REPORT POTHOLES AND LEARN MORE ABOUT WHAT WE ARE DOING TO MEET THE CHALLENGE!
Did you know that every week in Somerset, we repair between 600 and 800 potholes? Thanks to our extensive preventative surface treatments program — which covered over 1 million square metres of road last summer — we’ve reduced the number of potholes by 4,000 compared to last year.
We’ve made significant progress in improving the condition of local roads, but the challenge remains ongoing. We’re continually investing in targeted repairs and preventative measures to ensure safer, smoother journeys for everyone.
If you notice a pothole, you can report it quickly and easily at https://orlo.uk/wEawl. There’s no need to email or call. Your report goes directly to a team member, who will visit and assess the issue. We aim to respond within 3 working days, and depending on the size and location, repairs will be completed within 28 days — or sooner in emergencies.
We’ve received some questions about this, so to clarify:
We run a comprehensive resurfacing program throughout the year. Additionally, where roads are in good condition, surface dressing can significantly extend their lifespan. Find out more at https://www.somerset.gov.uk/roads…/surface-dressing/.
We are committed to building on this progress and ensuring Somerset’s roads continue to improve. Thanks to dedicated teams and ongoing investment, we are making tangible strides toward meeting the challenge of maintaining high-quality roads for our communities.
Potholes and road damage can be reported here:
https://www.somerset.gov.uk/roads-travel-and-parking/potholes-and-road-damage/
HAVE YOUR SA ON THE NEW SOMERSET COUNCIL BOUNDARIES
Residents are invited to comment on proposed changes to Somerset Council’s division boundaries as part of a 10-week consultation running until 11 August 2025.
The independent Local Government Boundary Commission for England (LGBCE) has proposed that Somerset Council should have 96 single-councillor divisions, with all boundaries changing to better reflect communities and balance representation.
You can view the proposals and give feedback via the LGBCE Somerset page, or by email at reviews@lgbce.org.uk, or by post. Your input will help make the new divisions clear, understandable, and effective for local communities.
CLLR BILL REVANS ARGUES FOR MANDATORY SOLAR POWER ON ALL NEW HOMES
Cllr Bill Revans, Leader of Somerset Council, advocates in his weekly local media article for making solar panels compulsory on all new homes. He highlights that advances in technology have made solar more efficient and affordable, helping to lower bills and reduce emissions. Currently, laws prevent councils from requiring this due to industry lobbying.
Cllr Revans recalls that in the 1990s, he taught at Broadoak School, where MP Max Wilkinson, now in Cheltenham, introduced the ‘Sunshine Bill’ to mandate solar energy on new builds. The government declined support at the time, citing housing supply concerns, but recent changes represent a step forward.
Following Wilkinson’s campaign, the government announced that all future new homes will include renewable energy technology as part of the updated Future Homes Standard. With renewables now supplying nearly 25% of UK energy—while gas accounts for just 6.85% and prices remain volatile—this move is a major step towards tackling climate change and cutting costs. Cllr Revans urges councils and the government to adopt this common-sense approach without delay
Youth Parliament 2025: Nominations Now Open
Nominations are now open for Somerset’s 2025 Youth Parliament elections. Young people aged 11–17 who live and study in the county are encouraged to apply.
Three Members of Youth Parliament (MYPs) will be elected to represent their peers, run campaigns on issues that matter, and work with local services and organisations. A support group of young people aged 10–25 will help develop campaigns and organize activities.
The Youth Parliament is a great space to learn new skills, share views, and make a difference.
The deadline for nominations is 3 November 2025, with elections in December. Full details and voting links will be available in September.
Young people aged 11–17 can register to nominate themselves at https://www.somerset.gov.uk/your-council/youth-parliament.
The Somerset Youth Parliament Advisory Group is free to join and open to anyone aged 10–25 who lives, works, or studies in Somerset. More information is at the same link.
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