Bradley Stoke

Despite all the homes and facilities, the town has often been criticised for a lack of community feel - something the mayor believes is slowly changing.

"We're getting there. It's a slow process, but I think the lack of community facilities was a problem. There was nowhere for people to meet, to chat, hold events... that's what we've been working hard to rectify."

As to the problems surrounding negative equity, Julian says they are a thing of the past: "I think we were nicknamed Sadly Broke ... I think it's long gone.

"I'm pleased to say property prices are extremely buoyant and I think it's a lovely place to live."

For more from Julian Barge, click the audio link below, and hear him take Caroline Rigby on a tour of the town.

For another perspective on Bradley Stoke, we hitched a lift with Pc Claire Bradbrook, Avon and Somerset Police's Beat Manager for the town.

The area isn't free from problems - but it is mainly confined to vandalism caused by a minority of youths.

"But, I understand if it's happening on your doorstep it seems a big problem. These are young people and yes, they are drinking underage, and yes, when they are drunk they are causing most of the damage in the area."

One other problem that Claire says is causing concern is the use of illegal drugs in the town.

"Recently we've had a couple of houses that have been used as cannabis factories which we've closed down.

"Because the population here is moving continuously sometimes it's quite difficult to pinpoint these addresses."

Find out more about policing in Bradley Stoke by clicking the audio below.