Somerset Council sets out 75,000-home target and adult social care strategy

Somerset Council is consulting on a new Local Plan that must allocate land for up to 75,000 new homes by 2045, as required by national housing targets. Liberal Democrat MP Gideon Amos urged residents to "fight for their say" over the planning process, warning that the government is imposing the target and that the council faces legal obligations to provide the housing. Council officials expressed concerns about the impact on local infrastructure and the environment.

The council also published its Adult Social Care Strategy for 2026‑2029, outlining priorities such as early support, a skilled workforce and future‑ready services. Adult social care accounts for 38% of Somerset Council’s budget (£230.9 million) and faces rising demand as 25.3% of residents are aged 65 and over. The strategy aims to help adults live healthy, safe and independent lives within strong communities.