The year 2025 was packed with significant political developments both nationally and within Somerset, with many moments that challenged residents and leaders alike. While global crises continued to dominate headlines, including conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine, and political scandals such as the Epstein revelations in the US, Somerset faced its own unique set of challenges and milestones.
Starting in January, Somerset Council experienced a planning defeat over 150 new homes near the Taunton Gateway park and ride, while local safety concerns emerged around new housing developments in Westbury-sub-Mendip. Taunton cyclists faced setbacks, and roadworks began on the crucial A358 in Chard. Political tensions surfaced as MP Rachel Gilmour came under fire for controversial remarks, while renewable energy advocates pushed for a tidal lagoon between Minehead and Watchet, promising clean power and job creation.
February saw the council navigate budget pressures with increased council tax and government support, while major housing developments gained approvals. The delay of the Local Plan until 2029 stirred concern. Frome’s Selwood Garden Community plans stalled amid a government public inquiry, reflecting ongoing tensions between local desires and broader planning processes.
In March, progress brought good news for Bridgwater with the upcoming Wilstock Primary School, and infrastructure upgrades in Taunton aimed to support new housing expansions. Yet, sadness touched the community when Angela Wilkins’ tragic death highlighted the personal toll of regeneration projects.
April focused on environmental and infrastructural commitments like the Taunton waterways strategy to improve local watercourses and sparked vibrant debates over new housing in Bridgwater. Political disruptions appeared further north in Yeovil as a local Labour Club faced licence revocation after complaints.
May brought much-needed health investments, with £102 million allocated to expand GP surgeries, though challenges remained with youth employment and the temporary closure of Yeovil’s maternity unit. Cycling infrastructure and urban expansion plans continued to draw attention from residents and officials.
In June, Wellington’s long-awaited new railway station was confirmed, a boost for transport connectivity. Conversely, Bridgwater grappled with contentious housing plans and cycling infrastructure neglect. Financial pressures forced the council to return unused government funds earmarked for Taunton’s Staplegrove extension and provide emergency funding to save a local school.
July was a month of transport and development hurdles. A prolonged traffic junction remodel in Taunton was announced, bus route changes unsettled commuters, and important regeneration efforts faced delays. Emergency planning measures emerged to tackle council backlogs, while funding challenges led to cancellation of the Somerset and Exmoor Coastal Festival.
August broke from expectations, with substantial political maneuvers including a new council transformation plan aimed at balancing budgets, public inquiries into local developments, and concerns over the future of community hospitals. Frustration grew over stalled upgrades to major junctions like the Eagle Tavern.
September saw major development approvals in Shepton Mallet, Yeovil, and Wells, alongside debates over special educational needs access and advocacy for new water reservoirs after a hot summer. On schedule, the Chelston link road in Wellington was completed, improving local travel.
October’s headlines were dominated by a governance dispute in Castle Cary, reflecting tensions over parish mergers amidst housing growth. Positive strides were made on greenways and building regenerations, though Watchet residents faced disappointment with road closures, prompting funding bids to restore access.
November marked the end of a major road upgrade in Bridgwater, accompanied by improvements to walking and cycling paths in rural areas. Political controversy ensued over asylum hotel use, and a Supreme Court ruling on phosphate mitigation in Wellington unlocked potential for further development across the county.
December was overshadowed by the Life Factory scandal in Glastonbury, unveiling mismanagement of funds that shook public confidence and led to high-profile apologies and project cancellations. Other notable stories included legal consequences for activists, political disputes over public symbols, and planning oversights. Nevertheless, progress was made with approvals for Taunton’s new transport hub and Minehead’s seafront expansion.
Looking ahead, Somerset faces a challenging 2026, with budget uncertainties, ambitious housing projects, and major transport works on the horizon. Although local elections loom in 2027, new boundaries and political dynamics will shape the county’s democracy. Rest assured, comprehensive coverage will continue to keep residents informed and engaged in the developments that affect them.