Plans to reform local government in Somerset have moved another step forward with the cross-party approval of Mendip District Council’s Scrutiny Committee on Monday 7^th September.

The plans would see Somerset’s district and county councils abolished, replacing them with new Eastern and Western Somerset Councils that would provide the vast majority of services to local people. 

Mendip’s Scrutiny Board, which acts as a check and balance on council business, voted overwhelmingly to support the approach put forward with Stronger Somerset – members from the administration’s Liberal Democrat group, as well as independent councillors, and members of the Green and Conservative parties voted in favour.

Cllr Ros Wyke, the Liberal Democrat leader of Mendip District Council said: “Stronger Somerset is all about reforming how councils work, bringing power and services closer to local people. For too long, power has been hoarded at County Hall in Taunton, leading to distant and out-of-touch decision-making.

I’m very pleased indeed that Councillors from across the political spectrum endorsed the plan because, in the end, it isn’t about politics, it’s about positive solutions for stronger communities.

Central government has made it clear that they want a unitary solution for Somerset – we think Stronger Somerset fulfils that brief and will fundamentally change the way we work to secure a brighter, sustainable future.”

The Stronger Somerset plan was also endorsed by Mendip’s Cabinet, and now moves forward for decision by Mendip’s full council meeting on Thursday 10^th September.

This is a clear example that this issue is beyond party politics with councillors including Liberal Democrats, Conservative, Greens and independents working together to deliver a better and stronger future for our Somerset. You can read more about the Stronger Somerset plan here: www.strongersomerset.co.uk.

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