Ruspidge & Soudley. Highways Gloucestershire Road Works Bulletin. 15th November 2024.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Subscribe to GCC Highways to receive your own copy.

Parish VAS Report from July - September 2024.

Please download the .PDF report from the link below.

Ruspidge & Soudley. Highways Gloucestershire Road Works Bulletin. 11th October 2024.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Subscribe to GCC Highways to receive your own copy.

Age UK Gloucestershire launches older persons’ information hub in Cinderford

As the cost-of-living crisis continues to impact older people across the county, demands for financial support and advice are increasing. Last month’s government announcement to cut the yearly Winter Fuel Payment to those only claiming Pension Credit will further add to the stress. As the ageing population increases, statistics clearly indicate the need for Age UK Gloucestershire to provide more advice and guidance around navigating the benefit system, to older people in the Forest of Dean.

Ruspidge & Soudley. Highways Gloucestershire Road Works Bulletin. 13th September 2024.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Subscribe to GCC Highways to receive your own copy.

Ruspidge & Soudley. Highways Gloucestershire Road Works Bulletin. 30th Augst 2024.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Subscribe to GCC Highways to receive your own copy.

Ruspidge & Soudley. Highways Gloucestershire Road Works Bulletin. 23rd Augst 2024.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Subscribe to GCC Highways to receive your own copy.

Ruspidge & Soudley. Highways Gloucestershire Road Works Bulletin. 25th July to 4th August 2024.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Subscribe to GCC Highways to receive your own copy.

Ruspidge & Soudley. Highways Gloucestershire Road Works Bulletin. 25th July to 4th August 2024.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Subscribe to GCC Highways to receive your own copy.

Ruspidge & Soudley. Highways Gloucestershire Road Works Bulletin. 11th July to 24th July 2024.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Subscribe to GCC Highways to receive your own copy.

Declaration of Results Forest of Dean Constituency

Speed Watch Report April - June 2024

Ruspidge & Soudley. Highways Gloucestershire Road Works Bulletin. 30th May to 20th June 2024.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Subscribe to GCC Highways to receive your own copy.

Ruspidge & Soudley. Highways Gloucestershire Road Works Bulletin. 30th May to 20th June 2024.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Subscribe to GCC Highways to receive your own copy.

Ruspidge & Soudley. Highways Gloucestershire Road Works Bulletin. 23rd May to 6th June 2024.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Subscribe to GCC Highways to receive your own copy.

Ruspidge & Soudley. Highways Gloucestershire Road Works Bulletin. 6th May to 26th May 2024.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Subscribe to GCC Highways to receive your own copy.

Ruspidge & Soudley. Highways Gloucestershire Road Works Bulletin. 9th May to 19th May 2024.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Subscribe to GCC Highways to receive your own copy.

Ruspidge & Soudley. Highways Gloucestershire Road Works Bulletin. 14th March to 20th March 2024.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Subscribe to GCC Highways to receive your own copy.

Speed Watch Report January - March 2024

Ruspidge & Soudley Parish Council
Annual Parish Meeting

At Ruspidge Memorial Hall 7pm on 14^th May 2024

This is a PUBLIC MEETING and all residents of the Parish are invited

Agenda

1. Acceptance of apologies for absence.

2. ELECTION OF THE CHAIRMAN. Nominate and second the candidate, for office of the Chairman.

3. DECLARATION OF OFFICE FORMS– Members to complete and sign Declaration of office forms, to be collected by the Clerk.

4. REGISTER OF INTERESTS FORMS– Members to complete and sign Register of Interest Forms, to be collected by the Clerk.

5. APPOINTMENTS OF THE COUNCIL. Vice Chairman of the Council. Hon Treasurer of the Council. Internal Auditor of the Council.

6. APPOINT REPRESENTATIVES OF THE COUNCIL. Ruspidge Memorial Hall, Soudley Village Hall, Parish planning considerations & site inspection panel, Parish Snow Wardens, Parish Highways, Wreath laying on Remembrance Day at Cinderford & Soudley.

7. Acceptance of the Minutes of the Annual Parish Meeting held on the 9th of May, 2023.

8. To receive the Report of the Chair of the Council.

9. The Financial Report year ending 31st March, 2024.

To consider any other matter for the benefit of the Parish.

Ruspidge & Soudley. Highways Gloucestershire Road Works Bulletin. 14th March to 20th March 2024.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Subscribe to GCC Highways to receive your own copy.

Ruspidge & Soudley. Highways Gloucestershire Road Works Bulletin. 7th March to 17th March 2024.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Subscribe to GCC Highways to receive your own copy.

Ruspidge & Soudley. Highways Gloucestershire Road Works Bulletin. 29th February to 20th March 2024.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Subscribe to GCC Highways to receive your own copy.

Post Box Soudley Top Road

Due to the recent removal by the Royal Mail of the post box along Top Road, Soudley, the Parish Council with the support of GCC Cllr. Beki Hoyland has requested a replacement, we have received the following confirmation from Royal Mail:

'I am pleased to advise that we are already in the process of arranging for a replacement post box to be installed within the Village. We have recently liaised with the Royal Mail Collections Team who have approved this request that was originally received from a local resident.

The approximate timeline for the installation to be completed is between 24-258 weeks assuming everything runs smoothly.'

Ruspidge & Soudley. Highways Gloucestershire Road Works Bulletin. 22nd February to 3rd March 2024.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Subscribe to GCC Highways to receive your own copy.

Ruspidge & Soudley. Highways Gloucestershire Road Works Bulletin. 15th February to 25th February 2024.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Subscribe to GCC Highways to receive your own copy.

Ruspidge & Soudley. Highways Gloucestershire Road Works Bulletin. 1st February to 11th February 2024.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Subscribe to GCC Highways to receive your own copy.

Ruspidge & Soudley. Highways Gloucestershire Road Works Bulletin. 25th January to 2nd February 2024.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Subscribe to GCC Highways to receive your own copy.

Gloucestershire Carers Hub Winter Newsletter

To view please click: Winter Newsletter - Gloucestershire Carers Hub

Play Rangers Gloucestershire is back at Ruspidge recreation ground on Tuesday 13th February.

10 am to 4pm

Ruspidge & Soudley. Highways Gloucestershire Road Works Bulletin. 11th January to 21st January 2024.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Subscribe to GCC Highways to receive your own copy.

October - December 2023 Speed Watch Report

Ruspidge & Soudley. Highways Gloucestershire Road Works Bulletin. 1st January to 14th January 2024.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Subscribe to GCC Highways to receive your own copy.

FLOOD ALERT CINDERFORD BROOK

A Flood Alert has been issued by the Environment Agency.

Flood Alert in force: Rivers in the Forest of Dean.
Flooding is possible for: River Lyd and Cinderford Brook.

River levels are rising at the Parkend river gauge as a result of heavy rainfall.
Consequently, flooding of property, roads and farmland is expected.
We expect flooding to affect low lying land and roads adjacent to the river from Gloucester to Chepstow. Other locations that may be affected include Westbury and Lydney.
Please avoid using low lying footpaths near local watercourses and plan driving routes to avoid low lying roads near rivers, which may be flooded.

Ruspidge & Soudley. Highways Gloucestershire Road Works Bulletin. 14th December to 24th December 2023.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Ruspidge & Soudley. Highways Gloucestershire Road Works Bulletin. 7th December to 17th December 2023.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Ruspidge & Soudley. Highways Gloucestershire Road Works Bulletin. 30th December to 10th December 2023.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Ruspidge & Soudley Road Now Open

Highways Gloucestershire has informed us that the Ruspidge / Soudley Road repairs have now been completed and the road is now open.

Ruspidge & Soudley. Highways Gloucestershire Road Works Bulletin. 23th November to 3rd December 2023.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Ruspidge & Soudley. Highways Gloucestershire Road Works Bulletin. 16th November to 26th November 2023.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Ruspidge Road update:

At present there is a risk is too high to open the road even under traffic lights, the depth of the hole and how close to the centre line would prohibit us from agreeing to allow passage again and further we would need to re-close the road to carry out the repairs.

We have had receipt of the Geo reports which have confirmed this is not a large scale sink hole and would appear to have been some washout from the STW leak a few weeks prior to the hole appearing. Obviously we will keep private our dealing with STW regrading this and will carry out the repairs to reopen the road as soon as possible and no their has been no hinderance from them regarding the survey works or any other issues with them here.

We have plant booked for the repairs to start at the end of this month for a two week period following this the road will be reopened. While the road is closed we will be carrying out some additional works during the two weeks.

The site will be inspected by the Geo team ongoing until they are happy there is no additional movement following the re-opening of the road.

With regard to the road to Littledean this is not the official diversion route but I do understand that local are using this route, with this in mind we have added Sutton road to the winter maintenance plan so will be treated every time we call a salt run. When Ruspidge road is back open Sutton road will be removed from the list of roads treated.

From Highways Gloucestershire.

Soudley Remembrance Service 2023.

The Service will be held at the Soudley Memorial on Sunday, 12th November, 2023.

Starting at 2:00 p.m.

Ruspidge & Soudley. Road Works Bulletin. 09th November to 19th November 2023.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Ruspidge & Soudley. Road Works Bulletin. 26th October to 5th November 2023.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Ruspidge & Soudley. Road Works Bulletin. 26th October to 5th November 2023.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Ruspidge & Soudley. Road Works Bulletin. 19th October to 29th October 2023.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

VAS report for Buckshaft Rd, Ruspidge Rd and Soudley.

July - Sept 2023.

Ruspidge & Soudley. Road Works Bulletin. 5th October to 15th October 2023.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Ruspidge & Soudley. Road Works Bulletin. 28th September to 8th October 2023.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Ruspidge & Soudley. Road Works Bulletin. 14th September to 24th September 2023.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Ruspidge & Soudley. Road Works Bulletin. 14th September to 24th September 2023.

COMMUNITY EVENTS COLLATED BY THE FOREST OF DEAN DEMENTIA ACTION ALLIANCE SEPTEMBER 2023

FOD DEMENTIA

SOFT LAUNCH 13^TH SEPTEMBER (then fortnightly)The Baptist ChurchCOLEFORD GL16 8AJ07971 555576

Designed & Published on behalf FOD Dementia Action Alliance by Andy Morgan-Watts email:andrew.morgan-watts@live.co.uk07921 84240

Ruspidge & Soudley. 3rd August to 13th August 2023.

Please follow the link below to the Highways Gloucestershire Road works web page.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Ruspidge & Soudley. 26th July to 20th August 2023.

Please follow the link below to the Highways Gloucestershire Road works web page.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Please be advised, 

much-needed repairs to the surface of the Blue Rock Trail will be taking place throughout August.

Access through the trail from Ruspidge to Soudley will not be obstructed, but for your safety please follow any requests given by the working party and please adhere to any safety instructions.

We apologise for any inconvenience caused.

Cinderford Road, Blakeney 10th August 2023

Sutton Road, Littledean

11th August 2023 returning 17th & 18th August for Lockchip

Ruspidge & Soudley. 22nd June to 2nd July 2023.

Please follow the link below to the Highways Gloucestershire Road works web page.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Play Rangers are back in Ruspidge at the recreation ground on the following dates in August.

Tuesday's 1st, 8th, 15th & 22nd.

10am to 4pm

Parish VAS Report from April - June.

Please download the .PDF report from the link below.

BLUE ROCK TRAIL

NEWS UPDATE

The Parish Council has agreed with Gloucestershire Probation Service that a

team from Community Payback will work along the Blue Rock Trail during

August to help with tidying and clearing the path. Their assistance will be

provided at no charge to the Parish.

The team will consist of a Supervisor plus six workers. The workers will be

people who live and work in Gloucestershire and have been sentenced to do

Community Payback work as an alternative to detention. It used to be known

as Community Service.

The workers will be easily identifiable as they will wear orange, high-viz vests

and they will be supervised at all times.

It is important to note that none of the workers will have been convicted of a

serious offence, or will be on day release from prison.

The work will commence this August for several weeks and will consist of

general tidying and clearing of the path. The plans can then be put into place

for the second phase of work (reinstating the path where needed) next year,

once we have a better idea of the general overall condition of the path.

The help of the Community Payback team will provide valuable assistance to

the Parish in renovating this much loved community asset and helping Parish

funds go farther in this time of increasing costs and shrinking budgets.

Ruspidge & Soudley. 22nd June to 2nd July 2023.

Please follow the link below to Highways Gloucestershire road works web page.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Ruspidge & Soudley. 9th June to 18th June 2023.

Please follow the link below to Highways Gloucestershire road works web page.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Ruspidge & Soudley. 1st June to 11th June 2023.

Please follow the link below to Highways Gloucestershire road works web page.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Step up and become a parish councillor.

Ruspidge & Soudley Parish Council currently has a Councillor vacancy for Soudley (East).

What do councillors do? Local councillors are the champions of their community who invest time in local projects and issues to the benefit of residents and the neighbourhood.

How could I contribute?

As a Councillor representing your community, you will help to keep it a great place to live and work.

Councillors individually, can and should be very different in their skills base, experience and work status, all of which contribute to a good and balanced representation of the parish. The ability to take the initiative, be creative and have time to give to the role are all very important aspects of being a good Councillor.

What is the level of commitment?

A Councillor Census Survey found that councillors put aside, on average, three hours a week for council work. Council work often includes attending meetings, engaging with residents and speaking to local groups and bodies on behalf of the council.

Want to find out more?

For an informal chat about the role contact Roland Dowding, Clerk to the Council, on 01594 825 343 or email; info@clerkrspc.co.uk

Step up and become a Parish Councillor.

Ruspidge & Soudley Parish Council currently has three Councillor vacancies for Ruspidge (West).

What do councillors do? Local councillors are the champions of their community who invest time in local projects and issues to the benefit of residents and the neighbourhood.

How could I contribute?

As a Councillor representing your community, you will help to keep it a great place to live and work.

Councillors individually, can and should be very different in their skills base, experience and work status, all of which contribute to a good and balanced representation of the parish. The ability to take the initiative, be creative and have time to give to the role are all very important aspects of being a good Councillor.

What is the level of commitment?

A Councillor Census Survey found that councillors put aside, on average, three hours a week for council work. Council work often includes attending meetings, engaging with residents and speaking to local groups and bodies on behalf of the council.

Want to find out more?

For an informal chat about the role contact Roland Dowding, Clerk to the Council, on 01594 825 343 or email; info@clerkrspc.co.uk

Road Works Bulletin Ruspidge & Soudley. 25th May to 4th June 2023.

Please follow the link below to Highways Gloucestershire road works web page.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Road Works Bulletin Ruspidge & Soudley. 18th May to 28th May 2023.

Please follow the link below to Highways Gloucestershire road works web page.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Road Works Bulletin Ruspidge & Soudley. 12th May to 21st May 2023.

Please follow the link below to Highways Gloucestershire road works web page.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Please be advised of the following temporary road closure:

• Buckshaft Rd

This road will be closed (as per the attached plan) from 31/7/23 to 25/8/23 to allow foul and storm water connection for Developer

pedestrian access will be maintained.

If you require any further information regarding this closure, please contact Streetworks at streetworks@gloucestershire.gov.uk

Road Works Bulletin Ruspidge & Soudley. 5th May to 14th May 2023.

Please follow the link below to Highways Gloucestershire road works web page.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Play Gloucestershire's Play Rangers.

Half Term Play Day

Tuesday 30th May. 10am - 4pm.

The Recreation Ground Ruspidge.

Road Works Bulletin Ruspidge & Soudley. 27th April to 7th May 2023.

Please follow the link below to Highways Gloucestershire road works web page.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Road Works Bulletin Ruspidge & Soudley. 20th to 30th April 2023.

Please follow the link below to Highways Gloucestershire road works web page.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Sutton Road, Littledean, Road closure for carriageway patching.

2nd May 2023 for one day, 0700 to 1900

Forest of Dean District Council

Thursday 4 May 2023

Election of District Councillors

The following is a statement of the persons nominated for election as a District Councillor for

Newnham Ward

Forest of Dean District Council

Thursday 4 May 2023

Election of a District Councillor

The following is a statement of the persons nominated for election as a District Councillor for

Ruspidge Ward

Election of Parish Councillors for

Ruspidge and Soudley Parish Council - East Ward

on

Thursday 4 May 2023

Election of Parish Councillors for

Ruspidge and Soudley Parish Council - West Ward

on

Thursday 4 May 2023

Ruspidge & Soudley Parish Council Speed Watch.

VAS Report for the period January - March 2023

Report download bellow in .PDF format.

Road Works Bulletin Ruspidge & Soudley. 23 March to 2 April 2023.

Please follow the link below to Highways Gloucestershire road works web page.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Play Ranger At Ruspidge This Easter.

Tuesdays 4th & 11th April, 10am - 4pm.

Ruspidge Recreation Ground.

Road Works Bulletin Ruspidge & Soudley. 20th March 2023.

Please follow the link below to Highways Gloucestershire road works web page.

https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/highways/roads/roadworks/

Update Regarding Bus Service Withdrawal From Ruspidge & Soudley

As all residents of Ruspidge & Soudley will be aware, in November 2022 Stagecoach unilaterally took the decision to remove the number 24 bus route from the villages of Ruspidge & Soudley. This was one of a raft of changes and service withdrawals across the county and the removal of the service from our Parish was done without consultation with any of our district or county councillors (or indeed any of our residents).

Understandably, the removal of this vital service has left residents very angry as many relied on this to go to doctors appointments, to work and for shopping in addition to enabling them to connect with other services for longer journeys, leaving many (particularly elderly) residents with no form of public transport at all.

The Parish Council is working alongside FoDCC and Glos CC Councillors and several local residents who are actively campaigning to have this service (or an alternative) reinstated. We will continue to support all efforts to this end.

The Parish Council has written to our MP, Mr Mark Harper (who is now Minister for Transport). It is regrettable that his reply, once received, simply parrotted the County Council’s position on the issue in stating that the cuts were ‘unexpected’ but concentrating on the 350,000 journeys which have been saved. News which is of little comfort to those Parishioners in Ruspidge & Soudley who are now left without a bus at all.

The introduction of the ‘Robin’ service which launched at the same time as the withdrawal of the No 24 bus service was co-incidental and had been planned for some time. This service was never designed to replace our rural bus service but to complement it and we are hearing from Parishioners that their experiences with the service are less than satisfactory.

If you are experiencing any issues with using or booking the Robin, please do let us know so that this can be followed up.

Currently we are aware that Councillors Bernie O’Neill (District Councillor for Ruspidge) and Graham Morgan (County Councillor for Ruspidge & Buckshaft) are actively working and campaigning on behalf of Ruspidge & Soudley to have this service reinstated, either by Stagecoach or by another provider and are in the process of meeting with the relevant Cabinet members at County Hall to attempt to move the issue forwards.

We have attempted, on several occasions, to have the relevant Officers from County Hall attend a public or Parish Council meeting on this subject. To date however, they have declined (for various reasons) and have, most recently, agreed to attend provided a representative from Stagecoach is also in attendance. Unfortunately this is proving difficult as Stagecoach will not reply to our correspondence at all.

Whilst we are aware that Stagecoach have taken this decision on a purely business basis, this is of little comfort to those in our community who are now isolated as a result of the removal of this essential service.

If you would like to be put in touch with the members of the Parish in Ruspidge or Soudley who are spearheading the public campaign, please contact the office and we will pass your details to them.

In the meantime, we continue to advocate on your behalf and urge you to write to your County Councillor and MP to add your voice to this issue.

Removal of Recycling Facilities at Soudley Village Hall

A few weeks ago it became necessary to remove the recycling facilities located in the carpark of Soudley Village Hall. We understand that some Parishioners have taken issue with this and that this continues to be an issue of contention.

Unfortunately, the removal of the recycling centre was unavoidable for several reasons;

Lower Road Bridge: The underlying structural integrity of the bridge is sound and will last for many years to come, the same cannot be said for the decking however, which is being damaged by the weight of the lorries driving over it to collect the recycling. This type of traffic was not envisaged when the bridge was built in the early 1970’s.

The deck and handrails now need to be replaced and upgraded at a substantial cost. The funds for these works are currently being raised. The removal of the large recycling lorries from using the bridge will help to extend the life of the decking for the immediate future until funds are secured for its replacement.

Fly tipping: The Village Hall Committee has received many complaints from residents of Lower Road regarding vehicles using the car park late into the night for the purpose of fly tipping rubbish and business waste. These vehicles are from outside of the immediate Soudley area and are causing a nuisance to the residents of the area. The mess being left has to be dealt with and this is often being done by the village hall committee members themselves.

Kerbside recycling collection: When the recycling centre was installed, there was no kerbside collection of domestic recycling. All items which were recyclable at the carpark are able to be recycled at the kerbside for collection by Forest of Dean District Council operatives. If you need new or additional bins, bags or boxes for your recycling, please request these at:

https://www.fdean.gov.uk/bins-and-recycling/request-bins-and-recycling-boxes/

It is the responsibility of Forest of Dean District Council to ensure the availability of recycling services. If your recycling is not being collected at the kerbside, or you have any other comments regarding the provision of recycling services in Soudley, please contact FoDCC at:

https://www.fdean.gov.uk/contact-us/

Notice of Election - Parish/Town Councillors.

Please refer to the PDF download.

Notice of Election - District Councillors

Please refer to PDF download.

Voter ID: A summary

On Thursday 4 May 2023, local elections are taking place across 230 councils in England.

At these elections, you will need to bring photo ID to be able to vote at a polling station. A wide range of photo ID will be accepted, including passports, driving licences and cards with a PASS Mark.

If you don’t have an accepted form of photo ID, you can apply for a free voter ID document known as a Voter Authority Certificate.

Visit electoralcommission.org.uk/voterID, call 0800 328 0280.

Please download the PDF Voter ID Resource Voter Booklet, link bellow.

In support of our residents regarding the recent cuts to bus services in the parish.

The Parish Council recently contacted our MP and Secretary of state for transport, the RT Hon Mark Harper, The response we received back from Mark Harpers office is now available to view in PDF format, please follow the link bellow.

We are also awaiting a response from Cllr. Philip Robinson, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills, and Bus Transport.

In light of the recent cuts to bus services in the district and in support of our parishoners, we sent the following letter to Cllr. Philip Robinson, cabinet member for education, skills and transport, requresting he attends a public meeting to be held within the parish. Also the same letter was sent to Mr Mark Harper, MP for the Forest Of Dean requesting his assistance with this matter. We are currently awaiting a reply.

Dear Cllr. Philip Robinson,

I am writing to you regarding the recent cuts to bus services in the Forest of Dean District, in particular residents living in the parish of Ruspidge & Soudley.

At our December parish council meeting, several residents of the parish were in attendance to express their concerns regarding the issues they are now faced with due to the cuts in service and to demand action be taken to remedy this situation. Our clerk has also spoken to several residents of the parish who have expressed their frustration in the face of these cuts.

The most vulnerable residents of our parish are now being particularly isolated and disadvantaged, an example being, the case of an elderly resident in their 80’s now feeling she must walk from Lower Ruspidge into Cinderford and back to get her shopping or to attend health care appointments.

The cut in services is affecting parishioners of all ages and backgrounds, how difficult it is for parishioners who relied on the former service to get into their place of work and back home again and for those who are currently seeking work to attend interviews. The bus services are not only essential to make appointments but for many parishioners’ general wellbeing.

Parishioners are aware of the ‘Robin’ service that has been provided to alleviate the cuts in service, but most of the parishioners spoken to do not believe this service to be satisfactory, nor sufficient.

One of the complaints repeatedly raised by our parishioners, the fact that they were never at any point consulted and the potential impact the cuts would have on their lives ever considered. Our residents have requested a public meeting be called to discuss this issue further and find a potential resolution, ideally the reinstating of the cancelled routes. We would therefore like to enquire as to your availability to attend a public meeting that Ruspidge & Soudley Parish Council will arrange.

Your quick response on this matter would be greatly appreciated.

Regards

Cllr. Anthony Matthews.

Chairman of the Council.

Ruspidge & Soudley Parish Council Speed Watch.

^{VAS Report for the period October - December 2022}

Report download bellow in .PDF format.

County council saves 350,000 bus journeys

Following an exercise to find new providers for bus routes cut by Stagecoach Gloucestershire County Council have today announced the results.

The county council acted quickly to try and ensure that no one would be left isolated. The success of our efforts has protected around 350,000 of the journeys that the Stagecoach cuts would have lost, had the county council not acted so decisively.

However, not all the routes could be replaced, and in those cases alternative ways of getting around are being promoted. This includes making use of more innovative modes of transport such as dial-a-ride, community transport and ‘The Robin’ which has recently been launched in the Forest of Dean and the Cotswolds. In addition, personal transport planners will be on hand to talk to anyone who needs extra help.

Notably, a provider has been found for the route that serves the Arle Court Park and Ride, which is having a £20m upgrade to encourage sustainable transport and reduce congestion.

Cllr Philip Robinson, Cabinet member for Education, Skills and Transport, said: “I promised communities across Gloucestershire that we would work tirelessly to avoid people being left isolated when these routes were cut by Stagecoach. In an extremely challenging context, the team have been able to save 350,000, about 70%, of these journeys. Where no bus provider could be found, we are promoting alternative transport solutions such as dial-a-ride, community transport and the new ‘Robin’ service.

“Stagecoach have left many communities across the county high and dry. This is unacceptable to the county council and it’s one of the reasons why I reported Stagecoach to the Traffic Commissioner. We are not prepared to let Stagecoach get away with treating communities this way. The people of Gloucestershire deserve better, and I will remain steadfast in my commitment to them and my efforts in delivering public transport that works.”

What next?

A full list of the service changes is here November bus service changes - Gloucestershire County Council. Personal transport planners are also on hand by calling 0871 200 22 33

Having your say

As part of the process the county council asked residents to provide their feedback on the proposals made by Stagecoach. The county council appreciate residents taking the time to do this. We have reviewed the feedback which was made by hundreds of residents. We have used the comments submitted as part of our FAQs page, which will be regularly updated.

Keep up to date:

• E-mail:to keep up to date this issue sign up for e-mail alerts below https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKGLOUCESTERSHIRE/subscriber/new?topic_id=UKGLOUCESTERSHIRE_372

Frequently asked questions

Why are these services being withdrawn?

Stagecoach say they have taken the decision to withdraw these services due to a lack of drivers. They plan to take the drivers from the cut services and reallocate them to the rest of their network. This decision has led to the disproportionate cutting of rural infrequent services in favour of protecting urban services which threatened to leave the most isolated without alternative means to get to hospital, doctors, education or just everyday activities like going shopping.

Does the council support this?

No. The county council vehemently disagrees with this approach as it disadvantages the communities served by these routes. We have made this very clear to Stagecoach and we worked tirelessly to try and get this decision reversed. Unfortunately, our efforts to convince Stagecoach to explore a different solution, one that did not leave communities isolated and cut off from vital services, education, and employment, were unsuccessful.

Can the county council stop this?

The county council does not have authority to prevent these withdrawals from taking place. Stagecoach have fulfilled their obligation to inform the Office of the Traffic Commissioner of these withdrawals, and now they are free to implement them. Councils do not have regulatory authority over the bus network.

How is the county council holding Stagecoach to account?

In addition to our numerous communications that detail our opposition to this approach, we have also written to the Office of the Traffic Commissioner to highlight both our concern over the poor reliability of current services, and of the negative impact these November service changes will have on many Gloucestershire communities.

Are the council trying to replace these lost services?

Yes, we are doing everything we can to secure replacements for as many of these lost services as possible and have already secured replacements for 70% of the affected journeys. However, due to the driver shortage and increasing cost of delivering bus services, it is a very difficult time to procure bus services. Replacement in full of the lost Stagecoach services will not be possible, however, alternatives have been put in place and long-term solutions will be continued to look for.

ENDS

A Flood Alert has been issued by the Environment Agency.

Flood Alert in force: Rivers in the Forest of Dean.
Flooding is possible for: River Lyd and Cinderford Brook.
Be prepared.

WORKS TO COMMENCE ON CULLIMORE BRIDGE RAILWAY ROAD RUSPIDGE

Ruspidge & Soudley Parish Council would like to inform you and make you aware of works taking place at Cullimore Bridge on Railway Road Ruspidge.

During the week starting Monday 14th, through to Friday 16th of November, Cullimore bridge sited on Railway Road and Crossing Cinderford Brook will be being replaced with a new bridge.

This will undoubtedly cause some obstruction to Railway Road from the Ruspidge Road entrance through the dates noted above.

In particular, Monday 14th of November as two heavy vehicles carrying the new bridge and for the removal of the old bridge will require access during the day.

We request any vehicles that regularly park adjacent to Cullimore bridge make alternative parking arrangements throughout this period, heavy work vehicles will require access.

Ruspidge & Soudley Parish Council would like to apologies for any inconvenience caused to residents during this time.

For further information, please feel free to contact the clerk of Ruspidge & Soudley parish Council.

Rheola House, Belle Vue Centre, Cinderford. GL14 2AB

email: info@clerkrspc.co.uk

Tel: 01594 825 343

TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF VARIOUS FOOTPATHS FOR
WYEDEAN STAGES MOTOR RALLY 2022
(CINDERFORD TOWN AND VARIOUS PARISHES) FOREST OF DEAN DISTRICT

NOTICE is hereby given that Gloucestershire County Council intend to make an

Order to close temporarily under Sections 14, 15 and 16 of the Road Traffic

Regulation Act, 1984 (as amended) part of the footpaths as described in the

schedule below.

Help if you’re struggling with living costs

Many residents are currently struggling with rising living costs. That’s why it’s important to know what help and support is available now – that could benefit you, a relative, friend or neighbour.

Here are some practical actions that could help you or someone you know.

Please refer to the PDF bellow.

PARISH OF Ruspidge & Soudley

West WARD

CASUAL VACANCY

Notice is hereby given that due to Resignation of Cllr. Bernadette Wood

A vacancy exists in the office of Parish Councillor for the Parish of

Ruspidge & Soudley (West)

The vacancy will be filled by election if any ten registered local government electors for the said parish ward submit a written request to that effect in the manner prescribed below.

Any request for an election to be held to fill the vacancy must be in writing and must reach the Returning Officer, Forest of Dean District Council, High Street Coleford Glos GL16 8HG within fourteen days following the date of this notice.

If no such notice is given the Parish Council will fill the vacancy by co-option.

Dated 19th August 2022

TEMPORARY CLOSURE 40100 BUCKSHAFT ROAD (CINDERFORD TOWN) FOREST OF DEAN DISTRICT

Gloucestershire County Council has made an order under the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 (as amended) to temporarily close part of 40100 Buckshaft Road from its junction with St Whites Road for a distance of approximately 30 metres back from the said junction.

The reason for the closure is to carry out surfacing works.

The road is expected to be closed from the 15th August 2022 until the 26th August 2022 only or until the works have been completed. For further information, please contact Gloucestershire Highways on 08000 514 514 or visit www.gloucestershire.gov.uk.

Alternative Route – as signed on site.

Emergency and pedestrian access to adjacent properties will be maintained.

TEMPORARY CLOSURES VARIOUS ROADS FOR GIGACLEAR WORKS (VARIOUS TOWNS AND PARISHES) FOREST OF DEAN DISTRICT Gloucestershire County Council intend to make an order under the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 (as amended) to temporarily close and restrict part of the roads as detailed in the Schedule avaliable to download.

Material for inclusion in the newsletter (at the editor's discretion) should be forwarded to the editor.viewpoint@gmail.com.

The deadline date for the forthcoming issue is stated on the back page of the current Viewpoint.

Small bundles of Viewpoints will be deposited at local establishments for those individuals who do not have internet access. These can be collected from:

Ruspidge: The Old Ruspidge Post Office (Daphne's), St. White's Road. The Rising Sun Fish and Chip Shop, Ruspidge Road. Steve's Hairdressers, Ruspidge Road.

Soudley: Soudley Village Hall - market days and other events. Dean Heritage Museum Café.

Readers who are unable to use either of these options should contact the Clerk on 01594 825 343. If there is no answer please leave a message and your telephone number and you will be contacted as soon as possible.

Material for inclusion in the newsletter (at the editor's discretion) should be forwarded to the editor.viewpoint@gmail.com.

The deadline date for the forthcoming issue is stated on the back page of the current Viewpoint.

Small bundles of Viewpoints will be deposited at local establishments for those individuals who do not have internet access. These can be collected from:

Ruspidge: The Old Ruspidge Post Office (Daphne's), St. White's Road. The Rising Sun Fish and Chip Shop, Ruspidge Road. Steve's Hairdressers, Ruspidge Road.

Soudley: Soudley Village Hall - market days and other events. Dean Heritage Museum Café.

Readers who are unable to use either of these options should contact the Clerk on 01594 825 343. If there is no answer please leave a message and your telephone number and you will be contacted as soon as possible.

Material for inclusion in the newsletter (at the editor's discretion) should be forwarded to the editor.viewpoint@gmail.com.

The deadline date for the forthcoming issue is stated on the back page of the current Viewpoint.

Small bundles of Viewpoints will be deposited at local establishments for those individuals who do not have internet access. These can be collected from:

Ruspidge: The Old Ruspidge Post Office (Daphne's), St. White's Road. The Rising Sun Fish and Chip Shop, Ruspidge Road. Steve's Hairdressers, Ruspidge Road.

Soudley: Soudley Village Hall - market days and other events. Dean Heritage Museum Café.

Readers who are unable to use either of these options should contact the Clerk on 825343. If there is no answer please leave a message and your telephone number and you will be contacted as soon as possible.

Material for inclusion in the newsletter (at the editor's discretion) should be forwarded to the editor.viewpoint@gmail.com.

The deadline date for the forthcoming issue is stated on the back page of the current Viewpoint.

Small bundles of Viewpoints will be deposited at local establishments for those individuals who do not have internet access. These can be collected from:

Ruspidge: The Old Ruspidge Post Office (Daphne's), St. White's Road. The Rising Sun Fish and Chip Shop, Ruspidge Road. Steve's Hairdressers, Ruspidge Road.

Soudley: Soudley Village Hall - market days and other events. Dean Heritage Museum Café.

Readers who are unable to use either of these options should contact the Clerk on 825343. If there is no answer please leave a message and your telephone number and you will be contacted as soon as possible.

Material for inclusion in the newsletter (at the editor's discretion) should be forwarded to the editor.viewpoint@gmail.com.

The deadline date for the forthcoming issue is stated on the back page of the current Viewpoint.

Small bundles of Viewpoints will be deposited at local establishments for those individuals who do not have internet access. These can be collected from:

Ruspidge: The Old Ruspidge Post Office (Daphne's), St. White's Road. The Rising Sun Fish and Chip Shop, Ruspidge Road. Steve's Hairdressers, Ruspidge Road.

Soudley: Soudley Village Hall - market days and other events. Dean Heritage Museum Café.

Readers who are unable to use either of these options should contact the Clerk on 825343. If there is no answer please leave a message and your telephone number and you will be contacted as soon as possible.

Material for inclusion in the newsletter (at the editor's discretion) should be forwarded to the editor.viewpoint@gmail.com.

The deadline date for the forthcoming issue is stated on the back page of the current Viewpoint.

Small bundles of Viewpoints will be deposited at local establishments for those individuals who do not have internet access. These can be collected from:

Ruspidge: The Old Ruspidge Post Office (Daphne's), St. White's Road. The Rising Sun Fish and Chip Shop, Ruspidge Road. Steve's Hairdressers, Ruspidge Road.

Soudley: Soudley Village Hall - market days and other events. Dean Heritage Museum Café.

Readers who are unable to use either of these options should contact the Clerk on 825343. If there is no answer please leave a message and your telephone number and you will be contacted as soon as possible.

Material for inclusion in the newsletter (at the editor's discretion) should be forwarded to the editor.viewpoint@gmail.com.

The deadline date for the forthcoming issue is stated on the back page of the current Viewpoint.

Small bundles of Viewpoints will be deposited at local establishments for those individuals who do not have internet access. These can be collected from:

Ruspidge: The Old Ruspidge Post Office (Daphne's), St. White's Road. The Rising Sun Fish and Chip Shop, Ruspidge Road. Steve's Hairdressers, Ruspidge Road.

Soudley: Soudley Village Hall - market days and other events. Dean Heritage Museum Café.

Readers who are unable to use either of these options should contact the Clerk on 825343. If there is no answer please leave a message and your telephone number and you will be contacted as soon as possible.

Material for inclusion in the newsletter (at the editor's discretion) should be forwarded to the editor.viewpoint@gmail.com.

The deadline date for the forthcoming issue is stated on the back page of the current Viewpoint.

Small bundles of Viewpoints will be deposited at local establishments for those individuals who do not have internet access. These can be collected from:

Ruspidge: The Old Ruspidge Post Office (Daphne's), St. White's Road. The Rising Sun Fish and Chip Shop, Ruspidge Road. Steve's Hairdressers, Ruspidge Road.

Soudley: Soudley Village Hall - market days and other events. Dean Heritage Museum Café.

Readers who are unable to use either of these options should contact the Clerk on 825343. If there is no answer please leave a message and your telephone number and you will be contacted as soon as possible.

Material for inclusion in the newsletter (at the editor's discretion) should be forwarded to the editor.viewpoint@gmail.com.

The deadline date for the forthcoming issue is stated on the back page of the current Viewpoint.

Small bundles of Viewpoints will be deposited at local establishments for those individuals who do not have internet access. These can be collected from:

Ruspidge: The Old Ruspidge Post Office (Daphne's), St. White's Road. The Rising Sun Fish and Chip Shop, Ruspidge Road. Steve's Hairdressers, Ruspidge Road.

Soudley: Soudley Village Hall - market days and other events. Dean Heritage Museum Café.

Readers who are unable to use either of these options should contact the Clerk on 825343. If there is no answer please leave a message and your telephone number and you will be contacted as soon as possible.

Material for inclusion in the newsletter (at the editor's discretion) should be forwarded to the editor.viewpoint@gmail.com.

The deadline date for the forthcoming issue is stated on the back page of the current Viewpoint.

Small bundles of Viewpoints will be deposited at local establishments for those individuals who do not have internet access. These can be collected from:

Ruspidge:The Old Ruspidge Post Office (Daphne's), St. White's Road. The Rising Sun Fish and Chip Shop, Ruspidge Road. Steve's Hairdressers, Ruspidge Road.

Soudley:Soudley Village Hall - market days and other events. Dean Heritage Museum Café.

Readers who are unable to use either of these options should contact the Clerk on 825343. If there is no answer please leave a message and your telephone number and you will be contacted as soon as possible.

Material for inclusion in the newsletter (at the editor's discretion) should be forwarded to the editor.viewpoint@gmail.com.

The deadline date for the forthcoming issue is stated on the back page of the current Viewpoint.

Small bundles of Viewpoints will be deposited at local establishments for those individuals who do not have internet access. These can be collected from:

Ruspidge: The Old Ruspidge Post Office (Daphne's), St. White's Road. The Rising Sun Fish and Chip Shop, Ruspidge Road. Steve's Hairdressers, Ruspidge Road.

Soudley: Soudley Village Hall - market days and other events. Dean Heritage Museum Café.

Readers who are unable to use either of these options should contact the Clerk on 825343. If there is no answer please leave a message and your telephone number and you will be contacted as soon as possible.

Material for inclusion in the newsletter (at the editor's discretion) should be forwarded to the editor.viewpoint@gmail.com.

The deadline date for the forthcoming issue is stated on the back page of the current Viewpoint.

Small bundles of Viewpoints will be deposited at local establishments for those individuals who do not have internet access. These can be collected from:

Ruspidge:The Old Ruspidge Post Office (Daphne's), St. White's Road. The Rising Sun Fish and Chip Shop, Ruspidge Road. Steve's Hairdressers, Ruspidge Road.

Soudley: Soudley Village Hall - market days and other events. Dean Heritage Museum Café.

Readers who are unable to use either of these options should contact the Clerk on 825343. If there is no answer please leave a message and your telephone number and you will be contacted as soon as possible.