Shaping South Somerset

Shaping South Somerset - a Strategy for Sustainable Communities (2008 - 2026) is an overarching document which will direct the work of public, private and voluntary and community sector (VCS) organisations in the district to tackle difficult issues collectively and to enable people to live better lives within environmental limits. The plan has taken two years to develop and has included consultation by residents and businesses through the many community led plans already available in the district as well as stakeholder events and questionnaires. It reflects the true needs and aspirations of local people, and aims to bring more investment, activities and facilities to South Somerset.

The plan draws on evidence from a range of sources including national and local statistical data, information from parish and town plans and local knowledge from statutory bodies, businesses and people of all ages. The evidence base maps views about existing services, facilities and the environment and notes not just the really difficult issues in places but also what the trends are.

The Strategy captures what is already being delivered to improve things, including the direct actions and programmes commissioned by South Somerset Together (the local strategic partnership). It identifies what needs to be done in the long term (Goals and Strategic Priorities) and in the short to medium term (Actions). The challenge is delivering against all 50 actions identified in a way that brings added value to the community and partners by avoiding unnecessary duplication and realigning work streams and budgets to make things happen. It isn't easy to do - but making this happen will really make a difference to everyone!

Shaping South Somerset - a Strategy for Sustainable Communities (2008 - 2026)

This document that has taken two years to produce is now available on this website in the following formats: Read more about Shaping South Somerset - a Strategy for Sustainable Communities (2008 - 2026)