Changes to the 86 bus service

South Glos is asking for your views on changes to some bus services, including the 86, which would operate between Yate and Longwell Green, going via Coalpit Heath and Greenacres Park. It should provide a more frequent service and school journeys will still be provided, although times may alter slightly. You can have your say here before 11th February.

South Glos funding cut more than expected

We were already expecting that South Glos Council would have to make significant cuts in the coming year but the news from the Conservative government was even worse than had been planned for. The council will be getting less money than expected from the Government to provide services.

The council can now charge a levy of up to 2% towards rising social care costs, on top of the up to 1.99% council tax rise allowed without a referendum. Even if council tax did go up by 3.99% including the social care levy, there is likely to be a shortfall in 2018/19 of around £6m and in 2019/20 of £8m - which would require more cuts on top of the £34m already planned for.

Due to these and other changes since the council's budget consultation was launched, the deadline for comments has been extended until 31st January. You can find out more and have your say here.

Planning updates

DC (East) committee approved the application for an extension and detached double garage at 19 Heath Gardens, despite residents' concerns about the impact on the street scene and on their properties.

They also gave Prior Approval for the application to alter the parapets of the railway bridge on Dodington Road, but with a revised condition that asks them to look at using mesh for the top part rather than the perforated steel suggested in the plans. Local residents had expressed concern that the proposals would reduce visibility even further on a bridge where there have been a number of accidents.

Nibley Lane to close for cleaning

Nibley Lane between Badminton Road and Westerleigh Road is expected to close for cleaning 9.30am until 2.30pm on Tuesday 12th January.

Nominate a community hero

South Glos Council would like you to nominate your local ‘community heroes’ – people who have made a difference to their community. Suggested areas of contribution include community development, promoting equality, arts, sports, play, environment, working with older or young people, advice and advocacy and being a good neighbour.

Complete and return the Community Awards nomination form by 31 January 2016. The chosen nominees will notified un the week ending 19th February and will be invited to a prestigious awards ceremony on 17th March to receive their awards.

You can read more on the council's website.

Time running out for primary school applications

If your child is due to start primary school in September, you only have until 15th January to apply for a place. You can find out more about applying here and apply online here.

Happy New Year

Your Focus team would like to wish you a happy new year.

If you've mislaid the tag telling you when your bin will be collected in the next couple of weeks, you can find the information here. You can also get more information on how to recycle your Christmas tree.