PLANS to protect community spaces, support local events and invest in the town’s future have been backed by Midsomer Norton Town Council with a £741,004 budget for the year ahead.

On Monday, February 2, the budget took longer than usual to agree as the council responded to significant challenges around community buildings, including taking on unplanned management responsibilities. It has also worked to bring town hall costs under control following a prolonged period of uncertainty, taking a careful and responsible approach to budgeting for the year ahead.

The council has also had to account for the additional responsibility of services no longer provided by Bath and North East Somerset Council. The council said its budget reflects a commitment to maintaining and improving community spaces, while continuing to support events, youth provision and local groups across the town.

The council said it recognises the importance of local events and community activities to residents, noting that there has been no significant change in funding allocated to events and that a full programme will continue throughout the year.

The council’s planned investment is now required at the Somer Centre and Orchard Hall, with both buildings described as older, heavily used facilities in need of improvement to meet modern standards. It said early action would help safeguard the long-term future of these community spaces.

The budget includes £10,000 for community grants, £34,000 for town events and £28,500 for youth projects, along with £10,000 to support the town’s carnival. It also makes provision for essential tree work and increased spending on the general maintenance of green spaces.

Chair of the council, Cllr Martyn Plant, said: “The council has designed this budget to protect services, strengthen our support to local organisations and invest in the spaces and initiatives valued by our residents.”