After being made redundant last year, Jason Fish is turning his passion for baking into a thriving business. The father has received approval from South Gloucestershire councillors to operate his street food van, Baked and Bearded, Gourmet Bites, at a business park on Great Park Road, Bradley Stoke. The van will serve gourmet cheese toasties and other homemade delights from 7am to 2pm on weekdays.
Jason’s application initially faced opposition from a local resident concerned about increased traffic congestion and safety risks, especially during peak hours. The road, frequently used by lorries and buses, narrows to a single lane near a bus stop due to roadside parking. Concerns were also raised about potential loitering and antisocial behaviour.
However, no official authorities, including the police, highways department, or public health officials, objected to the licensing sub-committee’s decision. Bradley Stoke Town Council also raised no objections.
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During the hearing on May 20, Jason addressed these concerns, explaining that the road’s length and straightness allow for two-way traffic despite parked vehicles. He assured the committee that his six-metre trailer is compact, comparable to a small van, and not an oversized vehicle.
To minimize traffic disruptions, Jason plans to operate on the outbound side of the estate during morning rush hours and will not trade during evening peak times. “There is ample space for traffic to get past,” he said.
His primary customers will be business park staff seeking convenient takeaway lunches. Jason emphasized that the van will have no seating or music, discouraging loitering.
“This is my first venture into food trading,” Jason shared. “I’ve been passionate about baking for years, making cakes for my children.”
Reflecting on his career shift after redundancy from the telecoms industry, he expressed optimism: “I want to get my product out there and hopefully scale up in the future.”
Committed to the community, Jason added, “I live locally and wish to be a responsible business that benefits the area, not causes problems.”