Last week, the Somerset Council executive signed off a £5m package of funding to smarten up the region's roads, pavements, and cycleways, writes Cllr Bill Revans.
The spending proposals will deliver a range of visible improvements like clearing more drains and gullies, fixing and cleaning road signs, repainting faded road markings, collecting litter, and clearing overgrown vegetation, particularly near walking and cycling routes.
A cleaner Somerset doesn’t happen by accident.
It’s the result of everyday care, shared responsibility, and a strong partnership between local people and Somerset Council.
Across our towns, villages, and rural lanes, residents regularly step up to tackle litter.
From informal walks with a bag and gloves to organised community clean‑ups, local people play a vital role in protecting the places we’re proud to call home.
What many may not realise is that Somerset Council actively supports this effort.
On Saturday, April 11, I worked with local residents to do a community litter pick in North Petherton.
The council and Homes in Somerset helped out in practical ways, lending essential equipment such as litter pickers, gloves, high-visibility vests, and bags.
This removes cost barriers and makes volunteering easier for everyone.
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Importantly, Somerset Council also helps with logistics after the hard work is done.
The council arranges for the collected waste to be picked up, ensuring it is disposed of properly and doesn’t end up sitting by the roadside.
That behind-the-scenes support makes a real difference and allows volunteers to focus on improving their local area.
Of course, not all litter can be safely tackled by volunteers.
Items such as sharps, hazardous waste, or large-scale fly-tipping should always be reported rather than picked up.
Somerset Council encourages residents to report these issues so trained teams can deal with them safely and, where possible, investigate enforcement action.
The value of community litter picking goes beyond cleaner streets.
It builds pride, strengthens community spirit, and sends a powerful message that littering isn’t acceptable.
Areas that are visibly cared for are less likely to be repeatedly littered, helping create a positive cycle of respect for the environment.
Somerset Council cannot be everywhere at once, but by working in partnership with residents, it can have a greater impact.
Clean streets, paths, and green spaces are something we all benefit from - and all have a role in maintaining.
And we have many amazing groups all over Somerset who are already doing this.
Thank you so much.
If you’re interested in getting involved, whether by organising a group litter pick or reporting a problem area, support is available.
Small actions, taken together, really do make a big difference.
More information is available at the Somerset Council website.
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