The Somerset Council has initiated a review to determine if the current parish arrangements effectively serve the local communities or if modifications are necessary. Community Governance Reviews aim to ensure that local governance structures are efficient, reflect community identities, and support the delivery of local services. These reviews can encompass proposals such as the creation, merger, or alteration of parish boundaries and councils.
The Committee is recommending the dissolution of Huish Episcopi Parish and Langport Parish. Subsequently, a new parish named Huish Episcopi and Langport would be established, encompassing the existing boundaries of the two current parishes. This new parish would feature a parish council with 11 councillors and would not have separate parish wards.
Councillor Bill Revans, Leader of the Council and Lead Member for Governance & Communications, stated, “Community Governance Reviews are about making sure local governance reflects the communities it serves, both now and in the future. We want to hear from as many people as possible so we can understand what matters most to residents and ensure any future arrangements reflect local identities, support effective representation and help councils deliver for their communities.”
The Council is actively encouraging participation from all interested parties, including residents, local businesses, voluntary organisations, and community groups, to contribute to the future arrangements for Huish Episcopi and Langport. All submitted responses will be thoroughly reviewed before Somerset Council finalises its recommendations.
The consultation period is open until 16 November. Further details on the proposals and the online consultation form can be accessed via the Somerset Council website. Paper copies of the consultation materials are also available upon request at Langport Library.
