The National Farmers Union in Somerset has welcomed the government’s new trade deal with six Gulf countries. Campaigners say Somerset’s canals and locks are in urgent need new investment. The Liverpool comedian John Bishop is heading to Somerset later this year...and more
The Chairman of the National Farmers Union in Somerset has welcomed the government’s new trade deal with six Gulf countries. Mark Humphreys says the agreement, which has taken four years to negotiate, could provide a major boost for farmers and food producers across the region. Export tariffs on products including Cheddar cheese and butter are expected to be cut by up to ninety per cent. Mr Humphreys says the deal sounds positive for the agricultural sector, but he wants to study the full details before giving it his complete backing.
There’s concern in two Somerset villages over plans to build up to fifteen hundred new homes close to the new Jaguar Land Rover electric car battery factory near Bridgwater. Residents in Woolavington and Puriton fear the development could dramatically change the character of the area and effectively turn the villages into a small town. Somerset Council is expected to decide on the proposals within the next few weeks.
Campaigners say Somerset’s canals and locks are crumbling and urgently need investment. Three locks, including those at Maunsel and Firepool, are said to be at risk of failure if repairs are not carried out soon. The Somerset Canal and Rivers Trust says the waterways are historically important and vital for tourism and wildlife across the county.
The Liberal Democrat leader of Somerset Council, Councillor Bill Revans, has reshuffled his top team for the final time before next year’s local elections. Most members of the nine-person executive are staying in their current roles. Councillor Sarah Wakefield continues overseeing adults’ services and housing, while Councillor Heather Shearer remains responsible for children, families and education. Councillor Mike Rigby keeps his economic development and planning brief, with Councillor David Woan staying on as deputy. Councillor Steve Ashton becomes assistant portfolio holder for climate change, while Councillor Nicola Clark remains responsible for culture and leisure, including the ongoing regeneration of Yeovil’s Octagon Theatre.
The Liverpool comedian John Bishop is heading to Somerset later this year. He’ll perform for one night only at Taunton’s County Ground on Friday the 11th of September.
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