Red hot mayor has cool plan
As the West of England swelters, Metro Mayor Dan Norris has called for a maximum workplace temperature of 30C to be set by employers. He also wants local companies to put measures in place for workers who are at home, without access to things like air conditioning. When temperatures plunge, workers have a right toContinue reading “Red hot mayor has cool plan”
We don’t like to be beside the seaside
As the West of England swelters in the hot summer many residents minds might be turning to a trip to the beach. However those wishing to travel from Bristol to Weston Super Mare by train may be disappointed. Great Western Railways are making reductions to the regional train service, cutting the rail link to theContinue reading “We don’t like to be beside the seaside”
Super Marios a cut above the rest
It is shear delight for a Hengrove barber who has been crowned the best in the UK in a nationwide competition. Metro Mayor Dan Norris will pop in for a trim and to offer his congratulations tomorrow Wednesday 13 July at 12.15 at 10 The Parade, Hengrove Lane, Hengrove, Bristol, BS14 9DB. Mario Marotta hasContinue reading “Super Marios a cut above the rest”
Mayor wants to Electrify Skills
Metro Mayor Dan Norris has met apprentices learning how to service the electric vehicles of the future. They discussed how training was the solution to remove roadblocks to the plan to end the sale of petrol and diesel cars by 2030. This is a vital part of the West of England’s ambitious plan for netContinue reading “Mayor wants to Electrify Skills”
Metro mayor no dummy at Weston College
Metro Mayor Dan Norris met health and construction students at Weston College at the official national Launch of the UK’s twelve Institutes of Technologies. Weston College is the lead college for the West of England Institute of Technology in partnership with UWE, and local employers including Airbus, the NHS and the National Composites Centre. MayorContinue reading “Metro mayor no dummy at Weston College”
Bristol Pupil shows racism the red card
A talented Bristol student has won a prize in a national anti-racism football competition. In a week that saw England’s footballing heroes in a major final, but also shocking abuse of black players, Metro Mayor Dan Norris will visit Bristol Brunel Academy (this Thursday 15th of July at 10am) with the goal of presenting GeorgiaContinue reading “Bristol Pupil shows racism the red card”
Mayor praises Weekin as bus service saved
The No 17 bus service which local people feared would be scrapped at the end of August has been saved. The bus route is operated partly by bus company First on a commercial basis and subsidised by the West of England Combined Authority, led since May by newly elected Labour Metro Mayor Dan Norris. MayorContinue reading “Mayor praises Weekin as bus service saved”
The Show Must Go On
Metro Mayor Dan Norris is promising more help for creative businesses and freelancers with the launch of a new support program to help them recover from the impact of Covid-19. The Creative Sector Growth Programme aims to support recovery by working with creative businesses and freelancers to help them improve their business’s resilience. It will offer support including: £3,000 of professional expertise (mentoring,Continue reading “The Show Must Go On”
Jobs & Skills Summit to lead our recovery
West of England Metro Mayor, Dan Norris, will meet local residents whose jobs have been hit by Covid-19, as part of the region’s first Jobs & Skills Summit, July 5 – 9. During the week, he will be talking with apprentices in Bristol and Radstock; community learners in South Gloucestershire; Bath mums returning to work, and studentsContinue reading “Jobs & Skills Summit to lead our recovery”
Cheese-ey does it for Kelston
Metro Mayor Dan Norris donned his whites to learn the art of cheese making at Park Farm at Kelston. The Mayor was the guest of Hugh Padfield, founder of the award-winning organic cheese makers, The Bath Soft Cheese Company. When Covid struck, the local business decided they could not just ‘let it brie’ but insteadContinue reading “Cheese-ey does it for Kelston”
Welcoming back Keir Starmer
I was delighted to welcome leader of the opposition Keir Starmer back to West of England. I have a relentless focus on jobs and our recovery, to that end we visited the Bristol Port company to witness their investments in young people’s future through apprenticeships. Watch here: Keir Starmer on Instagram: “Dan Norris plans forContinue reading “Welcoming back Keir Starmer”
E-Bikes to get people cycling
More residents and employees across Bath and North East Somerset, Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire will soon be able to reap the benefits of pedal power, thanks to additional funding secured by the West of England Combined Authority. Metro Mayor Dan Norris, has won £248,000 from the Government to buy e-bikes, expand e-bike loanContinue reading “E-Bikes to get people cycling”
Don’t silence communities on planning
Metro Mayor Dan Norris has warned local people risk being gagged from speaking out against inappropriate developments in the West of England as the House of Commons votes on the so-called Developers’ Charter (today Monday 21 June).The Metro Mayor has branded the Government plans “unacceptable and undemocratic.” The Government’s proposed reforms of the planning systemContinue reading “Don’t silence communities on planning”
Heating up the tourism recovery
West of England Mayor Dan Norris heated up the recovery of tourism in Bath as he tried his hand at glass blowing. Independent glass production company, Bath Aqua Glass, has received a cash injection from the West of England Combined Authority that Mayor Norris leads. The Metro Mayor tried his hand at blowing a glassContinue reading “Heating up the tourism recovery”
No to Channel 4 Privatisation
Metro Mayor Dan Norris has warned that the West of England’s creative sector could be at threat from government plans to privatise Channel 4. Mayor Dan Norris said: “This proposal threatens to rip out the heart of Channel 4 – a much-loved broadcaster which has only just set down roots in the West of England.Continue reading “No to Channel 4 Privatisation”
Mayor and bus boss in step for Clean Air Day
Newly elected West of England Metro Mayor Dan Norris and First West of England’s new Managing Director, Doug Claringbold, took the meeting room outdoors to celebrate Clean Air Day. The pair marked their first official discussion by walking and talking around Arnos Vale Cemetery, one of a number of circular and one way walks thatContinue reading “Mayor and bus boss in step for Clean Air Day”
Cargo-bike deliveries put business in espresso line
Bristolian coffee lovers are full of beans to receive their caffeine boost by e-bike after Lost Horizon Coffee received a grant for a cargo e-bike. Metro Mayor Dan Norris visited Kit Nisbet, founder of Lost Horizon Coffee and rode the cargo e-bike that is transforming the speciality coffee roastery. Kit will feature in aContinue reading “Cargo-bike deliveries put business in espresso line”
Slow Barbecue Food Takes The Brisket
Metro Mayor Dan Norris popped in on local Westfield business Nomads’ BBQ for the antithesis of ‘fast food’. Accompanied by local councillor Grant Johnson, the Metro Mayor will see how the family run firm uses locally sourced wood and charcoal to cook its meat for up to 12 hours and boasts ‘not an electric plugContinue reading “Slow Barbecue Food Takes The Brisket”
Mayor to paddle power the recovery
A growing Bath business is set to receive a cash injection from the West of England Combined Authority led by the Metro Mayor Dan Norris. The funding will help “Wild Swim Bike Run” to create more new jobs. Metro Mayor Dan Norris visited “Wild Swim Bike Run” to discover more about their guided tours withContinue reading “Mayor to paddle power the recovery”
Freedom day postponed
Commenting on the postponement of so called “Freedom Day” Metro Mayor Dan Norris said: “This news comes as a disappointment to many local people. Yes, there has to be a safety first approach, but where is the additional support from the Government for these most badly hit workers? “Locally, I have pledged to double theContinue reading “Freedom day postponed”
New Event Planners Guide Launched
Metro Mayor Dan Norris visited Bath’s Francis Hotel as a new guide for event planners was launched. The Mayor said: “I love the West of England. It is a vibrant and exciting region which is a great place to go on holiday or hold a business event. We’ve got wonderful places to visit and fabulousContinue reading “New Event Planners Guide Launched”
Tree-mendous plan launched
Metro Mayor Dan Norris gave his seal of approval at the official launch of the The launch of the “Forest Avon Plan: A Tree and Woodland Strategy for the West of England” alongside the West of England Nature Partnership, the Forest of Avon Trust and other local environmental groups. The plan has a target toContinue reading “Tree-mendous plan launched”
New minibuses for Community groups
Kingswood Community Transport, Green Community Travel in Yate and Four Towns and Vale Link Transport in Thornbury have received the keys to their brand new minibuses. West of England Mayor Dan Norris said: “I am so pleased to hand over the keys to three brilliant local groups who are at the heart of their communities:Continue reading “New minibuses for Community groups”
Mayor Norris paves the way for even better Keynsham high street
Mayor Norris donned his work boots and high viz jacket as he helped lay a paving slab in Keynsham High Street. The improvements to the high street are part of a £1.5 million investment by the West of England Combined Authority, led by Metro Mayor Dan Norris. Alongside footpath widening and resurfacing, better signage andContinue reading “Mayor Norris paves the way for even better Keynsham high street”
Charity Bike Biz Plans To Cash In On Bridgerton Boom
A Bath charity is launching a brand new e-bike scheme for tourists which will raise vital cash to reduce homelessness and tackle long-term unemployment. Thanks to a grant from the West of England Combined Authority, led by Metro Mayor Dan Norris, the Julian House Bike Workshop is investing in a fleet of e-bikes which theyContinue reading “Charity Bike Biz Plans To Cash In On Bridgerton Boom”
Mayor pledges to work with world-beating research centre
Newly-elected Metro Mayor Dan Norris took a tour of the National Composites Centre – the West of England’s world-beating research centre. This is where the West of England’s top designers, researchers and engineers come together to create composite materials which are stronger, lighter and less likely to corrode. The National Composite Centre hosts a £10Continue reading “Mayor pledges to work with world-beating research centre”
Saving cash and energy is child’s play
A Bradley Stoke children’s playground specialist was visited by Metro Mayor Dan Norris to see how the local company is benefiting from a Green Business Grant scheme. Pentagon Play has received a grant £3,000 from the West of England Combined Authority which is led by Metro Mayor Dan Norris. The cash injection means Pentagon PlayContinue reading “Saving cash and energy is child’s play”
Full steam ahead
Metro Mayor Dan Norris met GWR to discuss exciting plans for new stations and improved rail services across our region which is vital for creating jobs and encouraging local people to switch away from cars to more journeys by train.
Metro Mayor takes walk on the wild side
Metro Mayor Dan Norris visited the Wild Place Project ahead of the bank holiday weekend and half-term as he encouraged local residents to enjoy our local tourist attractions. Visitor numbers at Bristol Zoo Gardens and Wild Place Project plummeted last year due to covid closures and limits on visitor numbers. While there were 830,000 visitorsContinue reading “Metro Mayor takes walk on the wild side”
WISE up to local college success
Dan Norris, Metro Mayor for the West of England has welcomed Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer to Stoke Gifford. The Labour duo were talking jobs and skills as they visited SGS WISE (the West of England Institute of Specialist Education). They got a behind the scenes look at the state-of-the-art Brunel Centre opening later thisContinue reading “WISE up to local college success”
Metro Mayor Joins The Robot Revolution
Robot football players met newly elected Metro Mayor Dan Norris as they took part in a futuristic football tournament at We The Curious, the science centre on Bristol’s harbourside. Ahead of the bank holiday weekend and half term the Metro Mayor visited the educational tourism attraction and personalised his own robot ahead of the high-techContinue reading “Metro Mayor Joins The Robot Revolution”
Metro Mayor checks out skills Port-folio
Dan Norris, Metro Mayor for the West of England was pleased to be joined by Leader of the Opposition Keir Starmer for a visit to the port of Bristol. The Metro Mayor spent the day talking to apprentices and highly skilled workers. Dan Norris said “I’m determined to bring more good jobs to our region.Continue reading “Metro Mayor checks out skills Port-folio”
Driving forward Bristol’s skills
Bristolian youngsters showed off their skills to Metro Mayor Dan Norris as he visited the South Bristol Skills Academy alongside MP Karin Smyth and outlined his plans to motor forward to expand opportunities. The Metro Mayor got hands on as he joined the students learning how to service cars and vans in the Academy’s modernContinue reading “Driving forward Bristol’s skills”
Metro Mayor Dan Norris Is Buzzing For Bees
Newly-elected Metro Mayor (and bee fan) Dan Norris made a bee-line to a Chew Valley nature reserve today as part of World Bee Day celebrations. The Mayor took a walk in one of Folly Farm’s blooming wildflower meadows, which bees and other pollinators love. While Folly Farm is awash with colour with flowering bluebells andContinue reading “Metro Mayor Dan Norris Is Buzzing For Bees”
“Railway report raises more questions than it answers” says Mayor Norris
Following the report on the future of the railways launched today Metro Mayor Dan Norris said: “Nearly three years after it was commissioned, this report has finally seen the light of day but unfortunately it still raises more questions than it answers. There are lots of warm words here and a good new title ofContinue reading ““Railway report raises more questions than it answers” says Mayor Norris”
“Government targets on environment disappointing and unambitious” says Dan Norris
Responding to the Government’s plans set out in today’s (18 May) speech by the Environment Secretary, Metro Mayor Dan Norris said: “I’m disappointed by the government’s unambitious targets. But in the West of England we are up for a challenge and we will go further and faster leading the way getting to net zero byContinue reading ““Government targets on environment disappointing and unambitious” says Dan Norris”
Metro Mayor Dan Norris Full Of Beans As Recovery Begins
Newly-elected Metro Mayor Dan Norris popped into a local café in Bath today (17 May) as local businesses welcomed customers back for indoor dining for the first time in many months.
Mayor Norris comments on Queen’s Speech
Following the Queens Speech today, Metro Mayor for the West of England Dan Norris said: “As pandemic restrictions ease and the West of England opens up more, we need to learn the lessons from covid and build back better. “My top priority is jobs and skills. But I am concerned that for this out-of-touch governmentContinue reading “Mayor Norris comments on Queen’s Speech”
Let’s get back on track
Mayor Dan Norris has demanded answers and urgent action from GWR over the cracked Hitachi high-speed trains chaos. Mayor Norris has written an open letter to the operator’s boss wanting to know how it will help passengers left stranded in the region. In a letter to GWR managing director Mark Hopwood the newly Labour electedContinue reading “Let’s get back on track”
Mayor Dan Norris thanks Keir Starmer
Mayor Dan Norris thanks Keir Starmer for ‘unlocking’ West of England election Speaking on BBC Breakfast newly elected Mayor Dan Norris thanked Keir Starmer for ‘unlocking’ the election in the West of England, saying he had made it possible for people to listen to Labour’s message and that was why the result was so good.
Thank you. It is an honour to be elected as your Metro Mayor
Labour’s Dan Norris has been elected Metro Mayor of the West of England – a Labour gain. The results of the closely contested seat were announced aboard the SS Great Britain at 4.35pm. Speaking after the results were announced newly elected Mayor Dan Norris said: “It’s a huge honour to be elected as Metro MayorContinue reading “Thank you. It is an honour to be elected as your Metro Mayor”
Thank you
A big thank you to everyone for your support. Results will be announced on Saturday.
Take your mask, get set, vote!
Local residents will be heading to the polls to vote for a new Metro Mayor for the West of England on Thursday 6 May. The result was extremely close last time the election was held back in 2017 when the Conservatives won with Labour just three per cent behind. Despite it being an important roleContinue reading “Take your mask, get set, vote!”
Keir we go again!
Labour leader Keir Starmer made his final stop of the campaign in Keynsham supporting Dan Norris to be the next Metro Mayor of the West of England. After four years of an invisible Tory Metro Mayor Dan Norris is pledging new leadership. Vote Labour tomorrow (Thursday 6 May).
Dan goes back to school
A-level and GCSE students from Chipping Sodbury school quizzed the Shadow Secretary of State for Education Kate Green MP as she visited their school. Labour’s top education MP was the guest of Metro Mayor candidate and former Chipping Sodbury 6th former Dan Norris. Mr Norris who studied for Chemistry, Physics and Biology A-levels at the school heard from today’s youngsters aboutContinue reading “Dan goes back to school”
Revealed: How much Bristol schools will lose from Tory changes to pupil premium funding
Schools in Bristol stand to lose £1.5 million after the government’s decision to change the method of calculating pupil premium funding. Pupil premium is designed to allow schools to help more disadvantaged pupils by improving their progress and the exam results they achieve. Primary schools receive £1,345 per pupil and secondaries get £955. But inContinue reading “Revealed: How much Bristol schools will lose from Tory changes to pupil premium funding”
Shock at PM’s crass covid comments
Responding to reports that Boris Johnson said he would rather see ‘bodies pile high in their thousands’ than order a third lockdown, Dan Norris said: “If this report is true, then I have no doubt that West of England families will be as shocked and sickened at the Prime Minister’s comments as me. What aContinue reading “Shock at PM’s crass covid comments”
Conservatives ignored expert advice on bee killing pesticides
Only after a freedom of information request from Friends of the Earth did the government reveal hidden advice on bee killing pesticides from the Health and Safety Executive. They said no to neonic pesticide use but Ministers overruled the safety experts. Dan Norris who is a former Environment Minister and bee-fan has said he findsContinue reading “Conservatives ignored expert advice on bee killing pesticides”
Backing the tourism sector
West of England groups representing the tourism industry attended a roundtable organised by Dan Norris and co-hosted with Shadow Minister for Tourism and Heritage, Alex Sobel MP. The special meeting focused on the impact of the pandemic and what support measures are needed, the importance of addressing long-term regional challenges including delivering sustainable tourism, andContinue reading “Backing the tourism sector”
No to European Super League
A huge meeting attended by Metro Mayor Candidate Dan Norris and angry football fans including from both professional Bristol clubs was convened today by Sir Keir Starmer The football fans are angered at the announcement that top flight teams plan to establish a European football “Super League”. They believe that Football governance should be aboutContinue reading “No to European Super League”
Great answer for ‘Pointless’ but terrible for our region
The name of the local Conservative Metro Mayor had the PM stumped this week as he visited our part of the world. So not only is the Tory man invisible locally, he’s clearly also failed to make an impact in Westminster. Yet the role, up for election in May, has a big budget and powersContinue reading “Great answer for ‘Pointless’ but terrible for our region”
Keir we go!
Labour Leader Keir Starmer visited Bath today accompanied by Dan Norris. The pair talked to local residents and business owners in the busy city centre. Like many places with a big tourism and hospitality sector many Bath businesses have been hard hit by the pandemic. Dan Norris has been critical of the current Metro Mayor’sContinue reading “Keir we go!”
Shadow Chancellor visits Keynsham High Street
Labour’s Dan Norris welcomed Shadow Chancellor Anneliese Dodds to Keynsham High Street. The Labour duo discussed the re-opening of shops after the recent lockdown and the importance of supporting local businesses. Dan Norris has been scathing of the current Metro Mayor’s failure to invest half of his High Street fund at a time that businessesContinue reading “Shadow Chancellor visits Keynsham High Street”
Invisible West of England Metro Mayor is least well known in country
Just 7% of people in the West of England could name the metro mayor unprompted, the lowest score nationwide. Research by Centre for Cities shows that the Conservative Metro Mayor of the West of England has failed to make an impact during his four years in office. This contrasts to around six in ten peopleContinue reading “Invisible West of England Metro Mayor is least well known in country”
New West of England homes should be pet friendly
A lesson from the pandemic is that new homes built in the West of England should be pet friendly, says Metro Mayor candidate Dan Norris. Pet ownership has soared during the covid crisis and 74% of pet owners say having a pet has helped their mental health while they were coping with coronavirus curbs. HoweverContinue reading “New West of England homes should be pet friendly”
Duke of Edinburgh
I am very sorry to hear that the Duke of Edinburgh has died today. This is a sad day. He has been a fixture throughout our lives, serving as a loyal consort to the Queen for 73 years. I know the country will be in mourning today. I have paused all campaigning as a markContinue reading “Duke of Edinburgh”
No to super-sized anaerobic digester power plant
Dan Norris opposes the proposed 92,000 tonne anaerobic digester to the south of Keynsham. He has long shared residents’ concerns and hopes it will be third time unlucky for the controversial plans when they are discussed on 11 May. Dan Norris, who was previously an Environment Minister, says while he backs the principle of anaerobicContinue reading “No to super-sized anaerobic digester power plant”
Blooming Lovely
Dan Norris is urging local residents to bring a bit of Japanese culture to the West of England by indulging in “Hanami” the ancient tradition of viewing and celebrating blossom. With this spring likely to be the most anticipated ever as the UK slowly emerges from lockdown, the National Trust have launched its #BlossomWatch campaign.Continue reading “Blooming Lovely”
Dan unveils ‘Culture Covenant’
Labour Metro Mayor candidate Dan Norris today launched his ‘Culture Covenant’ at a summit with leading figures from the region’s creative sector and Shadow Culture, Media and Sport Minister Alison McGovern. With live performance venues, museums and galleries shuttered and productions put on hold, Bath and Bristol’s normally thriving cultural sector has been particularly hardContinue reading “Dan unveils ‘Culture Covenant’”
Banksy is an NHS Star
A painting by anonymous Bristol City supporting artist Banksy featuring a young boy playing with a superhero nurse doll has raised more than £16m for NHS charities after being sold at auction. The painting which was delivered in secret to nurses at a hospital came with an accompanying note saying, “Thanks for all you’re doing.Continue reading “Banksy is an NHS Star”
Dan announces buzzing new policy
Local residents were a buzz as Labour Metro Mayor candidate Dan Norris announced his plan to make the West of England the UK’s Bee capital. At a meeting attended by local bee keepers, concerned environmentalists and the Shadow Secretary of State for the Environment, the Labour candidate made a bee-line to lend his support toContinue reading “Dan announces buzzing new policy”
A bright future for our high streets
Labour’s Dan Norris has backed the Shadow Chancellor Anneliese Dodds as she launched Labour’s five-point plan to “put communities first” and support local high streets. Mr Norris, who is standing to be Metro Mayor, is promising a bright future for the West of England’s high streets. The Labour candidate has been critical of the currentContinue reading “A bright future for our high streets”
Dan gets his jab
Dan Norris has received his covid jab and had a very clear message: “thank you NHS!” We know the Coronavirus pandemic has hit our country harder than almost any other. Britain is facing the worst recession of any major economy and too many loved ones have been taken too soon. Locally we have seen goodContinue reading “Dan gets his jab”
One in five local pupils in class sizes over 30
The number of Bath and North East Somerset pupils in class sizes of over 30 has soared to one in five pupils. There are now 1592 more pupils in over-large classes than in 2010. To tackle these inequalities, Labour has launched a new ‘Bright Future Taskforce’ to deliver a long-term strategy for children’s recovery and ensure everyContinue reading “One in five local pupils in class sizes over 30”
Chocs Away
There was more bad news for jobs as Thorntons announced it was closing its store in Cribbs Causeway. Dan Norris said: “Whether you’re partial to some milk chocolate or can’t resist Thorntons Special Toffee this is an unhappy day for people with a sweet tooth. Sadly it’s also another blow to the local economy inContinue reading “Chocs Away”
Dan’s dog leads paws-itive dog theft awareness day zoom call
Dan Norris’ Cocker Spaniel Angel (and the Metro Mayor candidate himself) are backing Dog Theft Awareness day as figures show not only a large rise in demand for canine companionship during Covid lockdown but also an increase in the reporting of missing pets. They are not letting sleeping dogs lie and hosted a special ‘DogsContinue reading “Dan’s dog leads paws-itive dog theft awareness day zoom call”
Dan Norris welcomes Labour Leader to meet Filton key worker heroes
Labour Metro Mayor candidate Dan Norris welcomed Labour leader Keir Starmer to the South West Ambulance Trust’s base in Filton. The Labour duo met paramedics and other ambulance staff stationed there and heard about their tireless work throughout the pandemic. But Metro Mayor candidate Dan Norris said that he was “very sad” to hear thatContinue reading “Dan Norris welcomes Labour Leader to meet Filton key worker heroes”
Time for Chew Valley to get connected
Data reveals that nearly one in twenty people across the Chew Valley, Bishop Sutton & East Harptree are unable to receive decent broadband. In contrast across England as a whole 99.4% of homes and businesses meet the Universal Service Obligation – able to receive 10 Mbps download speed or 1 Mbps upload speed, which Ofcom regardsContinue reading “Time for Chew Valley to get connected”
NHS heroes will be hundreds of pounds worse off next year under Government plans
Nurses, Physiotherapists, Occupational Therapists and other clinicians are set to be hundreds of pounds worse off in real terms every month if the Government’s recommendations are implemented. New figures show that, under their proposed 1 per cent pay “increase”, the basic starting salary of a Band 5 nurse is actually a pay cut, as itContinue reading “NHS heroes will be hundreds of pounds worse off next year under Government plans”
West of England Metro Mayor fails on post-Brexit funds
Not a single village, town or city in the West of England Metro Mayor area features on a new list of priority areas set to receive cash for skills and training. Every other Metro Mayor in the country, except in the West of England, has made it onto a special list announced in the BudgetContinue reading “West of England Metro Mayor fails on post-Brexit funds”
Budget lacks ambition for West of England says Labour Metro Mayor Candidate
Reacting to the Chancellor’s Budget statement, Dan Norris, Labour’s candidate for West of England metro mayor said: “What a disappointment. A budget that is truly lacking in ambition for the West of England. There was no mention of the NHS, or social care, or schools, or teachers. There was nothing on crime or restoring our area’s highContinue reading “Budget lacks ambition for West of England says Labour Metro Mayor Candidate”
Rural Broadband
More than four in 10 farmers still don’t have adequate fast and reliable broadband in order to run a modern-day farming business, according to a new NFU survey.The results highlight how business growth is hampered by persistent poor connectivity and mobile coverage in rural areas. Labour’s Dan Norris said: “My rural broadband signal drops inContinue reading “Rural Broadband”
Bath in top 10 “hollowed out” jobs threat
Labour analysis of Office for National Statistics figures has highlighted that Bath and North East Somerset is in the top 10 places most at risk in the country of seeing their high streets “hollowed out” due to the impact of Covid on hospitality, tourism, non-essential retail and leisure businesses. 11.7% of all businesses across EnglandContinue reading “Bath in top 10 “hollowed out” jobs threat”
“Missing” students could decimate Bristol and Bath’s future funding
Students who are at holiday addresses rather than term term addresses due to the Covid lockdown will skew census data, warned Metro Mayor candidate Dan Norris today. This could lead to Bath and Bristol missing out on vital funding. The Census is due to take place on Sunday 21 March but many of the 60,000 University ofContinue reading ““Missing” students could decimate Bristol and Bath’s future funding”
Tory Metro Mayor failing on apprenticeships
“Must do better”: that is the message from Labour Metro Mayor candidate Dan Norris as he slammed the Conservative West of England Metro Mayor for failing on apprenticeships. Latest figures show that during the current Metro Mayor’s term of office the number of new apprenticeships in the West of England has plummeted. There are 1630 fewer inContinue reading “Tory Metro Mayor failing on apprenticeships”
SAFER INTERNET MORE IMPORTANT THAN EVER SAYS LABOUR MAYOR CANDIDATE
Safer Internet Day is more important than ever during the Covid-19 pandemic warned Labour Metro Mayor candidate Dan Norris. With more and more everyday tasks taking place online the amount of screen time for children has soared. The annual awareness day sees kids and their parents get top tips and advice on how to tackleContinue reading “SAFER INTERNET MORE IMPORTANT THAN EVER SAYS LABOUR MAYOR CANDIDATE”
Housing Roundtable
Housing leaders from across the West of England attended a housing roundtable organised by Dan Norris and The National Housing Federation. Dan said: “This was one of the best meetings I’ve had as Labour’s Metro Mayor candidate. They were direct, passionate, and clear about what our area’s housing needs are now and the challenges ofContinue reading “Housing Roundtable”
Dan Norris backs calls for “smart” furlough
Dan Norris has backed calls for the Chancellor to introduce a “smart” extension of the furlough scheme ahead of the April cliff edge. The Chancellor initially planned a one-size-fits-all wind down of the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme last July. After several last-minute changes over the autumn and winter, the scheme is now set to expireContinue reading “Dan Norris backs calls for “smart” furlough”
Thousands in Bristol living with Grenfell-style cladding
Around 7,000 people in Bristol are still living in flats with flammable cladding, almost four years after the Grenfell Tower fire tragedy in which 72 people died in their homes. At least 51 high rise buildings in Bristol are still waiting to have dangerous cladding removed, suggesting there are approximately 7,000 people in the cityContinue reading “Thousands in Bristol living with Grenfell-style cladding”
Environment jobs snatched away from Bristol
Labour’s Mayoral candidate Dan Norris has hit out at today’s (26th January 2021) Government announcement on the location of the new Office of Environmental Protection. Bristol was expected to be the home of the powerful independent regulator but a last minute U-turn by the Government means it will be sent to Worcester instead. The decisionContinue reading “Environment jobs snatched away from Bristol”
Kingswood and Bristol High street workers deserve better on sick pay
It’s a kick in the teeth for Kingswood and Bristol Wilko keyworker high street heroes as the company cuts their sick pay. The discount high street chain remained open throughout the pandemic thanks to the hard work and dedication of their employees. But Wilko has repaid this loyalty by announcing devastating cuts to the sick pay ofContinue reading “Kingswood and Bristol High street workers deserve better on sick pay”
Don’t Cut Care Worker Pay
Local care workers could be left hundreds of pounds out of pocket warned Dan Norris as the government consider post- Brexit changes to holiday pay and safe working hours. Under the current rules, workers are entitled to a week’s pay for each week of statutory leave that they take, and employers have to include regularContinue reading “Don’t Cut Care Worker Pay”
Metro Mayor candidate backs Bristol MP’s ‘social tariff’ for broadband
Dan Norris is backing a campaign to require low-cost broadband for families on low incomes. Bristol North West Labour MP Darren Jones, is calling on the Government to use existing powers to provide a ‘social tariff’ for broadband for families with children eligible for free school meals. These proposals would mean that the over 21000Continue reading “Metro Mayor candidate backs Bristol MP’s ‘social tariff’ for broadband”
GOVERNMENT SHOULD BUZZ OFF
The West of England’s buzzing bees are under threat after the Government reversed a ban on bee-killing pesticides. Dan Norris, Metro Mayor candidate and former Labour Environment minister, has slammed the Government decision to allow the controversial chemicals known as neonicotinoids to be sprayed on fields. Mr Norris, who as rural affairs minister held nationalContinue reading “GOVERNMENT SHOULD BUZZ OFF”
New lockdown
We are a critical moment in our fight against coronavirus. The virus is out of control, more and more people are getting infected by the disease and this is putting immense pressure on our amazing NHS. That is why Dan Norris backs this new lockdown. But it did not have to be this way. DanContinue reading “New lockdown”
Tesco should close on Boxing Day
Dan Norris and Cllr Grant Johnson are calling on Tescos to give their workers a well earned break on Boxing day in recognition of the the unparalleled efforts of shop workers up over the past year.” In a letter to the store manager at the Paulton store, the duo wrote: “For key workers, who haveContinue reading “Tesco should close on Boxing Day”
RAIL FARES SET TO RISE BY INFLATION-BUSTING 2.6% NEXT YEAR
Rail season tickets between Bath Spa and London are set to rise by an inflation-busting £274 next year. The government has changed the rules on regulated rail fare rises, putting them up by July’s inflation figure plus 1% – a total of 2.6%. For several years, rises have been linked directly to the inflation rate.Continue reading “RAIL FARES SET TO RISE BY INFLATION-BUSTING 2.6% NEXT YEAR”
18,000+ JUMP IN LOCAL UNEMPLOYMENT
18,495 more Bristol, Bath and North East Somerset, and South Gloucestershire residents are out of work since lockdown began according to new figures released today. There are now 31,595 people across the area aged between 16 and 64 claiming unemployment related benefits. The news came as national labour market stats showed the number of peopleContinue reading “18,000+ JUMP IN LOCAL UNEMPLOYMENT”
BIG JUMP IN WEST OF ENGLAND UNEMPLOYED
18,495 more West of England people are out of work since lockdown began according to new figures released today. There are now 31,595 people in the city aged between 16 and 64 claiming unemployment related benefits. The news came as national labour market stats showed the number of people reporting they had been made redundantContinue reading “BIG JUMP IN WEST OF ENGLAND UNEMPLOYED”
MAYORAL HOPEFUL SLAMS CHANCELLOR FOR KEY WORKER PAY CUT
Mayoral hopeful Dan Norris has slammed Chancellor Rishi Sunak for plans to hit every key worker earning over £18,000 with a real-terms pay cut next year – the teachers, police officers and Armed Forces personnel on the front line of the battle against Covid-19. At the Spending Review on 25 November, the Chancellor announced aContinue reading “MAYORAL HOPEFUL SLAMS CHANCELLOR FOR KEY WORKER PAY CUT”
NO ONE SHOULD NEED TO SPEND CHRISTMAS ON THE STREETS
Labour is calling on the Government to commit that no one in the West of England will spend this winter on the streets. Research by charity HomelessLink found one third of homeless organisations and local authorities expect there will be thousands fewer beds available across the country, While many rough sleepers were given emergency accommodationContinue reading “NO ONE SHOULD NEED TO SPEND CHRISTMAS ON THE STREETS”
LOCAL BARBERS A CUT ABOVE SAYS MAYORAL HOPEFUL
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ARCADIA GROUP COLLAPSE – MAYORAL HOPEFUL COMMENTS
The Arcadia group has collapsed into administration, putting 13,000 jobs at risk. The group includes popular high street stores including Topshop, Topman, Miss Selfridge, Dorothy Perkins, Evans and Burton. Labour Metro Mayor hopeful Dan Norris said: “My thoughts are with those whose jobs are at risk. Through what has been a difficult year for many, retailContinue reading “ARCADIA GROUP COLLAPSE – MAYORAL HOPEFUL COMMENTS”
THORNBURY WORKWEAR COMPANY WINS PRAISE FROM LABOUR LEADER AND METRO MAYOR HOPEFUL
A Thornbury Workwear company has received a special “virtual visit” from Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer and Metro Mayor hopeful Dan Norris, who praised the company for protecting frontline Covid heroes. Sir Keir and Mr Norris held a zoom meeting with Alexandra Workwear where they met managing director Martin Lyne and staff who explained how theContinue reading “THORNBURY WORKWEAR COMPANY WINS PRAISE FROM LABOUR LEADER AND METRO MAYOR HOPEFUL”
‘STICKING PLASTER SPENDING REVIEW, NOT ENOUGH’ SAYS LABOUR MAYOR HOPEFUL
The Government’s Spending Review announced today is a sticking plaster to cover the crisis for jobs and businesses, says Labour West of England Metro Mayor candidate Dan Norris. Speaking after the Chancellor’s Statement Mr Norris said: “The Chancellor told us how the UK’s economy has shrunk by 10%. We know we have a worse downturnContinue reading “‘STICKING PLASTER SPENDING REVIEW, NOT ENOUGH’ SAYS LABOUR MAYOR HOPEFUL”
LOCKDOWN ENDS IN TIERS – CERTAINTY NEEDED FOR JOBS AND BUSINESSES SAYS MAYORAL HOPEFUL
The government’s plan following the lifting of lockdown will be judged on whether it brings certainty for business and carries the confidence of the public, says Labour’s Metro Mayor hopeful Dan Norris. Following the Prime Minister’s announcement Mr Norris called on the Government to urgently set out a plan for local businesses, describing the uncertaintyContinue reading “LOCKDOWN ENDS IN TIERS – CERTAINTY NEEDED FOR JOBS AND BUSINESSES SAYS MAYORAL HOPEFUL”