Tag: news

Cutcombe Hill Update

Published on by Lesley WebbLeave a comment

I’m writing to provide a final update on the repair works along the A396 at Cutcombe Hill.

I am pleased to confirm that all major works have now been completed. Over the coming days, our team will be collecting the remaining traffic management equipment and barriers as we begin the final phase of demobilisation.

During the road closures, we also took the opportunity to carry out temporary repairs to a damaged section of verge on the straight stretch higher up the hill. This area was impacted by vehicle movements during snowy conditions earlier this winter. A long‑term engineering solution will be developed; however, due to the limited working window and the requirements for design, planning, and additional road closures, the temporary repair was the most practical option at this time. This approach has allowed us to safely remove the traffic management barriers that had been in place at this location.

Over the next few weeks, a formal sign‑off inspection will be undertaken to identify and address any minor snags. These checks ensure the site is left in the best possible condition and that all aspects of the scheme meet the required standards.

I would also like to share that a tree will be donated to Cutcombe Parish Council for planting in the recreational grounds. This is in memory of the tragic events of last summer, as well as marking the remarkable resilience and unity shown by the community during and after that time. The Parish is also considering the installation of a bench beside the tree to create a peaceful space for reflection.

We would like to sincerely thank residents, local businesses, and all road users for their patience, cooperation, and understanding throughout the duration of these works.

If you have any questions or require further information, please feel free to get in touch.

Yours faithfully,

Kali

Kali Martin
Assistant Highway Service Manager 

Somerset Council

Area – West


highways-west@somerset.gov.uk

0300 123 2224

Cutcombe update

Published on by Lesley WebbLeave a comment

I’m writing to provide a further update on the ongoing repair works along the A396 at Cutcombe Hill.

Over the past week, we have been able to stand down the planned night‑time road closures, which has reduced disruption to local residents and road users. During this time, the team has continued to make steady progress by completing the remaining elements of the scheme under daytime traffic light control. This has allowed us to keep the road open where possible while maintaining a safe working environment for the crew.

The scheme is now approaching its final stages. However, as part of the excavation and reinstatement activities, some unavoidable damage occurred to the road surface due to the movement and storage of materials and equipment on site. After reviewing the condition of the carriageway, it has been agreed that this presents a good opportunity to carry out resurfacing to ensure the road is returned to a high standard. Completing this now will avoid the need for a separate return visit later in the year and will provide a smoother, more durable finish for all road users.

To deliver these surfacing works safely and efficiently, we are proposing short daytime road closures on Thursday 26th February from 9am to 3pm and Friday 27th February from 9am to 3pm. These closures will give the crew the necessary working area and will prevent vehicles from travelling over freshly laid material before it has properly cured.

Once the resurfacing is complete, this will conclude the major civil engineering and reinstatement activities required for this scheme. Following this, only minor finishing tasks and site demobilisation will remain, which will be carried out with minimal impact on traffic.

We appreciate the continued patience and cooperation shown by residents, local businesses, and road users throughout these works. Your understanding has enabled us to progress the project effectively and safely.

If you have any questions or require further information, please let me know.

Yours faithfully,

Kali 

Kali Martin
Assistant Highway Service Manager 

Somerset Council Area – West

Speeding Update

Published on by Lesley WebbLeave a comment

Most residents will by now have noticed the Speed Indicator Device (SID) installed by the Parish Council near the Old Dairy on the A396. Anyone who has paused to observe it will have seen the marked reduction in vehicle speeds as drivers approach the device. This visual impression has now been supported by the analysis of the recorded speed data.

The results show that , coming from Cutcombe, 84% of vehicles are travelling at under 30mph, which is the legal speed limit. Furthermore, 95% of vehicles are passing through at under 35mph, and 99.74% at under 40mph. These figures represent a significant improvement compared with previous data collected by the Police.

Unfortunately, a small number of irresponsible drivers continue to travel at dangerously high speeds — 20 out of 34,666 vehicles were recorded at over 50mph, typically during the early hours of the morning.

The Parish Council would like to express its thanks to Councillors Ian Ware and Claire Gibbard for their work in the installation of the SID and for their ongoing efforts in maintaining it.

Residents who wish to review the data in more detail may download here HERE .

In addition, some residents will have noticed the installation of a new post on the Duddings bank. This post has been approved by Somerset Highways for the placement of a SID. The original intention was to rotate the existing portable SID between the two locations. However, despite being a “portable” device, the equipment is extremely heavy and difficult to move, particularly as it must be mounted above head height. For this reason, the Parish Council has decided to pursue the purchase of a second SID to remain permanently at the Duddings site.

As grant funding is limited, this may take a little time to achieve.

In addition to the SIDs, the Parish Council has requested the installation of a “Bend in the Road” warning sign at Totterdown to alert drivers to the series of bends approaching the Duddings area. Somerset Highways has agreed to investigate this request. The Parish Council will keep you updated on this request.

Lesley Webb

Clerk & Responsible Financial Officer

Timberscombe Parish Council

Somerset Sight December Activities 2025 at Northfield House

Published on by Lesley WebbLeave a comment
Coming up in December at Somerset Sight, Northfield House, 51 Staplegrove Road, Taunton TA1 1DG
Friday 5th December – 1pm to 3pm – Craft Group £4 including cuppa and cake. This week is decorations and crackers. 
 
Monday 8th December – 2pm – Music Monday Seasonal Songs – Free Entry includes a cuppa. 
 
Wednesday 10th December – 10.30am to 1.30pm – Wreath Making Workshop – £35 includes all materials, decorations, instructions and light lunch. Choose from a round wreath, a star, a heart or make a table tree or cone shape to string lights and decorations on. 
 
Thursday 11th December – 1.30pm to 3.30pm – Christmas Party with mulled wine, mice pies and seasonal songs. All welcome – Free Entry.
Please let us know you are coming.  Staff and Trustees will be in attendance. 
 
Friday 12th December – 1pm to 3pm – Craft Group £4 including cuppa and cake. This session is baking mince pies and sausage rolls.
 
Monday 15th December – Singing Group – All welcome, any ability. Includes a cuppa. Small friendly group. 
 
Friday 19th December – Craft Group £4 including cuppa and cake. Finishing off projects and festive celebration.
 
 
Somerset Sight offices are closed from Wednesday 23rd December and reopens on Friday 2nd January 2026.
 
If you want to know more and come along, please call us on 01823 333818.
 
I hope you all have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.  Thank you for supporting us.
 

Kind Regards

Joanne Thorogood

Office Manager

Somerset Sight

Tel: 01823 333818

Direct Dial: 01823 366143

Email; joanne@somersetsight.org.uk

Northfield House, 51 Staplegrove Road, Taunton TA1 1DG

My working hours are Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm

  

Somerset Sight supports 3500 people in Somerset with sight loss. Enhancing lives for the better, the Charity relies on your donations and gifts in wills. Please give generously.

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ENPA seeks young people.

Published on by Lesley WebbLeave a comment

Exmoor National Park Authority (ENPA) is inviting young people aged 18–26 to join its new Youth Board, offering a unique opportunity to help shape the future of one of the UK’s most treasured landscapes.

ENPA is committed to ensuring that the voices of young people are heard in the decisions that will impact Exmoor for generations to come. The organisation is seeking applicants from a wide range of backgrounds and a strong connection to Exmoor. Those with interests in areas such as nature, conservation, heritage, education, access, tourism and the rural economy are especially encouraged to apply.

The Youth Board will serve as a platform for young people to collaborate with and influence the direction of ENPA. By working together, members will help deliver the Exmoor National Park Management Plan and ensure that Exmoor remains accessible and relevant for future generations.

Sophie Tyler Learning and Engagement Officer with ENPA said: “Young people have a vital role to play in protecting and enhancing National Parks. ENPA wants to empower the next generation to step forward, share their ideas, and help overcome barriers to engagement. By joining the Youth Board, members will gain valuable experience, develop leadership skills, and contribute to meaningful change.”

If you are passionate about Exmoor and want to make a difference, download the application pack here, search ‘Exmoor Youth Board Member’ or contact ENPA at youthvoice@exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk for more information.

This is your chance to become one of the first Youth Board Members for Exmoor and help shape the decisions that will define the Park’s future.

Key objectives of the Youth Board include:

Creating more opportunities for young people from all backgrounds to explore and connect with Exmoor, develop new skills, and play an active role in its future:

  • Inspiring a broader community to care for Exmoor, enhancing health and well-being through a “Natural Health Service.”
  • Increasing engagement and understanding of young people within ENPA’s work.
  • Acting as a conduit for younger voices to be heard and considered in decision-making.
  • Providing consultancy on youth perspectives as appropriate.
  • Championing diversity of voice within the authority.
  • Serving as ambassadors for Exmoor National Park, both locally and nationally.
  • Shaping and influencing policy at local and national levels.