Somerset Council runs local services in Somerset and is currently led by Conservative leadership, amid controversy over candidate vetting and past extremism
Conservative Party defends Joshua Bonehill-Paine after selecting him to stand in Crewkerne South for 2027 local elections. Critics say his past racist and antisemitic offences disqualify him from public life; party argues he has rehabilitated and will focus on local issues. Jewish groups urge the party to rescind the selection.
As temperatures surge across the UK and Europe, schools face red heat warnings. Authorities urge adaptive measures from headteachers, including flexible timings, ventilation, hydration, and possible early closures. The debate over whether to close schools or keep them open intensifies as unions demand better climate-ready infrastructure.
Residents in Edgelaw View, Gilmerton, face two months in temporary accommodation as groundworks are carried out. Six to eight weeks of works could stretch longer, raising concerns for schooling, transport, and bills as families await a permanent solution.