Easter Garden open day! :)

Easter Garden is truly a mini oasis in Clifton, found just behind the Coach and Horses pub (which is just off from Whiteladies Rd). It is a not for profit community garden maintained by local people, who protect it from developers and keep it looking gorgeous for all to enjoy.

I was caught on my lunch break recently with my head upside down looking in the hedgehog habitat by committee member Ilse Hambrook who revealed to me that the garden is a haven to all sorts of wildlife!

On Saturday June 9th there will be an open day with refreshments, plant sales, raffle and everyone is welcome! If you've not discovered this little gem yet, then what better time- will make a lovely afternoon for all the family!

For more photos and information, have a peek at their website:

http://www.eastergarden.moonfruit.com/

Picture House bid

Thank you to Hattie Applebly who has brought to our attention the latest application that aims to convert the old Picture House on Whiteladies Rd into a gym and 5 flats.

Since the closure of the cinema in 2001, the building has been under constant threat of such plans, however strong public protest and complications involving the buildings listed status has thwarted these attempts.

I have yet to meet anyone who would not love to see the beautiful building restored, and to be used once again for its original use as a cinema, or at least some kind of venue for theatre and art. These visions for the cinema to be restored are not unrealistic, and there are individuals working hard to make this happen.

I have viewed this latest application (see link below) and am absolutely delighted to see such a vast number of objections. 

http://planningonline.bristol.gov.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?activeTab=summary&keyVal=LXJ89MDN00J00

We will be monitoring progress of this application, so please keep following for updates and further information.


 Simon

Another Street that doesn't want Another Supermarket...

Bristol University student newspaper 'The Epigram', reports that "Bristol could soon see another Tesco store open its doors for business".

Stephanie Linning writes that The Fellowship, a pub on Filton Avenue and a building that has been the subject of previous campaigns by locals to have it protected with listed status, is being sold, and Tesco have confirmed an intention to secure the lease.

Local residents and independent shop owners are concerned, and for several reasons. They are keen that the character of the area and a beloved building with longstanding social function be preserved. They are worried that Tesco opening will prevent local shops from thriving, and, an unnamed local shopkeeper states with conviction that "'We don't need another supermarket on this road.'"

Sounds familiar doesn't it...

The high street

Just a few musings for you, recently I saw in the media that on average 14 stores a day are closing on our high streets - then I found this article http://www.independent.co.uk/news/business/news/surprise-rise-in-retail-sales-revealed-7031499.html which appears to say things are looking up. Further reading made me realise although store sales made January a better month than expected for retail, it will be the next few months that reveal the true picture.

What bothers me about Chain store closures - take Habitat for example is this, if even stores with (in theory) support and infrastructure and money behind them fail - what chance do Independent stores have. Independents will have to fight harder to stay on our streets. I hope that many will ride the storm - take advantage of their Unique Selling Point - the service and the quality of the products they can offer - this sweeping statement can apply to a wide range of retail - from clothing to food. Shops that focus on their customers needs will be the one's to survive - and WE can support them, by going into a shop that isn't a chain you may be able to find a true gem!

Over and Out

Helen x

KWL Team

BRISTOL POUND

Hello! Just back from a really exciting meeting all about the blossoming 'Bristol Pound' - it will be real currency - to be spent within Bristol - which in turn will help the local economy and independent retailers thrive. It's launch is imminent - but I can give you some advanced notice and tell you there will be a meeting on 21st Feb at 7.30pm in Redland Park United Reformed Church. I found them an engaging bunch, who are looking for input and ideas from the public - pop along and have your say!

Would love to hear your thoughts on the scheme!

Helen KWL xxx

Roadwork frustration!

Lucy Gatward of The Better food Company and I have been featured in tonight's Evening Post in regards to the cursed roadworks on Whiteladies Rd. The GBBN roadworks on Whiteladies Rd have for a long time been causing chaos for all, but as the 'timetable is slipping' the council have decided to tear up the whole street right before Christmas; the busiest week of the year... and guess what, it's the independents that are suffering again! Thanks a lot Bristol City Council.

http://www.thisisbristol.co.uk/Roadworks-Whiteladies-Road-Bristol-just-Christmas/story-14180038-detail/story.html

Twilight Christmas Market a success!

The Whiteladies Twilight Christmas Market début was a great success! My sincerest thanks to everyone who was involved in the event. There was a fantastic atmosphere and a real sense of community! Also a Special thanks to the Blue Spirit Vocals choir for their warming performance. The event managed to raise a total of £327.80 For the Tenovus cancer research charity! It is looking very likely that the Twilight Christmas Market will return to Whiteladies Rd in 2012; bigger and better!

But before this, watch this space for news of upcoming campaigns and our special Spring event...

Merry Christmas, from all of the KWL team x


Check out the photo tab for more pics of the Twilight Christmas Market