The year 2025 has drawn to a close, leaving Somerset residents to reflect on a turbulent period marked by significant political decisions both locally and globally. From international crises to local governance challenges, the past twelve months have tested our community’s resilience and adaptability.
Globally, 2025 was a sobering year, with ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine, disturbing revelations in the United States, and a persistent cost-of-living crisis affecting many. Amid these broader struggles, Somerset’s local leaders—from MPs to councillors and health officials—navigated a complex landscape of issues impacting our county.
Here’s a month-by-month recap of the key political events that shaped Somerset in 2025:
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January: The year started with a planning inquiry on 150 new homes near Taunton Gateway park and ride, which Somerset Council ultimately lost. Local concerns surfaced over road safety in Westbury-sub-Mendip and setbacks for Taunton cyclists. Meanwhile, major roadworks began on Chard’s A358, and MP Rachel Gilmour sparked controversy regarding social mobility in Minehead. Campaigners also pushed for a tidal lagoon project promising clean energy and job creation.
February: Budget talks dominated as the council set its annual budget, defended by central government support and a council tax rise. Key developments advanced, including a new medical centre in Bruton and permission for homes in Chard, while the Selwood Garden Community project faced a government inquiry.
March: The announcement of Wilstock Primary School in Bridgwater brought hope, and Wessex Water’s infrastructure upgrades in Taunton paved the way for urban expansion. Planning saw mixed results, with some housing proposals approved and others rejected. A tragic personal story emerged as a local businessman shared the impact of the Life Factory regeneration stress.
April: The council approved a waterways strategy focused on improving local rivers and canals. Safety campaigns in Curry Rivel gained parliamentary attention. Bridgwater’s housing plans progressed alongside a new primary school proposal, while Yeovil’s Labour Club lost its licence due to complaints.
May: A significant £102m investment was announced to expand 16 GP surgeries county-wide. Progress was made on rural connectivity projects, new conveniences opened, and concerns over youth employment and healthcare safety in Yeovil came to light. Cycling infrastructure in Taunton also drew attention.
June: Wellington celebrated government approval for a new railway station. Bridgwater faced planning for new homes but struggled with active travel links. The council returned £14m in funding for Taunton’s Staplegrove extension and made urgent financial interventions to keep Hill View School operational.
July: Transport took center stage with long-term junction remodeling in Taunton and changes to local bus routes. There were delays in key projects and cancellation of the Somerset and Exmoor Coastal Festival. Emergency plans were enacted to address planning backlogs, and new housing concepts near Hinkley Point were discussed.
August: Despite the typical summer lull, substantial developments unfolded including a council transformation plan targeting budget balance, a public inquiry in Frome, and approval for a special needs school rebuild. National Highways declined to upgrade a critical junction, frustrating motorists.
September: Housing developments surged forward with major approvals in Shepton Mallet, Yeovil, and Wells. Special educational needs challenges arose, and successful completion of roadworks in Wellington offered relief. Support built for water reservoir expansion following a dry summer.
October: Castle Cary’s governance faced upheaval amid merger proposals, sparking debate among councillors. Volunteers enhanced greenways in Shepton Mallet, and Glastonbury’s regeneration moved forward. Watchet contended with the permanent closure of a vital road, prompting a significant funding appeal.
November: Bridgwater’s Dunball roundabout upgrade concluded successfully, easing congestion. New rural walking and cycling routes were developed, while political tensions over immigration policy persisted. The Supreme Court ruled on environmental mitigation, potentially unlocking housing developments.
December: The Life Factory mismanagement scandal dominated headlines with revelations of extensive financial irregularities and project cancellations. Frome’s councillor received jail time for protest involvement, local leaders clashed over public highway issues, and controversy erupted over a beloved walking route. Positively, Taunton’s transport hub project received the go-ahead, and minehead’s seaside arcade expansion was approved after a surprising oversight.
Looking ahead, 2026 promises continued challenges: budget pressures, housing growth, and major transport projects will shape Somerset’s future. With local elections on the horizon in May 2027 and boundary changes forthcoming, our community’s political landscape is poised for further evolution. Your local democracy reporter remains committed to documenting these developments with transparency and tenacity.