Thursday 16th July

Thursday, 16 July 2026 at 06:00

By Steve Haigh

Plans to build up to one hundred new homes on Yeovil's former cattle market have moved a step closer. It’s being made easier for parents in Somerset to register children for free school meals. Wessex Water says it has no plans for a hosepipe ban at the moment but is keeping a close eye on supplies as demand increases... and more

Plans to build up to one hundred new homes on Yeovil's former cattle market have moved a step closer. The derelict Reckleford site has been identified for housing in the draft Somerset Local Plan, which will shape housing and employment development across the county through to 2045. The proposals are now out for public consultation.

It’s being made easier for parents in Somerset to register children for free school meals. Currently, families have to apply manually, but Somerset Council is introducing an automatic enrolment system similar to schemes already in place in neighbouring Devon and Wiltshire.

People across Somerset are being urged to use water more carefully during the hot weather. Wessex Water says it has no plans for a hosepipe ban at the moment but is keeping a close eye on supplies as demand increases. Water efficiency charity, Waterwise, says everyone has a role to play in reducing waste.

Somerset Council says it accepts the government's decision to place the council under a Best Value Notice. The measure is designed to monitor improvements in governance, finances and value for money. The council says it expected the decision and insists it will remain responsible for delivering local services while continuing to improve its financial position.

Yeovil Town has announced its fixtures for the new National League season. The Glovers begin with a trip to Scunthorpe United on August 8th. Carlisle United will be the first visitors to Huish Park the following weekend, and the season ends at home to Harrogate Town on April 24th.

More from News

Friday 30th October

Wells Cathedral says it's having to get creative to bring in more money as financial pressures continue to grow. A convenience store in Martock has been allowed to keep its alcohol licence despite an employee working there illegally. Police have seized an illegally ridden e-scooter in Yeovil in response to concerns from local residents... and more
Thursday 29th October

A Yeovil man has been detained under the Mental Health Act for attacking his mother with a knife. People in Chard are being reminded that it’s unlawful to attach flags to lamp posts and street furniture. Wincanton Racecourse has called off its 'Badger Chase Day' because the ground is too firm... and more
Wednesday 28th October

Leweston School near Sherborne has announced that it is closing with immediate effect. NHS Somerset could merge with neighbours in Bath and North-East Somerset and Dorset to cut costs. Somerset’s Lord-Lieutenant has launched a campaign to get more people nominated for national honours... and more
Tuesday 27th October

Work has started building a new six-million-pound flood defence scheme in Taunton. Plans have been submitted to build a new church hall in Martock. People are being asked to donate gifts to this year’s Chard Christmas Present Appeal... and more
Monday 26th October

Eligible groups in Somerset are being encouraged to get their flu jabs. There’s a rare opportunity to get a behind-the-scenes look inside Avon & Somerset Police’s control room. Liberal Democrat Deputy Leader, Daisy Cooper MP, has visited Yeovil... and more.
Friday 23rd October

Somerset is the 11th most challenging place in England to be a child according to a report. Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire could have its own elected ‘Wessex Mayor’ by 2028. Cricketer, Ian Botham returns to the county this weekend... and more.
Thursday 22nd October

The NFU says that testing for the virus Bluetongue needs to be sped up. Construction of new flats on Yeovil’s Grimsby Corner site will officially begin next year. The Met Office has issued a yellow warning for wind tomorrow... and more.
Wednesday 21st October

The owner of campsite in Somerset says a two-thousand-seven-hundred percent increase in business rates will be 'catastrophic' for his business. Plans to build nearly 300 new homes on the outskirts of Chard have been given the go ahead. Yeovil Town are through to the first round proper of the FA Cup after beating Leatherhead 5-2 at Huish Park last night... and more