Ashley Fox MP has completed his second annual Summer Village Tour, meeting residents across twelve villages over four days to hear first-hand about the issues affecting communities across Bridgwater, Burnham-on-Sea and the surrounding villages.
The tour gave residents the opportunity to raise local and national issues directly with their Member of Parliament, with a number of clear themes emerging across almost every village visited.
The most common concern raised was the condition of Somerset's rural roads. Residents repeatedly described potholes, deteriorating road surfaces and a lack of routine maintenance, with many saying rural roads are simply not being looked after to the standard they should be.
Problems with Royal Mail services were another recurring issue. Residents reported delayed and missed deliveries, with many expressing frustration that they could no longer rely on receiving post consistently.
Access to healthcare was also raised time and again, particularly the continuing difficulty of finding an NHS dentist. Many residents also voiced concerns about access to wider healthcare services and the need for better local provision.
Crime and anti-social behaviour, especially in town centres, featured prominently throughout the tour. Residents spoke about the impact of shoplifting, anti-social behaviour and the need for a stronger visible police presence to help keep communities safe.
Ashley Fox MP said:
"The Summer Village Tour is one of the most valuable parts of my year because, although I am out and about all year, it gives me the chance to spend dedicated time listening to residents across our rural communities.
Though every village has its own challenges, it was striking how often the same issues came up, particularly the poor condition of our rural roads.
The issues raised with me will continue to be a key focus of my work both locally and in Parliament."
Ashley Fox said he will continue raising these issues with the Government, Somerset Council, Royal Mail, the NHS and other relevant organisations on behalf of residents across the constituency.
