15 November 2024

Featured news

Strawberry Line celebrates sweet success with grand opening

Somerset Council has joined residents and volunteers to celebrate the opening of another 2 new sections of the Strawberry Line, a traffic free greenway through the county.

On 8 November, representatives from the Council joined volunteers for a ribbon-cutting ceremony, formally opening the Dulcote Extension and the West Shepton Link.

Make the most of Council’s super Slinky service

People living in Somerset are being reminded they have access to a demand responsive transport service known as Slinky.

Demand responsive transport is a bookable, flexible service which residents can use if there is no public transport alternative.

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Teamwork is key as Council supports gas mains and drainage improvements in Chard

Somerset Council Highways is working with Wessex Water and Wales and West Utilities to co-ordinate 2 vital infrastructure schemes in Chard during 2025. Wessex Water is investing more than £1.3 million to help alleviate sewer flooding in the town, while Wales and West is delivering a £415,000 upgrade to a gas main, switching from the ageing metal pipes to long-lasting pipes, with the work being carried out between January and approximately September 2025.

Council issues muddy roads warning

Somerset Council is reminding farmers and other operators working on the land to make sure they keep roads clear of mud and debris. As rural county where farming is a major activity and where farmers carry out a lot of important land and vegetation maintenance, it is a common occurrence for mud and debris to end up on the road. The Council’s expectation is that operators ensure all mud and debris is removed immediately when this happens.

New Changing Places Facility opens at the Quedam Shopping Centre, Yeovil

Somerset Council and the Quedam Shopping Centre are proud to announce the opening of a new Changing Places facility. Located within the Quedam Shopping Centre in Yeovil, the new Changing Places facility is designed to meet the needs of individuals with profound and multiple learning disabilities, as well as other disabilities that severely limit mobility. It provides a safe, clean, and fully equipped space, ensuring dignity and comfort for all users.

Consultation on Local Validation Checklist for Somerset

Views are being sought on a new Local Validation Checklist covering the Somerset Council area. Local Validation Checklists (LVCs) help inform applicants and agents about the type of documents and level of information required to be submitted in order for the Council to validate a planning application and/or other consents.

Promoted news

Royal recognition for Somerset charities

Image courtesy of the King’s Award for Voluntary Service

3 Somerset charities are celebrating after winning the coveted King’s Award for Voluntary Service (KAVS).

Equivalent to an MBE for individuals, KAVS is the highest award given annually to voluntary groups in the UK, celebrating outstanding work done by charities.

Somerset Film’s BFI Film Academy Short Course is running in Yeovil

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Are you 16-19 years and interested in pursuing your passion for film and seeing where it can take you? Then BFI Film Academy Short Course is a fantastic opportunity for you!

This comprehensive filmmaking course is an excellent first step on the ladder for young, aspiring filmmakers looking to work in the film and media industry. The cohort will make films, receive masterclasses from industry professionals and receive career support whilst working towards a nationally recognised NCFE Level 2 qualification.

Stay warm and well during the cold weather

Image courtesy of UKHSA

With temperatures forecast by the Met Office to plummet next week, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued guidance on how to keep yourself and others safe during periods of cold weather.

In addition to maintaining a warm home, wearing layers, consuming hot food and staying active, the guidance highlights the importance of checking on vulnerable individuals and offers practical tips for energy efficiency and financial support. By following these guidelines, individuals can reduce the risk of cold-related illnesses and maintain their well-being throughout winter.

UKHSA issues health advice following the half-term break

Stock image by Yan Krukau from Pexels

As children across the country return to their classrooms after the half term break, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is reminding parents of the simple steps they can take to reduce the spread of stomach bugs and winter illnesses to ensure they stay healthy this term and keep strong this winter.

We’re now beginning to see cases of flu and norovirus increasing as we head into the winter months, with norovirus activity in the past 2 weeks more than double the 5-season average for the same 2-week period and flu steadily increasing over the past few weeks.

Norovirus cases are on the rise

Norovirus activity has remained high in recent weeks, with total norovirus laboratory reports between weeks 41 to 42 of 2024, more than double the 5-season average for the same 2-week period.

In response, UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is reminding the public there are some simple steps you can take to avoid spreading the infection.