About the review
We reviewed the Waste Core Strategy 2013, which guides decisions about waste development across Somerset.
The review looks at whether the current plan is still working well and reflects current needs. It will help us decide whether we need to prepare new or updated waste planning policies, in line with changes to the Government’s plan-making system. You can read the full review below.
What happens next
In April 2026, the Planning and Transport Policy Executive Sub-Committee considered the findings of the review and agreed that work should start on preparing updated waste planning policies.
We will publish more information in due course, including a timetable.
You can read more in our Decision Report – Planning and Transport Executive Sub-Committee.
Evidence base
The review is supported by an updated evidence base. This looks at waste needs, capacity and performance across Somerset. You can read the evidence below. It includes a Waste Needs Assessment Report and also supporting reports which cover specific waste-related topics.
Waste Needs Assessment (WNA)
- WNA Capacity Overview Report
- Commercial and Industrial Waste
- Hazardous Waste
- Local Authority Collected Waste
- Other Waste Scoping Report
- Waste Flows Report
Authority Monitoring Report
You can find the 2020 – 2024 Somerset Authority Monitoring Report and its appendices in the Authority Monitoring Reports section of our page Local Plan Evidence Base and Monitoring.
Contact the team
If you have any questions about the waste planning policy review, please email: planningpolicymandw@somerset.gov.uk