The future of Bathampton Meadows and taking action on empty homes are the two main topics set to be discussed at the upcoming Bathavon North Area Forum.
Residents in the Bathavon North area are being invited to attend their upcoming local Connecting Communities Forum.
Connecting Communities Forums are supported by Bath & North East Somerset Council, bringing public services, local organisations and residents together to address areas of local concern.
The next meeting of the Bathavon North Area Forum – which covers Bathford, Northstoke, Charlcombe, Swainswick, Batheaston, Bathampton, St Catherine and Claverton – will be held on Monday 17th February (5.30pm) at Bathampton Methodist Church Hall – Holcombe Lane (next to the Village Hall).
Residents are invited to attend together with the area’s parish councils, community organisations and ward councillors.
Topics for discussion will include bringing empty properties back into use and the future of Bathampton Meadows.
Across Bath and North East Somerset there are currently more than 600 properties that have been empty for more than six months, with more than 200 of them vacant for two years or more.
The council offers practical advice and support to owners to bring empty properties back into use but will take enforcement action if necessary.
It is also increasing the amount of council tax it charges on properties which have been empty for more than two years.
Councillor Dine Romero, Leader of Bath & North Somerset Council, said: “We want to give people a bigger say on the issues that matter to them and one of the main ways to do this is by taking part in our regular Area Forums.
“It’s a great opportunity to give us feedback and share your ideas and I’d urge residents to try to attend and let us hear their views.”
Representatives from Avon Fire & Rescue have also been invited to attend and there will be an opportunity for an open discussion at the meeting.
Area Forums help to improve local engagement, encourage people to talk to each other and share their skills and ideas.
The agenda for the forum can be found at: https://democracy.bathnes.gov.uk/ieListMeetings.aspx?CommitteeId=588.
