SOUTH Somerset is set for a year of growth and improvement, according to MP Marcus Fysh.

Major transport upgrades, broadband schemes and educational changes are in the pipeline, with Mr Fysh also looking for a good Brexit deal and business rate reform in 2017.

Mr Fysh, who is also a Somerset County Councillor, said: “2016 will be remembered for the EU Referendum. In fact it is hard to think of an issue that has dominated politics quite so much.

“Locally a lot has been achieved in the South West in the last year with much to build upon and 2016 should be remembered as a year of progress.

“The major transport upgrades for both our roads and rail are being delivered. Highways England is working through the options and consultations stage for the A303 and A358 and I’m hoping to get some interim safety improvements on the Ilminster Bypass in the meantime.

“Broadband is being rolled out with new homes and businesses connected every day and funding for 95 per cent coverage.

“Whilst we still have to control our spending, I lobbied hard for more money for the council and we got an extra £2.9million of central grant as well as funds for minor road and pothole improvements.

“We have a major new strategic partnership in place between Leonardo and the Government with exciting collaboration on unmanned aerial vehicles and despite the disappointing news at GKN I am looking at ways to keep and develop our skilled engineering jobs in the area.

“The main priority for 2017 will be healing divisions and reducing uncertainty about leaving the European Union. The referendum created tensions on both sides.

“We should also see a better funding model for our local schools as a result of the national F40 Fairer Funding campaign which I am a part of.

“More small companies have been made exempt from business rates but I will continue lobbying for change to this outdated tax. Councils need to be more flexible with these but also with initiatives like free parking to support town centres.

“In the past year I have been struck by the useful collaboration and work between MPs for the South West in getting the best deal for our part of the world.

“The region has been under-invested in for too long and we are reversing that trend. That will continue to be my focus for 2017 and I am looking forward to it.”