The Somerset Leveller, 7, October 2026, Issue 233 by The Blackmore Vale Limited

Edition 233

PICK YOURS UP FOR FREE

October 7, 2026

WHAT PM'S NEW PENSION PROPOSALS REALLY MEAN PAGE 14

RISE IN CHARGES PARKED... AGAIN!

Plans for car park rate increases - and Sunday fees - at Somerset Council-run locations put back as part of new plan... MEET NEW TOP DOG! Buckley's journey to the executive officer job at Clarks Village!

PAGE 4

FULL STORY: PAGE 11

TRAGEDY AS TEEN KILLED Youngster passes away after crash in busy Taunton town centre street

SEX OFFENDER BEHIND BARS Homeless man who assaulted vulnerable woman in Bridgwater jailed

PAGE 5

PAGE 7

PLUS! BUSINESS 18 | EVENTS 20 | PUBLIC NOTICES 23 | PUZZLES 34 | & MORE Removals throughout Somerset and beyond

Call us now – 0808 175 1966

sales@armishaws.com | www.armishaws.com Wincanton Business Park, Wincanton, Somerset, BA9 9RU

Excellent

The Somerset Leveller, October 7, 2026

You deserve a break. Relax and recharge for a day, a week or more. Whether you’re caring for a loved one or need a little extra support yourself, discover day care and respite breaks at our care homes across Somerset and Devon, for tailored care and complete peace of mind.

somersetcare.co.uk

0808 175 6584 AD-814 The Somerset Leveller - 7th October 2026.indd 1

01/10/2026 14:30

The Somerset Leveller, October 7, 2026

News

somersetleveller.co.uk

Prince due in Somerset for group launch

ILLIAM Prince of Wales expected to be in Somerset this week to launch a charity initiative aimed at supporting communities prepare for major weather events and emergencies. The prince was due in Ilminster in his role as patron of the National Emergency Trust, which has led creation of the new Ready Together scheme to provide communities with guidance on how to tackle weather emergencies. It comes after a winter which saw Somerset tackle a major flooding incident, followed by a summer which saw drought conditions and wildfire problems. Prince William was set to launch Ready Together, as well as meet residents, volunteers, businesses and emergency services working together to tackle the issues involved.

The Prince of Wales was due to visit Somerset on Tuesday

He was also set to join volunteers and young people taking part in a training exercise featuring a range of emergency scenarios designed to test community preparedness. And he was also expected to

Picture: FCO/Commons

meet members of the Ilminster Resilience Group, which has supported local residents during periods of severe flooding, and visit Sweet Surprise, a town centre café that provides opportunities for adults with

learning disabilities. Finally, the prince was expected to visit Ilminster Fire Station, where he could learn about technology used to map and predict wildfire risk across the county.

Celebrating 45 years of Henry

Providing Excellent Live-in Care for 40 years Trust us to help you

Stay independent at home with a live-in carer

WIN Your Leveller has teamed up with Numatic International to offer our readers the chance to win one of only 1000 limited edition versions of the iconic Henry Vacuum Cleaner, built to celebrate National Manufacturing Day

More affordable than a Care Home We believe in only the very best care at an affordable cost

Closing date: 30th October

Call for a brochure today or a free assessment

somersetleveller.co.uk/comps/

Email: featherbed@featherbedhomecare.co.uk www.featherbedhomecare.co.uk

Where is Henry manufactured?

01179 860710 / 0800 111 4885

TO ENTER VISIT:

and answer this simple question:

A Chorley

B Chard

C Chester

Or post your answer direct to The Somerset Leveller at 3 Alfred’s Way, Wincanton, BA9 9RU

Answer: Name: Email or tel:

I would like to receive further marketing information

The Somerset Leveller, October 7, 2026

News

somersetleveller.co.uk

From Cyprus to CEO: Joy as Buckley lands top job at Clarks Village!

ESCUE dog Buckley has been named the new canine executive officer (CEO) at Clarks Village – marking an amazing turnaround in his life. The paw-fect pooch was picked for the role in a public vote after a recruitment search was launched at the Street outlet centre during the recent Pawsome Pooch weekend. More than 360 dogs entered the CEO competition with judges shortlisting just 10 to go forward to a public vote to choose the winner. And after more than 2,000 votes were cast, Buckley, a Kokoni-cross breed, ultimately took the ‘lead’ and the role of Clarks Village’s new CEO. Now, as the new furry face of Clarks Village, Buckley will oversee all things dog-related at the dog-friendly shopping outlet, from inspecting water bowls and taste-testing dog treats, to offering a friendly pawshake to guests on VIP visits. Buckley was adopted by owners Nadine and Chris Percival 18 months ago after a rocky start – in Cyprus. He was left abandoned at a dog pound with no name and no

explanation just three days before Christmas in 2024. He spent three months at the shelter, but was unfortunately bitten by another dog and struggled with the new environment, leaving the charity increasingly concerned for his welfare. In a bid to urgently find him a new home, UK rehoming charities were asked to share his appeal, which was spotted by Nadine. “We’d been trying for six months to adopt a dog in the UK but had no luck,” she said. “Then one lunchtime, he popped up on my social feed. As soon as I saw him, I fell in love with him and we immediately put our names forward. “Sadly, we weren’t picked as we had a holiday booked and they wanted him to be rehomed immediately. I was so disappointed as I felt he was the one for us.” However, the new home fell through and Nadine received a phone call asking if she was still interested. “I felt it was fate,” Nadine went on. “We cancelled our holiday so we could rehome him straight away. It was our

second chance – and I wasn’t going to let it pass me by.” The couple have spent the last 18 months helping rehabilitate Buckley, who they believe is now around three years old. “Being a rescue, he came with a huge amount of anxiety and medical issues, so it’s been quite a difficult time helping him adjust, with lots of hydrotherapy, physiotherapy, behaviourist and vet visits,” she said. “He’s become a different boy; so loving and wonderful. He’s a real thinker, a watcher, and a big sniffer, and is incredibly handsome too. He has so much love for people once he knows them – but can be shy at first. He’s also an amazing prancer; if he wasn’t a dog, he’d be a horse.” Buckley, who now has his own Instagram account @ buckley_buckaroo, is now set to be crowned CEO at Clarks Village, and will also win a prize package worth over £500, including shopping vouchers, and treats from brands across Clarks Village including Bill’s, Prezzo Italian, Sweaty Betty, Raging Bull, Hallmark, Jack Wolfskin, Lakeland Leather,

and Le Creuset. “We are utterly overwhelmed that Buckley has won,” Nadine added. “Seeing how many people have supported him is a wonderful feeling and we are so very proud of him. “He likes to investigate Clarks Village with lots of places to sniff and he loves being able to go into the shops rather than having to just wait outside. It’s an ideal place to visit with a dog. I’m sure he will love being CEO.” Buckley’s portrait will now be added to the brand-new CEO Hall of Fame at Clarks Village, which was unveiled at this year’s Pawsome Pooch by the past and present CEOs; miniature dachshund Archie, Hungarian Vizsla Dudley, and whippet Bailey. Mike Jones, centre director, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Buckley to the top dog role of Canine Executive Officer. He has had an incredible journey in life so far, and it’s fantastic his story has now brought him to Clarks Village. We’re looking forward to welcoming him into his new role and become the latest four-legged member of the team.”

The Somerset Leveller, October 7, 2026

News

somersetleveller.co.uk

Teen, 16, killed in crash - vehicle missing

16-YEAR-OLD Taunton boy died after a crash which saw what is believed to be an electric motorcycle crash into a car. The incident, in East Reach, Taunton, happened at around 10.20pm on Thursday night (October 1), when two people are understood to have been on the motorcycle-type vehicle, which was not at the scene when officers arrived, police said. They said emergency services were called to the scene following a crash between a car and a second vehicle "which we believe to be an electric motorcycle but was not at the scene when officers arrived". "We understand two teenage boys were riding that vehicle when it collided with a car whose driver had stopped at the traffic lights near the junction with Haydon Road," an Avon & Somerset Police spokesperson went on.

"One of the boys was taken to hospital by air ambulance where they remain in a critical condition. "The second boy, aged 16, died at the scene and we believe he was most likely the pillion passenger. "His family have been notified and they will be supported by a specially-trained officer going forward. Our thoughts are with the boy’s family at this incredibly sad and difficult time. "Out of respect for the family, we would please ask people do not speculate on the circumstances of the collision or publish on social media any images or footage from the scene. "Enquiries to locate the vehicle the pair were riding are ongoing." East Reach was closed for several hours after the crash but reopened at around 7.30am on Friday morning.

Following the crash, police said they had moved tributes left at the scene to ensure people "can continue to do so safely". "This is not a decision we have taken lightly, and we appreciate that it may cause upset or confusion," a spokesperson added. "However, we have a responsibility to put public safety first. The current location is on the central reservation of a busy main road, and people gathering there presents a

significant risk to both those paying their respects and other road users. "We respectfully ask that anyone wishing to visit the area does so with their own safety, and the safety of others, in mind. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation at this difficult time." Anyone with information about the crash, or the suspected electric motorbike involved, should contact police on 101, or online, reference 5226281802.

Artist, musician and more: Tributes to Tad

AD Mandziej - the renowned West Somerset-based artist and musician - has passed away, aged 84. A renowned woodcarver, Tad honed his craft in a barn at his Williton home, producing award-winning pieces ranging from metres-high doors for landmark venues, to miniature military figures carved under a magnifying glass. He was also a talented musician and a martial arts teacher, but had battled illness in recent times. But his journey to West Somerset was an embattled one. Tad was born in 1940 in the Caucasus region - between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea - not long after his Polish mother escaped a Siberian labour camp. The young Tad, along with his mother and his brother,

made the journey to England via an arduous eight-year journey - mostly on foot across Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Yet despite his humble roots, he could boast lofty relations, including being the nephew of Pope John Paul II and a cousin of Sunday Times art critic and TV presenter, Waldemar Januszczak. Waldemar was among those to pay tribute to Tad. "He was one of the most important people in my life," he said. "I wouldn’t be what I am without him. And he was so talented. "Tad was one of rare people who seem to have magic in their hands. He could play any instrument - banjo, Northumberland pipes - and play any game. So good at pool. He did magic tricks, he played cards brilliantly. And, of course,

he was a marvellously skilled artist. His metier was wood carving. I think it appealed to his Polish roots. "My favourite works of his were the birds he carved dippers, blue tits, woodpeckers. He was so good at all that. "When I was a kid, Tad would come round to our house and draw things for me. He

went to Winchester College of Art and was the first person in my family to have any kind of higher education. And the first artist. "I would watch him take a piece of blank paper and then - hey presto - something began to appear. A head. A landscape. It was magic and it made me feel so excited. That’s how art started for me. Because of Tad’s magic. "It hurts so much that he’s gone. I wish so much I’d seen him more recently. But we never do, do we? "Tad will be making everyone laugh in heaven. And perhaps teaching them Polish dances. He was a wizard at that too." A celebration of Tad's lifeis set to be held at Nettlecombe Church at 11am on Thursday, October 29, with a gathering after at Williton Pavilion.

The Somerset Leveller, October 7, 2026

News

somersetleveller.co.uk

Up to 160 new homes planned in Street

DECISION over plans for up to 160 new homes in Street was expected at a meeting this week – with officers recommending approval. An application by Clifton Emery Design on behalf of JD Clark 1984 Settlement for development of a 9.3-hectare site at Brooks Farm, off Brooks Road, was set to be considered by Somerset Council’s Planning East Committee on Tuesday (October 6), after your Leveller went to press. The application, which dates back to 2024, also includes details of proposed access points from Brooks Road and from Higher Brooks, as well as an array of open spaces. A rate of 30% affordable homes are also proposed in the application. "The layout centres around robust green infrastructure, protecting and enhancing

A decision was due over the application on Tuesday

Pictures: Google/Clifton Emery Design

existing on-site and surrounding features,” the plans said. “Generous amounts of open space form the focus of the new neighbourhood with good footpath connections into the wider landscape.” The application detailed how

Comments on the plans included those raising concerns over privacy, flooding and traffic. “We do not have the employment, doctors, chemists, schools, infrastructure, public services, leisure services and amenities to cope with any more people,” said on objection. Another added how they had concerns over roads nearby that are “already unable to cope with traffic”. “More traffic, that this development will bring, will make it even worse,” they said. Street Parish Council objected to the plans, though officers at Somerset Council recommended the application be approved at the meeting.

40% of the development site – around 3.8 hectares – would be “open space” and would be “publicly accessible, offering a number of benefits for residents of the wider area”. It went on: “The north west corner of the site has been designed to mitigate against surface water run off and to improve biodiversity and water quality. “Overall, the plan shows that a residential scheme can be developed on the site that integrates with the local area,” the plans added. “It will contribute positively to delivering housing in a sustainable location. Furthermore, it will provide vehicular, pedestrian and cycle access into the future areas of growth to the west.” However, the plans have attracted strong opposition from some.

n For more details on the plans visit somerset.gov.uk and search application reference 2024/2118/OUT.

Antiques & Collectibles Antique & Classic Clock Repairs & Restoration Longcase Clocks a speciality Antique Clock sales

Clocks Unlimited

Tel: (01935) 423233 Mobile: 07974 520545 bclocksunlimited@aol.com www.clocksunlimited.co.uk

The Somerset Leveller, October 7, 2026

News

somersetleveller.co.uk Darren Bradley has been jailed for nine years

Picture: Avon & Somerset Police

10% OFF Homeless Bridgwater sex offender jailed

RIDGWATER sex offender Darren Bradley has been jailed for nine years for the sexual assault of a vulnerable woman in the town. The 61-year-old, of no fixed abode in Bridgwater, pleaded guilty to sexual assault by penetration and the breach of an interim Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) at Taunton Crown Court on September 15. Bradley committed his offences against a woman who was alone and vulnerable in Bridgwater town centre at around 11.30pm on Saturday, April 4, the court heard. He then proceeded to walk his victim through the town before she was able to gain the attention of a member of the public, who intervened and alerted the police. Bradley was later arrested, charged and remanded into custody on Thursday, April 9. His sentence includes an extended period in prison with the judge acknowledging the significant risk he poses to members of the public as Bradley has an extensive history in sexual offending, with a pattern of targeting lone women. Police said Bradley’s victim “did not suffer serious injury, but she was supported throughout the investigation and has been offered access to

specialist support services she may benefit from”. DIO Sophie Lovell, officer in the case from our Criminal Investigations Department, added: “I would like to acknowledge the courage and strength shown by the victim in coming forward and reporting Bradley’s offending, and supporting the subsequent investigation and prosecution. “This bravery has played a significant role in securing this conviction and ensuring that a dangerous individual has been removed from the community for a substantial period of time. “I would also like to express my sincere thanks to the member of the public who assisted the victim on the night of the incident. "Their willingness to step in and offer support made a real difference, and it is something for which the victim remains very grateful for.” n Victims of rape or sexual assault, recent or non-recent, can self-refer to The Bridge, a Sexual Assault Referral Centre available 24/7 365 days a year via www.thebridgecanhelp.org. uk or on 0117 342 6999. People can also visit www. thisisnotanexcuse.org for details of charities and organisations who are experts in supporting victims.

When you mention “The Somerset Leveller” CALL US NOW:

01935 312397

SOMERSET’S ROOFING EXPERTS • Drone Inspection

• New Roofs & Re-Roofs • Roof Repairs • Flat Roofs

• Fascias, Soffits & Guttering • Chimney & Leadworks

• Roof Cleaning & Moss Removal

• Spray Foam Removal & Insulation

Call today for a free roof check to make sure your roof is up to standard -

07435 220238

info@theroofinggroup.co.uk theroofinggroup.uk

The Somerset Leveller, October 7, 2026

News

A358 crash

TWO people sadly died after a crash on the A358 between Taunton and West Somerset. The incident occurred at around 6.40am last Wednesday morning (September 30) in the Combe Florey area. Avon & Somerset Police said the crash involved a white Mazda Bongo van and a Volvo lorry. "Sadly, despite the best efforts of emergency services personnel, the two occupants of the Mazda died at the scene," a police spokesperson said. "The families have been updated, and they are being offered support by a specialist officer." The A358 was closed between the Bishops Lydeard junction at Station Road and Coggins Lane, Combe Florey, to allow for enquiries into the incident, they added. n Witnesses who have not yet spoken to the police, and anyone with information about the incident, should contact police on 101, reference 5226279615.

somersetleveller.co.uk

Appeal after cars damaged

OLICE want to speak to this person after a number of vehicles were damaged in a Bridgwater street. The incidents of criminal damage occurred in Weacombe Road at around 3am on Thursday, August 13. “We have carried out CCTV and house-to-house Officers are keen to trace this person enquiries as investigations “The man is described as continue, and we are now white, around 5ft 10ins tall, releasing an image of a man with mousy brown hair, a we would like to speak to moustache, who is wearing because we believe he may a brown sweatshirt and have information which light-coloured shorts. could assist our enquiries,” “A man has been arrested an Avon & Somerset Police in relation to the incident spokesperson said. and has been released on

Picture: Avon & Somerset Police

conditional bail while enquiries continue.” n Anyone who recognises the person pictured, or has information regarding the incidents, should contact police on 101 quoting reference 5226227367.

SELL IT - FREE - SIMPLE Got something worth under £50 you don’t need anymore?

List it for FREE

Reach 50,000 local readers every week. No fees. No catches. No hassle. From bikes and tools to toys and tech, if it’s under £50, we’ll help you sell it! “Is that really on the level?” I hear you ask.

NO, IT’S ON THE LEVELLER.

List your item today at the cost of nothing. ~ Conditions apply ~

01963 401177

adverts@somersetleveller.co.uk

www.somersetleveller.co.uk

The Somerset Leveller, October 7, 2026

News

somersetleveller.co.uk

Landmark tannery building back in business...

ORKERS have returned to the landmark former Baily’s tannery building in Glastonbury – almost 50 years since the site closed down. The former tannery – which saw Baily’s produce leather items including boxing gloves for the likes of Muhammad Ali – has welcomed its first tenants since completion of a £7.6 million redevelopment project to bring it back into use. Now, south west-based care company Candlelight Homecare Services has moved in, with the refurbished building home to its new headquarters. The restoration project was funded through the £23.6m Glastonbury Town Deal, including the Robert Richards Initiative, which aims to deliver sustainability and help Glastonbury become a carbon neutral town. Inside, the overhaul has seen space created for start-up, small and growing businesses, with many of the original features retained, including exposed walls and the drying tower. More than 60 workers and carers from Candlelight Homecare Services have moved in across two floors, with the site acting as HQ overseeing the firm’s four main UK branches.

The Bailys tannery building is now back in use

Ken Marshall, the company’s chief executive, said: “We absolutely love our new home at the Baily’s Building; it’s just what was needed for us to grow as a business. “This move will open up so many more opportunities for us, from offering career paths for younger people and inspiring the next generation of carers, to developing and nurturing our existing colleagues, and creating an even stronger, more connected team.” Candlelight Homecare Services’ founder, Cherry Catley-Day, established the company almost 40 years ago in nearby Butleigh. “From a kitchen table in Butleigh in 1988 to this wonderful new home in Glastonbury, what an incredible

The former Bailys tannery now and in 2016, inset, before the restoration

journey,” she said. “May this building be filled with ideas, opportunity, team work and above all, exceptional care for many years to come.” The Grade II-listed Baily’s Building, which began life as a tannery in the late 1800s and later went on to manufacture sheepskin products, rugs and gloves, has remained derelict since the 1980s. The idea of regenerating the old factory was the brainchild of the Beckery Island Regeneration Trust (BIRT), which was set up in the early 2000s to renovate historic commercial buildings in Glastonbury to create new employment opportunities. Chair of the Trust, Ian Tucker, said: “Welcoming people back into the Baily’s Building has been decades in the making, and I am so proud that we have turned that dream into a reality. “As a listed building, we have been sympathetic to the factory’s heyday and maintained some of the fascinating original features, and when you now see the inside of the building you’ll realise why keeping that history and heritage alive was so important. “What we have now created is a fabulous, welcoming space

for local businesses and start-ups. “Our next steps are now to explore further funding opportunities to bring the other Baily’s Buildings into use.” Rob Taylor, chair of the Glastonbury Town Deal, said: “The regeneration and repurposing of the Baily’s Building has been a great success story. Those behind the project have shown great passion for bringing this area of Glastonbury back into beneficial use, and I’m pleased that it could be supported through the Glastonbury Town Deal. “This project truly epitomises the Town Deal; preserving Glastonbury’s unique heritage, restoring an existing building, and bringing important spaces back into use.” BIRT is now seeking further funding to renovate other parts of the former Baily’s Factory, including preserving the iconic chimney that dominates the skyline. n For more information, and to find out about future commercial space available at the Baily’s Buildings, visit beckeryislandregenerationtrust. co.uk, or contact retained agent, GTH.

The Somerset Leveller, October 7, 2026 somersetleveller.co.uk

The Somerset Leveller, October 7, 2026

News

somersetleveller.co.uk

Another delay to parking charge increases

LANS to increase charges at Somerset Council-run car parks have been amended once more – including a 10% rise in January. The Lib Dem administration had outlined proposals to implement a series of tiers at county car parks before the end of the year, which would see increased fees applicable seven days a week. However, the plans have met with fierce opposition, including from business and other authorities, such as Bridgwater Town Council, and a 4,000-strong petition. In response, ahead of a meeting of the Somerset Council Executive today (October 7), the administration has unveiled an amended rollout for the changes – alongside a series of planned improvements to county car parks. Initially, car parking charges would increase by 10% from January next year, as well as carrying out improvements at car parks including: n Installing new, up-to-date ticket machines n Introducing seven-day parking restrictions in

residential streets near car parks n A trial running the Taunton park-and-ride service seven days a week for six months n Improvements at the Orchard multi-storey car park in Taunton, pictured, including wider bays The full increases would not be put in place until at least the autumn of 2027, under the proposals, alongside consultations on changes to existing free car parks, permits and concessions. Councillor Liz Leyshon, lead member for finance, procurement and performance at Somerset Council, said: “We have listened to what residents, businesses and councillors have told us about parking, and we are responding to that feedback.

“We know that increasing parking charges is never going to be popular, which is why we are proposing to take a phased approach rather than making all the changes at once. "The first increase would not take place until January, after the busy Christmas period, and would be a 10% increase. "We then want to use the period ahead to invest in our parking infrastructure and put measures in place to help protect residential streets." The changes to the plan came after pushback from businesses and residents in some areas, as well as a petition signed by more than 4,000 people opposing the proposals. Conservative opposition leaders at Somerset Council said the revised timetable for the increases meant they would come after next year’s council elections, in May. Cllr Diogo Rodrigues, Conservative group leader, said: “The Liberal Democrats have backed down under pressure,

but they are still pushing ahead with the parking hike. “They want to raise charges by 10% before May’s council elections, then hit drivers with the bigger increases and new Sunday charges afterwards. "They are going ahead with approving the plan now while keeping its worst effects away from the ballot box. “More than 4,000 residents have told them to think again. "They should scrap these plans, not hide the bill until after the election.” And Cllr Bob Filmer, the Somerset Conservatives’ opposition spokesperson for transport, said: “The amended recommendations are an improvement, but I remain concerned that they lay the groundwork for the previous proposals to return later. “Residents, businesses and councillors should have been involved before these conclusions were reached. Consultation after an inprinciple decision is too late. “I still have not seen an assessment of what the final changes would mean for local businesses and communities."

Musgrove consultant stepping down after 31 years A DOCTOR is standing down after more than 30 years helping patients at Musgrove Park Hospital in Taunton. Respiratory consultant Dr Robert Stone is retiring after 31 years at the hospital, having joined in 1995. NHS chiefs said he has made “an incredible contribution to respiratory care, helping to improve services for patients in Somerset and across the country”. “From helping shape discussions around the development of the Beacon Centre and setting up the cancer registry, to developing respiratory services and establishing our medical education department, the impact of this work will be felt for years to come,” a Somerset NHS spokesperson said. “Dr Stone’s influence extended beyond Somerset too, as he helped shape national improvements in COPD and respiratory services across the country. His work has touched the lives of countless patients, colleagues and families both locally and nationally. “Dr Stone leaves an incredible legacy at our trust, and more than three decades of service to the NHS.”

Dr Robert Stone is retiring after more than three decades

Picture: Somerset NHS

The Somerset Leveller, October 7, 2026

News

somersetleveller.co.uk

Stakeholder liaison manager Ingrid Edginton and mayor of Chard Tricia O'Brien, below, unveiling the new site

Pictures: Chard Town Council

Events, support and more: New site boasts everything you need to know about Chard!

NEW website aims to offer everything you need to know about

Chard. Chard Town Council has officially launched Chard.info, a new digital platform designed to feature essential information about living in the town in one place. The council said the website has been designed to be "highly accessible and simple to search, ensuring residents, visitors and professionals can find the exact resources they need instantly". It has been developed with grant funding from the Somerset Association of Local Councils' (SALC) Community Health & Wellbeing programme, as well as a generous donation from Chard Community Hub. The project has been driven and developed by Chard Town Council’s stakeholder liaison

officer, Ingrid Edginton. A Living in Chard section of the site provides an exhaustive guide to life in the area, covering community groups, clubs, societies, sports, fitness, and churches. It also serves as a directory for healthcare and emergency services, the post office, banking options, the museum, library, and Chard’s green parks and open spaces. "I’m delighted to see the launch of chard.info. Our town has a wonderful community spirit with so many groups, organisations, business and events bringing people together," said mayor of Chard, Councillor Tricia O'Brien. "This new website will make everything easier for everyone to get involved and connect resources for our whole community." The site also features a comprehensive transport

section, complete with live travel updates, while for those looking to give back, a dedicated volunteering hub connects residents directly with local causes. The platform also provides direct links to Chard Town Council, schools, and community organisations and support groups, while a What's

On calendar ensures residents never miss town events - and can submit their own. It is all illustrated using photographs of Chard from photographers based in and around the town, while students from Holyrood Academy are involved in creating and managing the dedicated Young People sections.

The Somerset Leveller, October 7, 2026

News

somersetleveller.co.uk

Art and nature trail finishes development

DECADE of development has finished in Taunton with 320 new homes completed. Summerfield Homes has announced it has completed construction on all homes on the firm's flagship development at Killams Park. It brings to an end a decade of work across three phases, including the new homes, green space, meadows, orchards and wildlife corridors. The latest additions to the development include children’s play equipment and the Killams Park Art and Nature Trail. Each piece of the Art Trail was meticulously designed to represent the wetland, woodland, farmland, and wildlife of the location as part of a 2.5km walk around Killams Park. The development also includes 86 affordable and discounted homes, with 60 made available through housing

association partners for shared ownership and social or affordable rent. A further 26 were sold through Summerfield's MyHome scheme at 30% below market value. Meanwhile, as part of S106 planning commitments attached to the development, Summerfield has invested £3.66 million, including £2.25m towards education, £414,112 for footpaths and cycle routes, £501,550 for community halls and facilities, £459,732 for green spaces and parks and £36,914 for public art and the nature trail. The 22-hectare development includes around eight hectares of open space, with more than 1,000 new trees, wildflower meadows and grass areas, an orchard, children's play areas and an enhanced wildlife corridor along the Blackbrook stream. James Holyday, group

Jamie Johnson, divisional director – development, and James Holyday, group managing director, at Killams Park Picture: Summerfield

managing director at Summerfield, said: "Completing construction at Killams Park is a significant milestone for Summerfield and for everyone who has helped bring this major development to life over the past decade. "Working alongside Somerset Council, Abri Homes, Sovereign, Magna Housing and other partners, we have created a varied and welcoming

D E D I C AT E D D E N TA L C A R E L A N GP O RT

INVISALIGN • LANGPORT

Beautiful Straight Smiles Discreetly Delivered Loving your smile does wonders for your confidence. At David Neal Dental we’re certified Invisalign providers - clear aligners that gently straighten your teeth, giving you a beautiful new smile. Book your Invisalign consultation: 01458 555121 81 Bow Street, Langport, TA10 9PR • davidnealdental.co.uk/langport

neighbourhood; investing in affordable housing, education, community facilities, green space and sustainable travel that will benefit the area for generations. "We are extremely proud of what has been achieved and grateful to our residents, partners, consultants, contractors and the local community for their support throughout the development."

The Somerset Leveller, October 7, 2026

News

somersetleveller.co.uk

What is the triple lock? And the reasons pensioners get beneficial treatment...

HENEVER a politician goes near pensions, you can guarantee one thing – the next day’s newspapers will feature it on their front pages. Why? Because pensioners read newspapers. And people soon to become pensioners read newspapers. This is a direct line to the readership for newspaper editors. As a result, following Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s Labour Conference speech on September 29, during which he pledged to make changes to the ‘triple lock’ governing the yearly increase of the state pension, the newspapers were full of it. Editors, expecting pensioners to be annoyed at the changes – which remove one layer of protection over the amount pensions increase (but adding others it should be noted) – shot out of the gates in opposition to the plan. The Daily Mail howled at “Burnham’s triple shock” which “axes state pensions triple lock”, The Daily Telegraph screamed simply, “Triple lock scrapped by 2030”, while the Daily Express said a “tearful Andy Burnham betrays pensioners”. Express readers were also prompted to join an ‘Express crusade’ (yes, a crusade), campaigning against the move. As a result of these dramatic headlines – which editors are perfectly entitled to publish – one might be inclined to think the pension system is about to be ‘axed’, or ‘slashed’, even ‘scrapped’ entirely. But make no mistake, they are tailored to appeal to one very particular demographic – the newspaper reading demographic. And who is that? Pensioners. However, if we’re honest, how many of us actually know what the triple lock is, how it

works, and what these changes mean? I’d argue it’s not many. So let’s have a look and learn together. What is the triple lock? The triple lock was introduced during Conservative Chancellor George Osborne’s first Budget in June 2010. And he was very proud of it. What it did was outline three standards by which the annual increase in the state pension should be set. First, inflation. I’m sure we all know inflation is the rate at which prices are increasing. So, inflation of 10% for a year would mean something that cost £1 at the start of the year now costs £1.10 (a 10% increase). Get it? It essentially indicates how much you need to increase your wages by, to break even. If you didn’t get a pay rise, but were paying £1.10 instead of £1, you’d be worse off. So, Mr Osborne said one measure of how much to increase the state pension was inflation – because pensioners should not be worse off due to a below-inflation increase. The second was average earnings growth. Like inflation, this is a good indicator as to how much everyone’s money is worth. In fact wage growth can dictate inflation, because the more money we all have, the more people can get away with

charging us for things. So, the increase in a state pension would also be compared to average wage growth. The final prong of the triple-lock trident was 2.5%. Simple as that. This was a very strong backstop. If average wage growth and inflation were below 2.5%, the state pension would increase by 2.5%. In effect, it guaranteed pensioners a 2.5% increase each year. When the Bank of England’s target for inflation is 2%, if they get anywhere near it, pensioners will do very nicely thank you. Has the triple lock actually helped pensioners? In short, yes. A lot. Because the triple lock only applies to the state pension, it only affects those who receive it – no one else. To show how much pensioners have benefited from the triple lock, we carried out a data experiment, comparing increases in the state pension to a ‘working age benefit’ – i.e. something someone below pensionable age might receive, which is not covered by the triple lock. Starting in 2010, and running from when the triple lock was in effect (2011), we started with a payment of £100 a month for both the state pension and a working-age benefit.

NOTE: For comparisons like this, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) uses Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) for a single claimant aged 25+ as a representative ‘working-age benefit’, so we did the same. We than ran numbers on how our £100 for each has increased up until 2026, under government policies relating to each benefit to show us how much the state pension and the working age benefit are worth now. It’s quite revealing. In 2026, our £100 state pension from 2010 is now worth £189.35 a month. Our working-age benefit is now worth £145.99 a month. We did a graph showing how government policy – and the triple lock – helped raise the value of the state pension. So pensioners have done well, thank you very much. It might not be enough, but that’s not the argument we’re making. We’re simply demonstrating how their benefit has outperformed those for anyone else. By comparison, if our £100 had increased simply by inflation – the value of your pound, remember – over the same period, in 2026 it would be worth £160.22. Almost bang in the middle. Would that have been fairer? Not politically, that’s for sure… Benefits Street is one-way On September 24, the Daily Mail’s front page praised an announcement from Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch when she was said to have promised “a tough crackdown on Britain’s benefits bill”. A couple of quick questions, dear reader; Do you know anyone ‘on benefits’?

n TURN TO PAGE 16

The Somerset Leveller, October 7, 2026 As

Is Your Conservatory...

o o o o T Hot TCOLD OR

Enjoy Your Conservatory All Year Round with Ecozenic

NOTHING TO PAY FOR 6 MONTHS

AFTER

BEFORE

Trusted & reviewed 9/10

Why choose an Eco Roof from Ecozenic? Cooler in the summer, warmer in the winter Extra room in the home 1 day to install

SAVE energy - roof options available to suit any budget! £££ ECO-THERMAL

ECO-PANELS

ECO-VISTA

10 year guarantee

ECO-SHEILD

Accredited company Save on evergy bills

With our modern Eco-Panels and insulated conservatory roof solutions, you can transform your space into a room that stays cooler in summer, warmer in winter, and comfortable all year round.

Call for a Free Quotation CONSERVATORIES • WINDOWS • DOORS

01202 798 666 ecozenic.co.uk

Free 0% Interest Finance available APR

% OFF

WITH THIS ADVERT

FREE QUOTE SCAN

The Somerset Leveller, October 7, 2026

News n FROM PAGE 14

How much of “Britain’s benefits bill” do you think goes to people on Universal Credit (‘on benefits’)? I hope you’ve answered honestly, even you at the back… Anyway, chances are, whether you know it or not, you know someone on benefits. And you might well be on benefits yourself. Why? Because yes, you’ve guessed it, the state pension is a benefit. It is. Just like being ‘on the dole’ (as some still call it), or ‘on disability’, the state pension is part of the benefits system. A big part. So to our second question – how much of the “benefits bill” being targeted by Ms Badenoch do you think goes on Universal Credit payments (working-age benefits as they are nowadays)? It’s a lot. It’s around £80 BILLION a year. An awful lot of money – and I’m sure we could save some of that, preventing fraudulent claims, tightening rules, that sort of thing. The entire “benefits bill” for Britain each year is around £333bn. So Universal Credit payments make up as much as a quarter of our “benefits bill” Ms Badenoch wants to target, with the Mail’s and Express’ fullthroated support. But as you pick your chin off the floor following that little stat, get this one; the state pension accounts for even MORE of our spend on benefits. Yes, the state pension costs British taxpayers around £146bn a year – around 43% of the total spend. And if you add in other benefits for pensioners, the spend rises to an enormous £177bn – about 55% of the total “benefits bill”. So the state pension is the most expensive benefit we pay for, by a long way. And it is protected by a system which guarantees those costs will rise by at least 2.5% every year, even if wage growth

somersetleveller.co.uk (which pays the taxes to fund it) does not, and even if inflation is lower, meaning the 2.5% increase makes pensioners more wealthy. To be clear, no one at Leveller Towers begrudges pensioners their state pension. Oh no, it’s earned and they should of course receive it and do what they wish with it (even buy cigarettes, or a pint, if that’s their desire). But shouldn’t all benefits enjoy the same protection from becoming worth less in any given year? Shouldn’t a

disingenuous when claiming her Conservatives will carry out a “crackdown” on the £400bn “benefits bill”. In April, Reform UK leader Nigel Farage – to great fanfare – promised what he called the “biggest cuts to the benefits bill ever seen”. (You can almost hear the ‘Hurrah!’ going up in the Mail and Express newsrooms, right?) But, like Ms Badenoch, Mr Farage also pledged to “protect the triple lock”. Later figures from Reform UK said its policies would

disabled person’s benefit payment be worth at least the same from year to year? Alas, dear reader, as mentioned, not all benefits are equal. Earlier, we looked at how much the state pension had risen since 2010, thanks in part to the triple lock. It far outperformed working-age benefits, and even inflation. So pensioners have made money in the last 16 years. Now, that’s not to say the pension is enough, I’m sure it’s not. But someone on working-age benefits has lost a lot of money in that time. Remember, the value of our £100 in working-age benefits now was below the value of our inflation-linked £100. That means anyone on working-age benefits has LOST money over the last 16 years. They are simply poorer. By around £15 a month. That’s a packet of cigarettes, Kemi. But Ms Badenoch is not alone in being somewhat

remove £50bn from the UK “benefits bill” each year. But not from pensions. No, the cuts will all come from the Universal Credit side of the ledger – meaning disability benefits, unemployment benefits, housing benefits, child benefits, or maybe other pensioner benefits (like the £200 Winter Fuel Allowance, or free TV licences perhaps?). Without wanting to get political – both pledges, from the Tories and Reform UK, would require some pretty brutal “slashing” of things like disability benefits and more to have any meaningful impact. Because almost half of the “benefits bill” is not going to be touched. The people who have already become poorer due to belowinflation increases in their benefits, would be set to face more cuts under plans from the Conservatives and Reform UK, potentially even from other parties. Remember, Universal Credit

payments cost us around £80bn a year. Reform UK has pledged to save £50bn from the “benefits bill”. How, exactly, is that going to be possible? So back to those newspapers We opened this piece detailing how the most wellread national newspapers all went crazy when PM Andy Burnham announced he intends to implement a system to reduce the pensions triple lock to a double lock in the next parliament. They went crazy because their readers are largely pensioners who won’t be happy with any plan that might see the increase in their pension – not the pension itself remember – go down. Fair enough. But, and it’s a big ‘but’, we’ve established how the state pension is, by a long way, the most expensive part of our “benefits bill”, with total pensioner benefits accounting for more than half of the whole cost. However, both the Conservatives and Reform UK have pledged not to touch that when launching ‘crackdowns’ on our benefits spending. Why would they do such a thing? Surely, if you want to bring benefits spending down, you need to do something about the largest part of that bill? Well, no, because as well as reading newspapers – older people vote. Turnout data from the 2024 General Election showed more than 9.6 million people aged 65+ voted. 5.7m people aged between 55 and 64 (nearpensioners) turned up to put their X in a box. Combined, those two groups – pensioners and soon-to-be pensioners – accounted for more than 15.3m votes cast. That’s more than all the other groups put together (15.1m). There is your answer as to why Nigel Farage, Kemi Badenoch, and countless others before them, will not go

The Somerset Leveller, October 7, 2026

News

somersetleveller.co.uk anywhere near the most expensive “benefit bill” we have – the triple lock and the state pension. Indeed, we even have evidence of the political impact influencing the opinions of Ms Badenoch in particular. In January 2025, the Conservative leader sparked a row when, questioned on the triple lock during a radio interview, she said the UK should look more at means testing benefits. She promptly ran a mile from her answer in the following hours and days and now, as we have seen, is a firm believer in the triple lock, of course. That’s because in theory, protecting pensioners could win you a general election on its own – so to hell with a “crackdown” on the “benefits bill” as you stride up Downing Street, crypto donation in your back pocket, eh Nige? So why is Burnham doing it? Andy Burnham has decided to actually take on this reality and address the huge – and growing – spend on the state pension, backed up by the triple lock. Whether you agree with it or not, as we’ve seen, there’s no doubt it’s the most effective way of actually bringing down the “benefits bill”, while not cutting the state pension (it just might not increase so much). But if the papers are anything to go by, he faces some strong political headwinds. So why is he doing it – other than the fact it will actually address the ever-increasing “benefits bill”? Others haven’t, over years, despite pledging to bring spending down. Ironically, the Prime Minister’s argument for changing the triple lock is that he needs money to help pay for a new National Care Service – like the NHS, but for social care. It’s ironic because those most vehemently opposing changes to the pension system – pensioners – are also the predominant users of the very

social care system Mr Burnham wants to overhaul and improve. While care for those 65+ may not cost much more than for younger adults (which is funded for longer and is very, very expensive as it can include things like educational support), it is used by around 400,000 people aged 65+ each year in Somerset, compared to around 280,000 people aged 18 to 64. The proposed change to the triple lock – which has been a real boost for the money pensioners receive – is actually intended to benefit them too, mainly. In 2024/25, for example, breaking down government data shows in the Somerset Council area, £147.9m was spent on long-term social care for people aged 65+, compared with £116.4m for all other adults (18 to 64). A difference of more than £30m. (Just for info, the Somerset Council budget shortfall for this year was around £25m) We can’t identify it all, and the fact is the total going on those aged 65+ is likely to be higher than the 56% that represents – despite those people making up around just 24% of the county population. So, what we can say is that people aged 65+ have done well out of the triple lock when compared to anyone else. And they will benefit from where the saved money goes more than anyone else too. The uncomfortable truth – for politicians, pensioners, and yes, for newspaper editors – is that the triple lock is patently unfair, and is responsible for the largest part of the “benefits bill” so loathed by those same politicians, newspapers and in many cases, pensioners! But all is not lost – Andy Burnham’s crazy idea of addressing this unfairness appears to have some crossparty support. Enter Edwina Currie, of all people, who attacked her beloved Conservative Party over their opposition to the PM’s plan. The outspoken former health

minister, hardly a bastion of the left-wing cause having been part of Margaret Thatcher’s Government, said the triple lock “has to go”. “We (Conservatives) should not be campaigning to keep the triple lock,” she said. “Not when old people actually need help with care. Not when (government) spending is already out of control.” And there you have it. Good old Edwina surmises the arguments proposed in this article in three lines. If government spending really is out of control, a traditional attack point for the likes of the small-government Conservatives, the triple lock needs to be looked at – and politicians should be honest with us about it. No one seems to have a problem actually decreasing the value of disability benefits, or unemployment benefits, because those people won’t cost you an election. In those cases, the “benefits bill” is outrageous and needs to be addressed. But when confronted with an actually way to address the growing bill, politicians run a mile, for what can only be attributed – at least in some part – for political reasons. However, another irony is addressing issues with the triple lock – despite what the Mail and the Express tell you – is popular with voters, and has been for a while. (I can’t wait for the Express poll informing us 99.9% of readers think a cut to their benefits is outrageous) In May – long before any of this was on the agenda, or the front pages – a survey by polling company YouGov showed 35% of people supported changing the triple lock to a double lock, with 30% opposed to such a move. A poll after the PM’s speech showed increased support for the plan (43% in favour, 30% opposed). And connecting the triple lock change with contributing funding to a National Care Service – Mr Burnham’s plan – increases support, to 48%,

while the number opposed drops slightly, to 28%. The Prime Minister’s proposals are backed by 66% of Labour voters, 67% of Lib Dems and 58% of Greens, as well as 37% of Tories and 27% of Reform UK voters, YouGov said. That’s as broad an agreement you will get on any policy in the current political climate, which encourages us to oppose ideas simply because of whose mouth it came out of. All things considered, when you boil it down, the triple lock really is bribery politics at its worst. Singling out a particular group of voters for special treatment to the detriment of others, at the cost of the taxpayer. That can’t be good. Or fair. Or a proper way to formulate policy, particularly economic policy, can it? If the state pension needs to increase, then increase it. But currently, the ongoing, compound increases facilitated by the triple lock are growing ever more unaffordable – and to blame ‘benefits’ which have actually decreased in value over the years, and target them for more cuts, while ignoring the most expensive one of all is disingenuous at best, outright cynical and damaging at worst. And it harms people receiving those benefits. No one doubts pensioners need support – and perhaps need more support – but claims they are somehow targeted, when they are the only group to have seen benefits increase (relative to inflation) over the last 16 years, is a disgraceful misrepresentation of the facts. And remember, Mr Burnham’s plan would still ensure an increase of at least 2.5% for state pensions, as the backstop is staying, just as it is now. Just don’t tell the Daily Mail, the Express ‘crusaders’, Kemi Badenoch, or Nigel Farage… They might sell fewer copies and lose some voters. PAUL JONES Editor in Chief

The Somerset Leveller, October 7, 2026

Business, legal & finance

somersetleveller.co.uk

What happens after your offer is accepted?

AVING your offer accepted on a property is an exciting milestone. After searching for the right home and successfully negotiating a price, it can feel as though you are almost at the finish line. However, there are still several important steps to complete before you become the legal owner and can collect the keys. Understanding what happens next can help you feel more prepared and give you a clearer picture of the conveyancing process. Instructing a conveyancer If you have not already done so, one of the first things you should do is instruct a conveyancer. Your conveyancer will manage the legal aspects of the transaction, liaise with the seller's solicitor and guide you through each stage of the purchase. The earlier a conveyancer is instructed; the sooner they can begin work on your behalf. Mortgage and valuation If you are buying with the assistance of a mortgage, your lender will continue processing your application. This usually involves

by Yseult Fell Trainee Solicitor Pardoes Solicitors

assessing your financial circumstances and arranging a valuation of the property. Once approved, the lender will issue a formal mortgage offer. Your conveyancer will review the offer and ensure that any lender requirements are satisfied before completion. Reviewing the legal documents The seller's solicitor will prepare a contract pack and send it to your conveyancer. This typically includes the draft contract, title documents and property information forms completed by the seller. Your conveyancer will carefully review these documents to identify any legal issues that could affect the property or your ownership of it. Searches and enquiries As part of the purchase process, your conveyancer will order a number of searches. These commonly include local authority, drainage and water, and environmental searches. Searches can reveal

important information that may not be apparent from a viewing, such as planning restrictions, flood risks or proposed developments nearby. Once the documents and search results have been reviewed, your conveyancer may raise enquiries with the seller's solicitor. These enquiries are designed to clarify any issues or obtain further information about the property. Exchange of contracts When all enquiries have been satisfactorily answered, searches have been returned and your mortgage offer is in place, your conveyancer will provide you with a report on the property. You will then be asked to sign the contract and arrange for your deposit funds to be transferred. Exchange of contracts is the point at which the transaction becomes legally binding. A completion date will be agreed and both parties are committed to proceeding with the sale and purchase. Completion day On the agreed completion date, the purchase funds are transferred to the seller's

solicitor. Once the funds have been received, ownership of the property passes to you and the keys can be released. Following completion, your conveyancer will deal with the final formalities, including paying any Stamp Duty Land Tax due and registering your ownership with HM Land Registry. Final thoughts While the conveyancing process can take several weeks, each stage is designed to ensure that you are fully informed about the property you are buying and that your interests are protected. If you are planning to purchase a property, obtaining legal advice at an early stage can help the transaction progress as smoothly as possible and give you confidence throughout the process. n The Residential Conveyancing team at Pardoes can support you from the outset, working proactively alongside you, reducing uncertainty, maintaining momentum and supporting a smoother, more confident transaction from start to finish. To get in touch, email enquiries@pardoes.co.uk or call 0800 862 0442.

A family team for a family-run opticians! A BRIGHT future is in sight at a Minehead opticians - and it is a family affair! Cassie Simmonds has taken joint-charge at the Specsavers store in the Parade, with the aim of building on its previous years of caring for the community. With 23 years’ experience with Specsavers, Cassie is linking up with her husband, Simon, who joined the Minehead store last year. "I’m really excited about the future of this store. We want to maintain and build on the recent

years of growth here, demonstrating our desire to bring the best possible service for the people of Minehead," she said. "As a locally-owned and run store, we are really looking forward to being a key part of town’s forward-looking community." Cassie and Simon are accredited as part of the Acute Community Eyecare Schemes, providing free, fast-tracked appointments for sudden, minor eye conditions,

meaning they can provide immediate assessment and treatment for acute, non-lifethreatening eye issues, and by

doing so can lessen the pressure on A&E services. Simon and Cassie’s team will continue to provide eye health services and hearing services. Simon added: "Cassie has so much determination and talent to make the customer experience even more integrated, bringing real benefits to everyone who comes through our door."

The Somerset Leveller, October 7, 2026

Business, legal & finance

somersetleveller.co.uk

Wildcats roaring thanks to kit donation

OUNG footballers in Wellington have taken to the pitch for the new season in new kit thanks to a donation from a housing developer. Bloor Homes has once again sponsored the Wellington Wildcats team with a donation towards new kit for 2026/27 season, following a previous sponsorship in 2024/25. It comes as the firm launched its new Lillebonne Place development of two-, three- and four-bedroom homes in Wellington. Jason Lockyer, a senior site manager overseeing the new development, is also a volunteer coach for the Wildcats, where his daughter plays. He said: "A huge thank you goes to Bloor Homes for backing the girls again this season. Many of them have been playing together since the

U13s sponsorship and it’s great to see their progression. "Having new kits as they grow is really important; it helps them feel valued and ready to take on this next stage of their football journey." Formed in 1892, Wellington AFC runs more than 30 teams across the areas of adult men's and women's football, as well as

youth teams for boys and girls - including the Wildcats. Sara Parker, sales and marketing director for Bloor Homes’ Exeter region, added: "This is a great opportunity to continue our support for the Wildcats, especially with the personal link through Jason and his coaching team. "With the continued growth

of the women’s game, we're proud to help ensure these young players have everything they need to keep enjoying the sport. Good luck to the Wellington Wildcats U15s this season - we're all behind you." n To find out more about Wellington Wildcats girls’ youth teams, visit wellingtonafc.co.uk.

Pardoes are proud to work at the heart of our community, with local families, farmers and business owners across the South West. We’ve been here for over 100 years and will continue for generations to come.

LOOKING AFTER YOU, YOUR FAMILY & YOUR BUSINESS

Agricultural & Farming Law Commercial Property Conveyancing Dispute Resolution Family Law Mergers & Ac#uisitions Personal Injury Wills & Probate Pardoes Solicitors

The Old Post Office, King George Street, Yeovil, BA20 1PT @PardoesSolicitors Tel: 0800 862 0442 pardoes.co.uk

The Somerset Leveller, October 7, 2026

Events

somersetleveller.co.uk

Tasty programme at Wells Food Festival

ASTY treats will be in abundance during the 14th Wells Food Festival, which is set to run on Sunday (October 11). Between 10.30am and 4.30pm, visitors to the city can enjoy a host of free foodie adventures suitable for all the family, celebrating the region's farming and food heritage. New feature areas making their debut in 2026 include Big Nath’s Fire Stage, Swan Green, and Taste of Wells. Jon Abbott, festival director, said: "Wells Food Festival has always been a celebration of the people, producers and flavours that make Somerset special. This year’s new features make it our most exciting programme yet, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone back." At the heart of the event is the Artisan Market, showcasing the region’s finest producers and culinary talent, featuring more

than 200 producers and street‑food stalls across Market Place, Palace Green, the Palace Moat, and the Recreation Ground. Big Nath’s Fire Stage features Bristol barbecue legend Nathan Ritchie, founder of Big Nath’s, who is set to bring the heat with live sessions at 11am, 1pm and 3pm. Swan Green offers a relaxed, "quintessentially English experience", organisers said, with the Palace Moat as a backdrop and featuring street food, beer or cider, and live music. Also in Swan Green is the English Wine Marquee, where visitors can meet vineyard owners, sample wines, or settle in with a glass and enjoy the atmosphere. The Food for Thought marquee, in the Recreation Ground, brings together organisations tackling big issues

Hundreds of stalls are spread around the city centre

such as food waste and food security, with exhibitors including Shepton Waste Action Group, Root Connections, FareShare South West, and The Kitchen Table bookshop’s mobile van. Visitors can also meet Joanna Webster, global ambassador for the World Institute of Kimchi. Also new this year is Table Talk, a series of short talks from organisations in the marquee, featuring a Q&A session with headline sponsor Charlie Bigham at 11.30am and 2.20pm, as well as Wells MP, Tessa Munt, who will be talking about the Good Food Bill at 11am. Families can enjoy the Children’s Zone, where local schools and nurseries host hands‑on, food‑themed

activities, including the Pumpkins Are Not Just for Halloween stall. There’s also an opportunity to become a food detective in the Children’s Trail and embark on a delicious adventure following clues around the festival to help solve a tasty mystery. Little Joe’s Kitchen also returns, with free hands‑on cookery sessions creating Oodles of Noodles. Four 45‑minute sessions - at 10.30am, 11.30am, 1.15pm and 2.15pm - will run throughout the day, with families encouraged to book early at the Recreation Ground. n For more information and timings, visit www. wellsfoodfestival.co.uk.

SOUTH SOMERSET GREEN PARTY invites you to our monthly meetings, held on the 3rd Thursday of the month, at 7pm in the Speedwell Hall, Crewkerne, TA18 7HY JUST MY TYPE. Type 1 Diabetes Peer Support Group. 7pm, 2nd Tuesday every month, The Activity Warehouse, 5 East Quay, Bridgwater, TA6 4DB. Friendly local group for people with Type 1 Diabetes. Real talk Real Support. SHAFTESBURY EMPORIUM Friday 9th & Saturday 10th October 9-4.30pm Town Hall Shaftesbury Lots of locally crafted & consumable items for sale. Free Entry Please bring cash! Supporting DSAA & Weldmar Hospice Next events: 13th & 14th November.

Call us to advertise now:

01963 401177

The Somerset Leveller, October 7, 2026

Events

somersetleveller.co.uk

Show announces a new venue

SPINE-CHILING production has found a new home - in the wake of the shock decision to close a Taunton theatre. After the Taunton Brewhouse announced it would close at the end of October due to financial difficulties, a number of performances were left without a venue. Among them was the Taunton Thespians' production of Shirley Jackson's classic gothic ghost story, The Haunting of Hill House. But now, the group has announced it will be staged at the Queen’s Hall Theatre, at Queen’s College Taunton, from Thursday to Saturday, November 12 to 14. Producer, Nicola Dawson, said: "It has been a wild ride since news broke about the Brewhouse. We’ve been planning this show for months and the Brewhouse feels like

our second home so it was devastating to get the news. "(We) hope that a way forward can be found for the theatre. But in the meantime, everyone in the production has been determined to find a way to save the show. And now we have. "We are looking forward to working with the team at Queen’s Hall Theatre. We hope

AUTUMN 2026

Martock Road, Long Sutton, Langport, TA10 9NT

Includes: • Fabric remnants, dressmaking & upholstery • Haberdashery, tools & books • Yarns, lace & leather • Household linens & vintage • Locally made textile crafts • Good quality pre-loved clothing

Customer Entry fee - £1 In support of Alzheimer’s Society Light refreshments, plenty of FREE parking, level access. For more details or to book a stall Contact JOSLYN BENSON joslynbenson@outlook.com or 07889 73197

theatre lovers will support the move and help celebrate the resilience of community theatre during this challenging time for the arts. The show must go on!" Tickets will be on sale from Queens College and via the Taunton Thespians website and Taunton Visitor Centre, with tickets for the opening night (November 12) offered at a reduced price.

'Exciting' free concert in Westonzoyland MUSIC on the Levels will host a free concert entitled Danza Alta with Rosafresca on Sunday, October 25. St Mary’s Church, in Main Road, Westonzoyland, will be the venue for the performance, which begins at 3pm, with refreshments available for a modest charge from 2.15pm. Bristol-based Rosafresca said the concert will feature music from the 15th and 16th centuries. "For this event we reveal the rich textures and sonorities recreated by period instruments such as vihuela, viola da gamba, recorders, crumhorns and a range of percussion," they said. "Expect the unexpected." The performance will include a variety of works by composers including Francisco de la Torre and the Italian Joan Ambrosio Dalza.

The Somerset Leveller, October 7, 2026

Politics

somersetleveller.co.uk

As darkness falls, the toast is 'slava Ukraini'

ONSTITUENCY work rarely stays within constituency boundaries. However far away a crisis may seem, it always finds its way to your own doorstep, crossing paths with people you would never otherwise have met. Since Putin's illegal invasion of Ukraine, I have hosted two Ukrainian families in my home in Bampton. The connection I made with them, and the similarities we discovered despite coming from completely different backgrounds, is why I continue to support the Ukrainian Government by being a member of UK Parliamentary delegations and a member of the Ukraine All Party Parliamentary Group, which has over 100 MPs as members. It was with that same group of APPG colleagues that I returned to Ukraine again recently, to witness what war has done to a country I have

by Rachel Gilmour Lib Dem MP for Minehead & Tiverton

come to care about deeply. During my visit, I attended the Yalta European Strategy Conference for the third time, alongside speakers from Ukraine, the EU, the UK and the US, offering invaluable insights into the war, from drone technology to defence procurement. The Ukrainian people are brave and resilient. Nearly five years after the full-scale invasion by Putin’s russia, few in the West expected them to withstand the land and air bombardments from the richer, larger and betterprepared russia for one year, never mind over four. The toll on the population is immense. On the streets of Kyiv, the lack of men of fighting age is striking.

Only women, children and the elderly populate the city as they try to go about their daily business in defiance of Putin. As light fades, the yellow and red drone and ballistic missile sirens begin. Darkness descends, and the residents face night after night in the shelters converted from underground car parks and cellars across the city. Those in the high-rise flats which surround the historic and beautiful city centre are most at risk. It's truly humbling to witness their resolve, even their dark humour. Before curfew begins, glasses are raised in the few bars that remain open and "slava Ukraini" is the toast on everyone's lips. This winter is going to be an

enormous challenge, as temperatures plummet and Putin targets Ukrainian energy infrastructure. And yet Ukrainian technology and energy solutions are ready for this. Factors beyond climate change are encouraging Ukrainian businesses and Government to find innovative opportunities and means to repel the russians, on and off the battlefield. Adversity really is the mother of invention. Ukraine is a beautiful country. Her people are an example to the world as they fight for their future and our European democracy. Slava Ukraini. NOTE: "russia" is written without a capital R throughout, intentionally and consistently. The Ukrainians do not use a capital R when writing "russia," as a mark of their contempt for that country.

Motoring

Award recognition for winter roads scheme

ANAGEMENT of Somerset's roads during the winter period has been shortlisted for a national award. Somerset Council and Kier make the list for their new, low-carbon approach to treating roads in wintry weather. The partnership is in line for the Net Zero Project of the Year Award at the 2026 Department for Transport (DfT) Special Recognition Awards. The award recognition is a tribute to an "innovative project that is transforming how winter

maintenance is delivered across Somerset, while significantly reducing carbon emissions", the council said. Combined carbon saving from reduced fuel and salt use for the 20206/2027 season was 70,867 kgCO₂e. The council said the project had "revolutionised Somerset’s winter service by introducing route-based weather forecasting and treatment decisions", meaning gritting and salt treatments are targeted only where needed, reducing unnecessary vehicle

WANTED Classic Cars & Motorbikes For private collection Call 07885 373113 or 01278 431244 Graham

movements, fuel consumption, salt use and associated carbon emissions. The project was led by officers from Somerset Council and Kier, who worked closely with forecasting specialists, operational teams and decisionmakers to move the concept from development to implementation in less than nine months. Councillor Richard Wilkins, lead member for highways and

transport, said: "Being shortlisted for this national award is fantastic recognition of the innovation and collaboration that exists across Somerset’s highways service. This project demonstrates how we can continue to provide a safe and reliable road network while supporting Somerset Council’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions. "By embracing new technology, data and partnership working, we have shown that environmental improvements and excellent public services can go hand in hand. I would like to congratulate everyone involved in this achievement, particularly the officers, whose dedication has helped turn an ambitious idea into a successful operational reality."

The Somerset Leveller, October 7, 2026

Public Notices

somersetleveller.co.uk

somersetleveller.co.uk/publicnotices TRAFFIC NOTICES (NORTH) Somerset Council Parish of Goathurst Temporary Closure of Park Lane Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Park Lane - from 347 metres south-east of the junction with Road Through Goathurst , southwards for a total distance of 101 metres. This Order will enable Wessex Water to install a stop tap. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 26th October 2026 and last until 30th October 2026 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 5 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151556697 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Wessex Water on telephone number 0345 600 4600 quoting reference number ttro056766N. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Shapwick Temporary Closure of Bridewell Lane Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, have made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Bridewell Lane - from 42 metres east of the junction with Timberyard, eastwards for a total distance of 51 metres. This Order will enable Wessex Water to carry out interim to permanent patching works. The Order becomes effective on 7th October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 14th October 2026 and last until 14th October 2026 between the hours of 09:30 - 15:30 for a total of 6 hours. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151266797 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Wessex Water on telephone number 0345 600 3600 quoting reference number ttro316373N. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Enmore Temporary Closure of Enmore Road Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Enmore Road - from 193 metres east of the junction with Andersfield Road, eastwards for a total distance of 1116 metres. This Order will enable Kiely Bros to carry out pre-surface dressing patching works on behalf of Somerset Highways. Solid diamond symbolization will be used on the diversion route and will not clash with any other Kiely Bros works within the area. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 26th October 2026 and last until 30th October 2026 between the hours of 09:30 - 15:30 for a total of 5 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151664868 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Kiely Bros on telephone number 0121 772 3800 quoting reference number ttro110267N. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Burnham-on-Sea and Highbridge Temporary Closure of Parnell Way and Gardenhurst Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, have made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Parnell Way - from the junction with Rectory Road, southwards for a distance of 102 metres; and Gardenhurst - from the junction with Parnell Way, southwestwards for a distance of 18 metres. A total distance of 120 metres. This Order will enable Kiely Bros to carry out micro-resurfacing works on behalf of Somerset Council. The Order becomes effective on 7th October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 13th October 2026 and last until 17th October 2026 between the hours of 07:00 - 19:00 for a total of 5 days. There is no alternative route for this closure. The works promoter will contact residents and businesses directly to discuss access arrangements. Please visit https://one.network/? tm=GB151502120 for further information. For information about the works being carried out please contact Kiely Bros on telephone number 0121 772 3800 quoting reference number ttro323301N. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of East Huntspill Temporary Closure of Newbridge Lane Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Newbridge Lane - from the junction with New Road, northwards for a total distance of 291 metres. This Order will enable Morrison Telecom Services to carry out poling works on behalf of Openreach. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 28th October 2026 and last until 28th October 2026 between the hours of 08:00 - 18:00 for a total of 10 hours. There is no alternative route for this closure. The works promoter will contact residents and businesses directly to discuss access arrangements. Please visit https://one.network/? tm=GB151548253 for further information. For information about the works being carried out please contact Barr Engineering Services on telephone number 0794 462 5140 quoting reference number ttro152846N. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Bridgwater Temporary Closure of Cornborough Place Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Cornborough Place - from 14 metres north-east of the junction with Wellington Road, north-eastwards for a total distance of 41 metres. This Order will enable Network Plus to carry out linkbox change works on behalf of National Grid. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 28th October 2026 and last until 30th October 2026 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 3 days. There is no alternative route for this closure. The works promoter will contact residents and businesses directly to discuss access arrangements. Please visit https://one.network/? tm=GB151339700 for further information. For information about the works being carried out please contact National Grid on telephone number 01823 348605 quoting reference number ttro326854N. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of North Petherton Temporary Closure of Road From Dancing Hill Through Woolmersdon and Woolmersdon Road Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, have made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Road From Dancing Hill Through Woolmersdon - from 315 metres north-west of the junction with Balls Lane, north-eastwards incorporating Woolmersdon Road, for a total distance of 537 metres. This Order will enable Proconect DMT to carry out ducting and cabling works on behalf of Openreach. The Order becomes effective on 7th October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 12th October 2026 and last until 21st October 2026 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 10 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151341112 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Proconect DMT on telephone number 0737 845 0428 quoting reference number ttro265694N. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Wedmore Temporary Closure of Road Between Heath House And Junction With Sand Road Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Road Between Heath House And Junction With Sand Road - from the junction with Sand Road, westwards for a total distance of 386 metres. This Order will enable Southwest Overhead Services to replace a pole on behalf of Openreach. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 26th October 2026 and last until 29th October 2026 between the hours of 08:00 - 18:00 for a total of 4 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151628921 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Circet on telephone number 0797 114 2611 quoting reference number ttro340897N. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

The Somerset Leveller, October 7, 2026

Public Notices

somersetleveller.co.uk

somersetleveller.co.uk/publicnotices TRAFFIC NOTICES (NORTH) Somerset Council Parish of Burnham-on-Sea and Highbridge Temporary Closure of Golf Links Road Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, have made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Golf Links Road - from 55 metres south of the junction with Saxondale Avenue, westwards for a total distance of 80 metres. This Order will enable Kiely Bros to carry out micro-resurfacing works on behalf of Somerset Council. The Order becomes effective on 7th October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 13th October 2026 and last until 17th October 2026 between the hours of 07:00 - 19:00 for a total of 5 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151507766 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Kiely Bros on telephone number 0121 772 3800 quoting reference number ttro343086N. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Wedmore Temporary Closure of Lane Between West Stoughton And Middle Stoughton Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, have made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Lane Between West Stoughton And Middle Stoughton - from 275 metres north-east of the junction with Lane Between West Stoughton And Ashton, north-eastwards for a total distance of 144 metres. This Order will enable Bristol Water to carry out works to install new water supply. The Order becomes effective on 7th October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 13th October 2026 and last until 15th October 2026 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 3 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151586103 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Bristol Water on telephone number 0345 702 3797 quoting reference number ttro627242N. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Bridgwater Temporary Closure of East Quay Cycle Lane Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, have made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: East Quay Cycle Lane - from the junction with Town Bridge to the junction with Watsons Lane. A total distance of 79 metres. This Order will enable Wales & West Utilities to carry out gas safety regulation disconnection works. The Order becomes effective on 7th October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 12th October 2026 and last until 16th October 2026 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 5 days. There is no alternative route for this closure. The works promoter will contact residents and businesses directly to discuss access arrangements. Please visit https://one.network/? tm=GB152138442 for further information. For information about the works being carried out please contact Wales & West Utilities on telephone number 0292 010 2441 quoting reference number ttro424459N. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Chilton Polden Temporary Closure of Chilton Road Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, have made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Chilton Road - from 146 metres north-east of the junction with Dole Lane, northwards for a total distance of 644 metres. This Order will enable Proconect DMT to carry out ducting and cabling works on behalf of Openreach. The Order becomes effective on 7th October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 12th October 2026 and last until 19th October 2026 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 8 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151491327 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Proconect DMT on telephone number 0737 845 0428 quoting reference number ttro651158N. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Bridgwater Temporary Closure of Hawkridge Road Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, have made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Hawkridge Road - from the junction with Holford Road, southwards for a total distance of 93 metres. This Order will enable Wessex Water to carry out new connection works. The Order becomes effective on 7th October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 12th October 2026 and last until 16th October 2026 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 5 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151255529 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Wessex Water on telephone number 0345 600 3600 quoting reference number ttro506696N. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Mark Temporary Closure of The Causeway Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: The Causeway - from 166 metres west of the junction with Yarrow Road, westwards for a total distance of 297 metres. This Order will enable Bristol Water to carry out new supply works. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 26th October 2026 and last until 28th October 2026 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 3 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB152400469 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Bristol Water on telephone number 0345 702 3797 quoting reference number ttro661519N. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of North Petherton Temporary Closure of Banklands Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Banklands - from 100 metres east of the junction with Maunsel Road, eastwards for a total distance of 45 metres. This Order will enable Circet UK to replace a pole on behalf of Openreach. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 29th October 2026 and last until 30th October 2026 between the hours of 08:00 - 17:00 for a total of 2 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151605783 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Circet UK on telephone number 0797 114 2611 quoting reference number ttro523507N. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Wembdon Temporary Closure of Wembdon Hill Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Wembdon Hill - from the junction with Skimmerton Lane to the junction with Moores Lane. A total distance of 560 metres. This Order will enable Openreach to carry out cabling works. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 26th October 2026 and last until 26th October 2026 between the hours of 09:30 - 15:30 for a total of 6 hours. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151651115 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Sunbelt Rentals on telephone number 0370 050 0792 quoting reference number ttro677330N. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

The Somerset Leveller, October 7, 2026

Public Notices

somersetleveller.co.uk

somersetleveller.co.uk/publicnotices TRAFFIC NOTICES (NORTH)

TRAFFIC NOTICES (NORTH)

Somerset Council Parish of Bridgwater Temporary Closure of Bath Road Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, have made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Bath Road - from 22 metres north-east of the junction with Rosebery Avenue, north-eastwards for a total distance of 23 metres. This Order will enable Circet UK to replace a pole on behalf of Openreach. The Order becomes effective on 7th October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 18th October 2026 and last until 18th October 2026 between the hours of 09:30 - 13:30 for a total of 4 hours. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151326934 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Circet UK on telephone number 0800 085 9194 quoting reference number ttro796402N. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of North Petherton Temporary Closure of Bridgwater Road Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Bridgwater Road - from the junction with Old Road, north-eastwards for a total distance of 372 metres. This Order will enable Kiely Bros to carry out pre-surface dressing patching works on behalf of Somerset Council. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 27th October 2026 and last until 31st October 2026 between the hours of 19:00 - 23:30 for a total of 5 evenings. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB152467795 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Kiely Bros on telephone number 0121 772 3800 quoting reference number ttro998631N. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Cheddar Temporary Closure of Comer Road Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, have made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Comer Road - from the junction with Wideatts Road to the junction with Southfield. A total distance of 224 metres. This Order will enable Kiely Bros to carry out micro-resurfacing works on behalf of Somerset Council. The Order becomes effective on 7th October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 13th October 2026 and last until 17th October 2026 between the hours of 07:00 - 19:00 for a total of 5 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151501670 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Kiely Bros on telephone number 0121 772 3800 quoting reference number ttro800073N. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

TRAFFIC NOTICES (SOUTH)

Somerset Council Parishes of Middlezoy, Greinton and Moorlinch Temporary Closure of Glastonbury Road and Taunton Road Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Taunton Road - from 25 metres west of the junction with Greinton Road, south-westwards incorporating Glastonbury Road for a total distance of 2910 metres. This Order will enable Kiely Bros to carry out pre-surface dressing patching works on behalf of Somerset Council. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 28th October 2026 and last until 3rd November 2026 between the hours of 19:00 - 05:00 for a total of 6 nights. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151666853 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Kiely Bros on telephone number 0121 772 3800 quoting reference number ttro901354N. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works. Somerset Council Parish of Puriton Temporary Closure of Batch Road Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Batch Road - from 705 metres north of the junction with Rye, northwards for a total distance of 282 metres. This Order will enable Wessex Water to carry out new connection works. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 26th October 2026 and last until 31st October 2026 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 6 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB150796752 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Wessex Water on telephone number 0345 600 4600 quoting reference number ttro970211N. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Long Sutton Temporary Closure of Longmarsh Lane Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Longmarsh Lane - from the junction with Burnt House Lane, southwards for a total distance of 41 metres. This Order will enable Safer Roadworks to carry out a bridge inspection on behalf of Network Rail. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 26th October 2026 and last until 27th October 2026 between the hours of 22:00 - 06:00 for a total of 1 night. There is no alternative route for this closure. The works promoter will contact residents and businesses directly to discuss access arrangements. Please visit https://one.network/? tm=GB151663144 for further information. For information about the works being carried out please contact Safer Roadworks on telephone number 0757 271 0214 quoting reference number ttro046437S. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works. Somerset Council Parish of Merriott Temporary Closure of Merriott Road and Haselbury Road Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Merriott Road - from the junction with Lower Street, south-eastwards for a distance of 359 metres; and Haselbury Road - from the junction with Merriott Road, eastwards for a distance of 4 metres for a total distance of 363 metres. This Order will enable Openreach to carry out cabling works. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 26th October 2026 and last until 30th October 2026 between the hours of 09:30 - 15:30 for a total of 5 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151967862 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Sunbelt Rentals on telephone number 0370 050 0792 quoting reference number ttro324402S. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

INTRODUCE YOUR BUSINESS TO

50,000 READERS

01963 401177

adverts@somersetleveller.co.uk

The Somerset Leveller, October 7, 2026

Public Notices

somersetleveller.co.uk

somersetleveller.co.uk/publicnotices TRAFFIC NOTICES (SOUTH) Somerset Council Parish of Closworth Temporary Closure of Sutton Hill Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Sutton Hill - from the junction with Sutton Bingham Church Lane, north-eastwards for a total distance of 380 metres. This Order will enable Xeiad to carry out detailed bridge inspection works on behalf of Network Rail. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 28th October 2026 and last until 29th October 2026 between the hours of 22:00 - 06:00 for a total of 1 night. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151519343 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Safer Roadworks on telephone number 0757 271 0214 quoting reference number ttro416406S. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Horsington Temporary Closure of Lower Road Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Lower Road - from the junction with Lower Lodge Road, northwards for a total distance of 85 metres. This Order will enable Wessex Water to renew a stop tap. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 27th October 2026 and last until 29th October 2026 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 3 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151337514 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Wessex Water on telephone number 0345 600 3600 quoting reference number ttro632184S. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Compton Dundon Temporary Closure of Peak Lane Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Peak Lane - from 155 metres west of the junction with Somerton Road, westwards for a total distance of 211 metres. This Order will enable Openreach to carry out cabling works. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 26th October 2026 and last until 5th November 2026 between the hours of 21:00 - 06:00 for a total of 10 nights. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151659677 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Sunbelt Rentals on telephone number 0370 050 0792 quoting reference number ttro478600S. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Yeovil Temporary Closure of Mudford Road Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Mudford Road - from 178 metres north of the junction with Sparrow Road, northwards for a total distance of 115 metres. This Order will enable Wessex Water to replace a communication pipe relay. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 26th October 2026 and last until 30th October 2026 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 5 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151883057 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Wessex Water on telephone number 0345 600 3600 quoting reference number ttro858429S. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Yeovil Temporary Closure of Hendford Grove Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Hendford Grove - from the junction with Hendford, westwards for a total distance of 39 metres. This Order will enable Openreach to clear a blockage. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 27th October 2026 and last until 27th October 2026 between the hours of 09:30 - 15:30 for a total of 6 hours. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151599508 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Subelt Rentals on telephone number 0370 050 0792 quoting reference number ttro562869S. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Barton St. David Temporary Closure of High Lane Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: High Lane - from the junction with Broadclose Way to the junction with Fairview Close. A total distance of 159 metres. This Order will enable Network Plus to carry out high voltage reinforcement scheme works on behalf of National Grid. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 26th October 2026 and last until 30th October 2026 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 5 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151990996 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact National Grid on telephone number 01823 348575 quoting reference number ttro906578S. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

50,000 readers could be

Somerset Council Parish of Yeovilton and District Temporary Closure of Church Street and Podimore Lane Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Church Street - from 20 metres south of the junction with Podimore Road, southwards incorporating Podimore Lane, for a total distance of 452 metres. This Order will enable Wessex Water to carry out manhole cover and sewer repair works. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 28th October 2026 and last until 30th October 2026 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 3 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151644214 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Wessex Water on telephone number 0345 600 4600 quoting reference number ttro689594S. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

looking at your advert right now

YOUR BUSINESS HERE

The Somerset Leveller, October 7, 2026

Public Notices

somersetleveller.co.uk

somersetleveller.co.uk/publicnotices TRAFFIC NOTICES (EAST) Somerset Council Parish of Ashwick Temporary Closure of Chapel Lane To Stockhill Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Chapel Lane To Stockhill - from 56 metres east of the junction with Grunters Lane, eastwards for a total distance of 136 metres. This Order will enable Wessex Water to replace a cover and frame. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 27th October 2026 and last until 29th October 2026 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 3 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151715232 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Wessex Water on telephone number 0345 600 4600 quoting reference number ttro033525E. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works. Somerset Council Parish of Frome Temporary Closure of Pinmore Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, have made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Pinmore - from 50 metres north-west of the junction with Cabell Road, westwards for a total distance of 27 metres. This Order will enable OCU Group to rectify a defect on behalf of Scottish and Southern Power Distribution. The Order becomes effective on 7th October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 12th October 2026 and last until 14th October 2026 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 3 days. There is no alternative route for this closure. The works promoter will contact residents and businesses directly to discuss access arrangements. Please visit https://one.network/? tm=GB152033899 for further information. For information about the works being carried out please contact OCU Group on telephone number 0333 200 0011 quoting reference number ttro107078E. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works. Somerset Council Parish of Godney Temporary Closure of Upper Godney Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Upper Godney - from 375 metres west of the junction with Yeaps Drove, westwards for a total distance of 61 metres. This Order will enable Network Plus to replace concrete channel on behalf of Bristol Water. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 26th October 2026 and last until 27th October 2026 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 2 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151373529 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Bristol Water on telephone number 0345 702 3797 quoting reference number ttro150623E. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works. Somerset Council Parish of Lamyatt Temporary Closure of Portway Hill To Waddon Farm Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Portway Hill To Waddon Farm - from 35 metres south-west of the junction with Taddywood Lane, south-westwards for a total distance of 85 metres. This Order will enable Southwest Overhead Services to renew a pole on behalf of Openreach. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 1st November 2026 and last until 4th November 2026 between the hours of 08:00 - 18:00 for a total of 4 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151645025 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Circet on telephone number 0800 085 9194 quoting reference number ttro185906E. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of East Pennard Temporary Closure of Stone Lane Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, have made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Stone Lane - from 740 metres south-east of the junction with Lottisham Road, eastwards for a total distance of 570 metres. This Order will enable Southwest Overhead Services Ltd to carry out pole replacement works on behalf of Openreach. The Order becomes effective on 7th October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 13th October 2026 and last until 14th October 2026 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 2 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151354527 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Circet TM on telephone number 0797 114 2611 quoting reference number ttro198414E. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Evercreech Temporary Closure of Weston Town Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Weston Town - from 75 metres south-west of the junction with Beech Way, south-westwards for a total distance of 51 metres. This Order will enable Southwest Overhead Services to replace a pole on behalf of Openreach. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 26th October 2026 and last until 27th October 2026 between the hours of 08:00 - 18:00 for a total of 2 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151582580 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Circet TM on telephone number 0797 114 2611 quoting reference number ttro255786E. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Frome Temporary Closure of Wellow Drive Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, have made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Wellow Drive - from 18 metres north of the junction with Brunel Way, north-westwards for a total distance of 41 metres. This Order will enable Wessex Water to replace a cover and frame. The Order becomes effective on 7th October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 12th October 2026 and last until 12th October 2026 between the hours of 09:00 - 16:00 for a total of 7 hours. There is no alternative route for this closure. The works promoter will contact residents and businesses directly to discuss access arrangements. Please visit https://one.network/? tm=GB151257454 for further information. For information about the works being carried out please contact Wessex Water on telephone number 0345 600 3600 quoting reference number ttro370406E. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Keeping you informed

on local development

The Somerset Leveller, October 7, 2026

Public Notices

somersetleveller.co.uk

somersetleveller.co.uk/publicnotices TRAFFIC NOTICES (EAST) Somerset Council Parish of Stoke St. Michael Temporary Closure of Tadhill Lane Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Tadhill Lane - from 433 metres north-west of the junction with Old Wells Road To Tadhill Lane, north-westwards for a total distance of 131 metres. This Order will enable Morrison Telecom Services to replace a pole on behalf of Openreach. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 28th October 2026 and last until 28th October 2026 between the hours of 08:00 - 18:00 for a total of 10 hours. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151548044 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Barr Engineering Services on telephone number 0794 462 5140 quoting reference number ttro385975E. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Beckington Temporary Closure of Church Hill Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Church Hill - from 135 metres south-east of the junction with Bath Road, south-eastwards for a total distance of 23 metres. This Order will enable Network Plus to replace a leaking fire hydrant on behalf of Bristol Water. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 28th October 2026 and last until 30th October 2026 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 3 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB152376176 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Bristol Water on telephone number 0345 702 3797 quoting reference number ttro672523E. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Shepton Mallet Temporary Closure of Cowl Street Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Cowl Street - from the junction with Tipcote Lane to the juction with Longbridge. A total distance of 9 metres. This Order will enable Wales & West Utilities to carry out main replacement works. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 26th October 2026 and last until 30th October 2026 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 5 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB150717978 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Wales & West Utilities on telephone number 0800 912 2999 quoting reference number ttro410359E. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Baltonsborough Temporary Closure of Martin Street Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Martin Street - from 25 metres northwest of the junction with Lubborn Lane, north-westwards for a total distance of 23 metres. This Order will enable Bristol Water to carry out replacement of 2 stop taps with concrete plinths. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 27th October 2026 and last until 29th October 2026 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 3 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB150947111 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Bristol Water on telephone number 0345 7023797 quoting reference number ttro831540E. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parishes of Holcombe and Coleford Temporary Closure of Charlton Road Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, have made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Charlton Road - from the junction with Dark Lane, northwards for a total distance of 704 metres. This Order will enable Morrison Telecom Services to replace poles on behalf of Openreach. The Order becomes effective on 7th October 2026 and will remain in force for eighteen months. The works are expected to commence on 16th October 2026 and last until 16th October 2026 between the hours of 08:00 - 18:00 for a total of 10 hours. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151496868 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Barr Engineering Services on telephone number 0794 462 5140 quoting reference number ttro480547E. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Frome Temporary Closure of Oakfield Road Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Oakfield Road - from the junction with Nunney Road, northwards for a total distance of 77 metres. This Order will enable Network Plus to replace a loose frame and cover on behalf of Bristol Water. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 27th October 2026 and last until 28th October 2026 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 2 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB150688561 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Bristol Water on telephone number 0345 702 3797 quoting reference number ttro938968E. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Frome Temporary Closure of The Mount Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: The Mount - from the junction with Dragonfly Close, southwards for a total distance of 219 metres. This Order will enable Network Plus to lay main and make connection on behalf of Bristol Water. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 26th October 2026 and last until 30th October 2026 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 5 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB150696121 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Bristol Water on telephone number 0345 702 3797 quoting reference number ttro495150E. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Frome Temporary Closure of Orchard Street Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, have made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Orchard Street - from 23 metres south west of the junction with Trinity Row, south-westwards for a total distance of 26 metres. This Order will enable Bristol Water to carry out lead pipe replacement works. The Order becomes effective on 7th October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 12th October 2026 and last until 14th October 2026 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 3 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151486967 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Bristol Water on telephone number 0345 702 3797 quoting reference number ttro949869E. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

The Somerset Leveller, October 7, 2026

Public Notices

somersetleveller.co.uk

somersetleveller.co.uk/publicnotices TRAFFIC NOTICES (EAST)

TRAFFIC NOTICES (WEST)

Somerset Council Parish of Evercreech Temporary Closure of Queens Road, Shapway Lane and Victoria Lane Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Queens Road (27/10/2026 - 02/11/2026) - from the junction with Victoria Square, north-eastwards incorporating Shapway Lane (27/10/2026 02/11/2026), for a distance of 643 metres; and Victoria Lane (26/10/2026) - from 20 metres south-west of the junction with Victoria Square, south-westwards for a distance of 133 metres. A total distance of 776 metres. This Order will enable SAS Utilities to carry out phased ducting works on behalf of Gigaclear. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 26th October 2026 and last until 2nd November 2026 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 8 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151685016 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact SAS Utilities on telephone number 0797 602 0618 quoting reference number ttro414128E. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Nettlecombe Temporary Closure of Woodford Road Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, have made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Woodford Road - from the junction with Fair Cross To Sticklepath to the junction with Nettlecombe Park Road. A total distance of 1565 metres. This Order will enable Circet Uk to carry out overhead cabling and splicing works on behalf of Openreach. The Order becomes effective on 07th October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 12th October 2026 and last until 16th October 2026 between the hours of 08:00 - 18:00 for a total of 5 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151307434 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Circet UK on telephone number 0800 085 9194 quoting reference number ttro001002W(WS). Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Kilmersdon Temporary Closure of Charlton Park Road, Charlton Park Road Spur and School Lane Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Charlton Park Road - from the junction with Kilmersdon Hill, north-eastwards for a distance of 93 metres; Charlton Park Road Spur - from the junction with Kilmersdon Hill, north-westwards for a distance of 48 metres; and School Lane from the junction with Kilmersdon Hill, north-eastwards for a distance of 447 metres. A total distance of 588 metres. This Order will enable Proconect DMT to build new carriageway, verge joint box and lay duct on behalf of Openreach. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 29th October 2026 and last until 11th November 2026 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 14 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151829827 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Proconect DMT on telephone number 0737 845 0428 quoting reference number ttro750991E. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works. Somerset Council Keen’s Elm Lane, Street In The Parish of Street (Temporary Traffic Restrictions) Order 2026 Notice is hereby given that on the 2nd day of October 2026 Somerset Council made the above Order in exercise of the provisions of Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984, as previously advertised on the 23rd day of September 2026, to introduce temporary traffic restrictions on the road specified in the Schedules below. This Order will come into operation on the 7th day of October 2026 and will remain in force for eighteen months. The restrictions are expected to commence on the 13th day of October 2026 to the 3rd day of November 2026 (between 0000 hours and 2359 hours) to prevent the inappropriate use of alternative routes during the temporary closure of the B3151 Somerton Road. The restrictions will only apply when indicated by traffic signs. Exemptions will be made in the Order for emergency service vehicles and for access purposes. A copy of the draft Traffic Regulation Order and the associated plans can be examined at www.somerset.gov.uk/TRO. Please visit www.one.network for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Brandwells Construction by telephone on 07384 816952. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Schedule 1 Temporary 7.5 Tonne Weight Restriction Keen’s Elm Lane, Street - For its entire length Schedule 2 Temporary 2.0 Metre Width Restriction Keen’s Elm Lane, Street - For its entire length Statement of reasons for proposing to make the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

YOUR BUSINESS HERE

01963 401177 | adverts@somersetleveller.co.uk

Somerset Council Parish of Chipstable Temporary Closure of Chipstable Road Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Chipstable Road - from 377 metres north-west of the junction with Waterrow Road, north-westwards for a total distance of 148 metres. This Order will enable DL Circet Poling to carry out pole replacement works on behalf of Openreach. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 27th October 2026 and last until 28th October 2026 between the hours of 08:00 - 18:00 for a total of 2 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151639466 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Circet TM on telephone number 0797 114 2611 quoting reference number ttro022809W(TD). Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Take your business to new heights! Call us to advertise on

01963 401177

Contd on page 32....

The Somerset Leveller, October 7, 2026

Your Pictures

somersetleveller.co.uk

A fleeing pheasant at Longrun Meadow, Taunton, by Felix Andrews

Quiet times and fairground rides

The sun shining on Minehead lifeboat station, by Ren Blunden

On the Level at Burrow Mump, by Maggie Whitlock

The Somerset Leveller, October 7, 2026 somersetleveller.co.uk

Your Pictures

Fun in motion at Bridgwater Fair, by Sam Greenham

Cultural busking at Frome Independent Market, by Debbie Hawkes

Staring contest, by Carrie Griffiths

The Somerset Leveller, October 7, 2026

Public Notices

somersetleveller.co.uk

somersetleveller.co.uk/publicnotices TRAFFIC NOTICES (WEST) Somerset Council Parish of Chipstable Temporary Closure of Oldway Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Oldway - from the junction with Little Wilscombe Lane, southwards for a total distance of 178 metres. This Order will enable Circet UK to replace a pole on behalf of Openreach. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 28th October 2026 and last until 29th October 2026 between the hours of 08:00 - 18:00 for a total of 2 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151641682 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Circet UK on telephone number 0800 085 9194 quoting reference number ttro057577W(TD). Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Nynehead Temporary Closure of Nynehead Hollow Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, have made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Nynehead Hollow - from the junction with Luckham Bridge Road, south-westwards for a total distance of 63 metres. This Order will enable Circet UK to carry out cabling works on behalf of Openreach. The Order becomes effective on 7th October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 12th October 2026 and last until 14th October 2026 between the hours of 08:00 - 18:00 for a total of 3 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151392022 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Circet on telephone number 0800 085 9194 quoting reference number ttro140843W(TD). Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Brompton Ralph Temporary Closure of Brompton Ralph To Gandstone Cross Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Brompton Ralph To Gandstone Cross - from the eastern junction with Post Office To Church, south-eastwards for a total distance of 199 metres. This Order will enable DL Circet Poling to carry out pole replacement works on behalf of Openreach. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 27th October 2026 and last until 28th October 2026 between the hours of 08:00 - 18:00 for a total of 2 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151640182 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Circet UK on telephone number 0800 085 9194 quoting reference number ttro068965W(WS). Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Exton Temporary Closure of Stone Lane Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Stone Lane - from 953 metres north-east of the junction with Wheddon Cross To Bridgetown, north-eastwards for a total distance of 21 metres. This Order will enable Circet UK to replace a pole on behalf of Openreach. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 26th October 2026 and last until 28th October 2026 between the hours of 08:00 - 17:00 for a total of 3 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151592232 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Circet UK on telephone number 0800 085 9194 quoting reference number ttro148300W(WS). Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Dulverton Temporary Closure of Battleton and Station Road Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Battleton - from the junction with Andrews Hill, south-eastwards incorporating Station Road to the junction with Ellersdown Lane. A total distance of 2080 metres. This Order will enable Dunmore SW to lay duct on behalf of Openreach. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 26th October 2026 and last until 28th October 2026 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 3 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB150341098 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Circet TM on telephone number 0797 114 2611 quoting reference number ttro116602W(WS). Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Stogumber Temporary Closure of Station Road Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, have made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Station Road - from the junction with Shute Street, eastwards for a total distance of 92 metres. This Order will enable Wessex Water to renew a stop tap. The Order becomes effective on 7th October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 12th October 2026 and last until 16th October 2026 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 5 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151278811 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Wessex Water on telephone number 0345 600 4600 quoting reference number ttro160439W(TD). Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Taunton Temporary Closure of Charles Crescent and Orchard Way Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Charles Crescent - from the junction with Orchard Way, for its entire length; and Orchard Way - from the junction with Bridgwater Road to the junction with Blenheim Road. A total distance of 518 metres. This Order will enable Kiely Bros to carry out micro-resurfacing works on behalf of Somerset Council. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 27th October 2026 and last until 3rd November 2026 between the hours of 07:00 - 19:00 for a total of 8 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151510269 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Kiely Bros on telephone number 0121 772 3800 quoting reference number ttro123882W(TD). Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Taunton Temporary Closure of Dowell Close Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, have made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Dowell Close - from the junction with Bindon Road, northwards for a total distance of 54 metres. This Order will enable Gadd Properties Ltd to install new sewer supply and chamber. The Order becomes effective on 7th October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 12th October 2026 and last until 16th October 2026 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 5 days. There is no alternative route for this closure. The works promoter will contact residents and businesses directly to discuss access arrangements. Please visit https://one.network/? tm=GB152206414 for further information. For information about the works being carried out please contact Greenlight Highways on telephone number 0800 804 4612 quoting reference number ttro164373W(TD). Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

The Somerset Leveller, October 7, 2026

Public Notices

somersetleveller.co.uk

somersetleveller.co.uk/publicnotices TRAFFIC NOTICES (WEST) Somerset Council Parish of Norton Fitzwarren Temporary Closure of Langford Lane Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, have made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Langford Lane - from the junction with Minehead Road, north-eastwards for a total distance of 368 metres. This Order will enable Wessex Water to carry out Sewer rehabilitation works. The Order becomes effective on 7th October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 12th October 2026 and last until 30th October 2026 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 19 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB150597035 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Wessex Water on telephone number 0345 600 4600 quoting reference number ttro167349W(TD). Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Taunton Temporary Closure of Yarde Place Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, have made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Yarde Place - from the junction with Wood Street, for its entire length. A total distance of 131 metres. This Order will enable Kiely Bros to carry out micro-resurfacing works on behalf of Somerset Council. The Order becomes effective on 7th October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 15th October 2026 and last until 19th October 2026 between the hours of 07:00 - 19:00 for a total of 5 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151523997 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Kiely Bros on telephone number 0121 772 3800 quoting reference number ttro210716W(TD). Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Taunton Temporary Closure of Clarence Street Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Clarence Street - from the junction with Cleveland Street to the junction with Portland Street. A total distance of 54 metres. This Order will enable Gardiners to carry out flood prevention works. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 26th October 2026 and last until 9th November 2026 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 15 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB152077793 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Doocey Traffic Management on telephone number 0145 388 4848 quoting reference number ttro176749W(TD). Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Brushford Temporary Closure of Brushford New Road To Langaller Hill, Nightcott Lane and Langaller Hill Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Brushford New Road To Langaller Hill (29th October 2026 - 4th November 2026) - from the junction with Nightcott Lane, eastwards for a distance of 192 metres; Nightcott Lane (29th October 2026 - 4th November 2026) - from the junction with Langaller Hill, westwards for a distance of 380 metres; and Langaller Hill (5th November 2026 - 11th November 2026) - from the junction with Nightcott Lane to the junction with Dennington Lane. A total distance of 2542 metres. This Order will enable Nexion Services Ltd to carry out phased cabling works on behalf of Openreach. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 29th October 2026 and last until 11th November 2026 between the hours of 08:00 - 18:00 for a total of 14 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151770030 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Circet TM on telephone number 0797 114 2611 quoting reference number ttro929915W(WS). Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Crowcombe Temporary Closure of Station Road Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, have made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Station Road - from the junction with Flaxpool Hill, south-westwards for a total distance of 711 metres. This Order will enable Circet UK Ltd to carry out pole replacement works on behalf of Openreach. The Order becomes effective on 7th October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 14th October 2026 and last until 15th October 2026 between the hours of 08:00 - 18:00 for a total of 2 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB150646150 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Circet UK Ltd on telephone number 0800 0859194 quoting reference number ttro177683W(WS). Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works. Somerset Council Parish of Taunton Temporary Closure of Normandy Drive Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, have made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Normandy Drive - from the north-western junction with Lisieux Way to the south-eastern junction with Lisieux Way. A total distance of 629 metres. This Order will enable Kiely Bros to carry out micro-resurfacing works on behalf of Somerset Council. The Order becomes effective on 07th October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 15th October 2026 and last until 19th October 2026 between the hours of 07:00 - 19:00 for a total of 5 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151522351 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Kiely Bros on telephone number 0121 772 3800 quoting reference number ttro207037W(TD). Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

fo Advertise

r a Little,

Sell for

a Lot!

£12 t inc. va

Need to sell an item worth

£50 - £500?

Get up to 12 words of prime ad space for just £12 inc. VAT

Turn your items into cash today!

Tel: 01963 401177

Call us to advertise now:

01963 401177

Contd on page 36....

The Somerset Leveller, October 7, 2026

The Somerset

LEVELLER

Z 10

Crossword

Arrow words

1 2

Samba relative (5,4)

Clothing fastener

Roman god of war

Abstruse

Lubricate

Berserk

Sixty seconds

Thai money

Someone who looks down on others

Convene

Devour

Decorative flower container

Umbrella spoke

Mature

Allow

Despite anything else (5,3) Digital picture format (inits)

Extreme tiredness

Most enjoyable

Wordsearch Famous Aeroplanes

A F A U E A O U H R A A N S E

C H I C A G O M O B I E P I E

M O I M E M P M S I L H S H A T F U T I N T A O T F S R G F L T O I P C O P Y U O L L L O

N P T S F P R U I L F H A T C

AIR FORCE ONE CHICAGO ENOLA GAY EUROFIGHTER GLAMOROUS GINNIE GLAMOROUS GLEN HURRICANE LOCKHEED VEGA

N H U T E C O R A T A L G S K

I I T P E R E R I I A P A F H

Required for walking

Hart

T S T O O M S S H C I P L O E

I B N M U T I C P T A G O T E

ISSUE 233 5

Hardened area of the skin

Urge

Blunder

Sunburn relief

Railway train

Gear

Z 10

A E A G A O G R H S R N N I D

S G L L L A R M V O H R A O N U A S M G M I O N E N R I V E

MEMPHIS BELLE MESSERSCHMITT MIRAGE NORTHROP ALPHA POLAR STAR SPIRIT OF ST LOUIS SPITFIRE TORNADO

R E T H G I F O R U E T A P G

O I G H O I O D A N R O T S A

20 21

Down Across Across 2 Evidence (9) 1 ‘Immediately!’ on a hospital ward (4)Down 2 Evidence (9) 1 ‘Immediately!’ on a hospital ward (4) 3 Proposition (7) 4 Assemblies (8) 3 Proposition (7) sounds (5) 4 Assemblies (8) (6) 4 Melodious 8 Appraise 4 Melodious sounds 8 Appraise (6)metal coating (6) 5 Authorize (7) (5) 9 Aged 5 Authorize (7) (5) 9 Aged metal (4) coating (6) 6 Entomb 10 Level 6 Entomb (5) 10 Level (4) 7 Knowledge (3) 11 Colleague (2-6) 7 Knowledge 11 Colleague (2-6) 12 Postal(3) containers (9) 13 Acting as a memorial (13) 12 Postal containers (9)pens (7) 13 Acting as a memorial (13) 14 Broad-tipped 16 Rampant fear (8) 14 Broad-tipped pens (7) 16 Rampant fear (8) 15 Successfully opposes (7) 19 Feral (4) 15 Successfully opposes 19 Feral 17 High building (5) (7) 20 (4) Window-shop (6) 17 High building (5) 20 Window-shop (6) 18 Pyromaniac’s crime (5) 22 Junks (6) 18 Pyromaniac’s (5) (3) 22 Junks (6) 21 Edge of crime an object 23 Confine (8) 21 Edge of an object (3) 23 Confine (8) 24 Not great (2-2) 24 Not great (2-2)

Easy sudoku

2 4

9 1

5 8 6

3 9 2 7

6 7 8 5 6 9 4 8 8 5 4 7 3 7 2 Brain chain (easy)

RESULT

+14

×10

+20

-42

The Somerset Leveller, October 7, 2026

The Somerset

LEVELLER

Z 10

Sudoku 3D puzzle

9 6

8 2 1 3 7 1 5

ISSUE 233

Cryptic crossword

2 5

Z 10

2 5

2 5 6 3 5 8 4 9 4 2 8 9 3 6 8

7 5

6 3 7 9 2 8 2 9

4 1

1 3 3

5 6

8 5

4 1 5

3 7

11 13

3 2

2 23

5 8

19 20

5 23 24

D Across Down Across 6 Work on behalf of another good entertainer (5) 1 Fe 1 Featurearound reportedly supporting 6 Work on behalf of another good entertainer (5)exchanged te 7 Money Portugal for a authoritat teacher 7 Money exchanged around Portugal fordistinguishing a 2 Fo title (6)(8) 11 distinguishing title (6) 13 12 14 2 party Former British foreign(7)minister, good ma ov in wild gets treatment overturning Place 1 to 9 once into every black-bordered 3x3 area as9 Man in wild party gets treatment (7)109 Man 3 B Number on board part ofconflict ship to(5) adopt a 15 of ship to adopt a 3 British queen with variable large preciou 10 Number on board part well as each of the 54 rows indicated by the coloured lines. st submissive position? (5) submissive position? (5) 4 R 11 Remedy, it’sstone said, (5) for part of foot (4) Rows don’t cross the thick black lines. Reserve rental property 11 16 Remedy, it’s said, for part of foot (4) pu 13 Buy tea for417 brewing? It’s very fine in small 13 Buy tea for brewing? It’s very fine 5 In specimen (6)publication (7) 5 Incisiveness, it’s said, in a computing un specimen (6) 18 15 Desire 19eagerly firm doctor (5) 6 O 6 Obtain connection a phone 15 Desire eagerly firm doctor (5) 8 D( 16 Peculiar chant curtailed? That’son likely (4-2) to finish 8 Dramatic work getting foundation for pa 16 Peculiar chant curtailed? That’s likely (4-2) 20 22 17 One employing some ruse rashly (4) 21 sc school? (10) 17 One employing some ruse rashly (4)20 Enormous US 12 Fa soldier with worker (5) 10+ 8× 4 60× 15+ 12 Farm worker for a very long 20 Enormous US soldier with worker (5) pe 22 A drink behind church for heading all to seeoff – and period (3) 22 A drinkPlace behindnumbers church for1all toto9 see – and 13 O castle (7) 13 Opinion in Brent, oddly (3) castle (7) 14 D 23 Team24among the Spanish and Irish gets once each into every 23 among 14 Day tune’s composed making one inclin 23 Team the Spanish and Irish gets 90× 18+ 36× ro nostrum (6) rock? (8) nostrum (6) column and row, 24 A French inspector with department brought 15 C 15 Chapter about writing provides setting (7 24 A French inspector 3x3 with department brought bold-lined box. 18 M nothing (5) 18 Mark on fellow in neckwear (5) nothing (5) 19 C No digit may be 1 1 144× 7+ 19 Consume cooked tea at college (3,2) 21 H repeated in any dash21 Headless cord is fitted (4) Down Across lined cage, and all 6 Work on behalf of another good entertainer (5) 1 Feature reportedly supporting authoritative 3÷ 21× 13+ 24× 63× the digits in any teacher (8) 7 Money exchanged around Portugal for cage a 2 Former British foreign minister, good man distinguishing title (6) must add up to the overturning conflict (5) 9 Man in wild party gets treatment (7) value shown in that 0 11+ 1 10 Number 9+ 3 British queen with variable large precious on board part of ship to adopt a cage. stone (5) submissive position? (5) 4 Reserve rental property in small 11 Remedy, it’s said, for part of foot (4) publication (7) 13 Buy tea for brewing? It’s very fine 240× 27× 5 Incisiveness, it’s said, in a computing unit (4) specimen (6) 6 Obtain connection on a phone to finish (3,7) 15 Desire eagerly firm doctor (5) 8 Dramatic work getting foundation for part of a 16 Peculiar chant curtailed? That’s likely (4-2) + 6 96× 5 school? (10) 17 One employing some ruse rashly (4) 12 Farm worker heading off for a very long 20 Enormous US soldier with worker (5) period (3) 22 A drink behind church for all to see – and 13 Opinion in Brent, oddly (3) 9+ 1 72× 19+ castle (7) 14 Day tune’s composed making one inclined to 23 Team among the Spanish and Irish gets rock? (8) nostrum (6) 24 A French inspector with department brought 15 Chapter about writing provides setting (7) 1 5÷ 2 18 Mark on fellow in neckwear (5) nothing (5) 19 Consume cooked tea at college (3,2) 21 Headless cord is fitted (4)

Killer Sudoku Pro

Brain chain (hard version)

104

RESULT

×3/13

+176

-60%

+129

-78

For the solutions, turn to page 47

The Somerset Leveller, October 7, 2026

Public Notices

somersetleveller.co.uk

somersetleveller.co.uk/publicnotices TRAFFIC NOTICES (WEST) Somerset Council Parish of Wellington Temporary Closure of Waterloo Road Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, have made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Waterloo Road - from the junction with George Street, westwards for a total distance of 127 metres. This Order will enable Network Plus to carry out cabling reinforcement scheme on behalf of National Grid. The Order becomes effective on 7th October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 12th October 2026 and last until 20th November 2026 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 40 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB150442691 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact National Grid on telephone number 01823 348604 quoting reference number ttro247069W(TD). Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Old Cleeve Temporary Closure of Tacker Street Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, have made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Tacker Street - from 87 metres west of the junction with Road Lane, westwards for a total distance of 139 metres. This Order will enable Circet to lay duct in carriageway on behalf of Openreach. The Order becomes effective on 7th October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 12th October 2026 and last until 14th October 2026 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 3 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151308696 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Circet on telephone number 0797 114 2611 quoting reference number ttro408554W(WS). Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Bishop's Lydeard Temporary Closure of Mount Street and Gore Square Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, have made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Mount Street - from the junction with Hither Mead, southwards incorporating Gore Square to the junction with Minehead Road. A total distance of 238 metres. This Order will enable Openreach to carry out cabling and jointing works. The Order becomes effective on 7th October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 12th October 2026 and last until 24th October 2026 between the hours of 18:00 - 06:00 for a total of 12 nights. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB150368597 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Sunbelt Rentals on telephone number 0370 050 0792 quoting reference number ttro268632W(TD). Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Bathealton Temporary Closure of New Road Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: New Road - from 20 metres south-west of the junction with Spears Lane, south-westwards for a total distance of 167 metres. This Order will enable Southwest Overhead Services to replace a pole on behalf of Openreach. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 26th October 2026 and last until 27th October 2026 between the hours of 09:30 - 15:30 for a total of 2 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151602868 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Circet on telephone number 0797 114 2611 quoting reference number ttro419472W(TD). Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Wiveliscombe Temporary Closure of Mill Lane Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, have made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Mill Lane - from 32 metres south-east of the junction with Bishops Green, southwards for a total distance of 80 metres. This Order will enable Proconect DMT to lay new duct on behalf of Openreach. The Order becomes effective on 7th October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 13th October 2026 and last until 15th October 2026 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 3 days. There is no alternative route for this closure. The works promoter will contact residents and businesses directly to discuss access arrangements. Please visit https://one.network/? tm=GB151502924 for further information. For information about the works being carried out please contact Proconect DMT on telephone number 0737 845 0428 quoting reference number ttro269908W. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Orchard Portman Temporary Closure of Staple Fitzpaine Road Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Staple Fitzpaine Road - from the junction with Netherclay Lane to the junction with Thurlbear Road. A total distance of 198 metres. This Order will enable Openreach to carry out pole testing works. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 26th October 2026 and last until 26th October 2026 between the hours of 09:30 - 15:30 for a total of 6 hours. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151596620 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Sunbelt Rentals on telephone number 0370 050 0792 quoting reference number ttro425017W(TD). Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Wiveliscombe Temporary Closure of Golden Hill Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, have made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Golden Hill - from 13 metres north-east of the junction with Wyndhams, north-eastwards for a total distance of 59 metres. This Order will enable Proconect DMT to lay duct on behalf of Openreach. The Order becomes effective on 7th October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 14th October 2026 and last until 16th October 2026 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 3 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151521614 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Proconect DMT on telephone number 0737 845 0428 quoting reference number ttro313225W(TD). Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parishes of Hatch Beauchamp and Beercrocombe Temporary Closure of Frost Street and Silver Street Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Frost Street - from the junction with Belmont Road, eastwards incorporating Silver Street to the junction with Fieldgate Lane. A total distance of 497 metres. This Order will enable Southwest Overhead Services to replace a pole on behalf of Openreach. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 28th October 2026 and last until 29th October 2026 between the hours of 08:00 - 18:00 for a total of 2 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB150767143 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Circet on telephone number 0797 114 2611 quoting reference number ttro433111W(TD). Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

The Somerset Leveller, October 7, 2026

Public Notices

somersetleveller.co.uk

somersetleveller.co.uk/publicnotices TRAFFIC NOTICES (WEST) Somerset Council Parish of Taunton Temporary Closure of Bramley Road and Blenheim Road Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, have made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Bramley Road - from the junction with Orchard Way to the junction with Laxton Road; and Blenheim Road - from the junction with Orchard Way, northwards for its entirety. A total distance of 348 metres. This Order will enable Kiely Bros to carry out micro-resurfacing works on behalf of Somerset Council. The Order becomes effective on 7th October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 14th October 2026 and last until 18th October 2026 between the hours of 07:00 - 19:00 for a total of 5 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151513121 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Kiely Bros on telephone number 0121 772 3800 quoting reference number ttro497938W(TD). Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Burrowbridge Temporary Closure of Stathe Road Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, have made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Stathe Road - from the junction with Bullplace Bridge Road, northwards for a total distance of 962 metres. This Order will enable Circet UK to replace a pole on behalf of Openreach. The Order becomes effective on 7th October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 13th October 2026 and last until 14th October 2026 between the hours of 08:00 - 18:00 for a total of 2 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151345890 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Circet UK on telephone number 0800 085 9194 quoting reference number ttro559241W(TD). Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Taunton Temporary Closure of Greenway Avenue Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, have made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Greenway Avenue - from the junction with Kingston Road, westwards for a total distance of 41 metres. This Order will enable Wales & West Utilities to carry out gas safety regulation disconnection works. The Order becomes effective on 7th October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 12th October 2026 and last until 16th October 2026 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 5 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151310505 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Wales & West Utilities on telephone number 0292 010 2441 ext. 3010 quoting reference number ttro503748W(TD). Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parishes of Orchard Portman and Staple Fitzpaine Temporary Closure of Staple Fitzpaine Road Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Staple Fitzpaine Road - from the junction with Frost Street to the junction with New Road. A total distance of 1496 metres. This Order will enable Southwest Overhead Services to replace a pole on behalf of Openreach. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 27th October 2026 and last until 28th October 2026 between the hours of 08:00 - 18:00 for a total of 2 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB150768343 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Circet TM on telephone number 0797 114 2611 quoting reference number ttro610453W(TD). Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Bicknoller Temporary Closure of Trendle Lane Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, have made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Trendle Lane - from the junction with Quantock Moor, westwards for a total distance of 105 metres. This Order will enable Wessex Water to install a new connection. The Order becomes effective on 7th October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 14th October 2026 and last until 16th October 2026 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 3 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB152017231 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Wessex Water on telephone number 0345 600 4600 quoting reference number ttro519980W(WS). Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Bishop's Lydeard Temporary Closure of Pound Lane and High Street Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Pound Lane - from the junction with High Street, eastwards for a distance of 1190 metres; and High Street - from the junction with Darby Way, southwards for a distance of 437 metres. A total distance of 1627 metres. This Order will enable Openreach to carry out cabling works. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 26th October 2026 and last until 6th November 2026 between the hours of 09:30 - 15:30 for a total of 12 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB149988881 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Sunbelt Rentals on telephone number 0370 050 0792 quoting reference number ttro647752W(TD). Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parishes of Exmoor, Withypool and Hawkridge and Exford Temporary Closure of Landacre Lane, Landacre Lane To Selbed Cross and Landacre Bridge To Selbed Cross Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, have made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Landacre Lane - from the junction with Sandyway to the junction with Sellbed Road, incorporating Landacre Lane To Selbed Cross and Landacre Bridge To Selbed Cross. A total distance of 5085 metres. This Order will enable Kier to carry out bridge closure due to collapse on behalf of Somerset Council. The Order becomes effective on 7th October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 16th October 2026 and last until 3rd September 2027 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 323 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB152317687 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Somerset Council on telephone number 0300 123 2224 quoting reference number ttrnW(WS)-ttro548752. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parishes of Fitzhead and Wiveliscombe Temporary Closure of Croford Hill Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Croford Hill - from the junction with Cats Ash Road, westwards for a total distance of 852 metres. This Order will enable DL Circet Poling to replace poles on behalf of Openreach. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 29th October 2026 and last until 30th October 2026 between the hours of 08:00 - 18:00 for a total of 2 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151642882 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Circet TM on telephone number 0797 114 2611 quoting reference number ttro666096W(TD). Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

The Somerset Leveller, October 7, 2026

Public Notices

somersetleveller.co.uk

somersetleveller.co.uk/publicnotices TRAFFIC NOTICES (WEST) Somerset Council Parish of Stawley Temporary Closure of Greenham Road Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Greenham Road - from the junction with Elworthy Farm Road, eastwards for a total distance of 44 metres. This Order will enable Circet UK to carry out pole replacement works on behalf of Openreach. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 26th October 2026 and last until 27th October 2026 between the hours of 08:00 - 18:00 for a total of 2 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB150937991 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Circet UK on telephone number 0800 085 9194 quoting reference number ttro668314W(TD). Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Ashbrittle Temporary Closure of Ashbrittle Road Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Ashbrittle Road - from the western junction with West View, westwards for a total distance of 64 metres. This Order will enable Circet UK to replace a pole on behalf of Openreach. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 28th October 2026 and last until 29th October 2026 between the hours of 08:00 - 18:00 for a total of 2 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151579555 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Circet UK on telephone number 0800 085 9194 quoting reference number ttro823310W(TD). Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Taunton Temporary Closure of Mount Nebo Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, have made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Mount Nebo - from the junction with Trull Road, eastwards for a total distance of 26 metres. This Order will enable Network Plus to replace a utility box on behalf of National Grid. The Order becomes effective on 7th October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 12th October 2026 and last until 16th October 2026 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 5 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151258762 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact National Grid on telephone number 01823 348605 quoting reference number ttro717613W(TD). Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Taunton Temporary Closure of Lisieux Way and Wordsworth Drive Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, have made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Lisieux Way - from the junction with Lisieux Way Roundabout to the junction with Wordsworth Drive; and Wordsworth Drive - from the eastern junction with Hamilton Road, south-eastwards for a distance of 145 metres. A total distance of 1,214 metres. This Order will enable Kiely Bros to carry out micro-resurfacing works on behalf of Somerset Council. The Order becomes effective on 7th October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 17th October 2026 and last until 18th October 2026 between the hours of 07:00 - 12:00 (Saturday) and 07:00 - 19:00 (Sunday) for a total of 2 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151547383 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Kiely Bros on telephone number 0121 772 3800 quoting reference number ttro879111W(TD). Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Taunton Temporary Closure of Parkfield Road Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, have made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Parkfield Road - from the junction with Wellington Road to the junction with Galmington Road. A total distance of 764 metres. This Order will enable Kiely Bros to carry out micro resurfacing works on behalf of Somerset Council. The Order becomes effective on 7th October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 18th October 2026 and last until 22nd October 2026 between the hours of 09:30 - 15:00 for a total of 5 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151549057 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Kiely Bros on telephone number 0121 772 3800 quoting reference number ttro724626W(TD). Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Taunton Temporary Closure of Beadon Road Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, have made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Beadon Road - from outside number 69 to outside number 75 Beadon Road. A total distance of 29 metres. This Order will enable Circet UK to lay new duct on behalf of Openreach. The Order becomes effective on 7th October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 14th October 2026 and last until 16th October 2026 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 3 days. There is no alternative route for this closure. The works promoter will contact residents and businesses directly to discuss access arrangements. Please visit https://one.network/? tm=GB151311163 for further information. For information about the works being carried out please contact Circet UK on telephone number 0800 085 9194 quoting reference number ttro884341W(TD). Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Minehead Temporary Closure of King George Road, Hayfield Road and Lower Marshfield Road Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: King George Road - from the junction with Ponsford Road, eastwards incorporating Hayfield Road and Lower Marshfield Road to the junction with Marshfield Road. A total distance of 537 metres. This Order will enable Kiely Bros to carry out micro resurfacing works on behalf of Somerset Council. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 29th October 2026 and last until 5th November 2026 between the hours of 07:00 - 19:00 for a total of 8 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151549705 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Kiely Bros on telephone number 0121 772 3800 quoting reference number ttro745040W(WS). Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Upton Temporary Closure of Village Hill Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, have made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Village Hill - from the junction with Lowtrow Cross To Gamblyn Cross, south-westwards for a total distance of 676 metres. This Order will enable Openreach to carry out pole testing works. The Order becomes effective on 7th October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 13th October 2026 and last until 13th October 2026 between the hours of 09:30 - 15:30 for a total of 6 hours. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151501055 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Sunbelt Rentals on telephone number 0370 050 0792 quoting reference number ttro889920W(WS). Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

The Somerset Leveller, October 7, 2026

Public Notices

somersetleveller.co.uk

somersetleveller.co.uk/publicnotices TRAFFIC NOTICES (WEST)

PUBLIC PATHS (WEST)

Somerset Council Parish of Oake Temporary Closure of Hillfarrance Road Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, have made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Hillfarrance Road - from 378 metres south-east of the junction with Church Approach, eastwards for a total distance of 164 metres. This Order will enable SJS Southwest to carry out pole installation and overhead cabling works on behalf of National Grid. The Order becomes effective on 7th October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 12th October 2026 and last until 14th October 2026 between the hours of 08:30 - 17:00 for a total of 3 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151518468 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact National Grid on telephone number 01823 348693 quoting reference number ttro928746W(TD). Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Taunton Temporary Closure of Footway Between Castlemans Road And Trendle Road Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, intends to make an Order, the effect of which will prohibit all pedestrian traffic from proceeding along; Footway Between Castlemans Road And Trendle Road - from outside property number 15 to outside property number 13 Castlemans Road. A total distance of 10 metres. This Order will enable Openreach to lay new duct. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 6 months. The works are expected to commence on 26th October 2026 and last until 26th October 2026 between the hours of 09:30 - 15:30 for a total of 6 hours. There is no alternative route for this closure. The works promoter will contact residents and businesses directly to discuss access arrangements. Please visit https://one.network/? tm=GB151594817 for further information. For information about the works being carried out please contact Sunbelt Rentals on telephone number 0370 050 0792 quoting reference number ttro111666W(TD). Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Taunton Temporary Closure of Comeytrowe Lane Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Comeytrowe Lane - from the junction with Queensway to the junction with Comeytrowe Rise. A total distance of 118 metres. This Order will enable Groundfix Infrastructure & Surfacing Ltd to carry out new bus gate installation works. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 29th October 2026 and last until 24th December 2026 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 57 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151824817 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Groundfix Infrastucture & Surfacing Ltd on telephone number 0792 982 9273 quoting reference number ttro954569W(TD). Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Minehead Temporary Closure of Footway Between Sainsbury Road And Sycamore Road Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, have made an Order, the effect of which will prohibit all pedestrian traffic from proceeding along; Footway Between Sainsbury Road And Sycamore Road - from outside the property number 36 Sycamore Road to outside the property number 42 Sycamore Road. A total distance of 36 metres. This Order will enable Openreach to carry out ducting works. The Order becomes effective on 7th October 2026 and will remain in force for 6 months. The works are expected to commence on 13th October 2026 and last until 13th October 2026 between the hours of 09:30 - 15:30 for a total of 6 hours. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB152198616 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Sunbelt Rentals on telephone number 0370 050 0792 quoting reference number ttro995272W(WS). Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

PUBLIC PATHS (WEST) Somerset Council Parish of Taunton Temporary Closure of Footway Between Speke Close And Bindon Road Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, intends to make an Order, the effect of which will prohibit all pedestrian traffic from proceeding along; Footway Between Speke Close And Bindon Road - from the junction with Franklin Close, southwards for a total distance of 10 metres. This Order will enable Openreach to lay duct. The Order becomes effective on 21st October 2026 and will remain in force for 6 months. The works are expected to commence on 28th October 2026 and last until 28th October 2026 between the hours of 09:30 - 15:30 for a total of 6 hours. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB151726470 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Sunbelt Rentals on telephone number 0370 050 0792 quoting reference number ttro101399W(TD). Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 7th October 2026 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Keeping you informed

on local development

YOUR BUSINESS HERE

01963 401177 | adverts@somersetleveller.co.uk

Keeping you informed

Your community informed. Planning updates here. on local development

The Somerset Leveller, October 7, 2026

Public Notices

somersetleveller.co.uk

somersetleveller.co.uk/publicnotices PLANNING (NORTH)

PLANNING (EAST)

Somerset Council - Planning North Team Town & Country Planning Act 1990 Town & Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) Order 2015 Planning (Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas) Act 1990 Notice is hereby given that the following applications have been received: Application No. 29/26/00004: Gardeners Cottage, Halswell Park, Goathurst, Bridgwater, TA5 2DH. Proposed variation of condition no. 2 to incorporate amended drawing numbers & amend condition no. 4 to read: ‘No window or door shall be replaced until full details have been submitted to and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority. Such details shall include a method statement, a detailed schedule of the work, including a schedule of materials and finishes, & drawings to show the details of the existing windows and the replacement. Photographic documentation of the existing condition of each window shall also be provided. The window works shall be carried out strictly in accordance with the approved details & shall thereafter be retained in that form.” This application affects a listed building and the setting of a public right of way. Application No. 26/26/00005: Hill House, Broadmead Lane, Edington, Bridgwater, TA7 9JS. Replacement of Calor gas tank & boiler with air source heat pump This application affects a listed building and the setting of a public right of way. Application No. 42/26/00012: DUNBALL KFC, Old Mount Road, Dunball, Bridgwater, TA6 4WD. Variation of Condition 21 of Planning Permission 42/23/00011 (Variations of Conditions 3, 6 and 28, and the removal of conditions 8 and 31 of Planning Permission 42/20/00031 (Variations of Condition 28 of Planning Permission 42/18/00014 (Hybrid application (full and outline) seeking; (a) full planning permission for the erection of a petrol filling station (PFS) with an ancillary A1 / A5 use and 2no. drive thru units with associated car parking, circulatory routes, landscaping, access (including internal roads), servicing and other associated works and; (b) outline application with some matters reserved for Use Classes B1, B2, B8 and trade counter (Sui Generis)) to vary the drive thru and delivery.) to not construct A39 access and have all vehicular movements accessed via A38.) to enable the trading hours of the existing KFC premises to be altered - for the premises to remain open to all customers until midnight each night of the week, and for the ‘drive-thru’ lane which forms part of the premises to remain open to customers and third party delivery aggregators until 05:00 each day of the week. This proposal is a major development. Application No. 02/26/00014: Land To The North Of, Portmeade Drove, Axbridge, BS26. Change of use from agricultural/grazing use to informal public recreation use, with provision of a storage container for maintenance equipment, landscaping and planting treatments including new species rich hedgerow, c.95m of managed hedgerow, new tree planting, scrub establishment, a Cider Apple Tree Orchard, a sensory garden, post & rail fencing to the new hedgerow & to the adjoining riparian areas & new educational signage. This development may affect the setting of a public right of way. Application No. 01/26/00017: MEADOW VIEW, 40 Bath Road, Ashcott, Bridgwater, TA7 9QT. Erection of garage/workshop extension & retention of 1.8m high boundary fencing and new access drive gates. This development may affect the setting of a public right of way. (Householder application). Application No. 08/26/00059: TELEPHONE EXCHANGE, George Street, Bridgwater, Somerset, TA6 3NA. Upgrades to the existing Bridgwater Telephone Exchange Building consisting of proposed 6no. antennas & ancillaries to be removed with 3no. antennas & ancillaries to be installed. Proposed 1no. GPS module, reserved 2no. cabinets, 1no. cabinet to be removed, 2no. existing cabinets to be refreshed, & 3no. diplexers to be removed. This site lies within a Conservation Area & may affect the setting of a listed building. Application No. 37/26/00063: Magnolia House, Mill Street, North Petherton, Bridgwater, TA6 6LX. Repair of listed building. The repair works include: like for like redecoration of ground-floor walls; removal of plaster from the master bedroom wall, followed by the application of new lime plaster and decoration to match the existing finishes; removal and subsequent reinstatement of timber wardrobe within the master bedroom; repair of damaged ceiling; and repair or replacement of the lead parapet gutter if necessary. This application affects a listed building. For applications identified as householder, if an appeal against a refusal of planning permission is submitted, there will be no further opportunity to comment at the appeal stage. Comments welcome by 28/10/2026. Applications can be viewed online https://sdc.somerset.gov.uk/planning_online, or at Council Offices & libraries. Any comments must be submitted in writing either online, by email PlanningCommentsNorth@Somerset.gov.uk or posted to Planning - North Team, Somerset Council, Bridgwater House, King Square, Bridgwater, TA6 3AR (quote the application no). Please include your name & postal address so your comments can be recorded. Responses will be made available for public inspection. We aim to comply with current Data Protection legislation; please refer to our Privacy Notice at https://www.somerset.gov.uk/planning-privacy-notice. Dawn de Vries, Service Manager - Planning North Team. Dated: 07/10/2026

Town and Country Planning Act 1990 Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) Order 2015 Notice under Article 15(4) or (5) of Application for Planning Permission Proposed Development at: Doulting Stone Quarry, Chelynch Road, Doulting, Shepton Mallet, Somerset, BA4 4PZ I give notice that Mr Colin Keevil, Doulting Stone Quarry is applying to the Somerset Council for planning permissions: 1 – SCC/4162/2026 - Section 73 Planning Application for non-compliance with Planning Conditions 2, 19, 21, 24 & 25 of Planning Permission ref: SCC/4070/2023 dated 05/07/2024 titled ‘Section 73 application relating to S96 ROMP Certificate 2014/1075/CNT-Amendment of conditions 8, 9, 11, 20 and 29’ and the variation of these conditions to address an error in the end date and soil management scheme requirements and the variation of these conditions to delay the construction of the new road access and the submission of restoration and aftercare schemes. 2 – SCC/4163/2026 - Section 73 Planning Application for non-compliance with Planning Conditions 19, 24 and 25 of Planning Permission ref: SCC/4071/2023 dated 05/07/2024 titled ‘Planning Application for the extension of Doulting Stone Quarry including a new road access’ and the variation of these conditions to delay the construction of the new road access and the submission of the restoration and aftercare schemes. Members of the public may inspect the application online at planning.somerset.gov.uk until 28 October 2026. Any queries or representations regarding the application should be made to Colin Arnold at planningmineralsandwaste@somerset.gov.uk. I must point out that representations received become a matter of public record, and as such may be made available at any time. Copies will also be forwarded to the Inspectorate and applicant in the event of an appeal. Any personal data received, as part of such a representation, will be processed in accordance with the current Data Protection legislation, more information concerning the processing of your personal information by the Council can be found at www.somerset.gov.uk/privacy Planning – Minerals and Waste Team Somerset Council

Call us to advertise now:

01963 401177

SOMERSET COUNCIL TOWN & COUNTRY PLANNING ACT 1990, TOWN & COUNTRY PLANNING (DEVELOPMENT MANAGEMENT PROCEDURE) ORDER 2015, PLANNING (LISTED BUILDINGS & CONSERVATION AREAS) ACT 1990 Notice is hereby given that the following applications have been received by Somerset Council & any person who wishes to make representations should do so in writing within 21 days of the date of this notice quoting the application number. Representations should be made online or posted to Planning - East Team, Somerset Council Cannards Grave Rd, Shepton Mallet, BA4 5BT. Responses received will be made available for public inspection. Applications can be viewed on https://publicaccess.mendip.gov.uk/online-applications/. App No:2026/1647/OUT Address: Land at 365930 146863 Fosse Rd Stoke St Michael by: Woodstock Homes (Construction) Ltd for: Outline application for residential development of up to 49no. dwellings, associated public open spaces, landscaping & infrastructure, access to be approved in detail with all other matters reserved. App No:2026/1843/LBC Address: 5 St John St Wells BA5 1SW by: S Juniper for: Repair of chimney stack, side window & roof tiles. App No:2026/1853/LBC Address: Deers Leap Bubwith Farm Kennel Batch Wookey Hole Wells by: Mrs Danson for: Installation of 2no conservation rooflights to kitchen roof (retrospective). App No:2026/1729/FUL & App No:2026/1730/LBC Address: 15 Castle Corner Beckington Frome BA11 6TA by: W Jones for: Removal of later wall, restoration of practical access, reconnection of transferred land & construction of traditional low natural-stone retaining wall & hedge. App No:2026/1685/FUL & 2026/1684/LBC Address: The Old Vicarage St Thomas St Wells BA5 2UZ by: T D’Ovidio, D’Ovidio Brothers for: Conversion and minor alteration to include replacement windows & doors of Coach House to form a 2no bedroom dwelling. App No:2026/1851/HSE & 2026/1852/LBC Address: The Old Mill Hippys Farm Lne Coleford by: Mr & Mrs Forsyth-Forrest for: Demolition of lean-to extension on the rear (west) elevation & erection of a replacement single-storey extension with associated alterations. App No:2026/1791/FUL Address: Rope Walk Farm Lipyeate Coleford Radstock by: Mr & Mrs Marson for: Erection of a general-purpose agricultural building & welfare facility/farm office. App No:2026/1500/HSE Address: 14 New Buildings Frome BA11 1PB by: G Bryant for: Single-storey rear extension. App No:2026/1575/HSE & 2026/1576/LBC Address: Bell Cottage Ringwell Lne Norton St Philip by: T Ekins-Coward for: Installation of 14 solar PV panels. The application below does not accord with the provisions of the Development Plan in force in the area in which the land to which the application relates is situated: App No:2026/1721/FUL Address: Land at 382182 154300 Monkley Lne Rode Frome by: R Derrick for: Erection of barn for horticultural use. Planning East Team Dated:07/10/26

The Somerset Leveller, October 7, 2026

Public Notices

somersetleveller.co.uk

somersetleveller.co.uk/publicnotices PLANNING (SOUTH) Somerset Council (Former South Somerset Area) Town and Country Planning Act 1990, Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) Order 2015, Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990 The following applications have been submitted to the Council. Anyone wishing to make representations about an application should do so within 21 days of the date of this notice via our website www.somerset.gov.uk/planning-buildings-and-land/ where the applications can also be viewed. If you are unable to use our online services, please contact our Customer Services Team on 0300 123 2224 who will be able to support you in accessing these services. Any representations received will be made available for public view. Henstridge 26/01897/DPO Townsend Farm Towns End Stalbridge Road BA8 0RQ, Application to modify a S106 Agreement between Somerset Council and William Thomas David Gillam and Macra Limited dated 26th August 2025 to delete reference to local connection in respect of designated person in relation to shared ownership units and amend the tenure mix to provide all affordable housing units as social rent, relating to planning application 23/01470/OUT. Long Sutton 26/02199/FUL & 26/02200/LBC Sutton Court Shute Lane TA10 9LU Conversion of Grade II Listed barn into a 2-bedroom dwelling. Mudford 26/02182/DPO Thorney Lane Farm Marston Magna Yeovil BA22 8BU Application to Discharge a S106 Agreement between South Somerset District Council and Mr & Mrs D.A. Tottle dated 7th June 2004 relating to: (a) the tying of land to the dwelling permitted; (b) the provision of evidence regarding the ownership/occupation of the land upon written request; and (c) the occupation of the dwelling by a person working in the locality in agriculture, or a widow, widower or dependant of such a person which serves no useful planning purpose relating to planning application 03/00817/OUT. North Cadbury 26/02122/HOU Southern Heights Cary Road BA22 7DJ Proposed replacement windows, doors and rainwater goods. New oak canopies and weatherboarding. North Cheriton 26/01932/HOU The Old House Lower North Cheriton Road BA8 0AE Installation of Ground mounted solar PV panel array. West Coker 26/02125/REM Land West Of Bunford Hollow Reserved Matters Application for the approval of appearance, landscaping, scale and layout for a development of 100 dwellings, along with associated car parking, open space, landscaping, drainage and other infrastructure, and Discharge of Condition Nos.15(WSI), 17 (Sustainable Construction), 21(Lighting Strategy) and 22 (BEMP), following approval 17/03320/OUT: Residential development of up to 100 dwellings, the formation of a new access onto Watercombe Lane, associated open space and landscaping. West Coker 26/02126/REM Land At Bunford Hollow, West Of Watercombe Lane & East Of Broadleaze Farm Reserved Matters Application for the approval of appearance, landscaping, scale and layout for a development of 85 dwellings, along with associated car parking, open space, landscaping, drainage and other infrastructure, and Discharge of Conditions Nos. 18(Sustainable Construction), 19(Lighting Strategy) and 20(BEMP), following approval 23/02549/OUT: Outline Application with some matters reserved except access for the erection of up to 85 dwellings, associated public open space, landscaping, drainage and access.

Removals throughout Somerset and beyond

Call us now –

0808 175 1966

Avoid the traffic, know the detour.

Excellent

◆ Complete

packing services ◆ Overnight and long term storage and delivery ◆ UK wide removals

◆ Fine art, wine

cellars, specialist items ◆ In person or remote video surveys ◆ European removals

sales@armishaws.com www.armishaws.com Wincanton Business Park, Wincanton, Somerset, BA9 9RU

The Somerset Leveller, October 7, 2026

Food & Drink

somersetleveller.co.uk

Village pub with Levels views is up for sale

LANDMARK village pub near the Polden Hills is up for sale - as the owners look towards retirement. The Ring O’ Bells, in Moorlinch, is on the market with property firm Sidney Phillips, with an asking price of £475,000. Around eight miles from Bridgwater and six from Street and Glastonbury, the threestorey pub is listed as being "ideally positioned for those interested in wildlife, nature,

fishing and walking". The listing goes on to detail how it boasts a "bar full of character, a split-level restaurant seating approximately 50 customers" and "one of the largest skittle alleys in Somerset", which is "currently used for storage". An outside space has seating for 20, as well owners' accommodation. "The Ring O’ Bells occupies a central position in the village of Moorlinch, close to the Polden Hills which separate the

The Pitney Farm Café Situated on Glebe Farm, Pitney, TA109AP

Open Tuesday to Saturday 09:30-16:30 All our eggs, Meat, Vegetables and Salads are Organic and seasonal and sourced locally from Glebe Farm wherever possible. With homemade cakes and delicious Coffee.

Call us on 07351112717

email us at pitneyfarmcafe@hotmail.com or follow us on Facebook at The Pitney Farm Cafe

The Ring O' Bells in Moorlinch is up for sale

northern and southern areas of the Somerset Levels," the listing went on. Currently, the pub opens from 5pm to midnight, Tuesday to Saturday, and from noon until 9pm on a Sunday. It is closed on a Monday. "The Ring O’ Bells has been in the same ownership since 2002 and is run as a traditional country village freehouse," the listing added. "It is at the heart of the community, attracting residents from surrounding villages.

"The vendors are looking to step away from the licensed industry as they approach retirement and currently operate the business around their lifestyle by opening on limited trading hours. "We are of the opinion that the Ring O’ Bells would suit an experienced operator who could expand on the food offering and open longer hours." n Viewing is strictly by appointment only. See sidneyphillips.co.uk/businessdetail/93432.

Fortune Palace Lunch Time Specials

Every Day Buffet Cooked at your request

Weekdays: £24 per person Weekends: £26 per person

Open Wed-Mon, 12-2pm & 5.30-10pm

Home delivery to local villages

Only £13 per person!

Book Your Party!

We cater for Birthdays, Anniversaries and Special occasions

Fortune Palace, Yeovil Rd, Sherborne DT9 4RB fortunepalacetakeaway.co.uk

01935 414380

y V e r o m

somersetleveller.co.uk

YOUR LOCAL EXPERT FOR ALL YOUR DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL TREE WORK

OUR SERVICES INCLUDE Tree Surgery Surveying Planting Based in Somerset covering: Hedge Maintenance Taunton, Yeovil, Martock, Ilminster, Woodland & Vegetation Management Bridgwater, Wellington, Somerton and all surrounding Contact us today towns and villages. 07946 179 722 info@arbortech.org.uk www.arbortech.org.uk

50,000 readers could be

looking at your advert right now

YOUR BUSINESS HERE

The Somerset Leveller, October 7, 2026

Home & Garden

The Somerset Leveller, October 7, 2026

Local Services

somersetleveller.co.uk

Servicing Somerset, Dorset & Devon Providing a reliable, friendly, clean sweep with a woman’s touch

◆ Brush & Vacuum Sweep ◆ Power Sweeping ◆ Servicing and Maintenance ◆ Bird’s Nest Removal

◆ CCTV Inspection ◆ Insurance Certificates Issued ◆ Full Liabilty Insurance ◆ DBS Checked

New Customer & Group Discounts Available

07976 268155

threecountiessweeps@gmail.com www.threecountiessweeps.co.uk Follow us on Facebook for offers

A clean chimney is a safe chimney

S A L E S / R E N TA L S • I N S TA L L AT I O N S E R V I C I N G • R E PA I R

JON GAYLARD Heat & Electrical Services

Specialist in Servicing and Repairs of all Oil and Gas Fired Boilers Incluiding Aga and Rayburn

Landlord gas safety checks City and Guilds trained For honest, independent advice, get in touch:

01749 346 900 / 01803 678 073 www.suttonsstairlifts.co.uk

Covering Bath, Bristol, Somerset, Wiltshire, Dorset and Devon

Tel: 01458 273752 Mob: 07768 615401

The Somerset Leveller, October 7, 2026

Funeral Services

Local Services

50,000

READERS could be looking at your advert right now

01963 401177

Personal

adverts@somersetleveller.co.uk

Caring

Professional

Cremations • Direct Cremations • Burials Somerset, Dorset & Wiltshire

Repairs, Services, Upgrades, Automation & New Door Installations. High quality doors at low prices from a family run business with excellent service! www.grp-garagedoors.co.uk

Tel 07969443979

Items for Sale SINGER SEWING MACHINE, Circura 1910. Ref: P918396. GWO. £110. Tel: 01761-232142 COLLECTION OF 12 BEATRIX POTTER childrens hard-back books. All different titles and ex-shop display editions. £6 the lot. Tel: 01984-640496 FOOTBALL RELATED BOOKS, from the 60's upwards. Also childrens manuals, from 60's 70's & 80's. £1 each. enquiries. Tel: 01747-840835 VICTORIAN CHEST OF DRAWERS. £40. Tel: 01935-475315 WHEELCHAIR COMODE. As new. £50. Tel: 01984-640099

INTRODUCE YOUR BUSINESS TO

50,000

24 Hour Service • Private Chapel Of Rest • Client Parking

Nobody likes to think about the future

Have you thought about providing peace of mind for your family? ‘A funeral is not just a day in a lifetime, it’s a lifetime in one day’

01935 508971 | 07789 276767 (24hr)

27 Market Street, Yeovil, Somerset, BA20 1HZ www.stuartfosterfunerals.com

Our stunning Funeral Service & Wake venue The Butterfly Room is also available:

25 Market Street, Yeovil, Somerset, BA20 1HZ

we’re here to help you announce your Loved one’s death and funeral arrangements For more information Call or email

Rachelle:

01963 400186 adverts@somersetleveller.co.uk

READERS

01963 401177

adverts@somersetleveller.co.uk

The Somerset

LEVELLER

The Somerset Leveller, October 7, 2026

Property

somersetleveller.co.uk

Removals throughout Somerset and beyond

Call us now – 0808 175 1966 ◆ Complete packing services ◆ Overnight and long term storage and delivery ◆ UK wide removals ◆ Fine art, wine cellars, specialist items ◆ In person or remote video surveys ◆ European removals

Excellent

sales@armishaws.com | www.armishaws.com Wincanton Business Park, Wincanton, Somerset, BA9 9RU

The Somerset Leveller, October 7, 2026

Wanted

CONTACTS

WANTED Coins and Coin Collections Call Nick 07754-058850 / trimoneta@hotmail.com

£12 t inc. va

ittle,

aL Advertise for

Lot! a r o f l l e S Need to sell an item worth

£50 - £500?

Publisher

Lloyd Armishaw - tel: 01963 401177

Advertising and Distribution Chris Lewis - General Manager

Chris.lewis@blackmorevale.net tel: 07714 289410

Editorial

Paul Jones - Editor in Chief

newsdesk@somersetleveller.co.uk tel: 01963 401177

Classified Advertising

adverts@somersetleveller.co.uk tel: 01963 401177

Get up to 12 words of prime ad space for just £12 inc. VAT

ONLINE : www.somersetleveller.co.uk

Turn your items into cash today!

CLASSIFIED ADVERTS: adverts@somersetleveller.co.uk Editorial deadlines are the Wednesday the week before publication. Display ads must be booked by Wednesday the week before publication, with final copy submitted by the Friday. Classified ads may be accepted after this, however these will be subject to space.

Tel: 01963 401177

Puzzle solutions (from page 34-35) 5 4 6 3 2 9 7 8 1

2 8 1 5 7 4 6 9 3

3 9 7 8 1 6 2 5 4

4 1 5 6 3 7 9 2 8

8 6 2 4 9 1 5 3 7

9 7 3 2 5 8 4 1 6

1 2 8 7 6 5 3 4 9

7 5 9 1 4 3 8 6 2

6 3 4 9 8 2 1 7 5

Killer sudoku pro 10+

90×

3÷

5 4 9

8×

2 18+

21×

13+

240×

27×

8 5 2 4

9 6

1 8

7 5

3 8

63×

4 6

1 4 6

24×

3 72×

6 4

8 6

60×

5 1

7 9 2

5 2

15+

36×

144×

8 9 7+

11+

96×

8 3

5÷

6 4

19+

8 1

Brain chain (easy) 11

Brain chain (hard) 104

200

Cryptic crossword

Sudoku 3D puzzle

Easy sudoko

209

131

Edition 233

2 1 5 8 6 7 9 4 7 6 9 1 3 5 8 1 6 5 2 4 9 4 7 3 7 8 2 3 5 2 1 4 6 2 9 5 6 9 2 4 5 9 4 8 1 3 9 3 3 6 7 4 6 7 6 7 7 1 3 8 4 8 3 7 2 3 8 1 5 8 4 5 1 4 7 52 5 9 8 3 42 6 9 9 2 6 1 8 9 2 5 1 7 9 2 3 6 3 8 5 7 1 7 1 4 8 8 5 6 6 3 1 6 4 1 4 9 6 2 3 8 3 7 9 5 7 2 2 2 8 1 8 9 3 1 7 1 4 8 5 1 5 4 3 6 4 8 5 9 3 4 5 9 5 7 1 6 2 9 6 9 3 2 6 7 6 8 3 5 3 9 4 2 9 2 7 8 4 2 6 2 7 1 3 4 5 9 6 1 6 7 3 9 8 5 1 6 1 7 8 4 2 7 4 8 8 7 9 8 8 2 5 5 6 1 3 5 4 4 5 7 1 2 7 2 3 9 4 4 6 9 3 9 7 1 2 3 5 1 6 8

F S B B B G H O S T E P O N Y M E R R R O T P T H E R A P Y K N E E L T H W L L A H E E L E B E A U T Y R A C O V E T N G O D D S O N T U S E R U N S E T O G I A N T C H A T E A U H B E A T A N E L I X I R U N D I D E T F P Y

Crossword

Arrow words

Wordsearch

S T A T M E E T I N G S E H U M N E A S S E S S P A T I N A T O I O E T I E R C O W O R K E R M E E N C O M M E M O R A T I V E N A H E H Y S T E R I A W I L D RESULT O K R A O B R O W S E S C R A P S I E R O T E RESULT I M P R I S O N S O S O

B O E S S A N C O V A

A C M O I N N I T I A S G R O F H M E M P H I S B E L L E I A I P M S T U T T N A L A T G U C I L H S T P O M G R M H H E A S H A F E E O U A V O G O A G T F U P C R M T O H R I I O O T I N R O E S I G A O F O U M T A O U R R S C R N U O D H O T F S I A I H P H A S R A R B R G F L T I C T S M G U N A I L T O F A A I A R M I E R A E I P C H L P P G N O N T O N P O P Y A G A L O N E N A T S I U O L T S F O T I R I P S E E L L O C K H E E D V E G A

B M L U A M O O T E R I C I T S N O L O E U N I T C G F E A A S E L F T E R A L F A T I G U J P E G B E S

K B A H T L E T

EDINBURGH

• Chunky solid & veneered oak bedroom collection • Supplied with polished silver & antique gold handles • Wide selection of coordinating range items

Sold by us as an agent of Euronics

FULL RANGE REDUCED BY OVER 45% 10 YEAR PARTS 1 YEAR LABOUR SEE LIVINGHOMES.CO.UK FOR OUR LATEST PRICE

WARRANTY

NSWE7469WSUK FROM £189

Price relates to bedside chest

• 1400 spin washing machine • 7kg load capacity • Steam hygiene • AntiStain technology • Rapid wash • Delay timer • ‘A’ energy rating

SALE STARTS SATURDAY 10TH OCTOBER CHARLBURY

• Grand sofa with pillow-back cushions • Extensive selection of fabrics • Choice of foot colour • Coordinating range items also on offer

Sold by us as an agent of Euronics

50 ”

CHOICE OF STANDARD OR PILLOW-BACK CUSHIONS 5 YEAR PARTS

& LABOUR SEE LIVINGHOMES.CO.UK FOR OUR LATEST PRICE

GUAR ANTEE

SOUND & VISION ONLY AVAILABLE IN STREET

K50XR75M2PB

• 50” True RGB SMART TV • 4K HDR • XR Processor with AI • Google TV • Acoustic Multi Audio+ • Catch-up TV • ‘F’ energy rating

SALE £1479 WAS £1899

Fabric range ‘B’

LIVINGHOMES.CO.UK

OPENING HOURS

MONDAY - SATURDAY 9.00AM - 5.30PM CLOSED SUNDAY

FREE PARKING

AVAILABLE TO CUSTOMERS IN STREET & WESTON

THROUGHOUT SOMERSET, FREE NORTH SOMERSET DELIVERY & BRISTOL*

*Subject to minimum order value of £250. ‘WAS / RRP’ charged in-store between 01/09/2026 and 09/10/2026. All offers subject to availability. 1026. E&OE.