Thursday 23rd July

Thursday, 23 July 2026 06:00

By Steve Haigh

The West Country is officially one step closer to being declared in drought. Somerset Council says it's remodelling its service after a children's home was closed following an inspection. A new McDonald's planned off the M5 at Bridgwater could create up to 120 local jobs... and more

The West Country is officially one step closer to being declared in drought. The Environment Agency says Bristol, Somerset, Dorset and Wiltshire are all experiencing prolonged dry weather, with low river flows and high-water temperatures. It says fish are also struggling for oxygen in some waterways. Rainfall in July so far is one per cent below what would normally be expected.

Somerset Council says it's remodelling its service after a children's home was closed following an inspection which found serious failings. The home is one of eight owned by Somerset Council and run by Homes-2-Inspire. The organisation says it is caring for children with complex needs and is struggling to recruit experienced staff.

Avon and Somerset Police have joined forces with Mendip Hills rangers in a crackdown on rural crime and dangerous driving. The multi-agency operation saw officers carry out 87 vehicle checks. Three vehicles were seized for offences including having no insurance, no tax and being in a dangerous condition. A stolen trailer was also recovered, and one person was arrested on suspicion of drink or drug driving.

Women serving in the armed forces say they are still being issued with poorly fitting equipment, creating potential safety risks. A review in 2021 called for urgent improvements, but servicewomen say the problem remains.

And a new McDonald's near the M5 in Somerset could create up to 120 local jobs if plans are approved. Bridgwater Gateway Limited has submitted plans for a drive-thru restaurant on land off Carnival Way, along with two further industrial units. Somerset Council is expected to make a decision before Christmas.

More from News

Wednesday 22nd July

Two men have been jailed for stealing electrical items and cash from a property in Yeovil. Somerset Council has defended its use of Yeovil’s new performance area in The Triangle, in Lower Middle Street. Tintinhull Primary School, near Yeovil, has won a top national award for outdoor play... and more
Friday 17th July

Plans have been submitted to build 30 new homes in Ashill. As the heatwave continues, a Somerset air conditioning business says demand for its services has never been higher. Morrisons has confirmed it will close its Glenthorne Avenue store in Yeovil on August 1st... and more
Thursday 16th July

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
Wednesday 15th July

Bus passengers in Yeovil have been provided with easier access to the town's bus station. Firefighters are warning of an increased risk of wildfires because of the hot weather. Aldi is asking for public comments on plans to build a new food store in Chard... and more
Tuesday 14th July

A Martock machinery business has been bought out of administration saving the jobs of 15 employees. A Somerton man has pleaded not guilty to dangerous driving after a car crashed into a house in Martock. Drivers are being reminded that the A303 between South Petherton and Ilminster will be closed in both directions overnight from tonight... and more
Monday 13th July

Somerset Council says it's lost £91 million on commercial property investments. The former Clay Pigeon Karting Track near Yeovil is to be turned into a holiday park. The fire service is warning the dry conditions continue to pose a risk of grass fires... and more
Friday 10th July

The inquest into the death of a sex offender has returned an open conclusion. A driver has been arrested after a pursuit across the county. Ilminster Arts Centre has held its 2026 Open Exhibition Prize Giving Event... and more
Thursday 9th July

A father who shook his baby to death has been convicted of murder. Local people at high risk of having oesophageal cancer can take part in a new NHS test. Cheddar Reservoir will be closed to the public until next Monday morning because of the extreme heat... and more