Minehead Town Council has struck a deal to manage local green spaces, aiming to enhance community services and save costs for Somerset Council
Minehead: The town council is stepping up to manage its green spaces. This comes after Somerset Council asked local councils to take over services due to a big budget gap.
They’re not alone; other towns like Bridgwater and Yeovil have already made similar moves. It’s all about keeping essential services running without major cuts.
Starting April 1, Minehead Town Council will take charge of several parks and open spaces. This includes popular spots like Blenheim Gardens and Bratton Park.
They’ll also handle maintenance for things like bus shelters and the local war memorial. This shift is expected to save Somerset Council around £121,800 a year.
Chris Hall from the council mentioned that managing the Alexandra Road car park could help Minehead secure a new swimming pool. There’s been talk about this pool for a while now.
In fact, land was set aside for it back in January 2022, but a recent study didn’t confirm it could be financially viable. Still, the town council is keen to explore options.
Hall noted that the car park’s location next to the community center makes it a strategic asset. They’re looking at ways to integrate it with the center and possibly use renewable energy for the pool.
While the car park brings in income for Somerset Council, transferring it to the town council could help develop a community asset that benefits everyone.
