The Student Community Partnership has sent an end of term e-mail to over 10,000 students studying at the University of Bath and Bath Spa University via their Students’ Unions to ‘gently’ remind students of their social responsibilities, in its ongoing efforts to improve ‘town and gown’ relations.

The end of term e-mail consists of advice and messages from the Council’s Revenues and Benefits Team regarding Council Tax, Waste Services regarding refuse and recycling at the end of term and Avon and Somerset Police regarding registering valuables.

The e-mail also contains an important safety reminder for cyclists to beware following a recent, serious cycling accident involving a student riding his bicycle down Widcombe Hill. The scene of the accident was on Widcombe Hill outside Macauley Buildings and it occurred when a cyclist was unable to ride round the sharp, right hand, downhill bend causing him to collide with a wall from which he sustained a serious head injury. Cyclists were reminded of their obligations outlined in the Highway Code, especially with regards to wearing a cycle helmet and appropriate clothing.

Other advice given addresses the main issues that have come to the forefront from the Student Action Line that was launched in 2004. This year the Action Line has received over 60 calls and e-mails so far, regarding noisy neighbours, poor refuse management, parking and anti-social behaviour.

The majority of calls received have been related to noise and have been successfully addressed. All complaints are recorded and dealt in conjunction with a disciplinary protocol approved by the partners on the Student Community Partnership. This year, the complaints have led to the University of Bath so far reprimanding two households through its disciplinary process.

If you are experiencing some problems in relation to students living in your area, please contact the Action line on 01225 396996.

For more information or comments, please contact: