Monday 13th January

Monday, 13 January 2025 05:00

By Steve Haigh

Plans to build forty-six new homes in Castle Cary have been rejected for a third time. Yeovil MP Adam Dance says he has no plans to step down from his dual role as a member of Somerset Council. Rug Ratz in Yeovil is closing permanently today, leaving the town without a children's soft play space...and more.

Plans to build forty-six new homes in Castle Cary have been rejected for a third time. Developers, Castle Cary LVA Ltd want to build the houses off South Street. But Somerset Council’s planning committee south said no to the plans by 5 votes to 2, citing the over development of Castle Cary for their decision. The developer has yet to say whether they intend to appeal.

Lib Dem Yeovil MP, Adam Dance, says he has no plans to step down from his dual role as a member of Somerset Council. Mr Dance, who represents South Petherton and Islemoor on Somerset Council, says being a councillor helps connect him with local issues. Sarah Dyke, stood down as a member of Somerset Council in October after being elected the new MP for Glastonbury and Somerton.

Yeovil's soft play area, Rug Ratz on Stourton Way, is closing permanently today. A spokesperson announced the decision on Facebook, saying they’re saddened to be closing because it leaves Yeovil without a children’s soft play area.

A survey asking the public what Somerset Council’s spending priorities should be for the new financial year ends this week. Two thousand people have so far commented on the consultation, which closes on Wednesday.

Somerset Council has confirmed that it wants to be part of the government’s Devolution Priority Programme. If agreed, a new local government regional partnership would be formed called Wessex, with Somerset, Dorset and Wiltshire councils working together on strategic issues like highways, the environment and tourism. Meanwhile, talks are continuing with Swindon, North Somerset and BPC covering Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch about joining the partnership.

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Thursday 14th May

Somerset Council has defended spending nineteen million pounds on consultants over the past three years. A new clinic specialising in sexual health has opened in Yeovil. RNAS Yeovilton has been in the TV spotlight this week after featuring on Interior Design Masters with Alan Carr...and more
Wednesday 13th May

Concern's been expressed that too many of the 580 new council homes being built in Somerset will be clustered around Taunton and Bridgwater. Police are appealing for witnesses after a woman died following a crash on the M5. Haynes Motor Museum has been awarded £180,000 by The National Lottery to transform its Red Room gallery... and more
Tuesday 12th May

A member of Yeovil Town Council has appeared in court charged with two counts of assault. Health professionals in Somerset are urging people to take up the offer of a free NHS health check. Organisers of Somerset Day have welcomed the name Dunkery given to the dragon on the county flag...and more
Monday 11th May

New figures show a sharp increase in reports of drones interfering with critical air ambulance missions. The Liberal Democrats have retained the Mendip Hills seat on Somerset Council following a by-election. A woman from Chard has been recognised for her contribution to the community with an invitation to the King’s Garden Party at Buckingham Palace... and more
Friday 8th May

Police investigating a fire in Shepton Mallet are appealing for help to identify two people. Yeovil MP Adam Dance has called for more government support for Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service. This weekend sees the start of the Great Gardening Show at The Newt near Bruton...and more
Thursday 7th May

A disabled man has taken his case to the High Court, arguing that Somerset Council’s council tax reduction scheme is discriminatory. Bristol Airport says travellers planning summer holidays should not change their plans. Chard and Ilminster Amateur Boxing Club has launched a fundraising appeal,..and more
Wednesday 6th May

Pharmacists in Somerset say it's becoming difficult to get hold of some medications. The building used as Club Neo in Stars Lane in Yeovil has been put up for sale. Free gym memberships are being offered to people living with Parkinson's in Somerset...and more
Tuesday 5th May

An investigation has been launched following a suspected arson attack at Sherborne Police Station. Somerset Council is spending £2.3 million on 14 new road gritters. Ilminster Literary Festival is marking its tenth anniversary this year... and more