STREET cleaning and grounds maintenance in the former Mendip district have been brought ‘in-house’.

Somerset Council has announced the services – previously provided by contractor idverde – started being integrated into the authority’s existing operations on June 1 in a bid to “ensure unified and efficient maintenance of public spaces for our residents”.

The move will affect services in Frome, Glastonbury, Shepton Mallet, Street, Wells and surrounding areas, with council staff now undertaking the upkeep of open spaces and play areas, grass cutting, litter collection and fly-tipping removal.

The former Mendip area’s street scene and ground care works have been delivered through a contract with idverde since 2012, while officers who worked with idverde will be TUPE transferred over to join the council team.

Meanwhile, some responsibilities will now be delivered by Frome Town Council, Glastonbury Town Council, and Wells City Council.

Councillor Federica Smith-Roberts, lead member for communities, housing and culture at Somerset Council, said: “This move will align our ground maintenance operations across the county. It means we can coordinate resources and offer unified, direct delivery of services for residents.

“Working together with town and city councils has been a fantastic success story. This collaborative approach means valued services continue to be delivered.

“We would like to extend our thanks to idverde for its commitment to the area over the past 13 years.”

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