MANAGEMENT and maintenance responsibility for open spaces throughout Minehead has officially been handed over to the town council after a month’s delay.

It marks a historic milestone in bringing local control back to community assets previously owned by Somerset Council.

Minehead Mayor Cllr Craig Palmer cut a ribbon at the town’s Blenheim Gardens to mark the transition of services from the unitary authority.

Town clerk Ben Parker said: “This represents a significant moment for Minehead.

“During this first year, our priority is to consolidate and integrate the two amenities services of Somerset Council and Minehead Town Council effectively.

“We have worked diligently to ensure this transition will have minimum disruption to day-to-day public use of these spaces.

“Residents can expect to see the town council’s positive presence increasingly as we move forward, with updated signage and contact information to be installed across our open spaces in the coming weeks.”

The town council’s website will provide comprehensive information about the newly-managed areas, giving residents details about areas it now owns and their maintenance and contact information for inquiries or concerns.

Mr Parker said: “This transfer of responsibility aligns with the council’s long-term vision of enhancing community spaces while maintaining their accessibility and appeal for all residents and visitors to enjoy.

“Devolution might sound complicated, but it is actually something fantastic for our town.

“In simple terms, it means many of our beloved local spaces are coming under the control of our very own town council.”

Mr Parker said the deal, originally intended to happen on April 1, involved a mix of the council taking full ownership of some spaces, leasing others, and informally helping to keep some parts of Minehead ‘looking tip-top’.

He said: “This is an exciting new chapter for Minehead, giving us more say in how our local spaces are maintained and developed.”