News Updates from North Cadbury and Yarlington Parish Council
Changes are coming to waste collections next year
Recycling and rubbish collection days will be changing for more than 120,000 homes in Somerset in February next year.
The changes come as new collection routes are introduced by Somerset Council’s contractor, SUEZ recycling and recovery UK. The new routes will make rounds more efficient, more manageable for crews whilst reducing mileage and carbon emissions.
The changes come at no cost to the council.
In February 2024, recycling and rubbish collection day schedules will change for around 85% of homes in the west of the county, covering the former Sedgemoor and Somerset West and Taunton areas, as well as a small part of South Somerset.
Anyone with a change to their collection day schedule will be written to twice before anything changes, first with a letter in January. Roughly, three weeks after the letter arrives, residents will receive a service guide which includes a collection day calendar for the next 18 months.
It is important that residents know their new collection days – crews will not be able to come back for either recycling or refuse if you miss your new collection day.
Because some towns and villages will be covered by more than one route, days may change for some households but not others.
Residents may have:
a change to collection day
a change in week that their rubbish is collected
a one-off interim rubbish collection
There will be no changes to:
collection days for garden waste subscribers
clinical waste collections
communal property collections with shared collections (such as blocks of flats, houses of multiple occupancy and retirement developments)
schools waste collections
Changes to routes and collection days for the rest of the county – in the former Mendip and South Somerset areas – are expected to be introduced in June 2024.
Councillor Dixie Darch, Executive Lead Member for Climate and Environment said:
“We’re writing to every household that will have a change to their collection day. Please keep an eye out for your letter in the New Year. If you don’t receive a letter this means that your day is staying the same.
“The changes will make the collections more efficient and help us to reduce carbon emissions.
“Please make a note of your new collection day and possible interim rubbish collection. Crews can’t return for missed collections where bins are not out on the right day.”
Further Information
21st November 2023
Temporary Road Closure: ttro254840E - SRM - Prestleigh Hill,
Please follow the link to view the above road closure;
The order becomes effective on 23rd November 2023 and will remain in force for eighteen months.
The works are expected to commence on 27th November 2023 and last for 11 evening to enable Sir Robert McAlpine to carry out reconstruction of the highway.
The contractor has indicated that access for Emergency Services through the site is permitted on this occasion.
For any further information about this closure please contact Sir Robert McAlpine on telephone number 07818 216 990
quoting reference: ttro254840E
Please note that should you require to view a closure which is more than two weeks ahead, you will need to register for free with www.One.NetworkRoad Closure
5th November 2023
Temporary Road Closure: ttro059449S - Station Road, Castle Cary
Please follow the link to view the above road closure;
The order becomes effective on 16th November 2023 and will remain in force for eighteen months.
The works are expected to commence on 20th November 2023 and last for 5 days to enable Wessex Water to carry out service disconnection works.
The contractor has indicated that access for Emergency Services through the site is not permitted on this occasion.
For any further information about this closure please contact Wessex Water on 0345 600 4600, quoting reference: ttro059449S.
Please note that should you require to view a closure which is more than two weeks ahead, you will need to register for free with www.One.Network
Somerset Council
Parish of Castle Cary
Temporary Closure of Station Road
Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act
1984 as amended, have made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along;
Station Road - from the junction with Victoria Road, to the junction with Lower Woodcock Street. A
total distance of 92 meter's.
This Order will enable Wessex Water to carry out service disconnection works.
The Order becomes effective on 16th November 2023 and will remain in force for eighteen months.
The works are expected to commence on 20th November 2023 and last until 24th November
2023 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 5 days.
Please visit https://one.network/?tm=135366879 for further information on the alternative route.
Please note that should you require to view a closure which is more than two weeks ahead, you will
need to register for free with One.Network.
For information about the works being carried out please contact Wessex Water on telephone number
0345 600 4600, quoting reference number ttro059449S.
Duncan Sharkey
Chief Executive
Dated: 16th November 2023
.
Statement of Reasons for making the Order
a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road;
or
b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not
attributable to such works
Road Closure
28th October 2023
Temporary Road Closure: ttro365730S - Small Way Lane, North Cadbury
Please follow the link to view the above road closure;
The order becomes effective on 16th November 2023 and will remain in force for eighteen months.
The works are expected to commence on 20th November 2023 and last for 6 hours (09:30 -15:30) to enable Openreach to access overhead structure.
The contractor has indicated that access for Emergency Services through the site is permitted on this occasion.
For any further information about this closure please contact Sunbelt Rentals Ltd on telephone number 03700 500 792 , quoting reference: ttro365730S.
Please note that should you require to view a closure which is more than two weeks ahead, you will need to register for free with www.One.Network
Somerset Council
Parish of North Cadbury
Temporary Closure of Small Way Lane
Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act
1984 as amended, have made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along;
Small Way Lane - from the junction with Galhampton Hill, south-eastwards for a total distance
of 219 meter's.
This Order will enable Openreach to access overhead structure.
The Order becomes effective on 16th November 2023 and will remain in force for eighteen months.
The works are expected to commence on 20th November 2023 and last until 20th November
2023 between the hours of 09:30 - 15:30 for a total of 6 hours.
Please visit https://one.network/?tm=135326477 for further information on the alternative route.
Please note that should you require to view a closure which is more than two weeks ahead, you will
need to register for free with One.Network.
For information about the works being carried out please contact Sunbelt Rentals Ltd on telephone
number 03700 500 792 quoting reference number ttro365730S
Duncan Sharkey
Chief Executive
Dated: 16th November 2023
.
Statement of Reasons for making the Order
a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road;
or
b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not
attributable to such works.
Road Closure
28th October 2023
Update on Octagon Theatre project
Somerset Council’s Executive will discuss redevelopment plans for Yeovil’s Octagon Theatre in light of rising interest rates.
The business case for the Octagon redevelopment was initially approved on the premise of borrowing £16.318m which would be repaid, plus interest, by users of the venue through tickets sales and the ticket levy.
Since then, interest rates have risen four-fold, from 1.5% when the business case was approved to around 5.6% last month – dramatically increasing the costs of the project, even if construction costs stay the same.
Local government finances are under pressure nationally and last month Somerset Council published budget papers showing a projected £26.1m overspend for the current financial year. This has led to a review of all spending, including capital projects, to ensure core services for those most in need are protected.
Officers are speaking to funding partners – including the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) who have announced £10m towards the development and their delivery partner, Arts Council England – to ensure they are updated on the progress of the project. The Council is also continuing to work with other partners to seek additional funding for the project.
Executive Members will receive an update at their next meeting on Wednesday, 4 October and agree the next steps.
Councillor Federica Smith-Roberts, Lead Member for Communities, Housing and Culture, said: “The report to Executive essentially proposes to give officers more time to consider what might be possible for this much-loved and very successful venue.
“Work has progressed well to date but these are factors outside our control which will massively impact on costs, and we need to carefully consider the way forward. We want to be open about the challenges we need to address, the reasons for them and the possible next steps.
“Arts and culture are important for Somerset – it’s part of what makes our county a great place to live and also attracts outside investment.
“We absolutely understand the public interest in this, we’re committed to keeping our residents informed every step of the way and it is important that we are open about the options available to us”.
The Octagon Theatre has been closed since May this year to allow contractors to carry out detailed and intrusive survey work ahead of the development. This was required to inform the project team what needs to be put into the more detailed contractor’s specification for the next phase of works. With hundreds of access points made to expose its structure, the venue will need to remain closed until further work has taken place.27th September 2023
Weather Warning
A Met Office weather warning of strong winds has been issued for Wednesday going into Thursday this week. You may wish to share this information with your communities.
The low-pressure system (and associated windy weather) has been named Storm Agnes.
The Met Office has taken the decision to name this system due to the broad area of strong winds that are likely to cause some disruption from approx. 1200 on Wednesday 27th September until 0700 on Thursday 28th September.
Gusts of 50 to 60 mph are expected inland from south to south-westerly winds.
Exposed coasts and headlands could see gusts of 65 to 75 mph.
As well as the disruptive wind, there will be a band of heavy rain moving north-eastwards across the region during the afternoon and early evening on Wednesday. They are not expecting this to be too impactful, however.
As a result of the strong winds associated with Storm Agnes, you can expect a very slight chance of:
some flying debris
some damage to buildings, such as tiles blown from roofs
power cuts
road, rail, air, and ferry services being affected
roads and bridges closing
large waves and beach material being thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads, and properties
some minor flooding of coastal roads
27th September 2023
Funding for projects using nature to increase flood resilience
Today (22 September), the government announced £25 million to support projects that use nature to increase the nation’s flood resilience.
The funding will support natural flood management schemes in England that use techniques such as planting trees and creating wetlands to slow and store water to reduce the risk of flooding. Successful projects will be those that cover a large enough area to provide demonstrable flood risk benefits.
Expressions of interest opened today (22 September) and will close on 10 November. Projects will be delivered during 2024-27.
Please follow these links for guidance on submitting expressions of interest and for the programme prospectus. If you have any questions, please contact NFM_Programme@environment-agency.gov.uk22nd September 2023
Flooding update : 19th Sept 2023
The council is still in response mode following Sunday’s extreme rainfall and flooding affecting West Somerset and Wellington.
We’re continuing to build up a picture of the impact on affected communities and have had officers on the ground in the area.
As a crucial part of this need the team needs the assistance of all elected members and parish councillors in the affected areas.
Members and parish councillors are doing important work on the ground supporting residents as the ‘eyes and ears’ of the Council in the affected communities.
It’s vital that trusted local intelligence is captured and there may well be people needing support or advice who haven’t yet made contact.
Many thanks to Minehead and Wellington Town Councils who have shared useful information and intelligence already.
Any information you can provide will be extremely helpful – details about reporting this are below.
With anticipated further heavy rain tomorrow (Wednesday 20 September) and the potential for further flooding this week it’s vital we keep clear channels of communication open.
Key points as of 19 September
• Somerset Council officers have been on the ground in Minehead gathering information and providing advice. Five families in social/sheltered housing in Wellington were rehomed.
• Contact made with two affected residents in Withycombe – road very badly damaged in village, Highways in process of clearing debris and assessing.
• Some 46 calls were received by our Customer Contact Centre via a dedicated line, plus one call overnight.
• Highways reports that A39 and A396 clear-up is complete – attention now focused on smaller roads.
• There are no impacts reported from our waste services or from our partners in public health at this point.
• We’ve been engaging with our parishes, LCNs and our members regarding flood precautions and helplines.
• A press release was issued on Monday, and we are sharing information on our social media channels. Our website has a prominent banner directing residents to key messages. The comms team have dealt with numerous media enquiries and interview requests.
• EA monitoring situation across moors and reservoirs, assisting in gathering intelligence regarding impacted communities. EA colleagues have started sharing information through the Council’s Incident Centre.
• To reiterate – although we cannot say this event was caused by climate change, the science tells us that events like these are likely happen more frequently and this is the third time we’ve had this sort of event this year. The Council has an important role to play in helping communities become more resilient as well as helping tackle the causes of climate change.
Further rain/Wednesday forecast:
Further heavy rain currently forecast for tomorrow from about 1pm-2pm in west and north of county, moving across the rest of the county throughout afternoon.
East, South and Taunton and Wellington area as well as West Somerset are vulnerable but no weather warning in place as yet for Somerset.
This needs to be tempered with the reality that forecasts can vary significantly, and this could easily change. EA and our own team continuing to monitor.
Messaging going out on social media channels reminding residents to protect homes and businesses if they are worried about flooding – autumn and winter are on the way so likelihood of further heavy rain and potential flood events.
How to report
We are encouraging people to get in touch if they’ve been affected - anyone who has experienced property flooding can report it online at: https://swim.geowessex.com/somerset/
We would be grateful if parishes could encourage people to do this. You can also email flooding@somerset.gov.uk
If you are aware of anyone who needs support, please advise them to call 0300 123 2224 and choose option 1 during office hours.
Flooding and roads – key information
Heavy rain and flooding present a clear and present danger to drivers – road users are urged NOT to attempt to drive across flooded roads as it is not possible to estimate the depth of the water reliably.
Our Highways and Street Scene teams are out today in all affected areas assisting with the clear-up operation and assessing damage to roads.
All roads are now open but please be aware our teams will need to sweep and carry out minor repairs asap.
It’s vital to prepare for wet conditions if you have to travel and to proceed with extreme caution if you get caught in flood conditions – you can find information and advice here: Adverse weather conditions (somersetroadsafety.org)
If you spot a problem with a drain or gully, or any issue on the highway you can report it easily and quickly here - Report a problem on the road (somerset.gov.uk).
Looking after yourself and mental health
Floodwater can contain hidden dangers such as uncovered manholes or obstacles – so never enter floodwater.
We know that heavy rainfall may trigger feelings of anxiety, fear or worry, particularly for those who have been previously affected by flooding.
Here are some things you can do to help reduce any feelings of anxiety caused by heavy rainfall and the activation of local flood defences:
Talk to somebody about how you are feeling, if you don’t feel able to talk to friends or family you can call Mindline - Somerset’s emotional support and mental health helpline which is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week: 01823 276 892 (local) 0800 138 1692 (freephone).
Try and do activities that help you to feel less stressed like exercising, reading, listening to music, or meditating.
Help neighbours and others in your community, look out for each other.
Follow your normal routine as much as possible.
Visit the Every Mind Matters website where you can find lots of tips and exercises to help manage anxiety.
Stay up-to-date on weather information and warnings. If you’re aware of the latest information, you may gain a sense of control over the situation.
Check for flooding - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
What to do during a flood
There is information to help you on what to do during a flood on the Somerset Prepared website. The key point is to always stay safe, in an immediate flood emergency or where there is a risk to life, follow the advice of the emergency services.
What to do after a flood
Following a flood there will be hazards revealed as the water clears, consider the following as you recover from the impacts of an incident.
• Assume floodwater has been contaminated with sewage and avoid contact wherever possible. For further health advice when dealing with flood affected areas visit Public Health England
• It’s important to stop harmful germs that might be present in floodwater from spreading to food. For advice on cleaning preparation areas after a flood visit the Food Standards Agency
• Flooding presents a number of hazards to utilities in the home. Follow electric safety advice before switching back on.
• Contact your insurer if you haven’t already and let them know the situation. They will advise you of the next steps to take in restoring your home and belongings.
• Reporting when your property has flooded helps the Council investigate why the flood has occurred and look for possible methods to mitigate the risk of it happening again in the future.
• Use the SWIM website to update your flood record/record recent flooding.
What can I do to prepare for flooding?
Thinking ahead and preparing for what the weather may bring can make a real difference in your home, business and community.
One of the first things is to check is whether your property is at risk of flooding.
We also recommend taking precautionary measures and purchasing your own sandbags in case of flooding emergencies. If sandbags are not available, you can use:
• rolled-up mats or carpets
• bags of garden compost
• pillowcases filled with soil (don't overfill them)
• timber boards (possibly screwed to door frames and sealed with mastic)
Protect yourself from future flooding
It is advisable to plan how you’ll respond to a flood. Information and plans are available to help you plan ahead.
We also encourage you to download the ‘Prepare. Act. Survive.’ flood plan to help reduce the impact of flooding.
You can find up to date information on flood warnings by visiting the flood warnings page on the Government's website.
19th September 2023
Parish Briefing – Flooding
Issued: 18th September 2023
Flooding update
Widespread thunderstorms and rain across Somerset on Sunday brought flooding and significant disruption, mainly in West Somerset and Wellington area.
There has been flooding to homes and businesses and teams are working to assess the scope of this confirm the exact number affected. Some roads have also been damaged.
It is estimated about a month’s rain fell in a day – a source in Cotford St Luke reported 103.1mm of rain falling. Highways teams dealt with 38 incidents during Sunday.
Our teams are working with Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue and Avon and Somerset Police to establish an accurate picture of who has been affected and where as quickly as possible.
Key points
• Our Civil Contingencies Unit, Flood Management and Highways teams are mobilised and will be in the affected areas throughout today and tomorrow co-ordinating the clear-up and providing a range of support. Officers in high vis will be going out to communities and meeting people across the area to assess the level of homes and businesses affected.
• River levels are now falling but a flood warning remains in place for the Tone at Creech St Michael, plus a number of flood alerts remain in place for Blue Anchor, Watchet, Minehead and Porlock.
• Key affected areas include Minehead, Carhampton, Dunster, Withycombe, Watchet and other parts of West Somerset, as well as the Wellington area.
• Housing and adult social care teams worked together to support individuals impacted by flooding in the Wellington area last night and will be supporting individuals across West Somerset today.
• Somerset Council’s Customer Contact Centre will have a dedicated team working on the response – callers will be asked to press 1 for flood issues and will be triaged and referred to CCU or partnership agencies where necessary.
• Both the A39 and A396 had to be closed for part of the day due to flooding. Both were reopened by early evening of Sunday but the A39 is likely to have to close again today to allow Highways teams to carry out a clear-up.
• There is further rain forecast throughout today and this week - teams will remain in response mode and residents and businesses are urged to remain vigilant and take necessary action to protect properties.
• Residents and businesses who are concerned about flooding are advised to go to builder’s merchants to get sandbags – Somerset Council does not have a supply of these at depots.
• Our communication team is issuing a press release alongside this briefing note summarising the situation and publicising the phone number and other important information. There will be a sustained social media campaign throughout today to help signpost people to help and support, as well as to gather key information on the situation.
• Although we cannot say this event was caused by climate change, the science tells us that events like these are likely happen more frequently. The Council has an important role to play in helping communities become more resilient as well as helping tackle the causes of climate change.
Key impacts on roads yesterday attended by Highways teams to make area safe with signage/sandbags:
• A39 between Holford and Kilve on sharp bend – significant flooding: Cones/sandbags and warning signs.
• Mart Road Minehead - manhole covers blown out of frames
• Olcombe roundabout flooded
• Ponsford Road – flooded
• King George Road Minehead – flooded
• Ponsford Road Minehead – collapsed wall
• A396 Dunster to Weddon Cross – flooded/closed
• Turner Road junction manhole cover
• A39 flooding at Carhampton
• George St Wellington – flooding
• A39 Kilve - flooding
What to do
We are encouraging people to get in touch if they’ve been affected - anyone who has experienced property flooding can report it online at https://swim.geowessex.com/somerset/, or email flooding@somerset.gov.uk
If you are aware of anyone who needs support, please advise them to call 0300 123 2224 and choose option 1 during office hours.
Visits to impacted communities will continue tomorrow and we will provide further updates.
Flooding and roads – key information
Heavy rain and flooding present a clear and present danger to drivers – road users are urged NOT to attempt to drive across flooded roads as it is not possible to estimate the depth of the water reliably.
Our Highways and Street Scene teams are out today in all affected areas assisting with the clear-up operation and assessing damage to roads.
All roads are now open but please be aware our teams will need to sweep and carry out minor repairs asap.
It’s vital to prepare for wet conditions if you have to travel and to proceed with extreme caution if you get caught in flood conditions – you can find information and advice here: Adverse weather conditions (somersetroadsafety.org)
If you spot a problem with a drain or gully, or any issue on the highway you can report it easily and quickly here - Report a problem on the road (somerset.gov.uk).
Looking after yourself and mental health
Floodwater can contain hidden dangers such as uncovered manholes or obstacles – so never enter floodwater. We know that heavy rainfall may trigger feelings of anxiety, fear or worry, particularly for those who have been previously affected by flooding. Here are some things you can do to help reduce any feelings of anxiety caused by heavy rainfall and the activation of local flood defences:
• Talk to somebody about how you are feeling, if you don’t feel able to talk to friends or family you can call Mindline - Somerset’s emotional support and mental health helpline which is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week: 01823 276 892 (local) 0800 138 1692 (freephone).
• Try and do activities that help you to feel less stressed like exercising, reading, listening to music, or meditating.
• Help neighbours and others in your community, look out for each other!
• Follow your normal routine as much as possible.
• Visit the Every Mind Matters website where you can find lots of tips and exercises to help manage anxiety.
• Stay up to date on weather information and warnings. If you’re aware of the latest information, you may gain a sense of control over the situation. Check for flooding - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
What to do during a flood
There is information to help you on what to do during a flood on the Somerset Prepared website. The key point is to always stay safe, in an immediate flood emergency or where there is a risk to life, follow the advice of the emergency services.
What to do after a flood
Following a flood there will be hazards revealed as the water clears, consider the following as you recover from the impacts of an incident.
• Assume floodwater has been contaminated with sewage and avoid contact wherever possible. For further health advice when dealing with flood affected areas visit Public Health England
• It’s important to stop harmful germs that might be present in floodwater from spreading to food. For advice on cleaning preparation areas after a flood visit the Food Standards Agency
• Flooding presents a number of hazards to utilities in the home. Follow electric safety advice before switching back on.
• Contact your insurer if you haven’t already and let them know the situation. They will advise you of the next steps to take in restoring your home and belongings.
• Reporting when your property has flooded helps the Council investigate why the flood has occurred and look for possible methods to mitigate the risk of it happening again in the future.
• Use the SWIM website to update your flood record/record recent flooding.
What can I do to prepare for flooding?
Thinking ahead and preparing for what the weather may bring can make a real difference in your home, business and community.
One of the first things is to check is whether your property is at risk of flooding.
We also recommend taking precautionary measures and purchasing your own sandbags in case of flooding emergencies. If sandbags are not available, you can use:
• rolled-up mats or carpets
• bags of garden compost
• pillowcases filled with soil (don't overfill them)
• timber boards (possibly screwed to door frames, sealed with mastic)
Protect yourself from future flooding
It is advisable to plan how you’ll respond to a flood. Information and plans are available to help you plan ahead.
We also encourage you to download the ‘Prepare. Act. Survive.’ flood plan to help reduce the impact of flooding.
You can find up to date information on flood warnings by visiting the flood warnings page on the Government's website.
18th September 2023
Potential industrial action
As you may be aware, the 2023/24 pay discussions between Suez (Somerset Council’s waste collections contractor) and the Unite union have not yet been successfully concluded.
A 5.8% increase has been rejected by the union and a recent ballot of its members was in favour of industrial action. A further offer of 8% from Suez has also been rejected.
Talks continue and we very much hope agreement can be reached.
However, we have been informed that Unite staff intend to take industrial action, starting on Wednesday 12 July.
They would strike for three days each week, Wednesday to Friday, during the four weeks from 12 July to 4 August.
On the other days of the week staff taking action would not work overtime or be involved in catch-up collections, for example on Saturdays.
Approximately 40% of Suez staff in Somerset are thought to be Unite members, but exactly what this means in terms of available workforce on any given day of industrial action is not known.
Although detail is unclear, we would expect widespread, significant delays and disruption that would affect the majority of residents. The disruption will extend beyond the days of industrial action as crews will need to pick up extra, accumulated waste when collections restart.
Our focus is on helping avoid industrial action or resolving it quickly, but we are also contingency planning with Suez to try and minimise the impact of industrial action if it goes ahead.
Three-weekly refuse collections would be prioritised, along with clinical waste collections and collections from communal locations. We cannot, however, guarantee that all these collections will take place on time.
Recycling collections would be affected to a greater extent as their crews are redeployed to support refuse, clinical and communal collections. Though we would do our best to avoid it, the scheduling of the industrial action means some residents could go multiple weeks without recycling collections.
At this stage we do not yet know how garden waste collections will be affected.
Communication and information sharing
The best place for the latest information about disruption and advice on how to cope would be a dedicated page on the Somerset Council website. This page will be created in the coming days.
We know that online information does not suit everyone, but given the fast-changing nature of the situation, online and social media will be valuable tools for providing timely updates.
We intend to raise awareness of the planned industrial through traditional media, newsletters and - where we have them - direct email. Given the fluid nature of the situation, these will be countywide messages and not sent on a daily basis. Please make use of the dedicated webpage – we will send you a link when the page is live.
We would endeavor to share information as quickly as possible and would appreciate your help in passing it on to your communities should it be needed.
All our efforts would be focused on minimising the impact of any industrial action so all other work would be delayed. We would appreciate it if direct contact with the Waste Services team was limited to essential and urgent matters only.
We will provide you with a further update as soon as possible on the potential for industrial action, our plans to manage it and advice for residents.
Somerset Council, Waste Services
30th June 2023
Flooding update
Flooding What can be doneFlooding what can be done
28th June 2023
Flooding updates
Flooding General AdviceFlooding General Advice
28th June 2023
Recent floods. Latest update
1. The Met office have confirmed that the rain was a consequence of two thunderstorms meeting over North Cadbury combining and failing to move on.
2. North Cadbury had at least 4 inches of rain, the environment agency estimate that 138 mm (5 1/2 inches) and the Newt measured 7 inches (175 mm) of rain fell from the thunderstorms.
3. Shepton Montague, Pitcom, Higher Hadspen, the Newt, Yarlington, North Cadbury, Galhampton, South Cadbury, Sparkford, and Blackford all had houses flooded due to run off from the fields.
4. Queen Camel, West Camel, and Bridgehampton all flooded due to the water flowing down the River Cam.
5. Podimoor flooded due to the water travelling down the road and across the fields.
6. The environment agency's warning depth gauge at Western Bampfield showed a water height of 3 m above the normal flow. In 2008 this gauge showed a height of 2 m.
7. The fire brigade did a fantastic job in ensuring that there was no loss of life.
8. There were two members of the public who ended up with hypothermia.
9. There was no easy way of warning anybody downstream of what was going to happen. The council need to ensure that there are duty managers on 24 seven.
10. There needs to be more depth gauges along the River Cam. Sparkford parish council are looking for a renewed quote for a depth gauge upstream of the old 303.
11. North Cadbury was isolated at 6 o'clock. Yet Queen Camel did not flood until 1920 and there should have been a way to warn people downstream of where it was raining that flooding was likely
18th June 2023
Somerset Council Waste
Somerset Council waste briefingSomerset Council
15th June 2023
Community Plant swap
Come along to the 'Yeovil in Bloom' Community Plant Swap
A community plant swap is taking place on Wednesday 7th June in Yeovil as part of the RHS's community-growing campaign, the Big Seed Sow.
Plants are being provided by the 'Yeovil in Bloom' initiative, which is funded by Yeovil Town Council, and have been grown in the Somerset Council run, Lufton Nursery.
The event is taking place at St. John's Churchyard, Yeovil from 10am until the plants are all gone - so be sure to get there early!
Locals are welcome to bring along a plant from their home or grown in their garden and exchange it for one of over 2,000 plants available at the community event.
The Lufton Nursery team will be on hand to answer any horticultural questions and are on the lookout for volunteers to get involved with Yeovil in Bloom.
Cllr Federica Smith-Roberts, Lead Member for Communities, Housing and Culture, said: "This plant swapping event will ultimately benefit the local wildlife in the area, as well as create a more beautiful and vibrant town for all to enjoy.
"Our nursey team have been busy working with the Yeovil in Bloom volunteers to get these plants ready for the event and are proud of the varieties on offer.
"Visitors to St John's Churchyard on 7th June will be pleased to find a range of plants including tomatoes, peppers, summer bedding plants and perennials.
"So please support this great community event and bring along some house or garden plants and see what you can find."
Manny Roper, Chairman for Yeovil in Bloom, said: "I think this is a wonderful initiative and I would cordially invite all local residents to get involved and bring along a plant and help make this a successful community event".
Learn about the RHS Big Seed Sow campaign here: www.rhs.org.uk/get-involved/big-seed-sow.
Plant Swap
1st June 2023
Temporary Road Closure: ttro575061SS - Woolston Road, North Cadbury
Please follow the link below to view the above road closure.
The order becomes effective on 22nd June 2023 and will remain in force for eighteen months.
The works are expected to commence on 26th June 2023 and last for 6 hours(09:30-15:30) to enable Openreach to carry out overhead cabling work..
The contractor has indicated that access for Emergency Services through the site is permitted on this occasion.
For any further information about this closure please contact Sunbelt Rentals on 0370 050 0792, quoting reference: ttro575061SS
Please note that should you require to view a closure which is more than two weeks ahead, you will need to register for free with www.One.Network
With regards,
The Road Closure Team
Email: ttro@somerset.gov.uk
Traffic Management, Road Safety and Parking Services
Road Closure
1st June 2023
Flood update
The recent flood was devasting for the parish and beyond. It is therefore vital that the facts are recorded and photographic evidence collected.
Therefore North Cadbury Parish Council has arranged for those members of Somerset Council to hold a drop in consultation so members of the Parish can share experiences.
The event will take place at North Cadbury Village Hall on Monday 12 June between 4 - 7pm1st June 2023
Notice of Vacancies on North Cadbury and Yarlington Parish Council
Official Notice (below) is hereby given in accordance with Section 87 of the Local Government Act 1972 that three vacancies have occurred on North Cadbury and Yarlington Parish Council.
Local councils can only be as effective, relevant and vibrant as the people elected to run it, so we need councillors who are capable, energetic and engaged – from all backgrounds and experiences to reflect their communities.
Being a councillor is highly rewarding. No other role gives you a chance to make such a huge difference to the quality of life of people in your local area and to influence the way issues are dealt with locally.
If you would like to know more please contact the Clerk, Chairman or speak to a local councillor.
Notice of Casual Vacancy
10th May 2023
Somerset Waste Briefing May 23
Make sure your bins are standing to attention - know your coronation
collection days!
This May we have a bumper number of Bank Holidays, meaning special arrangements for waste collections.
Collections were, for the first time ever, made on bank holiday Monday, 1 May and are taking place on the usual scheduled days all this week.
Make sure your bags, bins and boxes are presented on your usual day.
But there will be no collections on the extra bank holiday Monday, 8 May and collections will be one day later for rest of the week, incl.
Friday 12 May collections taking place on Saturday 13 May.
Looking ahead, there will be no collections on the late spring bank holiday on 29 May. Crews will be collecting one day later for the rest of the week, including collections on Saturday 3 June.
All 16 recycling sites will open as normal over the weekends (9am-4pm). If opening on a Monday is part of their normal schedule, they
will be open both bank holiday Mondays, 9am 6pm.
Somerset recycling goes top 30 Thanks to our Somerset residents, we’ve seen the amount we are recycling rise to 56.2% in 21/22, putting us 28th against 228 local Authorities.
Defra recently published their recycling league table and are pleased to see the impact of the Recycle More scheme has helped put us in the top 30.
In 2021-22, almost 150,000 tonnes of waste were recycled or reused, saving around 133,000 tonnes of carbon – the equivalent of taking more than 51,000 cars off the road for a year. A massive 97.2% of this was recycled into new products and packaging in the UK. Of
the 5,771 tonnes of plastics collected, 99.4% were reprocessed in the UK.
Trimming, strimming or cutting? Spring is here and that means more of us out in the garden. There are three ways to dispose of garden waste.
Home composting
We are working with Get Composting to offer Somerset residents home compost bins at reduced prices, including a buy-one-get-one half-price deal for two of the same size.
Garden Waste collections
More than 56,000 Somerset residents have subscribed for a garden waste collection. We offer fortnightly garden waste collections
through a pre-paid 180-litre wheeled bins at a cost of £63.50. You can subscribe at any time of the year, just visit somerset.gov.uk/waste If you’re already a subscriber we will contact you the month before your subscription runs out and remind you to renew.
Recycling sites
All 16 Somerset recycling sites take garden waste. To find your nearest recycling site and check opening hours, visit
somerset.gov.uk/waste
Flex-collect – soft plastic recycling collections piloted in parts of Frome A small number of residents in Frome will have recently received a letter to say their recycling collection will soon include flexible plastics.
Somerset Council successfully bid to be part of a national ‘FlexCollect’ trial of kerbside collection of plastic bags and wrapping. The trial collections will be available to around
3,600 homes across two locations in Frome, starting near the end of May. No other householders, in Frome or elsewhere in the county, can participate or request to take part.
The costs of the pilot collections are funded nationally. The only costs to the council are time and resources. Depending on progress, it is expected that the trial will be expanded to more Somerset homes next year.
Business of recycling
New legislation is on the way that will require all businesses to separate out more recycling - glass bottles and jars, metal food and drink cans, plastic bottles, pots, tubs and trays, paper and cardboard from their general waste. Any premises preparing or selling food, such as cafes, restaurants and pubs, will also have
to separate and recycle food waste. During March and April, Somerset trialled localised face-to-face support for businesses to discuss preparing for the change and Business Support Advisors contacted around 400 businesses in Langport, Chard and Ilminster.
Somerset also helped pilot the Business of Recycling website developed by WRAP. The pilot has just finished, but the website
remains in place, full of useful guidance and resources for business wanting to get ahead of the game and prepare.
Happy birthday to Fixy
Somerset’s Fixy initiative celebrates its first birthday this month, having started the repair and reuse conversation with nearly 3,000
people.
Fixy is all about encouraging and helping the repair and reuse of electricals and the team has attended over 80 events over the last 12 months.
Many of these have been supporting Somerset’s network of repair groups, giving practical help, recruiting more volunteers to get
involved and generally banging the drum for breathing new life into old items. Fixy also runs a ‘tech take back’ service, accepting donations of unwanted or broken smart tech, such as laptops, tablets, smartphones, smart watches, digital cameras, game consoles, routers, hard drives, external disk drives, and their leads and chargers. Donations are data-wiped and repaired by Somerset specialists DonateIT, and passed onto schools, community groups and families who need them. Since it launched in May 2022, over 1,500
items have been reused in this way. The scheme’s first year was funded by a grant from the Ecosurety Exploration Fund and managed
by Resource Futures in partnership with Somerset Waste Partnership,- now Somerset Council – and Donate IT. For more about Fixy, upcoming events and repair and reuse l, visit the Somerset Council waste web pages.
Updates to your inbox
Somerset Council is asking residents to come on board to help deliver our climate strategy by signing up to its new climate newsletter SEEN:
‘Somerset Environmental and Ecological News’.
It’s full of news, project updates, and inspirational ideas about the work going on in the county in response to the Climate
Emergency, along with information and tips to help us all live better, waste less and reduce our environmental impact. If we all do our bit and love where we live, we can keep Somerset
clean, green and attractive. Sign up and select to hear about the topics that interest you2nd May 2023
A303 Update
The article below gives details of dates and venues where councilors and residents can find out details of the progress on the dualling of the A 303.A303 Upgrade
15th March 2023
Temporary Road Closure
Temporary Road Closure: ttro173025SS - Holbrook Roundabout to Jack Whites Gibbet, Bratton Seymour
Please follow the link to view the above road closure;
The order becomes effective on 23rd March 2023 and will remain in force for eighteen months.
The works are expected to commence on 27th March 2023 and last for 3 nights(18:30-06:30) to enable Splicetek Communications Ltd on behalf of Jurassic Fibre to carry out gully clearance work..
The contractor has indicated that access for Emergency Services through the site is not permitted on this occasion.
For any further information about this closure please contact Splicetek Communications Ltd. on 01453 798 484 quoting reference: ttro173025SS
Road Closure
7th March 2023
Manor Farm Yarlington
The Newt in Somerset will be holding a consultation on their proposed plans for Manor Farm Yarlington on Friday and Saturday between 10 - 12am in the Stag's Head Inn, Yarlington.
All are welcome to attend.20th February 2023
Network Rail
Please find attached a joint letter from Network Rail and Great Western Railway (GWR) regarding upcoming line closures on the Heart of Wessex line in February and March.
Network Rail
27th January 2023
NHS Public Consultation
Today the NHS in Somerset, is launching a public consultation on the future of acute hospital-based stroke services in Somerset. The public consultation runs from Monday 30 January 2023 for 12 weeks until Monday 24 April 2023.
We are seeking the views of people in Somerset on the future of hyper acute and acute stroke services in Somerset – this is the specialist acute hospital care people receive in the first few days and weeks after having a stroke.
Staff, people with lived experience including carers, and community and voluntary sector support organisations have been working together to develop the best solutions for future acute hospital-based stroke services in Somerset.
It is important that we provide high-quality stroke services in Somerset, which are sustainable and fit for the future, which is why we are proposing to change the way acute hospital stroke services are organised in our area, so that everyone in county will have the best opportunity to survive and thrive after stroke.
The consultation will seek to understand whether hyper acute and acute stroke services should be provided at:
· one hyper acute stroke unit in Somerset and, if that is the right way forward, whether the unit be located at Musgrove Park Hospital in Taunton, and;
· acute stroke services at either:
· Two acute stroke units, one at Musgrove Park Hospital and one at Yeovil District Hospital; or
· One acute stroke unit, which would need to be located at the same hospital as the hyper acute stroke unit proposed to be Musgrove Park Hospital.
No decision has been made yet and we want to understand as many different views on our proposals as possible. This public consultation is an opportunity for people to make their voice heard and for them to tell us what they think of the proposals before we make a final decision on the best way forward.
To find out more about our proposals, including our consultation document and how to respond to the consultation, please visit the link below.
We hope you will support us in encouraging people to take part in the consultation, all views are important to us.
If you would like any materials to support you to promote the consultation, such as social media posts, newsletter copy, please do get in touch with us.
Kind regards
NHS Somerset | Working together to improve health and wellbeing
Wynford House | Lufton Way | Lufton | Yeovil | Somerset | BA22 8HR
Email: sara.bonfanti@nhs.net
Website: www.nhssomerset.nhs.uk
Follow us on social media: @NHSSomersetNHS
27th January 2023
SOMERSET COUNTY COUNCIL Briefing Sheet from the desk of Cllr David Fothergill FEBRUARY 2023
Somerset County Council Finances: Somerset County Council continue to show a projected overspend of £21m, however the decision was taken at the December Executive not to formally report the recent Month 8. figures. The Revenue and Capital budgets for the new Somerset Council will be proposed and debated at a Full Council meeting on the 22nd February 2023.
Local Government Reorganisation: Following the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) decision to support the move to a single Unitary Council across Somerset, vesting day for the new Unitary Council remains as 1st April 2023. Tier 3 (Service Director level) appointments are taking place during mid-March and it is hoped to have the majority in place before vesting day on April 1st. Unfortunately, these appointments were due in late summer and the lengthy delay has created a significant risk to the programme delivery.
Dunball Roundabout (J23): The first phase of a major project to improve the busy Dunball roundabout linking Bridgwater and Junction 23 of the M5 has just begun. Preparation work was scheduled to commence at the end of January under traffic management and will include vegetation and some tree removal. Work is expected to commence in the summer on construction. The plan will see enhanced pedestrian and cycling access as part of improved cycling and walking links into Bridgwater. This new safe route for cyclists and pedestrians, will eventually stretch from the Gravity site at Puriton to Bridgwater town centre via Dunball. As well as a contribution from the Government’s Levelling Up fund, the scheme has been funded jointly by Sedgemoor District Council, Bridgwater Town Deal, the Heart of the South West Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) and National Highways.
Major roadworks in Bridgwater: Work to renew traffic lights and crossings will see major upgrades to traffic signals at the Broadway/St John’s Street junction as well as the zebra crossings on Broadway near Blake Place being replaced with new puffin crossings. The work at the Broadway junction with St John’s Street also includes a new parallel crossing, allowing cyclists to get across this busy junction in one movement, alongside an improved pedestrian crossing. Work, which commenced on 15 January, is expected to conclude in the summer.
New primary school: planning permission has been was granted for the new primary school at the Orchard Grove (Comeytrowe) development in Taunton. The £11.3m school will serve the new development, with capacity for 420 pupils and 52 nursery places, and room to expand to accommodate an additional 210 children. The super-energy-efficient Passivhaus design of the school and added solar panels will ensure the building is Net Zero. In addition to environmental benefits, this will also lower the school’s running costs. The school building will open in September 2024
Greener roads maintenance trials: Funding to support projects focused on a greener approach to highways maintenance and construction has been awarded. The £5m initiative sees Somerset County Council joining forces with Cornwall Council, Hampshire County Council and Devon County Council to deliver innovative ideas to decarbonise how the UK builds and maintains its highways network. The councils will support each other, sharing learning, practice and insights and will be supported by academic teams, including Exeter University.
Evening bus services: As part of Government-funded Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) which aims to increase bus patronage by introducing a number of important initiatives evening bus services on some key routes in Somerset begin running from the beginning of February. The evening bus routes are:
1E – Taunton to Priorswood/Musgrove Park/Silk Mills Park and Ride
21 – Taunton to Bridgwater
22 – Taunton to Wellington
28 – Taunton to Minehead
30 – Taunton to Chard
My Time to Care: Somerset County Council has joined forces with the NHS and Registered Care Providers Association for the new ‘My Time to Care’ campaign, which aims to empower carers, and show how working in social care in Somerset is a respected, meaningful, and fun career choice. The recruitment campaign is being promoted on social media, in the local media, and with advertising across Somerset. A recruitment event is also set to take place at Somerset County Cricket Club on Tuesday, February 7th 2023
Business mentors scheme: Executive and senior management level business leaders, successful entrepreneurs and business consultants, who understand the challenges associated with running and growing a business and the value of impartial advice, are being encouraged to register and train as Business Mentors. Those trained and funded under the Somerset Business Mentoring Programme will need to deliver 12 hours of mentoring support in Somerset to businesses, social enterprises and/or charities. They will be identified on the SCC Business Mentoring website. For anyone interested in becoming a Somerset Business Mentor, more information is available at www.somerset.gov.uk/business-mentoring . Applicants will then be contacted for an introductory chat and an invitation to meet with the Programme Managers. References will be required.
27th January 2023
Get more from what's on your doorstep with the Fleet Air Arm Museum
The Fleet Air Arm Museum is running a special discount for those who live locally.
The Fleet Air Arm Museum launches discount scheme for local residents to get more from what's on their doorstep . Up to £15 savings on family tickets at one of the south west's leading visitor attraction. Local residents with Dorchester, Taunton and Bath postcodes special discount to support what's on their doorstep
Discounted limitless days out for a year are now possible for residents with Dorchester, Taunton and Bath postcodes as one of the region's most popular museums launches a special winter-long offer with up to £15 savings on an annual family ticket from November 14th 2022 – March 31st 2023.
Set amongst four vast aircraft and exhibition halls, with lots of space to explore, the Yeovilton Fleet Air Arm Museum is home to Europe's largest naval aviation collection.
With free car parking, a hugely popular playground area and newly-refurbished café, the museum is a real favourite with locals. There is a fascinating view across the busy air station RNAS Yeovilton where daily operations can be watched from a distance. One of the highlights of the day is the chance to walk under the Delta Wings of Concorde 002, the first British prototype, and marvel at the technology which enabled aircraft to fly at more than twice the speed of sound.
New this year is the refurbished immersive Carrier Experience where visitors have the chance to see 'the best of the best', journeying from past to present and exploring experiences of the 'Top Gun' naval aviation teams over the past 100 years.
Highlights include aircraft from the 1940s and 50s like the sole-surviving examples of a Westland Wyvern and Supermarine Attacker aircraft, also a Sopwith Pup, the first aircraft type to land on board a moving ship in 1917.
General Manager Marc Farrance said:
"We're issuing a rallying call for all local residents to become ambassadors for what's on their doorstep. Visit with friends and family and see what makes the Fleet Air Arm Museum one of the must-see destinations in the south west. Many of our local community work and volunteer in our wonderful museum and given it's been a tough 18 months it has been brilliant to see the support of so many visitors coming through our gates. However, we are about to face a tough winter period and really do need as many people to visit and support our incredible museum with this fantastic offer."
To benefit from the offer, just walk up to the museum with valid proof of address.
All tickets give 12 months entry to the museum. This offer cannot be redeemed online or in conjunction with other discounts, it also does not apply to other ticketed events. Available until 31 March 2023.
For further information
Jacquie Shaw Jacquie.shaw@nmrn.org.uk 07593 443525
Conor O'Hanlon conor.ohanlon@nmrn.org.uk 07895 301687Fleet Air Arm
14th November 2022
Avian Influenza
Dear Sirs/Madam,
We have an update on the Avian Influenza outbreak and would ask if you have not already gone to print then if the updated situation attached could be put in its place.
Avian Influenza has been in the country for over a year and since 1 October 2022 there has been 90 confirmed cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 in England alone. Which brings the total number to 222 cases of HPAI H5N1 in England since the H5N1 outbreak started on 27 October 2021. As you may know this strain of the AI is what they call zoonotic in that Humans can catch it, although very treatable people have died from it. 13 of the AI outbreaks have been in Devon/Somerset and this effects our economic trade as well.
If you have any queries do not hesitate to contact me.
Nicola L J Pearce
Trading Standards Officer
Contingency Specialist
e-mail nicola.pearce@devon.gov.uk
Mob: 07971950919
Tel: 01392 384796
tradingstandards@devon.gov.ukBird Flu
4th November 2022
Urgent / emergency Road Closure: – ttro297025SS - WW - Cary Road, North Cadbury
Please be aware that we have received a notification of a TTRN (urgent / emergency) road closure at Cary Road, North Cadbury will commence on 4th November 2022 - 8th November 2022 (00:00 - 23:59).for a total of 5 days.
This will enable Wessex Water to carry out works to repair a leak.
The contractor has indicated that access for Emergency Services through the site is not permitted on this occasion.
For any further information about this closure please contact Wessex Water on 0345 600 4600, quoting reference: ttro297025SS.
Please visit one.network https://one.network/?tm=131567201 where you will see the map of the affected area (in red), together with the supplied diversion route (in blue).
Please note: this diversion route could be subject to change on review.
With regards
Julie Bryant
Road Closures Team
Contact Centre Tel: 0300 123 2224
Email: ttro@somerset.gov.uk3rd November 2022
Clark Foundation
Dear Town and Parish Councils and associated community groups,
Many of you will be familiar with the Clark Foundation and have had grants from us in the past. To others, we may be completely ‘new’.
The Clark Foundation is a charity that was founded in 1959 to support community projects in places where significant numbers of Clarks employees, former employees and their families live and work.
We give amounts from £100 to £100,000* to support good works in the fields of leisure, health, recreation, well-being, the arts, education, sport and local amenity. In general, we will offer awards totally around £400,000 in any given year. We mainly support capital projects and the purchase of equipment, rather than on-going running costs. Applications for up to £1,000 can be submitted at any time and are usually determined within a week or so. Larger applications go to a grants committee that meets every quarter. The grants committee is meeting in early December. If you’d like to apply for a grant, and can get your application to us by 15 November 2022, we will be able to consider your application at the December meeting (provided that it meets our funding criteria).
If you have a suitable project, do please get in touch or submit an application. I’m on leave until 2 November, but will be able to answer any queries you may have on my return.
Best regards,
Susie.
In general grants that go to committee will be for amounts of between £1,500 and £25,000. If you have a project that you’d like us to consider for an award of a higher amount, do please get in touch with me prior to submitting an application.
Susie Mercer
Trust Manager
My usual working days are Thursday & Friday
Clark Foundation – WS Clark 1908 Settlement – C&J Clark Ltd 1922 Employees Trust
Tel: 0117 240 5583 (07530 501845 – out of hours)
E: susie.mercer@clarks.com
40 High Sreet, Street, BA16 0EQ20th October 2022
St Margaret's Hospice
Here at St Margaret's Hospice, we are getting really busy in the run up to Christmas and we are looking forward to resuming lots of our fundraising activities that have been on pause for the past few years. I wanted to write to you to update you on our upcoming fundraising events taking place across the county and would be really grateful if you could promote them in your local area. I've attached some digital posters, but if you would like some physical copies, please let me know and I'll send them out.
Himalayan Trek
This unforgettable fundraising adventure will take place in November 2023, but we have information evenings taking place over the next few weeks where supporters can learn everything from what kit they'll need to how to achieve their fundraising target.
The information evenings are taking place on the below dates
Thursday 27 October, 6pm, Taunton Hospice
Tuesday 1 November, 6pm, Yeovil Hospice
Thursday 10 November, 6pm, Online
Christmas Market
Haselbury Mill, Friday 25 November, 12-4:30pm
Wreath making workshop also available
Santa Abseil
Cheddar Gorge, Saturday 3 December
Only 16 spaces left!
New Year's Day Charity Dip
Minehead Beach, Sunday 1 January 2023
Please let me know if you would like any further information.
Thank you for your support, we really appreciate it.
Best wishes,
Ellie
Ellie Weston
Marketing and Events Officer
Tel: 01935 709182
Ext: 218218th October 2022
Post Office services
We’re writing to let you know about some changes.
We have also made changes to the Outreach Services at Chilthorne Domer, Tintinhull, Odcombe, Melbury Osmond and the Mobile Services at Corton Denham, Charlton Horethorne, North Cadbury and Buckorn Weston.
These Outreach and Mobile Services are located at various premises and locations, one of which is in your representation area.
For further information please visit our Consultation Hub via the link below:Post Office
18th October 2022
Temporary Road Closure: ttro131567SS- Woolston Road & Dodinalls House Road, North Cadbury
Please follow the link below to view the above road closure;
The order becomes effective on 13th October 2022 and will remain in force for eighteen months.
The works are expected to commence on 17th October 2022 and last for 18 days to enable Wessex Water to carry out new connection works.
The contractor has indicated that access for Emergency Services through the site is permitted on this occasion.
For any further information about this closure please contact Wessex Water on 0345 600 3 600, quoting reference: ttro131567SS
Please note that should you require to view a closure which is more than two weeks ahead, you will need to register for free with www.One.Network
With regards,
Sylvie Phillips
The Road Closure Team
Contact Centre Tel: 0300 123 2224
Email: ttro@somerset.gov.uk
Traffic Management, Road Safety and Parking Services
Somerset County Council
County Hall
Taunton
Somerset
TA1 4DYRoad Closure
12th October 2022
Flood prevention scheme set to commence on A359 at Marston Magna
Work on a vital flood prevention scheme begins on a key southbound route into Yeovil this month.
Somerset County Council's Highways team, in partnership with the Somerset Rivers Authority (SRA), are carrying out work on the A359 at Marston Magna in several areas.
Work includes repairs to the highway drainage system which helps remove surface water, repairs to a section of a retaining wall adjacent to a nearby watercourse which provides protection from high water levels, and de-silting of a section of the watercourse which will improve flow and capacity.
To ensure road users' safety, the team will also repair a dislodged road edge stone.
The scheme follows on from extensive research undertaken by the SRA in Rimpton and Marston Magna.
This work will be carried out under a road closure running from Monday 24 October to Friday 4 November. The closure will be in force for 24 hours a day to all traffic, although this will be removed for the weekend in the middle of the two-week period.
Councillor Mike Rigby, Somerset County Council's Executive Lead Member for Transport and Digital said: "The A359 needs this work undertaking as part of our statutory duty to keep our roads safe and well-maintained, and the short-term closure is required to carry out the work safely.
"Our team will do their utmost to ensure disruption is minimised. Please ensure you plan ahead and follow the diversion route."
Councillor Mike Stanton, Chair of the Somerset Rivers Authority said: "People living in Marston Magna, and many thousands of drivers going through the village, have long been exasperated by the A359 flooding near the church.
"Research funded by the SRA has helped the county council's highways department get a much more detailed understanding of flooding problems along that stretch of road. I'm very pleased to see that action's now being taken to reduce flood risks and make people's lives safer and easier."
Access will be maintained to households and businesses in the area and the team will work closely with those affected by the works. Deliveries and access will be accommodated by liaison with on-site operational staff. Every effort will be made to keep the duration of the works to a minimum. Pedestrian access will be maintained.
During the road closure a suggested diversion route will be clearly signposted on site or can be found at.
Stay up to date with this and other roadworks schemes by following @TravelSomerset on Twitter and liking the Travel Somerset page on Facebook.
Somerset County Council looks after 4,172 miles of road and in 2021/22 invested £25.4m to keep the county moving and carried out 556 highway maintenance schemes ranging from drainage works to carriageway and footway resurfacing.
11th October 2022
An opportunity for Parent Carers to help shape the future of SEND in Somerset
Somerset County Council, NHS Somerset and Somerset Parent Carer Forum are inviting families as well as school leads, education, and health professionals to join a webinar this October to help shape the future of Special Educational Needs and/or Disability (SEND) in Somerset.
The partnership is currently in the process of developing a Somerset SEND strategy for the next three years. This will outline the focus areas and action points that will inform us to develop our services.
The partnership has identified five ‘working themes’, each has been informed by feedback from families:
Listening, hearing, and responding
Working together and co-ordinating
Getting help as early as possible
Accessing to the right support and provision
Preparing for the future
The webinars are on the following dates and there is no need to book in advance, just follow the link to join:
Friday 7 October 2022 11am to join Click here
Monday 10 October 2022 at 4pm to join Click here
You will only need to join one webinar as they are all the same. During the webinar, leaders from the partnership will introduce each theme in detail, provide you plenty of time for questions and invite feedback from participants.
Cllr Tessa Munt, Somerset County Council’s Executive Lead for Children’s Services said: “We want to ensure the SEND services we have in place suit the users who access them. To make sure we get this right, we want to listen to families, parents and young people who use our services and ask them to help shape future services.
By joining the webinar, you can hear about our vision and tell us your ideas about changing and improving SEND services in Somerset.”
Ruth Hobbs CEO Somerset Parent Carer Forum CIC: “The SEND strategy is an essential piece of work which will shape the areas of focus over the next few years. It is really important for people to get involved and have their views heard to make sure it reflects what is important to them.”
Shelagh Meldrum, Chief Nursing Officer, NHS Somerset said: “Ensuring the development of key SEND services truly reflects the needs of families, children and young people across Somerset is crucial.”
“Without feedback and input from people working in and experiencing SEND provision, the focus of our strategy and vision for the future may not best fit the needs of our children and young people.”
It is important that as many people as possible get involved now, so we can hear from a wide range of views. This will help us to consolidate our focus, so we develop a strategy which really makes a difference for all.”27th September 2022
SWP Briefing September - Recycle Week and the new Tracker report
Please find attached the latest Briefing, including the first Somerset
Recycle Week, the 2021-22 Recycling Track report, more on the Fixy reuse
van, and the switch to winter hours for all recycle sites.
SWP Briefing
26th September 2022
North Cadbury & Yarlington Neighbourhood Plan 2018 - 2033
Referendum Result
Dear Residents
More than half of those voting have voted in favour of using the Neighbourhood Plan for North Cadbury and Yarlington
The Plan should formally be ‘made’ on 6 October, although it should be given full weight now the referendum is passed
On behalf of the North Cadbury & Yarlington Neighbourhood Plan Working Group we would like to thank all residents that took part in the referendum
The following has been received from South Somerset District Council:
SOUTH SOMERSET DISTRICT COUNCIL
DECLARATION OF RESULT OF POLL NORTH CADBURY AND YARLINGTON NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN AREA REFERENDUM
I, Roger Quantock being the Deputy Counting Officer for South Somerset District Council at the referendum on 8 September 2022 held under the Neighbourhood Planning (Referendum) Regulations 2012, do hereby give notice that the number of votes cast is as follows:
Do you want South Somerset District Council to use the Neighbourhood Plan for North Cadbury and Yarlington to help it decide planning applications in the neighbourhood area?
Votes
Total number of votes cast 410
Number cast in favour of “Yes” 336
Number cast in favour of “No” 74
The number of ballot papers rejected was as follows:-
a) want of official mark 0
b) voting for more than one answer 0
c) writing or mark by which voter or proxy could be identified 0
d) unmarked or void for uncertainty 0
TOTAL REJECTED BALLOT PAPERS 0
Electorate 928
The turnout was: 44.18%
I do hereby declare that more than half of those voting have voted in favour of using the Neighbourhood Plan for North Cadbury and Yarlington to help it decide planning applications in the neighbourhood area.
Roger Quantock Deputy Counting Officer
Date: 8 September 2022
10th September 2022
Neighbourhood Plan for the Parish of North Cadbury and Yarlington
Be Aware of Misinformation
You may have recently received a Vote No leaflet from an anonymous source
You may think the Vote No leaflet is associated with the Parish Council’s Neighbourhood Plan working group
IT IS NOT
The Parish Council and the Working Group will not advise you on how to vote. Our responsibility is to present to you the facts and leave you to decide whether you are in favour of the plan or not
The Vote No leaflet contains inaccurate and misleading statements which we have sought to clarify:
Can Neighbourhood Plans prevent development?
YES – by law planning applications are determined in accordance with the development plan for the area unless material considerations indicate otherwise. Therefore, if the Neighbourhood Plan’s policies set out where new buildings should go, and where development should be restricted, this will prevent development in those restricted areas. In the case of the NCYNP, Policy 9 specifically restricts the development of open market housing on greenfield sites that were not allocated for development.
Does the Examiner’s decision to take Clare Field off the list of Local Green Spaces mean it can be developed for housing?
NO – Policy 9 of the NCYNP restricts the development of open market housing on sites that have not been allocated for development. There are also other policies in place that would require the impact on features of heritage, wildlife, and landscape value to be considered in the planning balance.
Could voting yes result in development at Clare Field?
NO – it provides more protection against speculative housing development then relying on the Local Plan. At present the District Council cannot currently demonstrate a five-year housing land supply, and therefore the Local Plan policies are considered out of date. The Neighbourhood Plan policies would be given full weight for at least two years, after which we can refresh the plan to ensure it retains its full weight in planning decisions.
Does the Neighbourhood Plan include any social housing?
YES – it does include proposals for affordable housing, which can include social housing, other forms of affordable rent, shared ownership as well as low cost, affordable homes for sale. The rent levels / degree of discount will be based on what is affordable to local people in housing need. Policy 11 also makes clear that these should be subject to a suitably worded condition or legal agreement to ensure that the housing will remain affordable to, and priority given to housing, eligible persons who have a local connection to the Neighbourhood Plan Area.
You are voting for or against the plan, not who produced it
Residents should consider whether the plan meets the needs of all the parishes rather than that of any one interest group
Why aren’t there any proposals for new homes in Yarlington?
There was no evidence of need in our surveys. SSDC were quite clear that only North Cadbury met their sustainability criteria. In addition, there were no sites put forward for development in Yarlington by local landowners. However, when the plan is refreshed this could be something we look at again, depending on the views of residents.
Has any thought been given to the impact of construction traffic if new homes are built?
YES - Both South Somerset and Somerset Council were asked to comment on the plan’s proposals. If there are concerns about the size and routing of construction traffic when a planning application is submitted, this can be controlled through a construction traffic management plan that can be conditioned as part of any planning permission.
North Cadbury Neighbourhood Plan
31st August 2022
Highways notification
A303 Podimore to Sparkford essential maintenance works
Tuesday 30 August to Saturday 3 September 2022
National Highways operates, maintains and improves England's motorways and major A-roads. This email is to let you know we will shortly be carrying out essential maintenance works on the A303 between Podimore and Sparkford roundabouts.
The work will start on the evening of Tuesday 30 August and finish on the morning of Saturday 3 September and will take place overnight between the hours of 9pm and 4am.
To minimise disruption, we'll work during the night when there are fewer vehicles on the road. During the day we will keep the road open as usual.
The work is currently programmed as follows:
Tuesday 30 August - Saturday 3 September - full night closure between Podimore and Sparkford roundabouts for 4 nights from 9pm until 4am the following morning.
There will be a fully signed diversion route in place during the full overnight closures, but please allow extra time for your journey.
Access for residents will be maintained but may involve a short delay depending on our stage of work. Please show a copy of this postcard to our gatemen who will escort you through the works if necessary.
We'll make every effort to ensure the impact on the local community and travelling public is kept to a minimum. We always aim to work to the programme, however unforeseen circumstances or adverse weather conditions may mean changes. Please monitor www.trafficengland.com to keep updated.
If you would like further information about this work, please contact National Highways Customer Contact Centre on 0300 123 5000 open 24/7, who will direct your enquiry to the most appropriate person, or email: info@nationalhighways.co.uk
For information on all our works in the South West please follow us on Twitter @HighwaysSWEST23rd August 2022
Neighbourhood Plan Referendum
REFERENDUM
A Referendum relating to the adoption of the North Cadbury and Yarlington Neighbourhood Plan will be held on
8th September 2022
Postal Vote deadline is 5pm on 23rd August
The referendum covers the whole parishes of North Cadbury and Yarlington
Two statutory notices have been published by SSDC in relation to the forthcoming Neighbourhood Plan Referendum for North Cadbury and Yarlington.
They are:
Referendum Information Statement which can be viewed at the SSDC website
and
NOTICE OF REFERENDUM which can be viewed SSDC website29th July 2022
100 reasons to make the most of Somerset's Home Library Service
From Hogwarts to Westeros, reading has the ability to transport us to completely different places from within the comfort of our own homes – something that is even more valuable for people who find themselves housebound.
Somerset's Home Library Service (HLS) is run by Somerset County Council with the support of amazing volunteers. It enables people like Claire Harbour from Frome, who recently celebrated her 100th birthday, to continue enjoying books for free even though she can no longer visit her local library in person.
In a new short video with former BBC correspondent Clinton Rogers, Claire explains how the service helps her to access new books, allowing her to keep her mind active.
Claire says: "It means that I can be a member of the library, sit at home, do nothing and everything comes to me. It is an absolute boon and I don't know what I would do without it."
You can view the video at the SSDC website: Somerset Home Library Service.
The Home Library Service delivers books to people who are unable to get to their local library, such as those who are housebound, living in long term care, carers, or people who are vulnerable due to long term conditions or disabilities. The service is open to people of all ages.
Cllr Adam Dance, Lead Executive Member for Public Health, Equalities and Diversity said: "This is a brilliant service. Reading books can help keep your mind engaged as you grow old and help prevent cognitive decline – improving memory and helping to reduce the likelihood of dementia. But it can also help people of any age to reduce stress by lowering blood pressure and heart rate."
Cllr Federica Smith-Roberts, Somerset County Council Lead Executive Member for Communities added: "The Home Library Service played a really valuable role in the pandemic, especially for people who were shielding during the lockdown periods.
"But none of this would work without the brilliant team of friendly volunteers who make the service possible. If you have some spare time and a passion for reading, you may want to consider taking up a rewarding role as a HLS volunteer.
"Somerset Libraries offer a wide range of brilliant services – as well an extensive collection of books, films, and digital products available to loan, there are health and wellbeing services, children's activities and supported digital learning.
"Please visit Volunteering Opportunities | Somerset County Council Volunteering to take a look at the volunteering opportunities available with the Home Library Service."
Volunteers can also support in accessing free e-Books, Audiobooks, and e-Magazines, as well as provide DVDs and other items. There is normally a charge for these items, though exemptions do apply for audio books if you are blind, partially sighted or have a condition that makes reading printed books difficult.
If you or anyone you know would like to receive the service, please contact Home Library Service manager Kirsty Jenssen by emailing kjenssen@somerset.gov.uk, or calling 07814 079831.
For more information, visit: Home Library Service (somerset.gov.uk).
29th July 2022
Food vouchers return for Summer Holidays
Schools will once again provide food vouchers to families eligible for Free School Meals to combat holiday hunger over the summer holidays.
Somerset County Council is distributing approximately £1.2m from the Government's Household Support Fund directly to schools to help fund food vouchers for children eligible for Free School Meals over the summer holidays.
The allocation for this summer provides vouchers worth £10 per pupil each week of the holidays. Schools will automatically provide food vouchers to eligible students.
Eligible families who are in urgent need can also apply for extra short term financial help by searching Somerset Household Support Fund online. The quickest way to get help is online, but if access to the internet is difficult or support is needed to apply, families can call 0300 123 2224 and Somerset County Council will help find an organisation who will support families to make an application.
Applicants must live in Somerset, be over 16, living independently of parents and carers, have proof of identity and be able to prove their income is not enough to cover essentials.
Household Support Fund payments can be used to buy food, credit for pre-payment meters for electricity, gas and water, and other essential household items such as beds and white goods.
Cllr Tessa Munt, Somerset County Council Lead Executive Member for Children and Families, said: "These are challenging times and Somerset County Council is pleased to be able to provide this support to families over the summer holiday break. Being able to eat well means children will return to school healthy, ready to learn and succeed. In addition, the Household Support fund helps not only with food but other essential items, bills and even important family furniture such as beds and a fridge, freezer or cooker. Please don't hesitate to get in touch if you need extra support."
25th July 2022
South Somerset District Council's COVID-19 Additional Relief Fund is now open to applications
The COVID-19 Additional Relief Fund (CARF) has been made available to support those businesses affected by the pandemic, but that are ineligible for existing support linked to business rates for the financial year 2021/2022.
The Government guidance states that CARF is available to reduce chargeable amounts in the year 2021/2022 only and must be directed towards ratepayers who have been adversely affected by the pandemic and have been unable to adequately adapt to that impact. Under the criteria set by Government it is not available to the following:
Businesses eligible to receive the Expanded Retail Discount, Nursery Discount or Airport Operations Support Scheme for the year 2021/2022
Unoccupied businesses (other than those closed temporarily due to mandated Covid-19 restrictions) in the year 2021/2022
South Somerset District Council (SSDC) have written to several businesses who they believe to be eligible for the support. If you have received a letter you do not need to contact SSDC unless you are required to opt-out from the scheme.
The council has also launched an application method for those businesses who do not qualify under the main scheme but meet the below eligibility criteria:
The ratepayer is not eligible (or would be eligible) for the Expanded Retail Discount (covering Retail, Hospitality and Leisure), the Nursery Discount or the Airport and Ground Operations Support Scheme (AGOSS)
The ratepayer is not entitled to either Small Business Rate Relief or Rural Rate Relief granted at 100%
The ratepayer is not subject to Subsidy Controls (see final tab on website link)
The ratepayer is not entitled to mandatory Business Rates Relief (80%) and discretionary top up of 20% which is funded through Business Rates Retention
The ratepayer must be in current occupation of the hereditament (including trading from the premises) for the period Business Rates Relief is sought within the 2021/22 financial year
The business must have been adversely affected by the pandemic and not have been able to adequately adapt to that impact
The 'Special Cases' scheme is open to any ratepayer who meets the above criteria. To make a formal application businesses must email restartgrants@southsomerset.gov.uk by 5.00 pm on Thursday 4 August and provide:
Business rates number
Description of business activist and how it has been adversely affected by Covid 19 for the required time period.
The Council will then review all applications. Funding is limited and we cannot guarantee that all businesses will be successful.
Within the South Somerset District Council CARF Discretionary Policy, we have decided the level of CARF that will be applied to individual hereditaments. The set award will be between 40-60% Business Rates Relief for the year 2021/2022, capped at £20,000. This is a one-off award, future changes in rateable value for the period may affect the amount of Business Rates Relief provided and this will be evaluated on a case by case basis. More information can be found here
22nd July 2022
New Stronger 4 Longer campaign from SASP
Somerset Activity and Sports Partnership has recently launched Stronger 4 Longer, a new campaign encouraging people aged 50 to 65 to build strength and balance through everyday movement to protect their future health. A website is available offering real stories of people who have benefited from strength building, as well as exercise videos and useful resources to get started.
A press release is attached providing further information on the campaign. You can also watch the promotional video for the campaign here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2K_mPvQ07Lo
We would appreciate if you could share this resource with patients by directing them to the website and sharing on social media.
I’ve also been meaning to get in touch to arrange a quick chat to introduce myself and find out what you do – I’m going to be working on the ProActive programme as well as Stronger 4 Longer so would be useful to do an introduction. Let me know when you’re available and we can book something in.Press release
18th July 2022
Road Closure
Urgent Road Closure: – ttro763342SS - Dodinalls House Road, North Cadbury
Please be aware that we have received a notification of a TTRN (urgent) road closure at Dodinalls House Road, North Cadbury which will commence on 25th July 2022 and is expected to last until 29th July 2022.
The contractor Wessex Water has indicated that access for Emergency Services through the site is not permitted on this occasion.
For any further information about this closure please contact Wessex Water on 0345 600 4600, quoting reference: ttro763342SS. 18th July 2022
Temporary Road Closure
Temporary Road Closure: ttro807841SS - Station road, Castle Cary
Please follow the link below to view the above road closure;
The order becomes effective on 30th June 2022 and will remain in force for eighteen months.
The works are expected to commence on 7th July 2022 and last for 1 day to enable BCL Groundworks Ltd to carry out resurfacing works.
The contractor has indicated that access for Emergency Services through the site is not permitted on this occasion.
For any further information about this closure please contact BCL Groundworks Ltd on 01278 238 801, quoting reference: ttro807841SS
Please note that should you require to view a closure which is more than two weeks ahead, you will need to register for free with www.One.Network
With regards,
Sylvie Phillips
The Road Closure Team
Contact Centre Tel: 0300 123 2224
Email: ttro@somerset.gov.uk
Traffic Management, Road Safety and Parking Services
Somerset County Council
County Hall
Taunton
Somerset
TA1 4DY
Web: www.somerset.gov.ukRoad Closure
14th July 2022
Fund Raising
Hello everyone
I just wanted to let you know that my funding team colleagues at Spark Somerset are launching a new fundraising newsletter – please see details below and click on the link to subscribe.
New Fundraising newsletter
In July we'll be launching our brand new Funding Newsletter for VCSEs in Somerset.
The idea is a short, informative newsletter for anyone who is involved, or interested in fundraising.
We'll focus on sharing the latest news (including new funding), upcoming training, blogs and advice from the Spark Somerset team and other fundraising professionals.
Sign up below:
https://sparksomerset.us11.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=bcc8d1f67695b144b4ffbe122&id=52690b8eea
Best wishes
Sue
Best Wishes,
Sue Crisfield
Social Prescribing Coordinator
Please note I work from Monday to Thursday with Fridays off. If the matter is urgent please call the Spark office on 01458 550973.7th June 2022
Temporary road closure
Galhampton Hill, High Road, Galhampton Road, Cary Road, Sparkford,North Cadbury, Pitcombe,Castle Cary
Reference: SD007502 - SS34 - High Road
Please be aware that we have received notification of a temporary road closure at Galhampton Hill, High Road, Galhampton Road, Cary Road, Sparkford CP,North Cadbury CP,Pitcombe CP,Castle Cary CP for approximately 5544 metres, which will commence on 29th June 2022 at 00:00 and is expected to last until 12th July 2022 at 23:59. These works are for Somerset Highways to carry out surface dressing works, their works reference is LG210YBSD90585-01.
For any further information about this closure please contact Somerset Highways on 0300 123 2224 quoting reference: SD007502 - SS34 - High Road.Click here for more details
6th June 2022
Avon and Somerset Neighbourhood Policing
Somerton and Wincanton Update May 2022Newsletter May 2022
15th May 2022
INDEPENDENT EXAMINATION OF THE NORTH CADBURY AND YARLINGTON NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN
PC Response to the questions raised by the Independent Examiner on the North Cadbury and Yarlington Neighbourhood Plan.PC Response to Independent Examiner Questions
19th April 2022
INDEPENDENT EXAMINATION OF THE NORTH CADBURY AND YARLINGTON NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN
INDEPENDENT EXAMINATION OF THE NORTH CADBURY AND YARLINGTON NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN
EXAMINER: Andrew Mead BSc (Hons) MRTPI MIQDownload document (pdf)
5th April 2022
Somerset Bus Patnership
Dear All,
Over the past month, supporters of Somerset Bus Partnership have sent some 80 letters to the Department for Transport calling for the Bus Recovery Grant to be extended beyond April. We therefore welcome the news that the Government has finally announced the continuation of the Bus Recovery Grant through to October 2022. There has been a huge nation-wide campaign demanding the Government should continue to support bus services. Thanks to the many of you who joined with us and successfully lobbied the Government over this issue.
But our bus services in Somerset remain under very real threat. The return of passengers to buses here in Somerset has been slower than in many other parts of the country and bus operators are facing huge cost pressures with escalating fuel prices coupled with a continuing driver shortage.
Hence, we are organising a Somerset Bus Partnership meeting via Zoom for Thursday March 24 at 730pm.
The main aim of the meeting is to explore with you ideas to increase bus usage.
The meeting would also cover the following points:
An update on bus funding including the latest feedback we're hearing on Bus Service Improvement Plans and Somerset's £163 million BSIP bid.
A Bus Manifesto that we will invite for Unitary council candidates of all parties to support
(Please note Somerset Bus Partnership has been working with all Somerset's main political parties to improve bus services and is politically neutral)
Update on Somerset Bus Partnership's activities
If you would like any items added to the agenda then please do let us know.
We very much hope that you will be able to join this meeting. Zoom details below:
Time: Mar 24, 2022 07:30 PM London
Additionally, it is just a reminder that we will also share your name, email address and Parish you represent with all our representatives. If you don't want your email address shared please provide an email address you are happy to be shared or let us know.
With very best wishes
The Somerset Bus Partnership Team Zoom Meeting
17th March 2022
Somerset Bus Patnership
Please find attached the March SWP Briefing, with the latest on collections, recycle sites, Eco-School grants and what 1500+ people chose as the name of our new repair project van.
Regards
Somerset Waste Partnership SWP Briefing
14th March 2022
Thermal imaging camera trial
We have a great opportunity for the communities of Area East in South Somerset to have access to x2 thermal imaging cameras to help identify whether insulation and draught-proofing could be required for homes to help reduce energy bills and improve thermal comfort. These cameras are very user friendly as they directly attach to a smartphone/tablet. One camera is compatible for use with iOS (Apple iPhone or iPad) and the other for use with an Android smart phone or tablet.
Follow the link below for more details regarding booking etc.Thermal Camera
4th March 2022
Important notice
Urgent / emergency Road Closure: – ttro190966 - Sandbrook Lane, North Cadbury
Please be aware that we have received a notification of a TTRN (urgent / emergency) road closure at Sandbrook Lane, North Cadbury will commence on 1st March 2022 and is expected to last until 2nd March 2022.
The contractor has indicated that access for Emergency Services through the site is permitted on this occasion.
For any further information about this closure please contact Sunbelt Rentals Ltd on 03700 500 792, quoting reference: ttro190966 - Sandbrook Lane, North Cadbury
Updates
28th February 2022
Somerset Health and Wellbeing Advisory Network
Helping you to help others
The legal requirement to self-isolate has been removed in England and replaced with guidance for living safely with the virus.
Trudi Grant, Director of Public Health for Somerset has emphasised that we should continue to be respectful of other people's concerns and personal situations. The public health advice is that anyone who tests positive for coronavirus, or who shows symptoms of having it, including a high temperature or cough, should stay at home and avoid contact with others. The same can be said for any other infectious illness, such a flu, or vomiting and diarrhoea.
The SCC Public Health team still advise basic infection control measures should be followed, as these will help slow the transmission of many seasonal illnesses and have a positive impact on reducing sickness levels and improving business continuity. These include regularly washing your hands, maintaining appropriate cleaning regimes and keeping occupied spaces well ventilated.
The vaccination remains the best form of defence that we have against Covid-19. Anyone who has not already booked their jab can do so quickly and easily at COVID-19 vaccinations in Somerset - Somerset CCG.28th February 2022
Neighbourhood Policing team
Hello everyone,
Please find attached a copy of our Somerton / Wincanton Neighbourhood Policing Team News Letter for March 2022.
Kind regards,
Mike
Mike Bell
PCSO 7954
Somerton Neighbourhood Policing Team | Avon and Somerset PolicePolicing Team
28th February 2022
Somerset waste
Please find the latest Somerset Waste Partnership Briefing attached, with information on the Queen's Platinum Jubilee, naming the repair van for our new project, taking action on food waste, and Recycle More reaching its finishing line.
Regards
Somerset Waste Partnership
Somerset County Council uses Microsoft Office 365 Message Encryption to protect emails. Learn more here: https://www.somerset.gov.uk/our-information/email-security/.SWP Briefing
25th February 2022
Buses in Somerset
OUR BUSES ARE UNDER THREAT
April 2022 was meant to augur in a new era for our buses. It was the month when the £3 billion as part of Bus Back Better, National Strategy for Buses for England, could be used to improve bus services. People could be invited to abandon their cars and opt for the ‘greener’ option of going by bus on journeys to nearby towns and villages.
To improve buses across the county, Somerset had put in a bid for £163 million of Bus Back Better money. That was the sum of money Somerset needed because Somerset bus services currently are the worst rated of any county in England. But the Bus Back Better fund has been over subscribed 8 times by all the bids from across England and so it’s unknown how much money Somerset might get. But it’s unlikely to get anything like what Somerset needs.
The 2 years of Covid with endless warnings not to use buses has seen bus passenger numbers down 40% on pre Covid levels. This has meant the Government has had to step in and subsidise bus services in order to keep them running. To fund this the Government has diverted more than half of the £3 billion pot allocated for transforming our bus services to just maintain our current bus services.
Worse still, the Government has still not said whether it will keep funding our existing bus services from April.
If it doesn’t, then without this subsidy, bus services across the county (including here in Somerset) could “fall off the side of the cliff” (as said by Wera Hobhouse, Bath MP). It’s been estimated 30% of bus services would go. Some bus services could even disappear completely.
Without this Covid Bus Recovery Grant, a leading bus operator has said, “The bus sector is hurtling towards disaster.”
So what can we do?
Could you please ... today ... send an email (doesn’t need to be long) to the Government Buses Minister demanding that the Covid-19 Bus Recovery Grant funding is continued beyond April. Send it to BARONESS VERE OF NORBITON (Buses Minister) - email verec@parliament.uk. Also copy your email to your MP:
DAVID WARBURTON (Somerton and Frome) - email david.warburton.mp@parliament.uk Please also copy in Somerset Bus Partnership to any emails too. Our email address:
somersetbuspartnership@gmail.com .
Additionally, if you should speak to any of the candidates for the Somerset Unitary Council May 5th elections, please ask them what their plans are to protect and improve our bus services here in Somerset. There’s never been a time when our bus services in Somerset have been at so much risk.
Somerset Bus Partnership Team
https://www.somersetbuspartnership.co.uk18th February 2022
Local Heritage List
I am writing to inform local councils about the Local Heritage List: a new project to record heritage assets in Somerset and Exmoor. This is managed by the South West Heritage Trust with input from partners in local government and heritage, including Somerset County Council, each district council, and Exmoor National Park Authority.
The scheme will give special, ‘locally listed’ status to distinctive and noteworthy buildings, sites, and monuments across Somerset and Exmoor. It is a chance to recognise places with cultural value in our area, and help preserve our diverse local heritage.
I would be most grateful if you inform your South Somerset council about this initiative. The South West Heritage Trust is seeking nominations from the public, as well as community organisations, and welcomes assistance in publicising this opportunity for engagement.
Later in the year you will receive a formal consultation from your local planning authority regarding the Local Heritage List technical handbook. This will provide the planning support, but in the meantime the project is open to nominations.
Please find attached a press release, poster, and ‘Q&A’ document which explains the Local Heritage List in more detail.
Best wishes,
Dr Hattie Induni
Digital and Community Engagement Officer
Somerset Local Heritage List Project
https://swheritage.org.uk/local-heritage-listLocal Heritage
18th February 2022
SWP Members Brief
New mobile repair and reuse project
Summary
• Launching later this year, the project aims to move repair and reuse from ‘niche to norm’.
• Based around a mobile repair and reuse vehicle, it will work with existing groups and engage new audiences.
• The first year will be dedicated to electrical items and electronics – anything with a plug or battery.
• This is a grant-funded project that SWP is running in partnership with Resource Futures and Donate-IT.
• We are currently advertising for a Community Repair Coordinator and asking the public to suggest names for the new service/vehicle.
Background
SWP commissioned Resource Futures (RF) to look at how we can increase reuse and repair, taking into account the work of existing groups across Somerset. One of three potential solutions was for a mobile repair vehicle (working title Somerset Repair Bus) to travel the county bringing repair and reuse to new audiences, tackling barriers around travel and access to repair facilities/groups, and helping groups to collaborate and share skills.
RF and SWP have secured grant funding from Ecosurety Exploration Fund for the project which in its first year will be dedicated to electricals and electronics - from toasters to tablets, record players to remote controls – anything that has a plug or takes batteries.
We have also partnered with local company Donate-IT CIC which collects, refurbishes and distributes tech like laptops and smart phones to people, schools and groups who need them. We are now working hard to get the project up and running as soon as possible.
Project overview
Its aim is to support existing groups, engage new audiences and take repair and reuse from ‘niche to norm’ through four key areas of activity:
• Educate and raise awareness of repair, reuse and sustainable consumption, targeting
schools, community groups, individuals, businesses.
• Amplify existing repair activities – supporting all local repair groups, helping them to
extend their reach into wider audiences and promoting their current activities.
• Support group expansion – facilitating skills and knowledge sharing, increasing resource
sharing and accessibility, and providing advice and practical input.
• Address digital poverty – collecting used smart tech from businesses and residents,
refurbishing, and diverting it back into the community, reducing waste and keeping items in use.
If it proves a success, SWP will consider continuing the project and expanding it to cover the repair and reuse of any item. This will, of course, be subject to a business case and the availability of budget or new sources of grant-funding.
More detail
The vehicle will be second-hand and probably a ‘transit-style’ van with eye-catching branding and livery. We have explored electric options, but cost and logistics make an electric vehicle impractical for this project at this time.
We are now working with the local repair café groups to establish how it can best support existing activities. We expect this will include providing tools and equipment that support their work and make ‘pop-up’ repair events possible.
The vehicle will operate in all districts seeking to:
• Increase consumer confidence in repair and reuse.
• Encourage people to view sustainable electronics consumption and repair as ‘the norm’.
• Collecting donated electronics for repurposing/recycling, and enhancing knowledge of
existing local activities around repair, reuse and recycling.
The vehicle’s itinerary will be a balance between visiting existing groups, attending events, hosting ‘pop-up’ sessions and visiting schools and workplaces.
We are asking the public to suggest a name for the new service/vehicle.
Suggestions can be made through this online form and the deadline for ideas is 9am on Monday 21 February. SWP will shortlist suggestions and put them to an online public vote.
The vehicle will be driven by a Community Repair Coordinator and this role is being advertised now. The successful candidate will travel the county promoting repair and sustainable consumption and working with SWP, Resource Futures and a wide range of Somerset-based audiences.
Closing date for applications is 9am Tuesday 22 February. Please share this advert widely.
We anticipate that the Repair Bus will be attending events between May and December this year, depending on recruitment and fitting out the vehicle going smoothly.
We understand that data security is a concern and can stop people offering devices for repair, reuse or recycling. Through our partnership with Donate-IT we can offer a collection point for unwanted tech items and ensure that these are securely data wiped before being refurbished and donated to those in need.
Further information
For questions about the project, or if you would like to suggest an event that might be suitable (subject to availability), please contact: Julie Searle julie.searle@somersetwaste.gov.uk, and Beth Prince beth.prince@somersetwaste.gov.uk
• Resource Futures is an environmental consultancy specialising in the waste sector
• Donate-IT is a Community Interest Company
• For details about Ecosurety and the Ecosurety Exploration Fund visit www.ecosurety.com16th February 2022
Notice of Casual Vacancy on North Cadbury and Yarlington Parish Council
Are you interested in contributing, representing and making a change in your community? Would you like to help improve the quality of life in the Parish? The Parish council needs your experience, energy and enthusiasm!!
If you would like to know more please contact the Clerk, Chairman or speak to a local councillor. Applications to be received in writing, or by email, to the Clerk.Notice of Casual Vacancy
31st January 2022
Covid Update
Good afternoon.
Please find attached this week’s Covid-19 update for Somerset on behalf of the Engagement Board. From next week, this update will be in a different format – in the form of a digital newsletter. If you still wish to receive it as a PDF you will be able to.
This week the PM announced a return to Plan A regulations – full details can be found within the update.
Although Covid-19 case numbers have decreased this week, they do remain high in Somerset and so we need to make sure we remain cautious and keep ourselves and each other safe. To do this we should continue to wear a face-covering in crowded and enclosed spaces, make sure there is good ventilation if we meet indoors, wash our hands, continue to take regular lateral flow tests, and take a PCR test if we have any symptoms.
Everyone who is eligible should also accept the offer of a vaccination or booster, if they have not already done so.
Finally, in our weekly Covid catch-up film we cover the topic of vaccinations for pregnant woman. The film can be viewed here.
I wish you a pleasant weekend.
George Haslock
Communications Officer
Public Health
Somerset County Council
Mobile: 07765043226
Email: ghaslock@somerset.gov.ukCovid
21st January 2022
The Anne Robson trust
I am writing to ask for your help to let people living in your local community know about the services we offer.
The Anne Robson Trust is a pre-bereavement charity that passionately believes that “no one deserves to die alone”. Liz Pryor, our founder and Chief Executive has recently been awarded the Member of the British Empire Medal (MBE) in the Queens 2022 New Year’s Honour’s list, for services to end-of-life care.
We work alongside NHS hospitals to train volunteers, who sit with patients in the last days and hours of their life to provide company and companionship, so they know they are not alone. However, due to COVID restrictions the volunteers were unable to visit hospitals, and in response to this, we set up a free, National Helpline so that we could continue to offer comfort and support where needed. As restrictions have lifted the volunteers are gradually starting to return to hospitals and in addition the introduction of the helpline is showing to be a valuable resource for anyone in the community to access support from the comfort of their own home.
The helpline is for anyone who is struggling to cope with a terminal diagnosis or the imminent death of someone they care about. Whether they are family members, friends, neighbours, work colleagues, or even a member of the care staff who may just need someone to talk to; we understand the pressures of working and caring for people who are end of life. We are fully committed to ensuring that people facing end of life and their families have access to as many layers of support as possible.
I have taken the liberty of attaching a short article which I hope you can send to the editor of your local parish newsletter or magazine for inclusion in the February or March publication. Alternatively, I would be extremely grateful if you could send me the contact details of the editor, so that we can explore spreading the word of our service with them. I would also be very grateful for any suggestions you can offer of contacts in your area, who may be in a position to help us to spread the word.
I hope that this information will be of interest to you and I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Kind regards
Suzanne Brown
No One Deserves To Die Alone – We are here to support you.
Call our Helpline: 0808 801 068821st January 2022
South Somerset District Council Regulation 16 Public Consultation on NC&Y Neighbourhood Plan
North Cadbury and Yarlington Parish Council as the Qualifying Body has prepared a Neighbourhood Development Plan, entitled the North Cadbury and Yarlington Parish Neighbourhood Plan for the period 2018 to 2033.
The Plan sets out a vision for the future and planning policies which will be used in the determination of planning applications.
Copies of the Neighbourhood Development Plan, supporting documentation and response forms are available on South Somerset District Council's (SSDC) website: https://www.southsomerset.gov.uk/your-council/your-council-plan-and-strategies/planning-policy/neighbourhood-planning/ under the North Cadbury and Yarlington drop down area.
If you are unable to access the documents online, hard copies will be available for inspection at North Cadbury Village Stores and Galhampton Country Store from 20th January 2022.
If you would like to see hard copies of the submitted documents at the District Council offices in Yeovil, this can be arranged if you contact planningpolicy@southsomerset.gov.uk; or by ringing 01935 462462.
If you would like to make a representation on this Neighbourhood Plan the relevant response form is attached.
Please download the form and email your comments back to SSDC at planningpolicy@southsomerset.gov.uk or in writing to the Strategic Planning Team, South Somerset District Council, Brympton Way, Yeovil, Somerset BA20 2HT
The consultation runs from 20th January 2022 until midnight on 4th March 2022.
Any representations may include a request to be notified regarding South Somerset District Council's decision under Regulation 19 whether to make the Neighbourhood Plan for North Cadbury and Yarlington.
Please be aware that a summary of all representations received by the Authority will be publicly available.Reg 16 Response Form January 2022
Copies of Neighbourhood Development Plan, Support Documentation & Response Forms
20th January 2022
SWP service update
Collections: Covid-related absence remains a concern, but collection services are currently stable. With more than 350,000 collection a week, some delayed collections can and do happen as part of business as usual for a variety of issues, such as access issues and vehicle breakdowns.
Any collections – recycling or rubbish - missed should be returned for within two working days and we encourage residents to report any missed collections online using the My Waste Service feature on the SWP homepage.
Crews are working extremely hard at what remains a difficult time and we continue to ask for everyone's patience and support.
This will be the last of these daily updates. They will be reinstated if there is any future substantial disruption to collections.
18th January 2022
SSDC Press release
Please see a press release attached issued on behalf of the Somerset Community Resilience Partnership regarding how Somerset will use £3.8m from the Government's Household Support Grant to support Somerset residents who are struggling to pay the bills this winter.10th January 2022
Somerset MAS Newsletter
Please find attached the Somerset MAS newsletter for January, with dates of advice session for the MAS service, Lip reading classes dates, venues and Tutors, new activity groups in the Somerset, article on Rose winning Strictly Come Dancing 2021. Next month we will have the result of campaign to make BSL an official language in England and Wales. Please feel free to share.
Hope you all enjoy the festivities and come back in the new year refreshed and ready for the new challenges that we will face. See you all again in 2022.
Kind Regards,
Stewart Weston
Somerset Mobile Advisory Service
Somerset MAS Information Advice Officer
deafPLUS / visionPLUS
2, Queens Parade
Bath
BA1 2NJ
Email: stewart.weston@deafplus.org
Tel: 07762 848226/01225 446555MAS Newsletter
30th December 2021
Covid-19 Update
Good afternoon.
Please find attached this week’s Covid-19 update for Somerset on behalf of the Engagement Board.
This week the spread of the Omicron variant has led to the government moving England to Plan B of the Covid-19 response. Full details can be found within the update.
We are very aware this a busy time for everyone and many events are happening in the run up to Christmas. Keeping in mind the new laws and regulations, we want people to enjoy the festive season in Somerset but to do so carefully. This can be done by washing hands regularly, wearing face coverings when required, taking lateral flow tests before visiting family or attending an event, getting both doses of the vaccine, and booking a booster when you are invited to do so. If you plan to meet up with others, it is important to ensure this occurs in well ventilated spaces, or outdoors if possible, and you should consider doing a LFD test to ensure you are not spreading Covid-19 without knowing. If you have any symptoms of Covid-19, you should self-isolate immediately and book a PCR test.
The NHS are working hard to ensure everyone can easily access their vaccination and it is best to wait until you are contacted by NHS to get your next, or first, jab – please do not approach your GP, and keep an eye on the NHS website for updates.
I wish you a pleasant weekend
George Haslock
Communications Officer
Public Health
Somerset County Council
Mobile: 07765043226
Email: ghaslock@somerset.gov.ukCovid 19 update
10th December 2021
Government Grant
Residents on low income encouraged to apply for Government Green Homes Grants
To help people save on their heating bills and reduce carbon emissions, the Government are funding retrofit improvements to homes with low-income householders. In the South Somerset District Council area, procured by the SW Energy Hub, Happy Energy are delivering this work in partnership with E.ON Energy.
Endorsed by SSDC, under the Green Homes Grants Scheme, owner-occupiers will benefit from energy efficiency installations up to the value of £10,000 with nothing for them to pay towards the costs of works. Tenants of rented properties can also access grants of up to £5,000 for energy efficiency upgrades, but the landlord will be expected to contribute at least one third towards the cost of works.
Who is eligible?
To be eligible for the grants the residents of the property must have a low income (receive benefits or have the household income below £30,000 per annum) and the EPC for the property must be rated D, E, F or G. If there is no EPC for your property, you can still apply and it does not matter who your energy supplier is. To find out if your property has an EPC see https://find-energy-certificate.digital.communities.gov.uk/
What do I do if I think I qualify?
If you are struggling to keep your home warm and you think you might be eligible for some help, you can submit an application at the following website https://www.heatsomerset.co.uk/
How long is the scheme running for?
The scheme is expected to run until March 2022, but will operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
What will happen if I do qualify?
If you qualify, Happy Energy Solutions will survey your home to assess which energy efficiency measures could be installed.
The options will then be discussed with you for a final decision to be reached.
Case Study
78 year old Mr K was the first to benefit from the scheme. In receipt of Pension Credits and with health problems made worse by the cold, he lived in a well-insulated bungalow, but the only form of heating was electric panel heaters that were very expensive to run. Mr K's energy bills were £126 per month, despite only heating one room in his home. Paying his energy bills had become totally unaffordable.
Happy Energy Solutions, managers of HEAT Project, arranged for the installation of an Air Source Heat Pump central heating system and Solar PV, all of which were covered by the grants! The heat pump was grant funded under the Government's Green Homes Grants Local Authority Delivery programme and the Solar PV was funded with a grant through the Energy Company Obligation (ECO).
The EPC rating of the property has now improved from an F to a B to reflect the significant reduction in the household energy bills. Mr K's energy bills have reduced by an estimated £472 per year and a total of 3.1 tonnes of CO2 have been saved each year.25th November 2021
Covid-19
Please find attached this week’s Covid-19 update for Somerset on behalf of the Engagement Board.
Covid-19 cases are still high in Somerset and, with the media focussing elsewhere and the fact the majority of adults have now been vaccinated, it would be easy to forget we are still in the middle of the Covid pandemic.
With this in mind, and particularly with a lot of Christmas events starting to take place, we need to make sure we keep ourselves and each other safe. Simple ways to do this include wearing a face-covering in crowded and enclosed spaces, washing our hands and continuing to take regular lateral flow tests. Also, if people are unwell they should not mix with others and book a PCR test.
It is also very important to take up the offer of a vaccination – it is preferable to book these prior to attending a vaccination centre via this website. Slots are released into the national booking system as they become available, so you do have to refresh the system if the site you want does not appear.
Finally, in our Covid Catch-up film this week we highlight the excellent work undertaken through the Vaccination Buddy programme in Somerset. The team of trained 'Buddies' speak directly to those people across our many diverse communities who may have questions or concerns regarding the Covid-19 vaccine. We also emphasise the importance of first, second and third doses of the vaccine.
The film can be viewed here.
I wish you a pleasant weekend
George Haslock
Communications Officer
Public Health
Somerset County Council
Mobile: 07765043226
Email: ghaslock@somerset.gov.ukCovid 19 update
22nd November 2021
Get Digital
South Somerset District Council is inviting residents to Get Digital
South Somerset District Council is delighted to invite residents and businesses to join us on Zoom for our 'Get Digital' event on Thursday 2 December at 2.30pm.
You can book your space on Eventbrite at www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/south-somerset-get-digital-tickets-208454552177.
It will be a chance to explore a range of topics from what connectivity is available now and in the future, how digital technology can have a positive impact on an individual's wellbeing and what free support is available to people looking to improve their digital skills. The event will be presented by some excellent speakers including Connecting Devon and Somerset, Wessex Internet, Jurassic Fibre, Konnect Europe, Yeovil College and Spark Somerset.
Cllr John Clark, Portfolio Holder for Economic Development, said: "Digital connectivity and the associated skills are becoming increasingly important for both businesses and individuals. Throughout the past 18 months, we have all adapted and found ourselves using technology more frequently. We are committed to supporting South Somerset communities and businesses to get online. We work closely with infrastructure providers but understand that this is only one piece of the digital puzzle and that digital skills are equally as important."
South Somerset District Council and all of our speakers look forward to meeting you online on 2 December.
If you have any questions please get in touch by emailing us at econdev@southsomerset.gov.uk.
19th November 2021
Rights of way report November 21
Please find below a copy of the Rights of Way which will be discussed at next weeks Parish Council meeting.ROW Report
19th November 2021
Press Release
Please find attached a press release that I would be grateful if you could circulate to your councillors and residents and to help them to become more involved in the shaping of the new Unitary council for Somerset
Best regards
Mike LewisPress Release
17th November 2021
Covid-19 Update
Please find attached this week’s Covid-19 update for Somerset on behalf of the Engagement Board.
Although we have seen a reduction in Covid-19 cases in Somerset this week, they are still high so we need to remain vigilant and do what we can to keep each other safe. Simple ways to do this include wearing a face-covering in crowded and enclosed spaces, regularly wash hands and continuing to take regular lateral flow tests. Also, if people feel unwell or have any symptoms they should self-isolate and book a PCR test. It is also very important to take up the offer of a first, second or third (booster) vaccination.
Finally, in our Covid Catch-up film this week we discuss the importance for us all to accept the offer of a third, or booster, vaccination when we receive it.
The film can be viewed here.
I wish you a pleasant weekend
George Haslock
Communications Officer
Public Health
Somerset County Council
Mobile: 07765043226
Email: ghaslock@somerset.gov.ukCovid 19 update
12th November 2021
Free Trees
Hi there,
We work with lots of wildlife trusts, community woodlands and community farms around the UK, supplying them with free trees for their nature reserves, rewilding projects, etc.
Would you like free trees from us for any of your tree planting projects? We generally supply a minimum of 150 trees for projects but we can be fairly flexible.
Or do you know of any tree planting projects in Somerset, or nearby regions, that would like free trees from us in 2021/2022?
We're happy to provide free trees for many years beyond that too.
The trees are all UK native species, grown from UK seed and can be supplied with free shelters, stakes, weed mats, etc.
You'll find lots more info, our criteria and our tree request form below
https://eforests.co.uk/freetrees
While we prefer to work with nature reserves / community woodlands / community farms, we can possibly supply trees for private landowners that you work with that have public access to their land.
Many thanks,
Andrew
Andrew Haining1st November 2021
Update on Highway Works in South Somerset Area, Week Commencing the 01st November 2021.
I am writing to update you on the latest progress of SCC highway works in the South Somerset Area, for the week commencing the 01st of November 2021.
For your information, I attach the planned programme of works. Works highlighted in red indicate that this is a new scheme introduced into the works programme. Dates highlighted in red indicate a change to the original dates that have previously been detailed.
Additional 'live' information can be found on our webpage by following the link, www.travelsomerset.co.uk.
Should you wish to discuss any particular scheme in more detail, please contact this office at your earliest convenience.
You may not be aware, but the recognised platform to view planned works on the highway is via One.Network. This website gives users a visual overview of present and future works, including road closures taking place within Somerset. The system also shows the advertised diversion route for road closures.
Users can search by town, road and date. It also provides other useful driver information. Automatic email alerts can be set up by users so you can receive daily or weekly alerts of new works in a user defined area. One.Network can be found at https://one.network/public and users accounts are free to create.
The weekly report I distribute focuses solely on SCC and SRA works. The One.Network platform provides a complete overview of all planned works, including those undertaken by third parties and utility companies.
Regards
Neil McWilliams
Highway Service Manager
Somerset County Council
South Somerset Area Highways Office
Mead Avenue
Houndstone Business Park
Yeovil
Somerset
BA22 8RT1st November 2021
Briefing note from David Fothergill
Please find attached the briefing note for November from David Fothergill, Leader of Somerset County Council for sharing with your councillors and residents.
Kind regards,
Mike LewisBriefing note
1st November 2021
Cimate Change
The National Association of Local Councils (NALC) has published its new report on what can local councils do on climate change (Attached).
The What can local councils do on climate change report aimed to paint an accurate picture of how climate change is being tackled by local (parish and town) councils and identify the challenges they face. In doing so, NALC can better understand how to support local councils in creating more sustainable communities.
The research found that 38% of participating councils had already declared a climate emergency and a further 8% were pending declaration. An identifiable trend of the report found that councils who had made such declarations were more likely to take positive action on climate change.
However, local councils overwhelming challenge is that they feel too small to affect change due to a lack of expertise, finance, and power to act. 69% of councils needed guidance to apply for grants and subsidies, and a further 58% reported a need for improved skills and training.
NALC is committed to guiding and supporting local councils in accessing funding, expertise and power to influence to tackle climate change within their communities.
NALC collected data from local councils across England over four months through an online survey of 211 respondents.
Find out more about NALC's climate change work
PS: What an amazing response from Somerset Clerks and Councillors !
All the best
Simon
Simon Pritchard
Assistant CEO
Somerset Association of Local Councils Limited
Company Address: Edgar Hall, Somerton Business Park, Somerton, Somerset, TA11 6SB
Company number 11942896 registered in England and Wales
My Normal Working Days are: Monday & Friday
Email: simon@somerset-alc.org.uk
Website: www.somerset-alc.org.uk
Training: www.somerset-alc.org.uk/training/
Members Area: www.somerset-alc.org.uk/members-area/
Covid Advice: Coronavirus (nalc.gov.uk)Climate Change
1st November 2021
Somerset Mobile Advisory Service
Hi All
Please find attached our latest monthly newsletter with dates of drop in session for the MAS service, locations, dates and venues of our lip reading classes, Breaking news re Channel Four subtitle issues and article on protecting your hearing . Please feel free to share.
Kind Regards,
Stewart Weston
Somerset Mobile Advisory Service
Somerset MAS Information Advice Officer
deafPLUS / visionPLUS
2, Queens Parade
Bath
BA1 2NJ
Email: stewart.weston@deafplus.org
Tel: 07762 848226/01225 446555MAS Newsletter
29th October 2021
Neighbourhood Plan Working Group report to the Parish Council 27th October 2021
Work done so far.
Pre-submission Consultation with Residents and Stakeholders.
This started as planned on 16th July and closed on 31st Aug.
Just over a hundred comments forms were received back in addition to other letters and emails, all of which have now been considered.
In the light of these the Pre-submission Plan is being updated and modified where appropriate.
When this is completed, it will be presented to the Parish Council for approval.
Following that it will be submitted to SSDC Planning Authority for their consideration.
Andy Keys-Toyer
25th October 2021
Update on Highway Works in South Somerset Area, Week Commencing the 25th of October 2021.
Good afternoon all.
I am writing to update you on the latest progress of SCC highway works in the South Somerset Area, for the week commencing the 25th of October 2021.
For your information, I attach the planned programme of works. Works highlighted in red indicate that this is a new scheme introduced into the works programme. Dates highlighted in red indicate a change to the original dates that have previously been detailed.
Additional 'live' information can be found on our webpage by following the link, www.travelsomerset.co.uk.
Should you wish to discuss any particular scheme in more detail, please contact this office at your earliest convenience.
You may not be aware, but the recognised platform to view planned works on the highway is via One.Network. This website gives users a visual overview of present and future works, including road closures taking place within Somerset. The system also shows the advertised diversion route for road closures.
Users can search by town, road and date. It also provides other useful driver information. Automatic email alerts can be set up by users so you can receive daily or weekly alerts of new works in a user defined area. One.Network can be found at https://one.network/public and users accounts are free to create.
The weekly report I distribute focuses solely on SCC and SRA works. The One.Network platform provides a complete overview of all planned works, including those undertaken by third parties and utility companies.
Regards
Neil McWilliams
Highway Service Manager
Somerset County Council
South Somerset Area Highways Office
Mead Avenue
Houndstone Business Park
Yeovil
Somerset
BA22 8RTHighways update
23rd October 2021
Right of Ways Report October 21
Please find attached a copy of the latest Right of Ways report which will be discussed at the next Parish Council meeting.ROW Report
23rd October 2021
Making our streets safer for women and girls
Funding to help tackle violence against women and girls has been awarded to North Somerset Council and Somerset County Council.
The neighbouring councils have made a successful joint bid to the Home Office Safer Streets Fund for £324,449.
The bid is an innovative and collaborative proposal by the two councils covering the whole Somerset policing area. It presents an opportunity to work together and achieve positive outcomes in tackling Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) crimes across the area.
The plan sets out a two-tiered approach involving:
Prevent - to change behaviour and stop incidents occurring such as VAWG education and awareness in schools, communications campaigns, research and engagement within communities, and
Protect - to strengthen the response where these incidents are prevalent, such as a safe haven scheme and enhancing the CCTV camera network and street lighting.
In assessing the joint bid the Safer Streets Fund Team commented: "We were impressed this bid effectively demonstrated analysis and drivers of the problems in your target area and identified a suitable response to tackling the issues, deliverable within the 2021/22 financial year.
"We look forward to working with you on this round of funding and believe it can make a real difference in tackling crime and helping individuals and communities to feel safe in public spaces."
"I believe the funding and work proposed will have a massively positive impact across the area and is a much-needed injection of cash in an area that has been long neglected and needs even more investment to make women and girls feel safer and better protected on our streets," said Cllr Mike Solomon, North Somerset Council's executive member for neighbourhoods and community services.
"This is predominantly about stopping these crimes happening at all through education in schools, multi-media communication campaigns and engaging with local communities, as well as making our public areas safer for women and girls by providing safe havens and improving street lighting."
Somerset County Council's cabinet member with responsibility for community safety, Cllr Clare Paul, said: "I would like to congratulate North Somerset Council and Somerset County Council on successfully securing round three of the joint bid and hope that the outcome from this work will help reduce VAWG and increase women and girls' safety in public places.
"With this work we want to understand and address the root causes of why women may not feel safe on the streets. We look forward to building an evidence base for what works on reducing VAWG crimes and improve local data on such crimes."
Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner Mark Shelford added: "Additional support to tackle Violence Against Women and Girls has never been so important. I am delighted to see Somerset and North Somerset being awarded Home Office Safer Streets funding.
"Collaboration and partnership working at local level is key as are clear steps and measurable actions for our organisations so transformation can happen. I am extremely supportive of the preventative programmes being undertaken within local schools, which seek to promote healthy relationships between young people.
"This preventative work is supported by increased surveillance in public spaces to make them safer for women and girls. Statutory agencies and organisations need to take responsibility to make public spaces safer for women and girls by implementing such preventative and protective strategies. I look forward to supporting the local authorities' work."
18th October 2021
Latest testing advice for Somerset residents
Somerset's Public Health leaders are advising people to retest if they are still displaying Covid-19 symptoms after receiving a negative PCR test result. The advice follows today's national announcement regarding the suspension of a laboratory processing Covid-19 PCR tests.
In recent weeks there have been concerns around a number of people receiving negative PCR test results after they have previously tested positive on a Lateral Flow Device (LFD).
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), formerly Public Health England, today released a statement to announce that testing of PCR samples at Immensa Health Clinic Ltd in Wolverhampton has been suspended following NHS Test and Trace investigation.
UKHSA say that while investigations are underway into the precise cause, NHS Test and Trace estimate that around 400,000 samples have been processed through the lab since September. The vast majority of which will have been negative results, but an estimated 43,000 people may have been given incorrect negative PCR test results between 8 September and 12 October, mostly in the South West of England.
For those cases that were some time ago there is no need for further action.
NHS Test and Trace is however contacting the people who were tested more recently and could still be infectious to advise them to take another PCR test. Close contacts who are symptomatic will also be advised to take a PCR test in line with normal practice. Anyone with Covid-19 symptoms should book a PCR test. Those with a positive LFD test should also get a follow up PCR test to confirm they have Covid-19.
This has been confirmed as an isolated incident attributed to one laboratory and all samples taken after 12 October are now being redirected to other laboratories.
Professor Trudi Grant, Director of Public Health for Somerset County Council, said: "This is an unfortunate incident that will have affected a significant number of PCR test results across the South West. At present, we are being advised that NHS Test and Trace will be in touch with people that could still be infectious to advise them to take another test.
"However, if you are in any doubt at all about yourself or a loved one still displaying symptoms and tested before 13 October, please retest using either a home PCR testing kit or by getting a PCR test at one of the local testing sites."
Councillor Clare Paul, Cabinet Member for Education and Public Health, said: "People should feel reassured that there are no technical issues with the LFD or PCR test kits themselves and no issues at any testing sites; people should continue to test as normal. All other labs are working normally.
"Our advice remains, if you are showing any symptoms of Covid-19 or have a positive LFD test please stay at home and self-isolate for ten days to avoid infecting others and get a confirmatory PCR test within 48 hours."
If you will lose income by completing the self-isolation process or staying at home looking after a child who is self-isolating, you can apply for a support payment by visiting: Claiming financial support under the Test and Trace Support Payment scheme - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
UKHSA's full Statement can be viewed here: Testing at private lab suspended following NHS Test and Trace investigation - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
If you are concerned about how this might affect you or your family, please call the Somerset County Council Covid-19 support line on 0300 790 6275 or visit Get help (somerset.gov.uk). 18th October 2021
Highways Update Jan 21
Update on Highway Works in South Somerset Area, Week Commencing the 11th of October 2021.
I am writing to update you on the latest progress of SCC highway works in the South Somerset Area, for the week commencing the 11th of October 2021.
For your information, I attach the planned programme of works. Works highlighted in red indicate that this is a new scheme introduced into the works programme. Dates highlighted in red indicate a change to the original dates that have previously been detailed.
Additional 'live' information can be found on our webpage by following the link, www.travelsomerset.co.uk.
Should you wish to discuss any particular scheme in more detail, please contact this office at your earliest convenience.
You may not be aware, but the recognised platform to view planned works on the highway is via One.Network. This website gives users a visual overview of present and future works, including road closures taking place within Somerset. The system also shows the advertised diversion route for road closures.
Users can search by town, road and date. It also provides other useful driver information. Automatic email alerts can be set up by users so you can receive daily or weekly alerts of new works in a user defined area. One.Network can be found at https://one.network/public and users accounts are free to create.
The weekly report I distribute focuses solely on SCC and SRA works. The One.Network platform provides a complete overview of all planned works, including those undertaken by third parties and utility companies.
Regards
Neil McWilliams
Highway Service Manager
Somerset County Council
South Somerset Area Highways Office
Mead Avenue
Houndstone Business Park
Yeovil
Somerset
BA22 8RTHighways update
11th October 2021
Bus Service
Somerset County Council has now published their Bus Service Improvement Plan for Somerset (the Somerset BSIP).
It is still described as a draft but for it to have been made public, it must have the backing of both the officers at SCC Highways and Cllr John Woodman. the Cabinet Member for Transport at Somerset County Council.
It's a tough 100+ page read. It's certainly packed with lots of useful statistics and interesting analyses, but the important thing is whether it delivers an ambitious and practical improvement plan for our buses in Somerset. You can access it below
Very much welcome your thoughts.
It is being considered by the SCC Scrutiny Board on Tuesday October 12th at 10am - 2pm. You can join the meeting via Teams. Link on this page: https://www.somerset.gov.uk/how-the-council-works/joining-an-online-meeting/
Regards
Peter TravisDraft Bus Service
6th October 2021
Recycle More
Please find attached the sixth and final edition of the Recycle More Messenger, the regular briefings keeping you up to date with the roll-out of Recycle More which launched in South Somerset four months ago.
Collections services have, thankfully, been getting back on track in recent weeks which has helped the service bed-in after the difficult initial weeks.
We now have some estimates of the difference Recycle More is making in your district – around 130 extra tonnes of recycling each week – a great achievement to be built on in the months to come.
We hope you have found these updates useful. Please make use of the SWP website for information and advice about waste reduction and recycling – practical steps we can all take to protect our environment and help tackle climate change.
Last year Somerset recycled and reused more than 137,000 tonnes of waste, saving 123,000 tonnes of carbon – the equivalent of taking 47,321 cars off the road for a year or planting 738,216 trees.
Nearly 98% of recycling stayed in the UK, including 99.4% of plastics we collected.
Best wishes,
Somerset Waste Partnership Recycle More
4th October 2021
Vaccination Buddies
Vaccination Buddies are still here to help people to make informed decisions about their COVID-19 vaccination; they can even help Portuguese and Polish speakers!
In Somerset, the majority of adults have now had both their Covid-19 jabs, but there are some people who don’t feel comfortable with the vaccination. Have you encountered people who have questions and concerns about the Covid-19 vaccine that you haven’t had the time or knowledge to answer? Or maybe you have some questions yourself? We can help!
Our team of Vaccination Buddy volunteers can offer 1-2-1 advice over the phone to anybody in Somerset who is worried about having the vaccine, or maybe their second jab.
Vaccination Buddies come from all walks of life and can speak a range of languages including Dutch, Portuguese, German, Polish, Italian and French. They have undergone full training from Public Health at Somerset County Council. They cannot however, offer medical advice.
You can request a phone call with a Vaccination Buddy VIA THIS FORM. (Referral forms also available in Polish and Portuguese. )We will then get in touch to arrange a suitable time.
Please print and share the attached posters in English, Portuguese and Polish. The further they go, the better!
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Best wishes,
Helen
Helen Fielden
Vaccination Buddy and Covid Community Champion Coordinator
T: 07535 80094427th September 2021
Joint message from the Chief Executives of all five councils in Somerset
The five councils in Somerset have jointly responded today to the Government regarding their views on potential electoral arrangements for the proposed unitary council for Somerset.
In July, the Secretary of State announced that the five existing councils in Somerset would be replaced by a single unitary council. As part of that process, he is reviewing the number of elected members and wards/divisions for the unitary council.
The approved business case proposed that, subject to involvement from the Local Government Boundary Commission for England (LGBCE), the unitary council would have 100 elected members in 100 single member wards/divisions, with a clear requirement that the Boundary Commission undertake a review in the first term of the unitary council to determine the future number of councillors.
The Secretary of State has subsequently asked the five councils to review the proposal and has asked for views regarding a lower number of members – potentially around 85 in total.
This is not a formal LGBCE Electoral Review, but in response to the Government's request, the Chief Executives of all five councils have been given an opportunity to provide views on potential electoral arrangements for the unitary council. They have assessed five options and provided opinions on them as can be seen here. Elected members of all of the existing five councils in Somerset have also had the opportunity to submit their views.
This is the Government's process and the Secretary of State will decide which proposal for the unitary council's electoral arrangements will be laid before Parliament in early 2022.20th September 2021
THE QUEEN'S PLATINUM JUBILEE BEACONS - 2ND JUNE 2022
Due to the fact that this is likely to be the last chain of Beacons to be lit in the reign of Her Majesty The Queen, we would like to make it the largest and the most dramatic the world has ever seen, so your valuable assistance throughout Somerset in helping us achieve this would be extremely appreciated.
I would be grateful therefore if you would kindly distribute the above at your earliest convenience please, to ensure those wishing to take part have plenty of time to make their plans.
My day to day liaison at Buckingham Palace for this aspect of the Jubilee is Caroline Creer. Please feel free to call her on 0207 930 4832 should feel it necessary, or call me at any time on 07737 262 913 from 8am through to 8pm Monday through to Saturday evening.
We do hope that you will be able to assist us with the above.
My warmest regards,28th June 2021
Temporary road closure
Date Change - Temporary Road Closure: Coopers Ash Lane, Castle Cary
Please be aware that we have received notification of a date change to a temporary road closure at Coopers Ash Lane, Castle Cary for approximately 500 metres.
The new date for the works to commence is 7th April 2022 and is expected to last until 7th April 2022 between the hours of 09:30 - 15:30.
These works are for BT Openreach to carry out poling and tree cutting works, their works reference is ttro473906
The contractor has indicated that access for Emergency Services through the site is permitted on this occasion.
The link to view the new Notice is as follows: https://api-gb.one.network/downloads/tm/1111/06-notice-3-road-closures_127826632_3415859_818831a891.pdf
For any further information about this closure please contact Sunbelt Rentals on 0370 050 0792 quoting the above works reference number.
With regards,
Julie Bryant
The Road Closure Team
Contact Centre Tel: 0300 123 2224
Email: ttro@somerset.gov.uk
Traffic Management, Road Safety and Parking Services
Somerset County Council
County Hall
Taunton
Somerset
TA1 4DY3rd March 2021
Police Neighbourhood Newsletter
Please find attached a copy of the March Newsletter from the Police Neighbourhood TeamMarch Newsletter
3rd March 2021
Thermal Imaging Camera
We have a great opportunity for the communities of Area East in South Somerset to have access to x2 thermal imaging cameras to help identify whether insulation and draught-proofing could be required for homes to help reduce energy bills and improve thermal comfort. These cameras are very user friendly as they directly attach to a smartphone/tablet. One camera is compatible for use with iOS (Apple iPhone or iPad) and the other for use with an Android smart phone or tablet.
If you are interested then please contact
Alan on 07854480212
Karen on 07780 844485 3rd March 2021
Briefing Note
Please find attached the March Brief Note for March for you your councillors and residents.
Kind regards,
Mike LewisMarch Briefing note
1st March 2021
Local Government Association Model Member Code of Conduct
Code of ConductCode of Conduct
21st June 2020