I HOPE you’ve all had a lovely Easter.
I’m pleased that our community has been recognised by our government as being among those with the most potential in the country, with the area stretching from Brabazon to the Bristol and Bath Science Park one of seven locations shortlisted for official ‘New Town’ status.
Why does this matter? In addition to the homes we need, including social and affordable homes, this would boost the local infrastructure and green spaces we need.
I was glad to attend the unveiling of the name of the new ‘Bristol Brabazon’ train station, due to open this autumn, and to see the m4 metrobus start to go through the area, making journeys easier for local people.
Since being elected 20 months ago, I’ve worked hard to secure national investment for our area. I’m delighted that the government has awarded Bailey’s Court Primary School funding for a Best Start school‑based nursery, and was pleased to visit the future ‘Bailey Bird Nursery’ on site.
I’ve also successfully campaigned for Patchway to have one of the first Best Start Family Hubs in the country, rebuilding Sure Start–style services at Patchway Children’s Centre, after earlier cuts unfairly left our area with less support than most.
In other good news, Hambrook Junction is reopening after seven years, as air quality has met legally safe limits.
I’ve worked closely with Cllr Sean Rhodes of South Gloucestershire Council to help ensure clarity from ministers on next steps if the air quality data came back as we hoped. This joined‑up work has helped the council reopen the junction as soon as possible.
Raising residents’ concerns and my own about the proposed development on Hicks Common, in Winterbourne, I met the potential developers about this speculative development. I believe it’s important for the council’s ‘Local Plan’ for housing, which is in final stages, to be followed – and it does not include this site.
Last month, my small team and I have supported residents with 856 new cases, including helping a local business facing antisocial behaviour and assisting with accessing pensions.
I held my regular advice surgery in Stoke Gifford, and a specific ‘Coffee with Claire’ in Filton to discuss the government’s plans to improve SEND support.
This follows the previous event I ran with local parents of children with SEND needs, after which I shared feedback with the Education Secretary to inform proposals. I will again share local input directly with her.
It was a pleasure to visit Holy Trinity Primary School, and open SAH Diagnostics’ community‑based cancer clinic in Bradley Stoke.
I also met with the dedicated Mamas Bristol team, and joined a Ukrainian community event in Stoke Gifford.
I was also pleased to speak at an Eid celebration in Emersons Green and donate Easter eggs to the Mayor of Patchway’s appeal for local children.
There is still lots more to do!
Please get in touch any time at claire.hazelgrove.mp@parliament.uk.