COMMUNITY UPDATE

Background
In October 2024, the full Parish Council agreed to take on responsibility for the land known as Promenade Gardens in Severn Beach. This agreement will be with South Gloucestershire Council through a formal lease, which is currently still under negotiation.

As the land sits next to other Parish-owned areas, and following feedback from residents, the Parish Council felt this would be a positive step for the community. 

Ideas being explored include:
•    Extra car parking during busy times
•    Space for community events
•    A secure home for SevernFest (next event: 12 July 2025 – www.severnfest.com)

At the same meeting, the Council also approved the principle of a sublease for the Promenade Gardens to allow a miniature railway project to go ahead, subject to necessary approvals.

Current Status
The lease between the Parish Council and South Gloucestershire Council is still being finalised. At this stage, the Parish Council does not therefore have management control over the land. It is hoped that this will complete soon.
The miniature railway project, led by local resident Joe Nemeth and supported by a growing group of volunteers, has already made strong progress off-site — including building track and restoring rolling stock. However, work on-site is currently paused as the project awaits submission of the necessary planning application, which is required before any further development can proceed.
 
What Happens Next?
While formalities are being resolved, the Parish Council will begin drafting the terms of the proposed sublease. This will include things like:
•    Operating days and hours
•    Use of any train whistle or sound effects
•    Car park management
•    Health and safety plans
A few other points have been raised:
•    The resurfacing of the former rugby club car park – to bring it back into use – is not part of the railway project.
•    Plans to replant the strip of woodland next to the allotments. This was originally planted many years ago but hadn’t been looked after. Over time, it became overgrown and neglected. It has now been cleared and replanting in the autumn will be discussed.
We’ll continue to keep residents informed through our double-page update in each month’s In View magazine. Of course, you’re always welcome at Parish Council meetings. You’ll find the dates in the magazine and on the Parish notice boards.

The next Parish Council meeting:
Monday 7th April 2025, St Peter’s Church Cross Hands Road, Pilning, BS35 4JB
7pm following the Annual meeting of electors

Jonathan Edwardes
Parish Clerk
On behalf of Pilning & Severn Beach Parish Council