The consultation is being reopened because the Commission initially, and incorrectly, understood Somerset Council’s preference for predominantly single-councillor divisions as a formal request for a uniform pattern of single-member divisions under the legislation guiding its review process. No such formal request had been made by the Council.
This may have led some people to believe that multi-councillor divisions would not be given due consideration, as a formal request for single-member divisions carries greater weight in the Commission’s considerations than a general preference.
To ensure fairness and transparency, the Commission is reopening the consultation so that all views, including any supporting multi-member divisions, can be taken into account. Any submissions previously made will still be considered and do not need to be re-submitted.
After reviewing all responses, we aim to publish our final recommendations in March 2026. Subject to parliamentary approval, the new arrangements will take effect at Somerset Council’s elections in May 2027.
Full details of the proposals are available on the Commission’s website: Somerset | LGBCE
People can also give their views by e-mail at reviews@lgbce.org.uk, and by post:
Review Officer (Somerset)
LGBCE
7th Floor
3 Bunhill Row
London
EC1Y 8YZ