Alicia* bears the marks of sleeping rough in Bridgwater during last month’s intense heatwave, her body covered in blisters and severe sunburn. Despite being on a waiting list for temporary accommodation, she remains exposed to the elements, anxious as more heatwaves loom this summer.
At St Mary’s Church, where Alicia finds some respite, Reverend Suse Osmond vows to raise the issue with the local MP, highlighting the urgent need for more support. On this busy Wednesday morning, St Mary’s is a hub of activity—offering free tea, coffee, cakes, and a space for community engagement like painting flower pots and prayer.
Suse, who has lived in Bridgwater since 2018 and became a vicar in 2021, stresses that homelessness extends beyond Bridgwater. “Homelessness is a big concern in all town centres,” she says, “largely because of a shortage of available homes.”
READ MORE: Serious Crash Causes Major Delays Between Ilminster and Taunton
READ MORE: Pundits Question Bath’s Decision to Forgo Drop-Goal in PREM Semi-Final Heartbreaker
Retired vicar Will Hall, who still visits regularly, points out a paradox: “Bridgwater has plenty of new housing, but many new residents don’t actually live here full-time.” The nearby Hinkley Point C nuclear power station has attracted workers, creating employment opportunities but also a perceived rise in rent prices.
However, the church benefits directly from charitable contributions from Hinkley Point, with Reverend Suse noting, “They want their legacy to be a good one.” Brigitte Bentham, office manager at local lettings agency Andrew Lees, acknowledges Hinkley Point’s generosity, including soundproofing grants for residents. Her two sons are employed at the plant, which she says positively impacts the local economy.
Despite these benefits, supply and demand in Bridgwater’s housing market remain strained. Between Hinkley Point and the coming gigafactory in Puriton, the town might seem economically buoyant. Yet poverty, homelessness, and addiction persist as stark challenges.
During a midweek walk through the town centre, the sight of people drinking on pavements and sleeping outside shops is alarming. Reverend Suse shares her sadness over the town centre’s decline, lamenting the loss of foot traffic and amenities like a dedicated bookshop.
Will, aged 62, reflects on his past experiences as a landlord, noting that he now offers affordable rent to NHS nurses, driven by the community’s needs rather than profit.
Bridgwater is a diverse town with a vibrant immigrant presence, evidenced by Portuguese restaurants, Turkish barber shops, and European supermarkets, though census data shows immigration levels below the national average. Brigitte remarks that migrant workers often arrive in waves aligned with new phases of industrial projects, viewing Bridgwater as a temporary but lucrative stop on their journey.
For long-term residents, opinions of Bridgwater vary. Toby, 19 and a local community centre receptionist, says, “It has its merits sometimes.” Will, however, expresses deep affection for the town, sharing stories of lifelong residents and a sense of belonging rooted in a tight-knit community.
He imagines that Jesus wouldn’t seek luxury elsewhere but would find connection at St Mary’s Church, engaged in simple acts like painting flower pots with neighbours.
In response to homelessness concerns, Somerset Council urged those in immediate need to contact their dedicated helplines for urgent assistance, emphasizing prevention and support.
Hinkley Point C CEO Stuart Crooks highlighted the community efforts funded by the project and expressed pride in the lasting positive impact the power station aims to have on the region.
(*Name changed for privacy)