AN historic devolution deal was approved by Minehead town councillors on Tuesday (February 25) to take ownership of open spaces and a range of services from Somerset Council from April 1.

The landmark decision means the town council will have ownership and management responsibility for key public spaces in Minehead, including Blenheim Gardens, Parks Walk, and the Ellicombe open space.

Town clerk Ben Parker said it represented a significant step toward greater local control and decision-making for Minehead.

Local residents would now see their cherished community spaces managed directly by the town council, ensuring vital assets remained at the heart of town life for generations to come.

Mr Parker said: “This decision marks a historic moment for Minehead, bringing the management of our town’s most important open spaces under local control.

“The town council is fully committed to delivering high-quality services while ensuring these beloved spaces are protected and maintained to the standards our community deserves.

“We have undertaken extensive preparations to make this transition as smooth as possible.”

The deal also includes play areas, and some car parks and café facilities, both of which will generate income to help offset costs while investing in improvements directly benefitting residents.

Careful financial planning meant councillors were able to limit their precept increase to 6.5 per cent, significantly lower than many other towns undertaking similar devolution processes across Somerset.

Mr Parker said: “This demonstrates the council’s commitment to fiscal responsibility while expanding services.

“The first year will focus on service consolidation, ensuring a smooth transition and establishing consistent maintenance standards across all sites.

“Residents will benefit from a more co-ordinated approach to open space management across Minehead, with a single point of contact for all public spaces.

“The council plans to integrate environmental initiatives such as rewilding into its maintenance approach, supporting local biodiversity.”