Derelict building to be redeveloped at last
For several years we’ve pushed for the long-derelict 59-61 Whiteladies Road to be brought back into active use. So we’re really pleased that redevelopment has now finally got planning permission.
Previously the ‘Be in Bristol’ venue, this is a large building in a prominent location on Whiteladies Road. We supported the planning application for redevelopment which will include a new bar on the ground floor and the upper floors converted into five flats. The plans are a good use of existing space, providing more homes, at the same time retaining an active hospitality use on the ground floor.
But the start of building works may be some time off and the building is still an eyesore, with graffiti, litter and fly postering. We’ve written to the developer, urging them to carry out a clean-up ahead of works.
Your wheely good ideas
Thank you to everyone who got in touch with your ideas for cycling improvements in our area. These ideas include:
• Cycle racks on Highland Square – you pointed out that there isn’t anywhere on the square to lock up your bike before enjoying a pint at the lovely Coach & Horses pub
• Making Westbourne Place two-way for cycles only through a ‘no entry exemption’ – this one-way street runs between Queens and St Pauls Roads. You told us that the no entry exemption for bicycles would save time and energy going up the hill in the wrong direction just to go back down again.
The council’s transport team will sift and review suggestions and then get designs done for ideas to be taken forward. These will then be shared with us as ward councillors for comment before consulting the public on any changes.
Hedging about
After much chasing by ourselves and the council teams, we’re glad to see that the overgrown hedge on the corner of Upper Belgrave Road and Wesley Place has finally been cut back. This hedge was obscuring the pavement, making access difficult for pedestrians, and blocking e-scooter and bicycle parking. Thanks very much to the local residents who raised this and for your patience while we pushed to get the job done.
Grants: Setting up a business on Whiteladies Road?
If you’re a start-up or looking to grow your business on a Bristol high street, including Whiteladies Road, there are Vacant Commercial Property Grants from £2,500 up to £10,000 available to help you.
The Vacant Commercial Property Grant can support you with everything from fitting out your space to getting the equipment you need to open.
Most organisation types can apply, so whether you’re a sole trader, charity, creative, or small business, funding is available for long or short term use. To be eligible, your business or organisation must be looking to lease or rent a currently vacant commercial premises in the city centre or on one of Bristol’s 46 high streets.
But you’ll need to be quick. These look set to be the last round of grants available through this scheme. While the deadline for applications is Monday 30 November, the programme may close earlier if all available funding has been allocated.
You can find all the details on the council’s Vacant Commercial Property Grant webpage.
Come and say hello
Instead of our usual October surgery, we’ll be holding a drop-in session at Clifton Down Shopping Centre in mid-October. Why not come and say hello, whether you have lived here a while or are new to our community? If you’d like to have a chat about any local issues or just want to meet us then we’d be delighted to see you. To find out about the date and time of this event, email us and we will confirm the details. A big thank you to Richard Ryan, the shopping centre’s manager, for offering to host us!
Contact us
Cllr.george.calascione@bristol.gov.uk Cllr.serena.ralston@bristol.gov.uk