Jonathan Rollason is the Reform UK candidate for the 23rd October, Dunster division by-election in Somerset. We spoke with Jonathan about his decision to stand.
“I decided to stand for election because I want to ensure that local voices are heard loud and clear in decisions that affect our daily lives”
Can you introduce yourself to our readers, and tell us what made you decide to run?
I’ve lived in this community for many years and care deeply about the people and places that make it so special. I decided to stand for election because I want to ensure that local voices are heard loud and clear in decisions that affect our daily lives. Too often, residents feel that choices are made without them – I want to change that by being an accessible, accountable councillor who works with the community, not just on its behalf.
“A particular concern locally is the uncertainty around Minehead Hospital. Many people rely on it for essential services, and there’s real anxiety about the future of those services being reduced or centralised further away”
You’re the candidate for Dunster division ward. What are the main concerns in the area?
Dunster and the surrounding villages are proud, close-knit communities, but there are real challenges. Residents are worried about the lack of affordable housing for local people, the pressure on rural transport, and the need to protect our environment while supporting local businesses and tourism. Flooding, road safety, and access to services for older residents also come up again and again.
A particular concern locally is the uncertainty around Minehead Hospital. Many people rely on it for essential services, and there’s real anxiety about the future of those services being reduced or centralised further away. Protecting and strengthening the hospital’s role is vital if we want to make sure local people can get the care they need without long, difficult journeys.
“Somerset has huge potential, but we need a council that invests in people and places fairly, not just in the bigger towns”
What do you see as the major issues more widely in Somerset and if elected what do you hope to champion?
Across Somerset, many of the issues are shared – affordable housing, the future of farming, protecting our beautiful countryside, and ensuring our young people have opportunities to stay and thrive here. I’m particularly keen to champion better infrastructure for rural communities, stronger support for small businesses, and more joined-up action on climate and nature recovery. Somerset has huge potential, but we need a council that invests in people and places fairly, not just in the bigger towns.
How can people find out more or get involved in the campaign?
I’d love to hear from anyone who has questions, concerns, or ideas. People can get in touch by email chair.tivertonminehead@reformuk.com, or come along to one of the campaign events. Whether it’s displaying a poster, joining us on the doorstep, or just having a conversation, every bit of support matters – because this campaign is about working together for Dunster and Somerset.
