Friday, 9 February 2024

Featured news

Executive seeks to protect key services with proposed budget

Somerset Council’s Executive has agreed plans to bridge a £100m budget gap for 2024/25, welcoming steps that will see several key services protected.

Councillors were, however, given a stark warning that the broken model for funding local government and the Government’s refusal to allow a 9.99% Council Tax increase undermines the authority’s immediate sustainability after 2024/25.

Check if you have a one-off collection of rubbish

Residents in parts of Somerset are being reminded they may have an extra, one-off Saturday rubbish collection in February.

The extra collections for some households will ensure no-one goes more than three weeks between rubbish collections when a new set of routes and collection days start from 12 February.

Show your love for Somerset this Valentine’s Day

Show your love for the environment and for your Valentine this 14 February.

Swapping single use, for home-made can save you money and help keep Somerset green and more sustainable.

The Council is promoting simple ways to reduce waste and save money this Valentine’s Day to avoid the reliance on single-use presents or excess packaging.

Spread the love through volunteering

February is just the month to spread some love through volunteering. Random Acts of Kindness Day comes on 17 February just three days after Valentine’s Day so why not spread some kindness this year by getting involved in volunteering?

Somerset Council has a wide range of voluntary opportunities to get involved with. It is easy to find all about the opportunities available with Somerset Council on its dedicated volunteering website.

Promoted news

“Take the pressure off” campaign launched to combat high blood pressure

Over half of all strokes and heart attacks in Somerset are caused by high blood pressure. Known as the silent killer, high blood pressure is quick and simple to diagnose and to treat. So don’t delay – get tested now – it could save your life.

NHS Somerset, together with Somerset Council is launching their biggest ever campaign ‘Take the Pressure Off’ with the aim of testing thousands of residents to increase awareness and early detection of high blood pressure.

Latest articles

Flood anniversary: flood resilience and adaptation a key part of Somerset’s future

This winter marks ten years since the wettest winter for 250 years left large swathes of the county underwater for weeks, devastating communities, businesses and farming. February 4, 2014, saw the then Prince of Wales escorted through flood waters to the cut-off village Muchelney to meet residents and farmers. The following day, two severe flood warnings were issued for parts of the Somerset Levels, with residents in several villages advised to evacuate and Royal Marines deployed to help reinforce flood defences at Burrowbridge.

Flood relief scheme opens for communities hit by Storm Henk

Residents and businesses affected by January’s Storm Henk flooding may be eligible for Government flood relief money to help towards damage and flood resilience costs. More than 50 homes and businesses in Somerset suffered flooding during between 2 and 12 January 2024 because of Storm Henk. The Government announced communities impacted by the storm could apply for funding to help them recover.

Share your views on Wellington Waterways Study

Somerset Council is seeking views on proposals aimed at reducing flood risk to important industrial heritage sites at Tonedale Mill and Tone Works, alongside delivering wider benefits for nature and the community of Wellington. After a series of desk-based studies, and talks with technical stakeholders and local community groups, Somerset Council is inviting people to provide feedback on the proposed works to reduce flood risk, protect heritage, and improve the local landscape.

Council welcomes new ranger at Ham Hill thanks to The National Lottery Heritage Fund

Somerset Council’s Countryside Team is thrilled to introduce Jasmine Ely, the newly appointed Engagement Ranger at Ham Hill. The National Lottery Heritage Fund has generously funded Jasmine’s position for the next three years as part of their support for the “Uncovering Ham Hill’s Past for its Future” project. It aims to safeguard and restore key archaeological features, including the Iron Age Ramparts and the historic Lime Kiln.

Chard Enterprise Centre opens doors to new tenants

There is exciting news for businesses in Chard and the surrounding area as the impressive Enterprise Centre is open and welcoming new tenants. The new centre, provided by Somerset Council, offers flexible office and light industrial workspace to support small and medium enterprises. Costing £4.2m the Enterprise Centre has been made possible after successfully securing £1.7m funding from the European Regional Development Fund.

Council Chair pays tribute to Somerset’s Aldermen

Stalwarts of Somerset’s former councils were reunited at a ceremony in Taunton to mark their years of service to the community. Chair of Somerset Council, Cllr Mike Best, presented the Aldermen with certificates and medals at a ceremonial afternoon tea. The title of Alderman is the highest award that can be made to a former Councillor in recognition of their exceptional service to their community.