I am delighted to share some positive developments which will benefit our residents.

It has been encouraging to see signs that new Mayor Helen Godwin is starting to deliver a ‘reset’ for the West of England, working closely with the leaders of Bristol, South Gloucestershire and myself.

It’s key that we ensure that this reset is mirrored in how we govern the combined authority, and I am thrilled to be chosen as the first deputy mayor so that I can directly influence how we lay the foundations for future sustainable success

The government spending review confirmed that the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority has secured a record £752 million to invest in better transport. This is a huge opportunity to deliver a cleaner, greener and more connected future, making it easier for people to choose public transport, walking and cycling.

The Chancellor’s extension of the national £3 bus fare cap until March 2027 is also very welcome. Making public transport more accessible for young people widens their horizons. Young people leaving care, aged up to 25, will soon be able to travel free on buses in the wider region.

This decision by WECA is a great example of how we can work together for better outcomes. This direct support helps removes a barrier for some of our most vulnerable young people and I welcome this funding.

In Bath & North East Somerset our commitment to getting services right for care experienced young people has been recently acknowledged by Ofsted and I am proud that the council has made leaving care a protected characteristic and signed up to the Care Leaver Covenant.

All children under the age of 16 will be able to travel for free on buses in the West of England Combined Authority and North Somerset during the school summer holidays. School holidays are an expensive time of year for all families.

This excellent initiative will not only help with the cost-of-living but also encourage families to visit our region’s amazing attractions, like the Roman Baths - free for B&NES residents who are Discovery Card holders - as well our historic cities, market towns, free parks, and countryside. I hope many families will hop on the bus this summer and explore places that are literally on their own doorstep.

In local news, the opening of a three-day Open Studio at the Hollies Chambers as part of the IMAGINE Midsomer Norton project offered the opportunity for local people to have their say on ideas for a new Town Plan.

The plan is being developed by B&NES Council and Midsomer Norton Town Council with Allies & Morrison, local stakeholders, businesses and residents.

It will provide a route map to a more vibrant town centre, focusing on areas such as development, heritage conservation, public realm improvements, greening, wayfinding, business support and culture.

Workshops at the Open Studio, led by local artists, invited residents to create sketches celebrating iconic Midsomer Norton people and places. These go on display in the High Street in July.

To give input into the new Town Plan design process, visit www.bathnesregen.co.uk. A full consultation launches later this year.

Kevin Guy,

Leader of Bath and North East Somerset Council