still be able to comment on the council’s planning portal. If plans are accepted, work on the centre would start next year. Full story: www.knowlewest.co.uk

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reCREATE FILWOOD Update on the Community-led co-design for Filwood Broadway

Session 2: Co:Design - Ideas into reality A second workshop, in March, will develop ideas for making Filwood Broadway a more attractive and welcoming local high street.

Session 1: What is Urban Design? On Saturday 22 January BS4 residents joined Create Streets and the Council to discuss what they liked and disliked about Filwood Broadway and other high streets that have been improved across the country.

Community consultation will start in April on the ideas developed in the Co-Design workshop.

supported by Create Streets Foundation, Filwood Broadway Working Group and Bristol City Council

With a good turnout, it was an interesting day thinking about what makes somewhere a great place that you want to be in. For more information visit:www.bit.ly/KnowleWestRegen

Get involved Come along to the Filwood Broadway

Working Group. Contact:Filwood21@aol.com

Reopening High Streets Safely/Welcome back Fund delivered with funding from

Get ready for Bristol’s Clean Air Zone

Summer 2022

Bristol is introducing a Clean Air Zone to reduce harmful pollution. Older and more polluting vehicles will be charged to enter the zone. Check your vehicle online and find out how we can help you prepare for the zone.

bristol.gov.uk/cleanairzone

PLANNING New sixth form block for local school set to open in May A new sixth form block for a Knowle West school is set to open this May – and will include an Independent Living Home for pupils to stay in. The new building at Knowle DGE in Leinster Avenue, developed by Skanska, will include five tutor rooms, a sports hall and science lab as well as rooms for cooking, design technology and life skills, a construction workshop and yard. It will also have a library, multiprofessional spaces and a full working kitchen.

Knowle DGE is a specialist Academy for young people with additional needs and currently has 156 pupils from primary aged from seven to 18. Knowle DGE Assistant Head Matt Franzke said: “The sixth form will be complemented with an Independent Living Home used by each student several

While there will be new play areas built within the Boklok (Airport Road) site and Curo Following community concern development at Broadbury Road about potential loss of play spaces – these will not be MUGAs. - the council is exploring possible Plans have been submitted by new sites for a multi-use games Live West for 29 homes on the area (MUGA) and how it might be former swimming pool site at funded. Filwood Broadway – where there Last year local youth and children’s is a popular MUGA used by local groups wrote letters to the Mayor young people and youth groups. of Bristol Marvin Rees - asking for At present there is no requirement developments to increase play to replace it. spaces and improve existing ones. A council spokesperson said

Council exploring new site for Multi-Use Games Area

South Bristol Youth Zone

there were conversations going ahead recognising the strong local feeling but there were no confirmed details at the moment.

Young people using the MUGA on Filwood Broadway. Picture StreetSpace.

the proposal to build a Youth Zone in the area. The spokesperson added: “Whilst there were many views put forward on the specific location proposed, it’s welcoming to see that 72 per cent of people who responded agreed with locating the Zone behind Inns Court...” The council will now draft a full business case using the consultation feedback – with a final decision taken by Cabinet later this year. For more planning information see insert: Update on Planning Developments in Knowle West. Picture: OneSide

A final decision on the proposed £8.4 million South Bristol Youth Zone to be built in Knowle West is set to be taken by Bristol City Council later this year. This follows consultations by both the council and OnSide which are developing the facility, working in partnership with local charity Youth Moves. The planned site is near Hengrove Way roundabout, at the back of Inns Court and the Youth Zone would be designed to offer “a safe space” for children and young people. It would be open seven days a week out of school hours offering 20 different sports, arts and leisure activities every session - as well as youth

support services. A meeting was also held with residents in February to address some concerns which included lack of consultation about the chosen locality, access, noise and loss of green space. But many youth workers and residents welcome the idea of having a world class facility for local young people on their doorstep. A spokesperson for Bristol City Council said the consultation results clearly showed “overwhelming support for the idea”, with 86 per cent of respondents agreeing with

weeks a term to develop their independence and preparation for living in the community. “The home will feel like a small shared house with adult support to help develop cooking, budgeting, employment and living skills…” He said sixth form students had been on regular site visits to “become familiar with their new home and to learn more about the construction industry and the possible employment opportunities.” The new building is set to open late May but will be handed to the school for the day on 24 March to host a Careers and Aspirations event.

Local voices New kitchen and food shop planned for Filwood Broadway

Picture: The Matthew Tree Project

A local charity has plans to launch a kitchen and food shop on Filwood Broadway – which would also provide volunteering and skills training programmes for local people. The Matthew Tree Project (TMTP) has been based in Knowle West since 2013 and runs a city-wide crisis support programme, Rebuilding Lives.

The space at 25 Filwood Broadway where the new kitchen and food shop is planned.

Filwood Park The community hub in the new Filwood Park development is due to open to the public in May. This follows the opening of the footpath through the park in February, linking Creswicke Road with Hengrove Way, which closed when work started on the site in August 2017.

www.knowlewest.co.uk Since 2010 it has helped over 12,000 of Bristol’s most vulnerable households and provided the food equivalent of over 2.1m meals. The charity on Filwood Broadway took over the former fruit and vegetable shop across the street in 2016 – where it currently runs a Community Support Hub. The organisation now has plans to extend the work at the Hub and provide a not-for-profit commercial grade production kitchen – RISE Kitchen & Food Shoppe in the premises at 25 Filwood Broadway. This would also feature a small restaurant area and food retail space to offer fresh nutritious meals – with organic produce provided from the charity’s

allotment in Brislington. CEO and Founder of TMTP, Mark Goodway says he is excited the project is finally coming to life. He says: “Our hope is for the local community to get fully involved and, together, we are able to create something really special for the people of Filwood…” To make sure the project meets the needs of local people – the charity is asking for feedback through an online survey. Visit: https://forms.gle/xnWjJ94LboEdkU929 For more information about TMTP visit: www.the-matthewtree-project.org

A spokesperson from Pinnacle Property Management Ltd which is responsible for the hub, said the building would be available for hire between 10am and 6pm for a maximum of three hours for both residents of Filwood Park and non-residents. At present, enquiries about the hub go to info@pinnaclepm.co.uk

the service to Sirona at South Bristol Hospital. At a heated Cabinet meeting Bristol City Council is holding talks in January, Cllr Helen Holland, with staff, trade unions and health Cabinet Member with partners over the decision to close responsibility for Adult Social South Bristol Rehabilitation Centre. Care and Integrated Care The centre at Inns Court has 40 staff System, amended the and provides care and accommodation recommendation to make it an for older people between leaving “in-principle” decision, which hospital and going home. will come back to Cabinet for The planned closure is part of the final sign-off later in the spring. council’s measures to save £19.5 A Bristol City Council million and would mean transfer of spokesperson said this meant Rehab centre closure to be decided in spring

Collections for Ukraine With many residents wanting to show support for Ukrainians at this time – advice is to donate to larger charities running appeals.

These include UNICEF, SOS Children’s Villages, the British Red Cross and Save the Children. Salvation Army United Kingdom and Ireland Territory also has a crisis appeal.

“detailed conversations” could be held with staff, trade unions and health groups “to answer all questions”. Collections of items are also being taken by Boots at Imperial Park and from parents at Ilminster Avenue E-Act Academy.

Local voices Tribute to Harry Bath The Knowle West community has come together to mourn the passing of 21-year-old Harry Bath - a well-loved young man who tragically died following a motorbike accident. Residents raised almost £4,000 to pay for his funeral which took place at South Bristol Crematorium in February and was packed out with over 350 people. And in January, just two days after he passed away, local people came to Inns Court, where he lived - to let off balloons in his memory at Riley’s Park. Harry’s mum Clare Stallard says: “We miss him and we love him. He was very well-loved and liked, everyone loved his smile and his laugh, he was such a polite young man. “You could see just by his funeral and everyone that’s come forward. The church was rammed and everyone had to literally squeeze in like sardines. “He loved life and he loved motorbikes - they were his hobby. “I want to thank all Harry’s family for everything. I also can’t World Cafe event to support young people in Knowle West A World Cafe is coming to Knowle – to find out what young people need as we emerge from COVID-19. At time of going to press, the Invest in K West World Cafe was taking place on the afternoon of 19 March at Filwood Community Centre – with the first 50 to register or turn up receiving £10 in cash. The event has been planned by a group of local young people - supported by MutualGain, Avon and Somerset Police and Bristol City Council. World Cafes are a way of starting a conversation with the

thank the community enough and the support has been amazing. I’m proud to say I come from Knowle West.” The family are determined his memory will live on – and have had hoodies made inscribed with “In loving memory of Harry”. They are also hoping his name can be carved into the Tree of Life sculpture in the play park at Inns Court by the artist - where one of Harry’s friends is also remembered. Leigh Badman, who started the fundraiser for Harry, said he wanted to “give him the best send-off possible” and take a bit of pressure off his family. He wrote: “Harry was a lovely, cheerful, happy lad who had his whole life ahead of him, he would help anyone he could public – and use an informal cafe setting for people to explore an issue. Andrew Fisher from Mutual Gain – which empowers organisations and communities to “reconnect in the social space” - said they were hoping to have around 100 participants – including young people, families and those who work with young people. He said: “We are looking to capture their views, insights and ideas within the vibrant and dynamic environment of a World Cafe…” Following the event – MutualGain will look at all the feedback generated. The organisation has £18,000 to offer to young people in the

www.knowlewest.co.uk and had a heart of gold so I’m asking people to help him if they can…” As well as rallying round with donations, tributes have also been pouring in from family, friends and the wider community. One read: “So sad, taken far too young. Sending my love, Rest in peace Harry I know our granf will look after you up there! Xxx” A Facebook group has also been created in memory of Harry: www.facebook.com/ groups/669327757419790 Clare Stallard with Harry’s brother Archie (9) and sister Dolly (7) wearing the tribute hoodies.

Members of the Invest in K West planning group. Image supplied by MutualGain.

area “who have ideas or programmes to address the themes from the World Café.” In June, each project will be presented to around 100 community members who will be given a chance to vote for their favourite. For more information: www.mutual gain.org/invest-in-k-west-world-cafe/ or check out the Facebook page: InvestinKWest Full story www.knowlewest.co.uk

Local voices By Nick Haskins, Chair of Filwood Residents Association I was approached by Carol Casey (community activist) last year - and asked if I’d be interested in looking at a piece of land up for rental from the council to create a community garden. When I went down to Belfast Walk the lane was 8ft foot high in brambles - and when I opened up the gate, I thought it looked like Jurassic Park!

The garden was a jungle at the beginning.

I agreed to have a go and Carol arranged for the Community Payback team to come and clear it. South Bristol’s Policing teams – tackling the issues which matter to local people By Inspector Stephanie McKenna We have had a busy start to the year with some great work being undertaken in south Bristol. Our Neighbourhood and Patrol Teams have been boosted with extra officers to address community issues and local crime trends. We have been hard at work making numerous arrests - including for drug possession and supply; theft and road traffic offences. Our neighbourhood teams have enjoyed attending their local Beat Surgeries and residents’ groups, details of which can be found on our force website. Our priorities in south Bristol for 2022, based on our discussions with you are:

Picture Connor Foster

New Community Garden at Belfast Walk

www.knowlewest.co.uk

Nick and Simon working at the community garden.

They’ve done an absolutely fantastic job. With the help of local resident Simon Foster, I’ve been digging out paths and laying down donated bark chippings. We’ve built a huge patio area and will soon be putting in a large pond. In the coming weeks, we plan to plant 33 fruit trees and three oaks which have been donated to us. If anyone wants to sponsor a tree, they can come and help plant it and have a plaque put on it for a loved one. • To prevent and disrupt drug activity • To support vulnerable drug users, helping them recover from addiction and reduce their need to commit crime to fund drug habits • To expand diversionary pathways and incentives to help people move away from drug taking and dealing • To work with our partners and the community to identify and help young children being exposed to drugs and associated activities We will be sharing our results and good news on the Bristol Neighbourhood Policing Facebook page and via Twitter (@ASPBristol). If you have any information or concerns to share with us, please call 101 or report online at:

The three oaks will be dedicated to my dad, Fred Haskins, a well -known Knowle Wester and one of the first residents on the estate; Dixie Brown, the local champion boxer and Billy Tucker, the champion pigeon racer from KW. We also want to inscribe names of local people’s loved ones on paving slabs which will eventually replace the bark on the paths. My aim is to have the garden ready for the public to use in June this year. There’ll be raised flower beds, fruit and veg and it’s all set up for disabled access. We also hope to start a men’s mental health group on Saturdays. A big thank you to Knowle West Alliance for the grant, Keyline Builders Merchants and Wickes in Ashton for the donated materials and the police and High Sheriff for their financial support. To help out in the garden, sponsor a tree or find out more, call Nick on 07742 642286 or email nickhaskins1@icloud.com www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/ report. You can also report anonymously to Crimestoppers via their website or by calling 0800 555 111. Please also feel free to stop and speak to our officers when you see them out and about on patrol. We are here for YOU. 125 trees planted in five local schools Congratulations to Filwood Tree Champion Jim Smith who will have planted 125 trees in five local schools by the end of March – thanks to a grant from KW Alliance. See p 3.

Planting trees at School of Christ the King.

Local voices Memories of Merrywood School

By David Smale

s many of you will remember, Merrywood finally disappeared in the late 1990s from both the Daventry Road and Downton Road sites. The latter is now a well-established Health Park and the boys and girls schools first moved there in the postwar years after being based at Merrywood Road in Southville. Use of the Daventry Road site only came along in 1972 when it became Former school buildings at The Park soon to be demolished for a new school. Photo Robin Millard.

apparent that more space was needed due to the size of the schools. The Merrywood Schools have never been forgotten - there is a thriving Facebook Group which has over 1,200 members. There is also the Merrywood Revisited monthly newsletter, edited by myself, (1966-1973) and Hilary Cleeve (1961-68). Memories of the 1980s and ‘90s, particularly the Daventry Road years, are, surprisingly, thin on the ground and we hope this article will generate some further memories of former pupils. In my own case, I was in the upper sixth form at Daventry Road during my final year in 1972-73 and left in July 1973. My own memories are fairly vague, apart from the fact that we did early morning assemblies over the tannoy! Merrywood group member Robin Gilbert has been able to provide more detail: “The Merrywood fifth form were the first to inhabit the Daventry Road site in 1972, along with the sixth form, on the grounds that we had a quieter environment in which to take our O levels. “After we had finished our O levels, those of us wishing to stay on for

www.knowlewest.co.uk A levels had the run of the place and especially the sports hall in which there were table tennis tables upstairs… “When the three schools merged in the September of 1972, there was a curious mixture of ex-Grammar School pupils in uniform and the others not wearing uniform. “We were mainly cocooned in the sixth form block, apart from those of us doing science A levels - who had to use the science labs in the main school. “The whole of the sixth form came together for General Studies lessons in the lecture theatre attached to the sixth form block. We had a nice common room downstairs (see photo). We all used to do activities on Wednesday afternoons of which I chose to do work for the Nature Conservancy in Leigh Woods.” Former staff member, Jean Maloney also added some memories of the school's latter years: “My first overwhelming feeling on my first day in March 1986 was a welcoming and exciting place to be. “My initial introduction to community life was the preparation of the annual Senior Citizens Christmas Party. “The main hall was decorated and provisions were made for the 200-250 seniors who were invited each year. Everyone, including staff, pupils and office staff was involved. Each guest was also presented with a bottle of locally donated sherry and a box of donated biscuits to take home. There was often entertainment laid on and music provided by the musicians of the school… “Other memories are of the summer fair. We had many stalls and great fun where all the community got involved and raised monies for charities etc… “We also held an art exhibition each year and it was very successful. So much so that some of the art work was sent around the world on display… “When the time came to hear the boys school was to close, originally, in 1983, the support and determination began a saga that lasted until 1995 when both the boys and girls schools were amalgamated on the Daventry site…” To contribute to the Merrywood Revisited newsletter, e-mail DAVID.SMALE@planninginspectorate.gov.uk Copies available through Facebook: Merrywood Grammar School Bristol. Members also meet for monthly get-togethers at Grounded Café, in East Street, Bedminster. Everyone welcome!

Common Room. Photo courtesy of Colin O’Connell/Kypros Kyprianou

The Knowle West Food Action Group The Food Action Group is a group of residents and local food organisations who have been meeting regularly to discuss all things food. If you’d like to join the spring KW Food Network meeting email lucy.holburn@kwalliance.co.uk. Creative Curry Club By Claudia Collins We had a full house in January at Filwood Community Centre for comedy and curry with Belly Laughs - with stand-up comedy from Jayde Adams and some cracking comedians, and curry from FareShare South West and Inns Court Kitchen Garden By Volunteer Gardener Chris Boddington I’m happy to announce the approval of Knowle West Edible Gardens C.I.C.! This is the company looking after Inns Court Kitchen Garden based at the Inns Court Community and Family Centre. Work started on the garden in March 2021 supported by several local organisations. The project has so far engaged volunteers from around the local area with the aim of supplying produce to local people and ventures including the café in the Centre. Recipe Provided by Holly Perreau-Redfern, Head Chef at Redcatch Community Garden Holly’s Two-Way Samosa • Ingredients for savoury 200g or 1 medium sized potato cut into small cubes 80g frozen peas (defrosted) ½ an onion, chopped small 1 tsp ground coriander ½ tsp ground cumin a pinch of salt and pepper • Ingredients for sweet 300g or 3 apples cored and cut into small cubes

Chefs Kalpna Woolf and Adrian Kirikmaa. We are looking forward to hosting another curry evening with Knowle West Health Association on Tuesday 29 March from 6-9pm. For tickets visit: www.tinyurl.com/ffcurryclub Follow Filwood Community Centre on Facebook and check filwoodcentre.org.uk for more Curry Club news. Chefs Joey Roberts (left) and Adrian Kirikmaa.

Over the autumn, our excellent volunteers helped to create more beds and paths, plant seeds, trees and more. We've had several visits from Greenfield Academy pupils who've done planting and taken part in a Halloween pumpkin carving session. Lately, members of Man Alive have been starting to build a potting shed (50 per cent funded by KW Alliance). Last summer we had good crops of vegetables and are hoping for much more abundance this year. If you've got time to spare and a desire to grow stuff, please get in touch. As well as the joy and 1 tbs sugar ½ tsp ground cinnamon 4-5 sheets filo pastry A small bowl of milk (any) to brush on the pastry like ‘glue’ A tiny bit of butter or oil • Preparation 1. Preheat oven. 2. For the savoury ones, oil the potato cubes and leave them to cool. 3. Fry the onion until light brown and leave to cool. 4. Put the cooled potato cubes, onion and peas in a bowl. Stir. 5. Add the coriander, cumin, pepper and salt. Stir well. 6. For the sweet ones, cut the

sociability of gardening and produce to take home, volunteers get unlimited tea and coffee and - if

Members of Man Alive in the garden with woodwork tutor Clare Cannon.

they do a couple of hours in the morning - a hot lunch. To contact Chris, text or call 07905 961 876, email kitchengarden@mail. uk or visit innscourtgarden.com Read the full story on the KW Alliance website. apple into cubes and mix with the sugar and cinnamon. 7. Take a sheet of filo pastry and lay it on the table. Brush with milk and fold down the middle lengthways. Handle with care! 8. Put a handful of the filling mixture at one end of the filo pastry sheet. Now fold over into a triangle, and then another triangle, brushing with milk as you go. Keep going until all the pastry is used up. 9. Finally brush your triangles with a little butter or oil on the outside. 10. Bake for 20 mins at 200˚C. Wait for them to cool before you enjoy them!

Local organisations T

his is the start of our 60th year which has gone off with a bang and the next few months are looking great. The club would like to thank everyone for their continued support and trusting us with your special events. Please check the club's Facebook page because we are getting booked quickly and more events are being added all the time.

e would like to say how wonderful the market is growing with new traders joining us every month whilst retaining most of the regular traders – with 22 stalls in March. Due to this we are currently looking for some volunteers for the following roles: committee members, set up members, market day members and meet and greet roles. We are currently working with

What’s on

e have memberships (new and renewal) starting at the end of March - dates to be confirmed.

egistration is open for the How To Be A Chef training programme at Square Food Foundation! This FREE 12-week course is for young people aged 16-25 who are not in full time work or education. It takes place at Square Food’s brand new, purpose-built teaching kitchen at the newly built Park Community Centre.

There is live entertainment, Biker's Rally and plenty more coming soon. Our club has been around for 60 years now and it is a real shame that a lot of the community don't know we are here. Please come and check out our club and even become a member and join in with all the new members that have recently joined themselves. We are hoping to run a celebratory event in August. Check out the next Knowledge for more details. Novers Park Community and Social Club is based at Novers Park Rd, Bristol BS4 1RN. Facebook: groups/novers

other community groups to bring some arts and music to the market for all to enjoy each month - we are in the early stages, so watch this space. If you would like any further information on the market or the roles above please contact us by emailing filwoodcommunty markets@gmail.com Facebook: Filwood Community Market We have joined in partnership with The Sprint Community Transport to bring people to the market. To use this service please call 0117 904 8215 between 9am-4pm, Monday to Friday. You will need to inform them of any extra needs such as wheelchair users needing a lift, guide dog and walking aids.

Our new Wednesday Club takes place every week from 12.30-3.30pm - sorry no children. Wednesday evening bingo eyes down at 8pm. Everyone welcome aged over 18 to play. A Young Women’s Group runs every Friday from 12-3pm.

March Sunday entertainment runs from 4-8pm. Next dates are: 20 March – Leanne Bethnell and 27 March - Frank Jones. Easter entertainment to be confirmed Easter bonnet parade and plenty of chocolate eggs! Check out our Facebook page for updates: www.facebook.com/ profilephp?id=100078109400281

The programme starts on 27 April 2022 and runs on Wednesdays and Thursdays (10am – 4pm) over 12 weeks. No previous experience necessary – we’re more interested in your commitment, enthusiasm and motivation for attending the course. Find out more and register your interest at: www.squarefood foundation.co.uk/how-to-be-a-chef

www.kwmc.org.uk / 0117 903 0444 / @knowlewestmedia / @kwmcthefactory

For all of our events, email enquiries@kwmc.org.uk or call us at 0117 903 0444 to find out more information.

What’s on at Knowle West Media Centre? Project Night

Meetups for Youth Workers

Come and join us for our Project Night in April! It’s a space for creatives and artists who work in and with communities to come to share ideas, test things out and meet new people. If you can’t make our next date, we are hosting them once a month from May.

We host a tea and coffee morning on a bi-monthly basis for anyone working in South Bristol to find out and promote what each other are up to. Join us for our next event on 24 March from 9.30-11.30am.

Activities for Young People If you are aged 10 to 18, we have after-school sessions with a range of different arts and tech activities for you to get involved in - every Monday to Wednesday from 4.30- 6pm. We also run work experience for 14 to18-year-olds and jamming and networking sessions for 16 to 24-yearold musicians.

Ever thought about setting up your own small business? MADE in South Bristol: Exploring Creative Enterprise is a FREE skills and support programme from The Factory that helps local people to explore and establish small businesses from creative ideas. Find out more here: https://tinyurl. com/MADEPRESTART

www.filwoodcentre.org.uk For more information call: 0117 914 9216 email: info@filwoodcentre.org.uk Filwood Community Centre, Barnstaple Road, Knowle West, BS4 1JP

Unicycling in Filwood A new group at our centre is giving people the chance to play unicycle games and practise new skills in a friendly environment. The sessions are £5 a time and take place every Wednesday from 7.45-9.15pm in our sports hall. To find out more email unicycleskills@gmail.com Celebrating Lunar New Year The Everybody Dance Now group at our centre recently put on a special performance at Bristol Museum to celebrate Chinese New Year. The dancers of all ages also performed their dragon-themed routine at the Filwood Community Market and were featured on local news. They meet on Wednesdays from 6-7pm and also take part in craft activities. To get involved email claudia.collins@filwoodcentre.org.uk Filwood Art Club A new club for those interested in art is coming to our centre and will begin with a free trip to the Grayson Perry exhibition at Bristol Museum. There will be three local workshops tailored around the group's interests and a chance to exhibit work. To find out more email: claudia.collins@filwoodcentre.org.uk

Make sure you follow our socials for more centre updates.

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Knowle West Healthy Living Centre’s Wellbeing Groups

Helping you to achieve better health and wellbeing, no matter where you are starting from

Walking Groups Enjoyable walks for people of varying levels of ability, mobility or fitness. Benefits of regular walking include meeting other people, exploring green spaces, exercise with others to keep you motivated. Not to mention the health benefits which include reducing the risk of heart disease and high blood pressure. Man Alive Man Alive is a group for men in Knowle West and South Bristol. The group’s open to everyone, so whatever your age, background or interests, it’s for you! We do lots of different activities including social events, playing sports, working in the community and going on outings.

www.reworkltd.org.uk

Re:store has reopened! Current opening hours are 10am to 4pm Monday and Tuesday and 10am to 3pm on the first Saturday of the month. It has taken just over a year to get everything up and running. A big thank you to all the people who worked on the renovation, SJC Construction it is looking wonderful. We have a lot of plans for the space; repair café, sewing classes, book groups, pop up shops, as well as our normal furniture, paint and clothes. We want to open five to six days a week, including Saturday and

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Fun and Fab Do you want to become a healthier woman, but feel you need some support to make changes? Perhaps you want more control over your eating habits, to give up smoking or simply to become happier and de-stress – if so, this may be the right group for you. Weekly activities and talks. Art Ease – Art on Referral If you’re feeling low or isolated, our popular art groups may offer a solution. Some of the benefits people have experienced are improving self-confidence, making new friends, and learning new skills and methods of selfexpression.Although anybody is welcome, this activity is aimed at people with mild to moderate mental health needs.

Happy for you to call or email to find out more about: Knowle West Health Park, Downton Road, Bristol, BS4 1WH Telephone: 0117 377 2255 Email: info@knowlewesthealthpark. co.uk www.knowlewesthealthpark.co.uk

one evening. We just can’t afford to at the moment. We are planning a grand opening when we have done a bit more work on fixtures and fittings, and we know how much we can extend the opening times. We are accepting donations, particularly small furniture and more importantly to sell the amazing things that we could not turn away while we were closed. Come and say hello soon.

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NURSERY PLACES AVAILABLE! We offer families: • A nurturing and safe environment for children aged 3+ • 15 hours of free childcare • Smooth transition to on-site primary school

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Call 01173 534 472 or email join@blc.school to arrange a visit!

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Parson Street Primary School

Nursery Places for this September

Nursery spaces for 3-4 year olds are available in our Nursery for this September. Information can be found on the website or contact Mrs Luisa Noel via office@parsonstreet.com. Visit our Nursery Webpage where you can see some of the amazing activities we offer such as Dough Disco, Mud Kitchen, Loose Parts Play, Adventure Playground, Music & Movement, Meadow Explorers, Sensory Messy Play & Story Telling. Breakfast and Afterschool club available. Parson Street Primary School Bedminster Road Bristol Bs3 5NR 0117 90360226 www.parsonstreet.com

Are you over 55 and isolated due to the pandemic? Or do you know someone who is?

Art Together

at Redcatch Community Garden Art Together is a small art therapy group for over 55s who have become isolated or lost confidence due to the pandemic. It runs in blocks of six weeks for the whole of 2022. The group will be supportive and friendly and we will use art to reflect on feelings and experiences. One block of sessions, starting 31 March 2022, is specifically for people with dementia and their partners (or family member). ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

Free to attend Thursdays 1-3pm throughout the year Sessions for 6weeks then you can join an ongoing art & wellbeing group Initial phone call and individual session before you join the group Run by qualified Art Therapist and final year trainee Art Therapist In our large heated Canopy (safari tent) Covid safety measures in place You don’t have to be good at art, just happy to explore the art materials

If you are interested please contact Jenny Clarke, Art Therapist: Email: wellbeing.rcg@gmail.com, mobile: 07769 013243 Watch this space for hanging basket workshops coming later in 2022! To find out more about what we do, our sessions and events check out our Facebook, Instagram and website www.redcatchcommunitygarden.com

Welcom e theparkcentre.org.uk Daventry Road, Knowle, BS4 1DQ

T: 0117 903 9770

you

enquiries@theparkcentre.org.uk

to o

Whether you come for breakfast, lunch and snacks in the cafe or to get fit in the gym, use our dance studio or large sports hall - there’s allenging year, we wouldof likeactivities to plenty to take ng young people and families part in. nity we work with around Knowle West.

ryone has pulled together With our fantastic tenants offering a range of services there’s lots happening other during 2020 has been amazing. here in our new building, right on your doorstep. f the area has shone through.

vering more great youth work in 2021.

Take a look at our website to see who’s here or pop in to say hello find out more. We look forward to seeing you soon.

www.youthmoves.org.uk

Exciting times are ahead for Youth Moves After 17 years based at The Park Centre in the old Merrywood school site - we are delighted to have moved into our new building at the start of March. The youth space will be a brand new area for young people aged 8-19 years old. We continue to want young people from right across the community to come, try new activities and engage with our team of youth workers. It’s a great place, and is a safe space, for somewhere to go, something to do and always with someone to talk to.

We have had some amazing memories at the old place, working with generations of young people from Knowle West, Hartcliffe and Withywood over the years. The impact it has had over the lives of the community is beyond measure. We are excited to open the new building which contains a fully fitted out music and podcast studio, a chill out room, a small kitchen and cooking area and so much more. We would like to thank everyone for all the generous donations we received for this from several local and national funders, we are indebted to you. Thank you for supporting us to make a real change in the local area. And please - we would love anyone to come and have a look around - all are welcome.

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