QUESTIONS have been raised over the cultural importance of Bridgwater to Somerset Council’s executive.
At the latest Somerset Council Full Council meeting, Cllr Diogo Rodrigues, representing Bridgwater East and Bawdrip, questioned the limited mention of Bridgwater's arts and culture scene in the Annual Report conducted by Lead Member for Communities, Housing Revenue Account, Culture and, Equalities and Diversity, Cllr Federica Smith-Roberts.
In the 27-page Annual Report, Bridgwater is mentioned three times, while Taunton is mentioned 27 times.
Cllr Rodrigues said: “I noticed there was very little mention of Bridgwater, which isn’t a criticism, but I want everyone to be aware that Bridgwater is a hub for arts and culture in Somerset.”
Bridgwater has secured £23.2 million of Town Deal funding, which will deliver 11 projects around the town. £700,000 of Town Deal funding has been used to develop the Bridgwater Arts Centre, with improvements also made at Bridgwater Town Hall’s theatre – the site of this year’s sold-out Carnival Concerts.
Cllr Rodrigues also underscored the town’s ability to attract major cultural events, mentioning: “We’ve currently got the National Gallery in Bridgwater doing a tour, which is fantastic.”
He also mentioned that: “Thanks to that Town Deal funding again, the UK debut of Luke Jerram’s latest creation, 'Fallen Moon,' is coming to Bridgwater Docks from Monday, October 14.”
In closing, Cllr Rodrigues emphasised: “I just want to say that Bridgwater is very much part of that arts and culture offering of Somerset.”
Cultural services are one area of Somerset Council facing financial pressures owing to the Financial Emergency declared last year.
The Annual Report states: “In light of the Council’s Financial Emergency, a series of savings proposals have been identified within Cultural Services. These proposals, approved by the Full Council in February 2024, will be implemented as part of the Council’s General Fund Revenue Budget and Medium-Term Financial Plan for 2024-25. Additional savings will also be realised following a needs analysis of Library services, which will shape the statutory offer.”
Lead Member for Communities, Housing, and Culture, Cllr Federica Smith-Roberts, was contacted for comment.
