My Monthly Cllr update: Storm Chandra response, New Somerset eco‑homes first in a generation, consultations & road ratings
This month’s Lib Dem‑run Somerset Council update hails the opening of 54 zero‑carbon council homes in Somerset, let to local people — the first council homes in West Somerset for a generation. It also explains why we declared a major incident after Storm Chandra, when intense rainfall on already saturated ground caused rapid river and…
Read MoreStorm Chandra: Warning for heavy rain — what Somerset residents need to know
OverviewThe Met Office has issued an Amber weather warning for the south of Somerset and Yellow warnings for the rest of the county ahead of Storm Chandra. Widespread heavy rain is expected later today/tonight and into Tuesday morning. Wind impacts are not expected to be as severe as Storm Goretti, but significant rainfall on already…
Read MoreCommunities United: How Somerset Is Fighting Floods Together
Today I spoke with GWS Local Community Radio about the remarkable community-led efforts underway to prevent floods and strengthen local preparedness. Local groups, parish councils and Somerset Council are coming together to plan, share resources and act when river levels rise. A key facilitator is the Somerset Rivers Authority (SRA) — a unique, county-wide partnership…
Read MoreReform UK’s proposal to cut funding from the Somerset Rivers Authority (SRA) has raised serious concerns about the potential for devastating flooding.
Reform UK’s proposal to cut funding from the Somerset Rivers Authority (SRA) has raised serious concerns about the potential for devastating flooding, reminiscent of the disasters in 2014. Senior councillors at Somerset Councillor warn that these plans could lead to flooding “as bad as 2014” due to the misinformation being spread regarding funding allocations and…
Read MoreExploring the Importance of Dredging: A Visit to the River Parrett and River Tone
Somerset is unique in having the Somerset Rivers Authority (SRA), funded by local residents to enhance flood protection and resilience. Established in 2015 after the severe floods of 2013-14, the SRA has been vital in funding various projects under Somerset’s 20-Year Flood Action Plan, improving the region’s capability to manage flood risks. Somerset Council acts…
Read MoreCouncillor Hits Back at REFORM’s Claims on Asylum Seekers at Bridgwater School
This story has grabbed significant attention in the news and online, shedding light on a problem: REFORM can say what it wants to stir up division. It all began with contentious claims made by a member/supporter of the REFORM UK’s Bridgwater branch, prompting me to question the validity of these statements in a public Full…
Read MoreMonthly Somerset News from Cllr Claire Sully: Serving Mendip South & Somerset
I’m Cllr Claire Sully, and it’s a privilege to serve our community through my various roles, including chairing the Lib Dem Group at Somerset Council and my committee work, which you can find detailed below. In this edition, I’ve gathered the latest news and important developments impacting our area – from inspiring New Year Honours…
Read MoreNew Year’s Day Rewind: Vintage Buses Roll into Wells Bus Station!
This morning, ten magnificent vintage buses graced Wells, igniting a wonderful wave of nostalgia and community spirit. Lovingly owned, maintained, and treasured by dedicated volunteers, these classic vehicles offered a special New Year’s Day service – a welcome sight when all other bus services were shut down. Running a route from Street to Bristol, they…
Read MoreNew Year Honours Celebrate Remarkable Individuals from Somerset
A number of outstanding individuals from Somerset have been recognised in the New Year Honours list for their significant contributions to the community and their respective fields. Richard Clothier, managing director of Wyke Farms in Wyke Champflower, received an MBE for his innovative work in sustainable agriculture and food production. In 2025, I organised an…
Read MoreReflections on Community and Council: A Vision for Somerset’s Future
Recently, I was asked by Somerset Council to reflect on my experiences and views regarding the incredible communities we serve and the role of the council, both now and into the future. It was a pleasure to answer these thought-provoking questions, allowing me to express my deep appreciation for our region and the inspiring work…
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