Lib Dem Councillors Update: March 2026

Update from Liberal Democrat councillors

Here is a quick round-up of latest news and updates from your Liberal Democrat councillors.

• Support strengthened alongside changes to council tax reduction
  Lib Dem councillors have supported the council’s updated Council Tax Reduction Scheme, alongside extra help to cushion the impact for working-age households, including a hardship fund and added crisis support (with some automatic vouchers). However, council tax support needs urgent reform as the ability of councils to protect low income households is becoming stretched. (n-somerset.gov.uk)
• Plan agreed for the future of local library services
  Lib Dem councillors have supported the council’s decision on a new library model combining staffed sessions, extended self-service access and outreach, aiming to meet statutory duties while delivering required savings, with specific changes proposed for sites including Winscombe and Worle. (n-somerset.gov.uk)
• Balanced budget set with savings and a one-year council tax rise
  Lib Dem councillors have backed the council’s balanced budget package, including a major multi-year savings programme and a one-off 8.99% increase in the council’s share of council tax, with the council highlighting pressures in adult and children’s services. (n-somerset.gov.uk)
• New business opportunities promoted at Weston’s Marine Lake
  Lib Dem councillors have welcomed the push to bring new operators to Marine Lake, including an indoor concession and hire space in the Cove building and two mobile trader pitches, linked to wider improvements around the lake and facilities. (n-somerset.gov.uk)
• Portishead to Bristol rail project moves towards main works
  Lib Dem councillors have welcomed the next step on restoring the Portishead Line, with the council setting out plans for main construction and inviting residents to public drop-in sessions to ask questions and hear about next stages. (n-somerset.gov.uk)
• Floral Clock refreshed with climate-resilient planting
  Lib Dem councillors have supported the refresh of Weston-super-Mare’s Floral Clock using more drought-tolerant, low-maintenance plants, and the call for more volunteers to help keep the landmark thriving. (n-somerset.gov.uk)
• Worle Interchange upgrade programme set out
  Lib Dem councillors have welcomed planned accessibility and safety upgrades at Worle Interchange, including new shelters, real-time information screens, better lighting and crossings, and improved cycle facilities, with diversions planned during construction. (n-somerset.gov.uk)
• First phase of Tropicana works completed
  Lib Dem councillors have welcomed completion of the initial Tropicana strip-out and demolition works, with the council preparing to tender the next stage to move the site towards a major cultural and entertainment venue. (n-somerset.gov.uk)
• Garden waste renewals opened for the next subscription year
  Garden waste renewals and new sign-ups are open, with pricing set at £70 per bin (up to two) and an automatic 75% discount for eligible households. (n-somerset.gov.uk)
• Help highlighted for cold, damp homes and energy bills
  Lib Dem councillors have welcomed renewed promotion of the WHAM service, offering free specialist advice, practical help and routes to funding for repairs and insulation, prioritising households in unsafe or unhealthy conditions. (n-somerset.gov.uk)
• South West councils urge swift progress on the Tobacco and Vapes Bill
  Lib Dem councillors have welcomed the joint South West call for rapid passage of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, with leaders and public health directors arguing delays would weaken efforts to reduce preventable harm from smoking. (n-somerset.gov.uk)
• UNICEF UK Baby Friendly Initiative Gold Award retained
  Lib Dem councillors have welcomed continued recognition for local Public Health Nursing and Family Hubs, with the council and Sirona care & health retaining the UNICEF UK Baby Friendly Initiative Gold Award for infant feeding support and parent-infant relationships. (n-somerset.gov.uk)