Decision details

RESOLVED:

That District Executive agreed to:

a.

seek Council endorsement for the Stronger Somerset proposal for the reform of local government including the creation of two unitary Councils within Somerset. and recommend its approval to full Council, for submission to the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government.

b.

delegate authority to the Leader of the Council and the Chief Executive, in consultation with the other Somerset District Leaders and Chief Executives, to make minor amendments to the Proposal as necessary and / or appropriate, ahead of its submission to the Secretary of State.

District Executive also recommended that Council:

c.

support the continuing consultation and engagement with key partners, neighbouring authorities, business, staff, unions and local stakeholders, above and beyond any programme of consultation that may be required by the Government in due course.

d.

agree to this Council, with the other Somerset councils, advancing the delivery of aspects of the proposals for reform ahead of the Secretary of State’s approval where so doing will support the Stronger Somerset Proposal and lead to early delivery of efficiencies, community outcomes and greater collaboration & integration

e.

pay due regard to the Equalities Impact Assessment, attached as Appendix B, in considering the proposal for a Stronger Somerset

f.

note that, in the best interests of the communities and residents of South Somerset, the Council will continue to work with colleagues across all tiers of local government and public service in Somerset including ensuring our residents, communities and businesses are supported through the pandemic.

Reason:

To propose that Council confirm the submission of the Stronger Somerset proposal for the reform of local government including the creation of two unitary Councils within Somerset to the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government by 9th December 2020.