Latest news with #Swindon-based
Time Business News
4 days ago
- Business
- Time Business News
Top 5 Things to Know Before Septic Tank Installation in Swindon
For homeowners in Swindon, septic tank installation can be a daunting yet essential project. Whether you're building a new property or replacing an old system, understanding key aspects of the process is crucial for a successful installation. This guide highlights the top five things you should know before starting septic tank installation in Swindon. With proper preparation and knowledge, you can save time, money, and avoid unnecessary hassle. Before any groundwork begins, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the local building regulations and permitting process in Swindon. The UK has stringent requirements for septic tank installations, particularly since the 2020 General Binding Rules were introduced. These rules outline how septic tanks must safely manage wastewater without causing pollution. Additionally, you may need planning permission or consent from the Environment Agency, depending on the soil type, location, and distance from water sources. Failing to comply with these regulations could lead to fines or complications down the road. To ensure everything is done above board, consult with professionals who have experience working within Swindon's regulatory framework. Not every property in Swindon is suitable for a septic tank. Several factors need to be evaluated before installation, including soil type, drainage capacity, and the size of your property. A percolation test is often necessary to measure how well the soil absorbs water. Sandy soils, for example, are ideal for septic systems, while clay soils may pose challenges. The location of your septic tank is another critical factor. It must be placed at a safe distance from buildings and water sources to avoid contamination. If your property sits near a stream, river, or well, stricter guidelines may apply. A site survey conducted by an experienced contractor can help you determine the best location for your system and identify any potential issues before digging begins. Selecting the correct size and type of septic tank is vital for long-term efficiency. Tanks that are too small will struggle to handle your household's wastewater, leading to frequent maintenance and possible system failure. On the other hand, oversized tanks may be unnecessarily expensive. Factors such as the number of occupants in your home, daily water usage, and planned extensions all play a role in determining the appropriate tank size. Swindon-based professionals can guide you in choosing between common tank types, such as a conventional gravity-fed system or a more advanced treatment plant. Your decision should balance upfront costs with ongoing maintenance requirements and ecological considerations. Septic tank installation involves more than just digging a hole and placing the tank in the ground. The process can be affected by various challenges, including unexpected underground obstructions, weather conditions, and complex soil structures. Swindon's terrain, which varies between flat grounds and chalky elevations, can sometimes complicate the excavation process. Working with an experienced contractor who understands Swindon's specific landscape is critical. They'll be equipped to handle potential hurdles such as tree roots, large rocks, or high groundwater levels. Additionally, they can ensure the slopes in your drainage field are correctly calculated to prevent wastewater from pooling. While DIY might seem tempting, professional expertise is well worth the investment for peace of mind. The cost of septic tank installation in Swindon can vary widely based on the system type, property size, and site conditions. It's essential to set a realistic budget that covers everything from the initial survey and excavation to the purchase of the tank and its installation. Be sure to include costs for permits and any additional work, such as landscaping to restore the area post-installation. Beyond installation, factor in long-term maintenance costs. Septic tanks require regular emptying and inspections to prevent blockages and damage. Local professionals typically recommend having your tank inspected annually and emptied every 1-3 years, depending on usage. Neglecting maintenance could lead to expensive repairs or system failure, so plan accordingly. Installing a septic tank in Swindon is a significant undertaking, but with the right preparation, it can be a smooth and successful process. By understanding the local regulations, assessing your property's suitability, choosing the ideal system, and budgeting effectively, you'll ensure your investment is both functional and environmentally responsible. If you're ready to start the process, reach out to a trusted septic tank contractor in Swindon. Their expertise and familiarity with local conditions will help you avoid common pitfalls and make confident decisions about your installation. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Daily Record
13-05-2025
- Business
- Daily Record
Property conman scammed bank and government to buy £138k home
Raza Hussain admitted forming a fraudulent scheme to obtain funds. The Crown plans lodge proceeds of crime action. A property conman scammed the Scottish Government into handing him nearly £50,000 and duped a bank into giving him another £82,800. Raza Hussain used false documents to con the bank and Government into handing him money to buy a £138,000 house in Perth's Glengarry Road. The 31-year-old appeared in the dock at Perth Sheriff Court on Monday and admitted obtaining a total of £131,100 by fraud. Hussain, from Fairies Road, Perth, admitted forming a fraudulent scheme to obtain funds by applying for a 'Shared Equity Loan' from the Scottish Government. He admitted obtaining that cash and a further loan from the Swindon-based Nationwide Building Society as he carried out the fraud between 1 July and 26 September 2019. He admitted forging and uttering bank statements, providing false information about his income, and making false pretences about his personal circumstances to both organisations. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. Hussain admitted obtaining a loan of £48,300 from the Scottish Government and a loan of £82,800 from the Nationwide Building Society by fraud. He admitted using fraudulently obtained funds to buy 37 Glengarry Road. The Crown accepted his not guilty pleas to further charges of conning the Bank of Scotland into handing him £72,750 to purchase 37 School Road in Aberdeen, and duping Santander Bank into giving him £101,600 to buy 29 Glenlochay Road in Perth. Fiscal depute Emma Farmer said full details of the scam would be given to the court at a later date and she confirmed that the Crown would be lodging a proceeds of crime action against Hussain. Sheriff William Wood deferred sentence for reports, granted Hussain bail, and said: "Because of the nature of the case it is important for the court to have a proper narrative of the facts."
Wales Online
24-04-2025
- Wales Online
'I went to 35 countries – these are the six best places you've never heard of'
'I went to 35 countries – these are the six best places you've never heard of' A Swindon-based travel blogger has unearthed some of Europe's hidden gems for anyone seeking inspiration for their next big getaway Herceg Novi is an enchanting coastal town based in Montenegro (Image: Dmitriy Fesenko via Getty Images ) Picking the perfect holiday spot can be a bit of a puzzle, as you're often torn between wanting to witness the world's most stunning places and avoiding the tourist-packed areas that could cost a pretty penny amid the chaos. However, one intrepid traveller has divulged her favourite "underrated" gems and humorously hints that their proximity to one another is "not a coincidence". Swindon-based Tia Thomas, a travel blogger who also runs her own firm Why Not Adventures, shared her six best locations for anyone wanting a breathtaking change of scenery. In a video posted on her Tee Travels Facebook page, she teased: "After travelling to 35 countries in Europe, here are some underrated places that you've probably never heard of." Article continues below "Oh... it seems all of these places are all in the Balkans... Coincidence? I think not," Tia playfully remarked in her video caption. 1. Datça, Turkey Datça is rich in history and natural beauty (Image: Durmus Genc/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images ) Datça emerges as an enchanting and serene haven, offering a delightful mix of scenic splendour, historical richness, and genuine local allure – a quintessential retreat for those yearning for a calm and enriching escape. The town exudes a relaxed vibe, untouched by the heavy footfall of mainstream tourism, presenting visitors with a genuine slice of the area's culture and age-old customs. Perched on a picturesque peninsula in southwest Turkey, it is encircled by the sparkling turquoise waters of both the Aegean and Mediterranean seas, boasting sublime beaches and secluded bays. Datça's pristine natural landscapes, dotted with olive groves, pine woods and rugged terrain, offer a tranquil setting for unwinding, complemented by a gentle climate that promises agreeable conditions for the majority of the year. 2. Shala River, Albania The Shala River, often dubbed the "hidden pearl of Albania," is an awe-inspiring getaway for those in search of natural splendour and peace. Nestled in the northern reaches of Albania, this untouched river courses through the Albanian Alps, mesmerising visitors with its vivid turquoise waters, imposing mountain vistas and verdant surroundings. Accessible solely by boat, the river offers a tranquil and distinctive journey through its unmarred beauty. For the adventurous at heart, there's kayaking, swimming and trekking along picturesque trails that hug the river's edge. Moreover, the Shala River serves as an idyllic haven from the hectic rhythm of contemporary life, providing a serene setting for rest and rejuvenation. Its secluded allure, coupled with the renowned hospitality of the Albanian people, renders it an enchanting destination for nature aficionados as well as those yearning for a scenic and unforgettable escape. 3. Lake Ohrid, North Macedonia Lake Ohrid provides a peaceful and memorable retreat (Image: Frans Sellies via Getty Images ) Lake Ohrid stands out as a prime holiday spot, thanks to its remarkable combination of natural allure, cultural richness and leisure opportunities. Perched on the border between North Macedonia and Albania, it ranks among Europe's most ancient and profound lakes, distinguished by its translucent waters and breathtaking mountainous backdrop. Historic towns such as Ohrid, brimming with ancient churches, monasteries and a medieval castle, add to the charm of the area. Visitors can indulge in tranquil boat rides, swimming or sunbathing along the serene shores of the lake. For nature lovers, there are hiking trails and a diverse range of flora and fauna, some unique to this region. The locals' warm hospitality, mouth-watering traditional cuisine and lively festivals make it even more appealing. Whether you're after relaxation, adventure or cultural exploration, Lake Ohrid provides a peaceful and memorable retreat amid a scenic and historically rich setting. 4. Herceg Novi, Montenegro Herceg Novi is an enchanting coastal town in Montenegro that offers an ideal mix of history, natural beauty, and relaxation. Situated at the gateway to the stunning Bay of Kotor, it offers awe-inspiring views of the shimmering Adriatic waters and verdant mountains. Its rich cultural heritage is evident in its labyrinthine streets, ancient fortresses and historic architecture, such as the Kanli Kula and Forte Mare, which offer glimpses into the town's fascinating past. The Old Town, with its cobblestone lanes, charming squares and lively ambience, is ideal for a leisurely wander. The town's seafront promenade invites relaxed coastal walks and hosts an array of eateries serving mouth-watering local dishes and fresh seafood. Besides its historical and cultural allure, Herceg Novi boasts a pleasant climate, enjoying more than 200 sunny days annually. 5. Prizren, Kosovo Places in Europe don't get as culturally diverse and colourful as Prizren (Image: Suphanat Wongsanuphat via Getty Images ) The delightful and historic city of Prizren offers a perfect fusion of cultural richness, genuine experiences and breathtaking natural beauty, making it a top-notch holiday spot. The city is steeped in history, with its scenic old town reflecting centuries of Ottoman influence through its cobblestone streets, traditional homes, mosques and churches. A visit isn't complete without seeing the iconic Stone Bridge and the spectacular views from Prizren Fortress, offering a glimpse of the surrounding landscapes and cityscape. Article continues below Prizren's diverse cultural heritage is evident in its harmonious blend of religious sites, such as the Sinan Pasha Mosque and the Church of Our Lady Ljeviš, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 6. Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina Mostar is a fascinating travel spot celebrated for its deep historical roots, magnificent buildings and idyllic settings. Nestled in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the enchanting city presents a cultural mosaic shaped by centuries of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian and Slavic influences. The city's centrepiece is the famed Stari Most (Old Bridge), a UNESCO World Heritage site embodying Mostar's perseverance and standing as an awe-inspiring piece of architecture that arches over the glistening Neretva River. To traverse this bridge and witness the locals leap from its high point would definitely be a memorable experience.
Yahoo
21-04-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Tortoise costume represents 'resilience' for fundraiser
A man will dress up as a tortoise while completing a 24 mile charity walk to reflect the resilience seen by children undergoing cancer treatment. The inspiration for Dave Southby's outfit came from children's cancer charity CALM's logo, which is based on the story of The Hare and the Tortoise. "Cancer treatment for children can often last for months, and in some cases years," Mr Southby said. "So it made sense for me to reflect that resilience across those 24 miles." Mr Southby will be joined by work colleagues on the walk from Bath to Devizes on 6 September to raise money for the Swindon charity. CALM is run by parents and supports families with children going through cancer treatment in the Swindon and Marlborough area. Fran Robinson, who works for CALM, said that the tortoise has been part of the CALM logo since it was formed in 1984 and aims to give hope to affected families that "slow and steady will win the race". More news stories for Wiltshire Listen to the latest news for Wiltshire Mr Southby, who is CEO at Swindon-based Southby & Co Financial Planning, will dress up as a tortoise for the entirety of the trek, with his team adding they will make sure he stays "safe and cool" in his costume. Ms Robinson said: "Like many charities, CALM has been impacted by rises in the cost of living. Just to keep the same support services running, we need to raise more money every year." The walk will journey through villages and towns, pausing in places like Bradford-upon-Avon, where the team are encouraging onlookers to come and support the charity. "CALM was an obvious choice for me as a local charity deserving of support," Mr Southby said. "Being a new dad myself, I've learned that it's challenging being a parent, let alone having a child with cancer and going through those unimaginable circumstances. "If we can try and help families going through it, that's the best thing we can do." Follow BBC Wiltshire on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to us on email or via WhatsApp on 0800 313 4630. Men to share stories of grief on charity walk 'Inspiring' woman, 99, to walk 200 miles for charity Pair complete 100km walk for mental health charity CALM
Yahoo
21-04-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Tortoise costume represents 'resilience' for fundraiser
A man will dress up as a tortoise while completing a 24 mile charity walk to reflect the resilience seen by children undergoing cancer treatment. The inspiration for Dave Southby's outfit came from children's cancer charity CALM's logo, which is based on the story of The Hare and the Tortoise. "Cancer treatment for children can often last for months, and in some cases years," Mr Southby said. "So it made sense for me to reflect that resilience across those 24 miles." Mr Southby will be joined by work colleagues on the walk from Bath to Devizes on 6 September to raise money for the Swindon charity. CALM is run by parents and supports families with children going through cancer treatment in the Swindon and Marlborough area. Fran Robinson, who works for CALM, said that the tortoise has been part of the CALM logo since it was formed in 1984 and aims to give hope to affected families that "slow and steady will win the race". More news stories for Wiltshire Listen to the latest news for Wiltshire Mr Southby, who is CEO at Swindon-based Southby & Co Financial Planning, will dress up as a tortoise for the entirety of the trek, with his team adding they will make sure he stays "safe and cool" in his costume. Ms Robinson said: "Like many charities, CALM has been impacted by rises in the cost of living. Just to keep the same support services running, we need to raise more money every year." The walk will journey through villages and towns, pausing in places like Bradford-upon-Avon, where the team are encouraging onlookers to come and support the charity. "CALM was an obvious choice for me as a local charity deserving of support," Mr Southby said. "Being a new dad myself, I've learned that it's challenging being a parent, let alone having a child with cancer and going through those unimaginable circumstances. "If we can try and help families going through it, that's the best thing we can do." Follow BBC Wiltshire on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to us on email or via WhatsApp on 0800 313 4630. Men to share stories of grief on charity walk 'Inspiring' woman, 99, to walk 200 miles for charity Pair complete 100km walk for mental health charity CALM
