About Bristol North West
In this collection of short films about Bristol North West, experts from Historic England and a local historian share with me the historical context of issues that are important to constituents today. Each film focusses on a different ward in the constituency.
The films were first shared with constituents at two free screenings at Scott Cinemas in Westbury Park in March 2024 (pictured above).
Village matters: Affordable housing
Hear about Sea Mills' proud history in being home to some of the first council houses in the country, with houses built for soldiers returning from war – and how social housing may have prevented a revolution.
Village matters: The River Trym
Delve into how the River Trym has been enjoyed and protected by local villagers since the Bronze Age – and how Southmead might be the oldest village in Bristol!
Village matters: Community spaces
Uncover the fascinating story of how repurposing a shelter for WWII soldiers manning anti-aircraft guns in Purdown gave Lockleaze its first community centre. (Lockleaze was in Bristol North West until the constituency boundaries changed at the 2024 General Election.)
Village matters: High streets
Discover why high streets offer a window into our local history, and what Historic England learned in its project about Shire High Street.
Village matters: SEND education
See how the beautiful architecture of Grace House in Westbury Park was designed to mirror the school's educational philosophy that expressive movement is therapeutic, and explore the rich history of SEND education in Bristol North West.
Village matters: Transport
Learn how Gloucester Road benefitted from a Bristol-based innovation that was the biggest advance in road construction since the Roman times.
Village matters: Public footpaths
Travel through a 'secret' listed tunnel in Henbury and explore the vast network of public footpaths connecting the villages of Bristol North West.