Her Majesty the Queen: 1926 – 2022
Commenting on the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II today (Thursday 8 September), Metro Mayor Dan Norris said: “This is an immensely sad day. Her Majesty The Queen has been a constant presence during all of our lives and during so many periods of immense change, not just in the West of England andContinue reading “Her Majesty the Queen: 1926 – 2022”
“PEOPLE WILL DIE”: ENERGY BILLS TO HIT £3,549 FROM OCTOBER – METRO MAYOR COMMENTS
Commenting on the announcement from Ofgem today (Friday 26 August) that the energy price cap will jump to £3,549 in October, Metro Mayor Dan Norris said: “The country is galloping towards a winter emergency. Local people already struggling to make ends meet will be even more worried after today’s announcement. “The government simply cannot allowContinue reading ““PEOPLE WILL DIE”: ENERGY BILLS TO HIT £3,549 FROM OCTOBER – METRO MAYOR COMMENTS”
Butterflies and mini-beasts: Metro Mayor enjoys Blaise Museum buzzy bee fun
Metro Mayor Dan Norris got ‘buzzy’ as joined Blaise Museum for a day of fun, bee-themed activities. With summer flowers now in full bloom, the Blaise estate became a hive of activity, with the Metro Mayor joining Head of Collections and Archives Ray Barnett and Bristol families for a fun day out to teach localsContinue reading “Butterflies and mini-beasts: Metro Mayor enjoys Blaise Museum buzzy bee fun”
RAISING A STINK: METRO MAYOR URGES ACTION AFTER WESSEX WATER FOUND TO HAVE PUMPED RAW SEWAGE INTO LOCAL RIVERS AND LAKES FOR “MORE THAN 565,000 HOURS”
Wessex Water spent more than 565,000 hours pumping raw sewage into the West of England’s waters since 2016, new figures obtained by Labour show. According to Labour’s analysis of data from the Environment Agency, the water firm spent 565,066 hours discharging sewage between 2016 and 2021 into the natural environment, including bathing spots such asContinue reading “RAISING A STINK: METRO MAYOR URGES ACTION AFTER WESSEX WATER FOUND TO HAVE PUMPED RAW SEWAGE INTO LOCAL RIVERS AND LAKES FOR “MORE THAN 565,000 HOURS””
Pets and the cost of living crisis
The cost of living crisis is affecting everyone and that includes our pets too. Sadly the Dogs Trust says the number of owners speaking to them about giving up their dog has “risen to the highest levels” since 2014. My cocker spaniel Angel and I thought this article from the BBC had some great tips:Continue reading “Pets and the cost of living crisis”
Bus cash won’t solve driver crisis
Metro Mayor Dan Norris has cautiously welcomed a government U-turn that will provide additional funding for buses but warned that there will still be cuts in October due to the bus driver shortage. The eleventh-hour change of direction by the Government will see Covid emergency funding extended for a further six months which bus companiesContinue reading “Bus cash won’t solve driver crisis”
ARE WE THERE YET? INFLATION HITS 10.1% AS PRICES ROCKET
UK inflation has surged to a fresh 40-year high amid soaring food prices, heaping yet more pain on cash-strapped West of England households as the cost-of-living crisis deepens. The ONS said today (Wednesday 17 August) inflation had hit double digits in July, rising to 10.1%, up from 9.4% in June and remaining at the highestContinue reading “ARE WE THERE YET? INFLATION HITS 10.1% AS PRICES ROCKET”
THE DOCTOR CAN’T SEE YOU NOW
14% who try to make a GP appointment in Bristol and South Glos don’t get one, whilst over 15,000 locals were forced to wait over a month, it can be revealed. New figures from NHS England show that a shocking 14% of people in both areas could not get an appointment to see or speakContinue reading “THE DOCTOR CAN’T SEE YOU NOW”
BACK SEVERN ESTUARY PROJECT TO HELP “TURN THE TIDE” ON ENERGY CRISIS, METRO MAYOR URGES
The energy price crisis should lead the Government to look again at harnessing the vast tidal power in the Severn Estuary, according to Metro Mayor Dan Norris. Mayor Norris backed Labour’s comprehensive plan to deal with rising energy prices announced by Keir Starmer today (Monday 15 August), including looking again at the case for aContinue reading “BACK SEVERN ESTUARY PROJECT TO HELP “TURN THE TIDE” ON ENERGY CRISIS, METRO MAYOR URGES”
A&E IN CRISIS: 7,500 WEST OF ENGLANDERS WAITING MORE THAN FOUR HOURS FOR EMERGENCY CARE – METRO MAYOR COMMENTS
Over 7,500 patients are having to wait more than four hours in overwhelmed A&E departments at Royal United Hospital in Bath and Southmead Hospital in Bristol amid the worst NHS crisis on record, figures from the NHS can reveal. Shockingly, today’s monthly NHS statistics revealed over 300 had to wait more than 12 hours toContinue reading “A&E IN CRISIS: 7,500 WEST OF ENGLANDERS WAITING MORE THAN FOUR HOURS FOR EMERGENCY CARE – METRO MAYOR COMMENTS”
COST OF LIVING: END “SCANDALOUS” ENERGY PREPAYMENT PREMIUMS, SAYS METRO MAYOR
The Government must put a stop to “scandalous” premiums that poorer West of Englanders who use prepayment meters face, says Metro Mayor Dan Norris. There are over 42,700 households in the West who are ‘pay-as-you-go’ energy customers, meaning they pay for their gas and electricity in advance, either online or from credit bought in shops.Continue reading “COST OF LIVING: END “SCANDALOUS” ENERGY PREPAYMENT PREMIUMS, SAYS METRO MAYOR”
Creativity Works: First rung on creative career ladder for Bristol and South Glos youngsters, thanks to Metro Mayor cash
Lushly layered and thrilling harmonies rung out across Creative Youth Network on Silver Street as Metro Mayor Dan Norris popped in to see how a £10,000 cash injection from the West of England Combined Authority he leads has supported the next generation of creative young West of Englanders. The Metro Mayor met some of BristolContinue reading “Creativity Works: First rung on creative career ladder for Bristol and South Glos youngsters, thanks to Metro Mayor cash”
KICK IN THE TEETH: 98% OF NHS DENTISTS UNABLE TO TAKE ON NEW PATIENTS
A survey has found the majority of NHS dentists in the West of England are not able to offer appointments to new adult patients. 98% of NHS practices across the South West, including the West of England, were not accepting new patients, according to the research from the BBC and British Dental Association. The surveyContinue reading “KICK IN THE TEETH: 98% OF NHS DENTISTS UNABLE TO TAKE ON NEW PATIENTS”
RIP OFF: HIGHEST ENERGY BILL CHARGE INCREASE FOR WEST OF ENGLANDERS
West of England households are paying the most in electricity “standing” charges in the whole country, it can be revealed. Metro Mayor Dan Norris said he was urging the Government to step in after research showed West of Englanders’ are forking out more on the charge on monthly energy bills – which can’t be reducedContinue reading “RIP OFF: HIGHEST ENERGY BILL CHARGE INCREASE FOR WEST OF ENGLANDERS”
COST OF LIVING: MORE SUPPORT NEEDED FOR POORER HOUSEHOLDS, LABOUR LEADERS WARN
Metro Mayor Dan Norris has joined forces with Gordon Brown, Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford and other local leaders in warning that the Government’s cost-of-living support for poor households is not enough to protect them through the “most serious cost-of-living crisis in decades”. Almost all of the 16,400 people on Universal Credit across the WestContinue reading “COST OF LIVING: MORE SUPPORT NEEDED FOR POORER HOUSEHOLDS, LABOUR LEADERS WARN”
Metro Mayor urges groups to “Bee the Change” as £1 million pollinator fund launched
New grants of between £10,000 and £100,000 for West of England projects supporting the region’s bees are on offer. The new funding was launched by Metro Mayor Dan Norris at Grow Batheaston this week. Whether it is planting blooming wildflower meadows in schools, installing bee-friendly green roofs on community buildings or working hand in handContinue reading “Metro Mayor urges groups to “Bee the Change” as £1 million pollinator fund launched”
Idles of March: Mayor bangs drum for Bristol music studio
Metro Mayor Dan Norris met some of Bristol’s budding band members as he found out how £15,000 from the West of England Combined Authority that he leads is helping the next generation of musicians to succeed. The Mayor toured Factory Studios on Maze Street and even met homegrown heroes Idles who were practicing there onContinue reading “Idles of March: Mayor bangs drum for Bristol music studio”
TRAINING ACADEMY TO GIVE DISADVANTAGED GROUPS “BASIC BUILDING BLOCKS” FOR WORK LAUNCHED BY METRO MAYOR
A new training academy that will support 50 people facing challenges with their mental health, homelessness, or overcoming addiction to find jobs has been launched by Metro Mayor Dan Norris. Funded by £80,000 from the West of England Authority, led by Mr Norris, and delivered by the Bath charity Developing Health and Independence, the ‘WestContinue reading “TRAINING ACADEMY TO GIVE DISADVANTAGED GROUPS “BASIC BUILDING BLOCKS” FOR WORK LAUNCHED BY METRO MAYOR”
Full steam ahead! Metro Mayor launches ‘Wickham Wednesdays’
Ever wanted to experience being a real-life Wickham trolley driver? Well now you can at Somerset and Dorset Railway as their popular Wickham Wednesdays returns. Loco-obsessed Metro Mayor Dan Norris officially launched a season of fun as he hopped aboard and took a ride in the famous Midsomer Norton vehicle. The Metro Mayor who isContinue reading “Full steam ahead! Metro Mayor launches ‘Wickham Wednesdays’”
Wildlife ‘superhighway’ backed by Metro Mayor
Connecting habitats between the Mendip Hills and the Cotswolds to create a “superhighway” for birds, bees and other animals has been given the thumbs up by Metro Mayor Dan Norris. West of England Nature Partnership’s Ian Barrett met the Mayor to explain how the limestone peaks of the Mendip Hills in the east and CotswoldsContinue reading “Wildlife ‘superhighway’ backed by Metro Mayor”
Workers’ rights? They’re cracking! Wallace & Gromit’s makers first to sign up to Metro Mayor’s Good Employment Charter
The West of England’s first-ever Good Employment Charter was launched by Metro Mayor Dan Norris as part of a push to develop good jobs, deliver opportunities for workers to progress and help local and regional employers succeed. First to sign up is the world-famous, four times Academy Award-winning animation studio Aardman. Over 60 businesses haveContinue reading “Workers’ rights? They’re cracking! Wallace & Gromit’s makers first to sign up to Metro Mayor’s Good Employment Charter”
On track: Beeching cut set to be reversed as Bristol to Portishead train cash voted through
A cash hole in the project to reopen the Bristol to Portishead railway line has been plugged (today, Friday 29 July 2022). Metro Mayor Dan Norris called an emergency meeting of the West of England Combined Authority he leads after he and Cllr Bridger, leader of North Somerset Council, secured a promise of £15.5m ofContinue reading “On track: Beeching cut set to be reversed as Bristol to Portishead train cash voted through”
COST OF LIVING: 3,620 SOUTH WEST MILITARY VETERANS COULD BE ON BENEFITS, METRO MAYOR URGES ACTION FROM MINISTERS
Metro Mayor Dan Norris has accused ministers of failing to support West of England veterans during the cost-of-living crisis after figures obtained by Labour showed around 3.5% of all veterans, or 70,000, could be on benefits. The Government has admitted 33,800 veterans are currently in receipt of Universal Credit. But the first-time figures, released byContinue reading “COST OF LIVING: 3,620 SOUTH WEST MILITARY VETERANS COULD BE ON BENEFITS, METRO MAYOR URGES ACTION FROM MINISTERS”
COMMUNITIES URGED TO MAKE “BIG CHOICES ON BUSES” THIS SUMMER
Community leaders are being encouraged to hold “big choices on buses” meetings by Metro Mayor Dan Norris who wants local people to be a key part of the important conversation about the future of public transport across the West of England. The Metro Mayor will kick off the discussion by holding a series of “bigContinue reading “COMMUNITIES URGED TO MAKE “BIG CHOICES ON BUSES” THIS SUMMER”
Bird is the word: Metro Mayor goes wild for conservation at birds of prey centre
School’s out for Summer and parents will be looking for some great days out to keep the kids entertained. Luckily the West of England has some amazing places to visit, according to Metro Mayor Dan Norris, who is running a regional Explore Local campaign. To kick off the Summer holls, the Metro Mayor went wildContinue reading “Bird is the word: Metro Mayor goes wild for conservation at birds of prey centre”
South Bristol residents tell Metro Mayor community space should be kept for BS13 community
Local people gathered in Bedminster Down to meet with Metro Mayor Dan Norris, explaining to him how saving a much-loved community cafe and arts space would see it go from strength and strength, as they look to raise enough money to buy the building. Zion Community Art Space has provided a lifeline for thousands ofContinue reading “South Bristol residents tell Metro Mayor community space should be kept for BS13 community”
INFLATION RISES FOR NINTH MONTH IN A ROW TO 9.4% – METRO MAYOR COMMENTS
UK inflation soared to a fresh 40-year high of 9.4% last month, figures from the ONS showed, as the cost-of-living crisis deepens further for Bristolians. Inflation, which stood at 2.5% last June, has now risen for nine months in a row and the Bank of England is expecting it to peak at above 11% whenContinue reading “INFLATION RISES FOR NINTH MONTH IN A ROW TO 9.4% – METRO MAYOR COMMENTS”
COST OF LIVING CRISIS: WEST OF ENGLANDERS FACE £454 EXTRA TO GROCERY BILL – METRO MAYOR COMMENTS
West of England shoppers will see their supermarket bills rocket by more than £450, adding pressure to the serious cost-of-living-crisis, according to a new report. Butter, milk and dog food are set to see the largest price hikes. Metro Mayor Dan Norris said the eye-watering hikes will leave local people struggling as he took aimContinue reading “COST OF LIVING CRISIS: WEST OF ENGLANDERS FACE £454 EXTRA TO GROCERY BILL – METRO MAYOR COMMENTS”
SIGNIFICANT PAY INCREASE FOR WEST OF ENGLAND BUS DRIVERS
A pay rise for bus drivers has been welcomed as a key step to help fill the over 100 vacancies for bus drivers in the West of England. New First bus drivers will see their base pay going up from over £24k to just over £27k. One of the issues driving cancellations and timetable changesContinue reading “SIGNIFICANT PAY INCREASE FOR WEST OF ENGLAND BUS DRIVERS”
WE CAN’T MAGIC UP BUS DRIVERS, WARNS MAYOR, AS BUS COMPANIES ANNOUNCE CUTS
Severe bus driver shortages coupled by the withdrawal of Covid funding by the Conservative Government means local people face more bus cuts. The majority of bus services in the West of England are run commercially, with the remainder fully or partly subsidised by the West of England Combined Authority, led by Mr Norris. Of theContinue reading “WE CAN’T MAGIC UP BUS DRIVERS, WARNS MAYOR, AS BUS COMPANIES ANNOUNCE CUTS”
Feeling hot, hot, hot
Dan Norris, West of England Metro Mayor, has called on regional employers to step up protect workers as temperatures soar and the government dither. With climate change bringing higher temperatures to the UK more often, the Mayor is calling on the government to create a long-term plan. He says it’s vital to adapt to keepContinue reading “Feeling hot, hot, hot”
UK HEATWAVE: KEEP STAFF SAFE, METRO MAYOR URGES EMPLOYERS
Metro Mayor Dan Norris is urging West of England employers to make sure their staff are protected from the sun and heat as the Met Office issued its first ever red alert for hot weather. A red warning for extreme heat in the West of England has been issued for Monday and Tuesday, meaning thereContinue reading “UK HEATWAVE: KEEP STAFF SAFE, METRO MAYOR URGES EMPLOYERS”
NUMBER OF COVID DEATHS PASSES 200,000 – METRO MAYOR DEMANDS GOVERNMENT APOLOGY
Metro Mayor Dan Norris has called on the Government to apologise to West of England bereaved families after ONS figures showed more than 200,000 Covid deaths have been reported across the UK The Metro Mayor said ministers should “address the families, apologise and ensure lessons are learned as quickly as possible” in the face ofContinue reading “NUMBER OF COVID DEATHS PASSES 200,000 – METRO MAYOR DEMANDS GOVERNMENT APOLOGY”
METRO MAYOR WARNS TORY CANDIDATES: DON’T DITCH NET ZERO
Conservative leadership candidates hoping to succeed Boris Johnson as prime minister should not ditch or backslide on the Government’s green agenda, according to Metro Mayor Dan Norris. The intervention from the Metro Mayor comes amid mounting fears the winning candidate will dismantle the UK’s net-zero commitments. Leadership hopefuls Kemi Badenoch and Suella Braverman have bothContinue reading “METRO MAYOR WARNS TORY CANDIDATES: DON’T DITCH NET ZERO”
JOB-READY, LIFE-READY: £710,000 CAREERS EDUCATION BOOST FROM METRO MAYOR
The West of England is “leading when it comes to careers education for young people” and could “teach the rest of the country a thing or two”, according to Metro Mayor Dan Norris. The Metro Mayor made the comments as he addressed the West of England Combined Authority’s annual careers conference attended by over 90Continue reading “JOB-READY, LIFE-READY: £710,000 CAREERS EDUCATION BOOST FROM METRO MAYOR“
Local artists bring a splash of colour to St Pauls with new murals, thanks to Metro Mayor grant
St Pauls is already one of most vibrant areas of Bristol, but is now an altogether more colourful place thanks to a £10,000 community art project funded by the West of England Combined Authority, led by Metro Mayor Dan Norris. Spray-can in hand, the Metro Mayor put the finishing touches to a 3.6-metre high muralContinue reading “Local artists bring a splash of colour to St Pauls with new murals, thanks to Metro Mayor grant”
Metro Mayor and First launch West of England’s first-ever ‘tap on, tap off’ bus payments
Traveling by bus is about to become easier than ever thanks to Metro Mayor Dan Norris. The Metro Mayor has teamed up with First Bus to launch “Tap On, Tap Off” (TOTO), a simple way for people to pay for their bus travel using their contactless card or device without having to buy a ticketContinue reading “Metro Mayor and First launch West of England’s first-ever ‘tap on, tap off’ bus payments”
METRO MAYOR: PAUSE CHANNEL 4 PRIVATISATION DURING TORY LEADERSHIP CONTEST TO PROTECT BRISTOL JOBS
The end of Boris Johnson’s premiership gives Channel 4 and it’s Bristol Creative Hub a “lifeline” against privatisation, according to Metro Mayor Dan Norris, and the sale of the much-loved broadcaster must be shelved while the Conservatives choose a new leader over the coming months. The Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, led by JohnsonContinue reading “METRO MAYOR: PAUSE CHANNEL 4 PRIVATISATION DURING TORY LEADERSHIP CONTEST TO PROTECT BRISTOL JOBS”
Top in the country: Metro Mayor hails institute boosting West of England tech skills
Metro Mayor Dan Norris marked the third anniversary of the UK’s leading technology institute currently supporting more than 800 West of Englanders gain sought-after tech skills next week. The Metro Mayor spoke at the institute’s birthday celebration event at Bath’s Bailbrook House Hotel on Tuesday at 6pm (Eveleigh Ave, London Road W, Bath BA1 7JD). Since itsContinue reading “Top in the country: Metro Mayor hails institute boosting West of England tech skills“
Sweet harmonies rung out across Three Ways School in Odd Down as Metro Mayor Dan Norris joined an orchestra with a difference at one of their rehearsals.
Mr Norris celebrated the achievements of the awe-inspiring ‘Three Ways School Open Orchestra’ benefiting from a £3,000 cash injection from the West of England Combined Authority he leads as he joined the young talented Bath musicians practicing for their end of year concert. Local charity Open Up Music is the brainchild behind ‘Open Orchestras’ ensuringContinue reading “Sweet harmonies rung out across Three Ways School in Odd Down as Metro Mayor Dan Norris joined an orchestra with a difference at one of their rehearsals.”
METRO MAYOR FIRST TO SEE £70 MILLION RESEARCH LAB TO DECARBONISE TRANSPORT
Metro Mayor Dan Norris got a sneak peek of a new state-of-the-art engineering centre helping decarbonise the West of England transport sector and funded by a bumper £10 million cash injection from the Combined Authority next Wednesday at 1.15pm (Newlands Lane, Bristol, BS16 7PT). Located in the Bristol and Bath Science Park in Emersons Green, the 13,500Continue reading “
METRO MAYOR FIRST TO SEE £70 MILLION RESEARCH LAB TO DECARBONISE TRANSPORT“
Back to School: Metro Mayor visit boosts Bristol pupils’ democracy learning
Metro Mayor Dan Norris went back to the classroom to talk with the budding politicians of Barrs Court Primary School in Longwell Green as part of a drive to learn about democracy this Wednesday at 1.15pm. Mr Norris saw how pupils have been learning about the importance of democracy and how it works when he addressedContinue reading “Back to School: Metro Mayor visit boosts Bristol pupils’ democracy learning”
Banksy’s of Tomorrow: Yate students showcase talent in heritage centre art exhibition
Metro Mayor Dan Norris is encouraging visitors to take a look at local children’s artwork being showcased at Yate and District Heritage Centre (Church Lane, Yate, Bristol BS37 5BG), this Children’s Art Week. The exhibition featuring work from 27 Yate students from Yate Academy can be seen at the Victorian stables-turned-heritage until Wednesday 6 July. WithContinue reading “Banksy’s of Tomorrow: Yate students showcase talent in heritage centre art exhibition”
Reawakening the summer: Metro Mayor gets ‘Wake The Tiger’ preview ahead of July opening
A new tourist attraction is coming to St Phillips next month from the creative team behind the popular Boomtown festival, and it might just be the perfect place to explore with children in tow this summer, according to Metro Mayor Dan Norris, who got an exclusive preview. Dubbed a ‘fantastical experience’ blurring the lines betweenContinue reading “Reawakening the summer: Metro Mayor gets ‘Wake The Tiger’ preview ahead of July opening”
Pride of the West: Metro Mayor hails budding young engineers at awards ceremony
The winners of a competition inspiring the next generation of the South West’s top engineers has been announced. The “Leaders Awards” backed by the West of England Combined Authority, led by Metro Mayor Dan Norris, took place at the University of the West of England last Friday. Over a thousand pupils, aged between 4 and 18,Continue reading “Pride of the West: Metro Mayor hails budding young engineers at awards ceremony“
Bristol garden cultivating wellbeing, thanks to Metro Mayor grant
This World WellBeing Week, Metro Mayor Dan Norris visited a much-loved community garden that is making a real difference thanks to a grant from the West of England Combined Authority, led by the Mayor. On his visit to Redcatch Community Garden, Mr Norris saw how the £7,500 cash injection is being used to fund trainingContinue reading “Bristol garden cultivating wellbeing, thanks to Metro Mayor grant”
The big picture: Metro Mayor and his dog first to visit new outdoor photography gallery
It was take your dog to work day and so First Dog of the West of England Angel officially opened a new outdoor photography gallery. The brand-new open-air space from Bristol’s Royal Photographic Society and Martin Parr Foundation has been fully funded by the West of England Combined Authority led by Angel’s owner Metro MayorContinue reading “The big picture: Metro Mayor and his dog first to visit new outdoor photography gallery”
Just Transition: Unions vital to net-zero plans, says Metro Mayor
At a discussion with trade union ‘green reps’, Metro Mayor Dan Norris vowed to work with unions to ensure a just transition to a “greener, cleaner and fairer” West of England economy. The Metro Mayor made the comments after talks with union environmental or ‘green’ reps on embedding the green agenda in the workplace heldContinue reading “Just Transition: Unions vital to net-zero plans, says Metro Mayor”
CHEW VALLEY SCHOOL WINS METRO MAYOR’S FIRST GREEN JOBS GRANT
Chew Valley school is the first of three West of England schools to win a new grant to encourage local youngsters to consider green careers. Metro Mayor Dan Norris visited the school on Wednesday at 11.30am during his second Jobs and Skills Summit to meet some of the students taking part. The school beat offContinue reading “CHEW VALLEY SCHOOL WINS METRO MAYOR’S FIRST GREEN JOBS GRANT”
Metro Mayor launches new Sustainability Champions programme
Two hundred eco-minded West of England workers became “Sustainable Impact Champions” helping their organisations reduce their carbon footprint, thanks to a brand-new scheme launched by Metro Mayor Dan Norris on Wednesday. The environmentally concerned West of England workers are being trained at workshops and through one-on-one mentoring as part of a wider joint £800,000 investment fromContinue reading “Metro Mayor launches new Sustainability Champions programme”
Metro Mayor visits Bristol retrofit site
Metro Mayor Dan Norris met workers who are retrofitting four homes on Philip Street as part of the Mayor’s second Jobs and Skills Summit. The Metro Mayor talked to the insulation workers about what attracted them to their roles, how they gained the skills they needed and quiz them about their ideas on how toContinue reading “Metro Mayor visits Bristol retrofit site”
Metro Mayor meets bright young minds behind best of West of England clean tech
Metro Mayor Dan Norris met the bright young minds behind some of the West of England’s leading green tech initiatives, during the Mayor’s second Jobs and Skills Summit. The Metro Mayor met some of the skilled young engineers and entrepreneurs behind some of the region’s leading green initiatives during the indoor demonstration, as well asContinue reading “Metro Mayor meets bright young minds behind best of West of England clean tech”
FRY-DAY COULD BREAK TEMPERATURE RECORDS, METRO MAYOR URGES PROTECTIONS FOR WORKERS
With the temperature set to soar in many parts of the West of England, Metro Mayor Dan Norris is once again calling on employers to make sure staff are protected from the sun and heat. Friday especially is set to be a scorcher and expected to be the hottest day of the year so far,Continue reading “FRY-DAY COULD BREAK TEMPERATURE RECORDS, METRO MAYOR URGES PROTECTIONS FOR WORKERS”
NEW “VALUE FOR MONEY” BUS DEAL HAMMERED OUT BY METRO MAYOR
Metro Mayor Dan Norris has hailed an important new era for buses in the West of England after his long-term funding plan was agreed. The Council leaders of South Gloucestershire, Bath and NE Somerset, and Bristol withdrew their motion on supported buses and backed a new plan which Metro Mayor Dan Norris proposed with theirContinue reading “NEW “VALUE FOR MONEY” BUS DEAL HAMMERED OUT BY METRO MAYOR”
Brassed Off! Labour pledges to stand up for Britain’s cultural crown jewels as Conservative Channel 4 sell off undermines British values and institutions and threatens jobs in Bristol and the West of England
In an debate in Parliament today (Tuesday 14 June), Labour is calling on Conservative MPs to stand up for British values and institutions, vote to protect Bristol’s Channel 4 Creative hub and stop the Channel 4 sell off to secure the future of one of Britain’s cultural crown jewels. Channel 4’s unique public service remitContinue reading “Brassed Off! Labour pledges to stand up for Britain’s cultural crown jewels as Conservative Channel 4 sell off undermines British values and institutions and threatens jobs in Bristol and the West of England”
“ROCKET BOOSTERS” FOR TEMPLE QUARTER AS WEST OF ENGLAND SECURES £95m CASH FOR FLAGSHIP REGENERATION PROJECT
The West of England Authority led by Metro Mayor Dan Norris has signed a £95.8 million pound deal with the government to revitalise the area around Brunel’s historic Bristol Temple Meads station and St Philip’s Marsh. The Minister for Levelling Up Neil O’Brien MP, the Metro Mayor Dan Norris, Bristol City Council Mayor Marvin ReesContinue reading ““ROCKET BOOSTERS” FOR TEMPLE QUARTER AS WEST OF ENGLAND SECURES £95m CASH FOR FLAGSHIP REGENERATION PROJECT”
Talking robots transforming care sector, thanks to Metro Mayor grant
A care robot called Genie met Metro Mayor Dan Norris to explain how it is caring for the region’s older and disabled adults thanks to cash injection from the Metro Mayor on Wednesday, during Carers Week. Developed by Stoke Gifford-based Service Robotics, Genie is the world’s first “remote care” companion robot, designed to help deliver moreContinue reading “Talking robots transforming care sector, thanks to Metro Mayor grant”
Bristol Bike Project: greener than the rest, thanks to Metro Mayor grant
A much-loved community bike project celebrating 15 years repairing and rehoming unwanted bicycles explained to Metro Mayor Dan Norris just how they are going green and cutting their energy bills thanks to a cash injection from the West of England Combined Authority he leads. Born in 2008 in a back garden in Montpelier, the nowContinue reading “Bristol Bike Project: greener than the rest, thanks to Metro Mayor grant”
METRO MAYOR MEETS WALES FIRST MINISTER, HAILS PARTNERSHIP WORKING
Metro Mayor Dan Norris has met with First Minister of Wales Mark Drakeford as part of an initiative to strengthen collaboration opportunities between the West of England and Wales. The meeting in Cardiff agreed to further develop the partnership between both in areas such as marine energy across the River Severn and Celtic Sea, withContinue reading “METRO MAYOR MEETS WALES FIRST MINISTER, HAILS PARTNERSHIP WORKING”
All aboard! First Bus to run £57 million Cribbs Patchway bus service
Metro Mayor Dan Norris officially welcomed First Bus aboard plans for the brand-new Cribbs Causeway to Bristol Parkway bus service. First Bus will run the new Cribbs Patchway ‘m4’ service opening in Spring 2023. Mayor Norris officially made the announcement alongside South Gloucestershire Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport, Steve Reade, and First’s Managing Director Doug Claringbold atContinue reading “All aboard! First Bus to run £57 million Cribbs Patchway bus service”
Bath indies boosted thanks to new Visit Somerset partnership, says Metro Mayor
Over £50 million which could support Bath’s independent shops is going into the pockets of big tech, says Visit Somerset CEO John Turner, but a brand-new partnership could begin to reverse this trend. Mr Turner explained to Metro Mayor Dan Norris just how he plans to support Bath’s thriving indies after uniting with Bath IndependentContinue reading “Bath indies boosted thanks to new Visit Somerset partnership, says Metro Mayor”
METRO MAYOR BLASTS GOVERNMENT’S CHANNEL 4 PRIVATISATION LAW
Channel 4 jobs destined for Bristol could be diverted back to London unless controversial Conservative Government privatisation plans are overturned, warned Labour’s Dan Norris. The Mayor was speaking ahead of a visit to the broadcaster’s Bristol-based creative hub where he discussed the Government’s proposals to sell off Channel 4 recently announced in the Queen’s Speech.Continue reading “METRO MAYOR BLASTS GOVERNMENT’S CHANNEL 4 PRIVATISATION LAW”
METRO MAYOR WELCOMES WINDFALL TAX ‘SCREECHING U-TURN’
Commenting on the Chancellor’s announcement of a support package to combat the cost-of-living crisis funded through a windfall tax on energy companies today (Thursday 26 May), Metro Mayor Dan Norris said: “I’m glad that after months of wavering, the Chancellor is finally acting to help people with spiralling bills. It’s been four and a halfContinue reading “METRO MAYOR WELCOMES WINDFALL TAX ‘SCREECHING U-TURN’”
SUE GRAY REPORT – METRO MAYOR COMMENTS
Commenting on the publication of the Sue Gray report today (Wednesday 25 May), Metro Mayor Dan Norris said: “Sue Gray’s report is unequivocal: there was a ‘serious failure’ to observe the high standards expected of those working in government and senior leaders ‘must bear responsibility’. But in truth, this damning and damaging report confirms whatContinue reading “SUE GRAY REPORT – METRO MAYOR COMMENTS”
METRO MAYOR: FOOD BANK USE HAS SOARED IN WEST OF ENGLAND
The number of food bank parcels given out in the West of England has soared by 85% over the past five years, with Metro Mayor Dan Norris branding the figures “scandalous”. New figures released by Trussell Trust show that in the past year to March 31, its food banks handed out a total of 37,649 foodContinue reading “METRO MAYOR: FOOD BANK USE HAS SOARED IN WEST OF ENGLAND”
Metro Mayor opens Chew Valley Trail
More people will be able to take in the postcard-esque sights of Chew Valley Lake after a new walking and cycling trail was opened by Metro Mayor Dan Norris. The mayor cut the ribbon at the trail to mark its official opening. The 2.7km all-weather path on the northern section of the lake has beenContinue reading “Metro Mayor opens Chew Valley Trail”
A platinum experience from Frenchay Museum, says Metro Mayor
If you have a right royal collection of memorabilia then Frenchay Museum would love to hear from you. The museum is putting the finishing touches to a Jubilee exhibition extravaganza and are looking for loans of commemorative mementos and to see photos and hear stories about local Royal events to build up a unique socialContinue reading “A platinum experience from Frenchay Museum, says Metro Mayor”
Metro Mayor scales new heights
Metro Mayor Dan Norris reached for the skies as he stepped into the shoes of a Victorian sailor and discovered what it was really like to be a member of the SS Great Britain’s crew by climbing up the rigging of Bristol’s most famous ship. The Mayor officially re-launched the SS Great Britain’s rigging climbingContinue reading “Metro Mayor scales new heights”
INFLATION SOARS TO 40-YEAR HIGH AS ENERGY BILLS BITE – METRO MAYOR COMMENTS
West of England households are coming under further pressure from price increases after inflation hit a 40-year-high, as the cost-of-living crisis continues to unfold across the region. The ONS said today inflation had risen to 9% in April, up from 7% in March. This is the highest level of inflation since comparable readings in 1982.Continue reading “INFLATION SOARS TO 40-YEAR HIGH AS ENERGY BILLS BITE – METRO MAYOR COMMENTS”
COST OF LIVING: TORY MPS TO VOTE DOWN WINDFALL TAX – METRO MAYOR COMMENTS
Tory MPs will be ordered to vote against a windfall tax on oil and gas companies tomorrow (Tuesday 17 May) to help families struggling with the rising cost of living, with Metro Mayor Dan Norris accusing the Government of being in “utter chaos” over whether to back the proposal. A debate on last week’s Queen’sContinue reading “COST OF LIVING: TORY MPS TO VOTE DOWN WINDFALL TAX – METRO MAYOR COMMENTS”
Bee Bold Day: Metro Mayor launches Bee Bold Awards
An awards scheme to showcase the very best “bee buddies” in the West of England was launched by Metro Mayor Dan Norris at Bradley Stoke-based Natracare. From shops to schools, farms to factories, in offices and warehouses, all pollinator-loving organisations across the West of England are encouraged to take part in the regions “Bee BoldContinue reading “Bee Bold Day: Metro Mayor launches Bee Bold Awards”
Bee Bold Day: Metro Mayor buzzing over Bees-niss wildflower area
Metro Mayor Dan Norris made a bee-line to an Avonmouth-based recycling and renewable energy company to see a wildflower meadow celebrating its first birthday next week. The Metro Mayor toured Avonmouth’s GENeco when launching his Bee Bold Awards. The Mayor saw the site’s new blooming wildflower meadows to see the majestic flowers there. He learntContinue reading “Bee Bold Day: Metro Mayor buzzing over Bees-niss wildflower area”
Bee Bold Day: The Bees are back in town
Beehive Yard will once again live up to its name as buzzing pollinators return there after what is believed to be over a century’s absence. Bath-based Agency UK’s officially revealed two brand-new beehives with the help of local beekeeper Martin Knight and West of England Metro Mayor Dan Norris. Beehive Yard got its name inContinue reading “Bee Bold Day: The Bees are back in town”
NATURE LOSS: ENVIRONMENT WATCHDOG REPORT SHOWS GOVERNMENT DRAGGING FEET ON CLIMATE CRISIS, SAYS METRO MAYOR
A report from an independent watchdog warning of looming environmental ‘tipping points’ in the UK shows the Government is “long on talk, completely lacking in action” in tackling nature and environmental decline, according to Metro Mayor Dan Norris. The first report from the Office for Environmental Protection, set up in 2021 to hold the GovernmentContinue reading “NATURE LOSS: ENVIRONMENT WATCHDOG REPORT SHOWS GOVERNMENT DRAGGING FEET ON CLIMATE CRISIS, SAYS METRO MAYOR”
QUEEN’S SPEECH SHOWS GOVERNMENT HAS NOTHING TO SAY ON COST-OF-LIVING CRISIS, SAYS METRO MAYOR
Following the Queen’s Speech this morning Dan Norris, Metro Mayor for the West of England, said: “Bills are soaring and West of England residents are feeling the squeeze. Inflation is set to hit 10%. But there is no immediate new cash for local people facing the cost-of-living crisis now. The government say it will offerContinue reading “QUEEN’S SPEECH SHOWS GOVERNMENT HAS NOTHING TO SAY ON COST-OF-LIVING CRISIS, SAYS METRO MAYOR”
AMAZON SLAMMED FOR LIVE LOBSTER TRADE
Amazon must stop selling live lobsters, the West of England’s Dan Norris has demanded – and called on the company to meet him face to face after they ignored his letters pleading with them to end the inhumane trade. The Mayor first wrote to Amazon on 4 January about the cruel practice and heard nothing.Continue reading “AMAZON SLAMMED FOR LIVE LOBSTER TRADE”
DEVELOPERS’ FREE-FOR-ALL FEARED AS SOUTH GLOUCESTERSHIRE COUNCIL WALKS AWAY FROM HOUSING TALKS TO SCUPPER PLANS TO CONTROL NEW HOMES
“This is a recipe for houses in the wrong place and a great day for greedy property developers” warned West of England Metro Mayor Dan Norris. He was speaking after South Gloucestershire Council refused to sign up to a joint evidence-led plan on building homes across the West of England known as the SDS (SpatialContinue reading “DEVELOPERS’ FREE-FOR-ALL FEARED AS SOUTH GLOUCESTERSHIRE COUNCIL WALKS AWAY FROM HOUSING TALKS TO SCUPPER PLANS TO CONTROL NEW HOMES”
GOVERNMENT WRONG TO DROP FOIE GRAS BAN SAYS METRO MAYOR
Metro Mayor Dan Norris has criticised the Government for dropping plans to ban the import and sale of foie gras from the Queen’s Speech. The so called ‘luxury’ food is made by force-feeding ducks and geese to fatten their livers. According to news reports, Cabinet ministers including Jacob Rees Mogg suggested that the move wasContinue reading “GOVERNMENT WRONG TO DROP FOIE GRAS BAN SAYS METRO MAYOR”
Roots Allotments helping Bathonians live ‘the good life’
It’s National Gardening week and Metro Mayor Dan Norris met Bath-based Roots to find out just how they’re helping Bathonians to live “the good life”. The Metro Mayor, who is running an ‘Eat Local’ campaign celebrating local produce, met friends and founders Ed Morrison, brothers Will and Josh Gay and Christian Samuels to hear howContinue reading “Roots Allotments helping Bathonians live ‘the good life’”
A pedal for change – Metro Mayor launches new e-cargo bike scheme
The West of England is pedalling its way to a greener future thanks to a brand-new e-cargo bike trial scheme from the Combined Authority led by Metro Mayor Dan Norris. From hospitals to universities, the West of England Combined Authority’s £920,000 investment will encourage pedal power with more goods and services delivered by e-cargo bikesContinue reading “A pedal for change – Metro Mayor launches new e-cargo bike scheme”
Mow problem: Metro Mayor urges locals to embrace a wilder lawn
Every flower counts, according to Metro Mayor Dan Norris, who is issuing a rallying cry for people to give the mower a breather this No Mow May to boost flowers and the insects that rely on them. The Mayor was speaking ahead of a visit to Bath-based not-for-profit group, Curo Housing, to hear how theyContinue reading “Mow problem: Metro Mayor urges locals to embrace a wilder lawn”
BP PROFITS DOUBLE TO £5 BILLION – METRO MAYOR RENEWS CALLS FOR WINDFALL TAX
Oil giant BP’s profits have more than doubled in the past year as oil and gas prices soared for households across the West of England. The company today reported an underlying profit of £4.9bn compared to £2.1bn in the same period last year – its highest for more than a decade. The profits come amidContinue reading “BP PROFITS DOUBLE TO £5 BILLION – METRO MAYOR RENEWS CALLS FOR WINDFALL TAX”
METRO MAYOR DAN NORRIS ASKS BUS BOSSES TO REVISIT PLANS
With bus passengers feeding back that they are being left delayed and stranded after a recent timetable change, Metro Mayor Dan Norris is asking local bus companies serious questions. “We need to know if this is teething troubles or terminal?” asks the Metro Mayor. Passengers were promised a better service at a meeting of theContinue reading “METRO MAYOR DAN NORRIS ASKS BUS BOSSES TO REVISIT PLANS”
Metro Mayor welcomes back Thornbury Museum
Thornbury and District Museum is back and once again open for locals and tourists alike after two years of closure due to Covid, and Metro Mayor Dan Norris is encouraging local people – and domestic visitors – to come give it the best possible return during Local and Community History Month. The Metro Mayor gotContinue reading “Metro Mayor welcomes back Thornbury Museum”
Paws with a cause: Metro Mayor meets Bristol Guide Dogs newest recruits
This International Guide Dog Day, West of England Metro Mayor Dan Norris will meet a paw-fect pack of puppy trainees when he visits the newly refurbished Guide Dogs Bristol training centre in the city centre. The soon-to-be canine helpers will support 80 blind and partially sighted people across the West of England, ensuring they areContinue reading “Paws with a cause: Metro Mayor meets Bristol Guide Dogs newest recruits”
Helmets?
Speaking on the BBC’s flagship Radio 4 Today programme, Metro Mayor Dan Norris called for the government to look closely at helmet wearing for e-scooter riders and ‘strict controls’ if e-scooters are legalised. The Metro Mayor was responding to the Transport Secretary this week confirming plans to legalise private e-scooter use will be includedContinue reading “Helmets?”
March of the inflatable robotic plants: thanks to Metro Mayor grant
A unique garden of robots which is the latest brainchild of Bristol-based “Air Giants” is about to set off on tour around the U.K. It’s been made possible thanks to a cash injection from the West of England Combined Authority led by Metro Mayor Dan Norris who will get a sneak peek of the exhibitContinue reading “March of the inflatable robotic plants: thanks to Metro Mayor grant”
BONKERS BUS RED TAPE
Metro Mayor Dan Norris has called on the Government to allow bus funding to be used flexibly. The West of England celebrated its bumper cash award of the “Bus Service Improvement Plan” cash last week, but the money is tangled in red tape. Specifically, none of the £105 million can be spent on saving existingContinue reading “BONKERS BUS RED TAPE”
PARTYGATE FINES – LABOUR METRO MAYOR COMMENTS
Following the news that Boris Johnson and Rishi Sunak have both been fined over Partygate, West of England Metro Mayor Dan Norris said: “This is a resigning matter. The Prime Minister and Chancellor thought while West of England people were making huge sacrifices it was OK for them to go to a party. It shouldContinue reading “PARTYGATE FINES – LABOUR METRO MAYOR COMMENTS”
METRO MAYOR PROUD TO JOIN LEAGUE AGAINST CRUEL SPORTS BOARD
West of England Metro Mayor and animal welfare advocate Dan Norris has joined the board of the national charity the League Against Cruel Sports and will take on the role of Trustee with immediate effect. The Metro Mayor is a life-long animal welfare campaigner. He cites the banning of fox hunting in England and WalesContinue reading “METRO MAYOR PROUD TO JOIN LEAGUE AGAINST CRUEL SPORTS BOARD”
Metro Mayor marks Royal British Legion Radstock Branch centenary
As the Radstock Branch of the Royal British Legion celebrated the centenary of its foundation, West of England Metro Mayor Dan Norris planted a tree to mark the milestone. The Metro Mayor joined Branch members to plant a Rowan tree at the Miner’s Memorial Garden next to the War Memorial in Radstock following a specialContinue reading “Metro Mayor marks Royal British Legion Radstock Branch centenary”
It’s gloves off in the fight to support young Bristolians into work
Eighty Bristol youngsters will benefit from a Careers and Boxing programme thanks to a £48,000 cash injection from the West of England Combined Authority, led by Metro Mayor Dan Norris. The Metro Mayor visited Empire Fighting Chance to see for himself how the local charity punches above its weight. Founder and CEO Martin Bisp explainedContinue reading “It’s gloves off in the fight to support young Bristolians into work”
Blooming Marvellous! Community planting project ‘growing strong’, says Metro Mayor
Green-fingered Emersons Green volunteers welcomed a special helper to their innovative community growing initiative celebrating its first birthday. Metro Mayor Dan Norris marked the anniversary by digging in as he toured a community garden at Blackhorse Primary School. Over the last year ‘One Planet Matters’ has been working with over 200 people in 40 projectsContinue reading “Blooming Marvellous! Community planting project ‘growing strong’, says Metro Mayor”
Metro Mayor launches Easter egg-stravaganza at Radstock Museum
The Easter Bunny has been super busy leaving decorated eggs for youngsters to find around Radstock Museum, and has specially enlisted Metro Mayor Dan Norris and Ivy from Midsomer Norton to help seek them out. The Metro Mayor officially launched the Great Museum Easter Egg Hunt running from 9 April to 24 April at theContinue reading “Metro Mayor launches Easter egg-stravaganza at Radstock Museum”
Channel 4 News latest victim of culture wars says Metro Mayor
West of England Metro Mayor Dan Norrishas slammed the government’s plans to privatise Channel 4 which they will set out in next month’s Queen’s Speech. The Metro Mayor who represents the West of England which is home to one of the channel’s key Cultural Hubs has called the decision “reckless” and described Channel 4 asContinue reading “Channel 4 News latest victim of culture wars says Metro Mayor”
WEST WINS BIG AGAIN IN TRANSPORT CASH
Over £100m of investment for buses will come to the West of England after a successful bid led by Metro Mayor Dan Norris. The £105.5m coming to the West of England Combined Authority and North Somerset Council is the second highest funding award in the whole of the country. Liverpool have won £12m while neighbouringContinue reading “WEST WINS BIG AGAIN IN TRANSPORT CASH”
AS TOURISM VAT BREAK ENDS, METRO MAYOR URGES PEOPLE TO EXPLORE LOCAL
Metro Mayor Dan Norris is once again urging West of England residents to “Love Local” and “Explore Local” after the reduced rate of VAT for hospitality and tourism comes to an end today. It comes after the Chancellor chose not to extend the 12.5 per cent rate of VAT in his Spring Statement last week,Continue reading “AS TOURISM VAT BREAK ENDS, METRO MAYOR URGES PEOPLE TO EXPLORE LOCAL”
ENERGY PRICE HIKE: SUBMIT METER READINGS BEFORE APRIL DEADLINE, METRO MAYOR URGES
Metro Mayor Dan Norris is urging local people to submit meter readings to their electricity and gas providers tomorrow (Thursday 31 March) before the April energy price cap hike comes into effect. With energy bills due to rise by an average of 54% on Friday, the Metro Mayor is encouraging West of England households toContinue reading “ENERGY PRICE HIKE: SUBMIT METER READINGS BEFORE APRIL DEADLINE, METRO MAYOR URGES”
Metro Mayor gets in the DJ booth
West of England Metro Mayor and rookie DJ Dan Norris tried spinning some records when he visited a pioneering Bristol-based community radio station. The Metro Mayor learnt how Bristol’s Noods Radio is benefiting from a cash injection from the West of England Combined Authority when he toured the station’s HQ and popular local spot forContinue reading “Metro Mayor gets in the DJ booth”
IMPROVE THE GREEN BELT, URGES METRO MAYOR
The current Green Belt is not fit for purpose in the West of England in the 21st century according to the region’s Metro Mayor. Dan Norris says it fails to protect land that is vital for wildlife and people’s mental wellbeing, while hindering building vital homes on brownfield sites. The Metro Mayor says he wouldContinue reading “IMPROVE THE GREEN BELT, URGES METRO MAYOR”