Bridget Mackwood

My family has lived in the village since 1922 and been independent representatives for much of this time both Parish and District. I have therefore a good knowledge of the evolution and dynamics of this important village community.

I have been involved with the village in a small way; with the fete last year and we have several village allotments here. I have been in discussion with the Forestry Commission to work with them to improve the community enjoyment of the woodlands within our area.

I believe that we are custodians of where we live for the next generation and that it is important to be involved to ensure that we keep the best while evolving to the benefit of all.

If elected I will hold monthly clinics where people can voice their concerns and will try to assist where possible. In addition I would endeavour to:-

Maintain a buffer between Bristol and Long Ashton. - Historically the boundary between North Somerset and Bristol was the River Avon. This has been eroded since WW2 the latest when Avon was disbanded and the boundary again moved west allowing the proposed new Bristol City stadium to be within the new city boundary and out of North Somerset control. North Somerset does have influence over the access roads to and from the proposed site and it is this area that we must influence to ensure that Long Ashton does not suffer from creeping development along any roads in our area, with greater congestion and parked cars. Should the stadium go ahead we must lobby for better infrastructure for Long Ashton as a result of any co-operation such as a new ‘Long Ashton Halt’ Station. Paid for by the developers. We must also remain vigilant that those recently or currently building in the village meet their obligations under 106 agreements, which ensure that those who develop provide assets for the community in return for being given permission to build.

Education – I believe that there should be provision for local children to go to their local school or to the school of their parent’s choice.

Community facilities – With the encouragement of ‘The Big Society’ we should grasp the potential and become involved in running our local woodlands with the Forestry Commission to provide involvement for local people in both leisure pursuits and greater knowledge of our flora and fauna. This will protect our heritage and community woodland from possible sales and give additional environmental protection for this wonderful facility for our community.

Train and Bus Services – I will lobby for the inclusion of additional stations and improvement of affordable bus facilities locally.