One Somerset is the proposal to replace the existing five councils with a single council for the county. The Government is currently considering changes to the system of local councils in Somerset. This is a chance to replace the outdated structure of five councils with a new single council. This One Somerset approach would put an end to confusion for residents, give greater powers to local communities, and free up millions of pounds in back office duplication that can be reinvested in frontline services.

It matters because residents and businesses rely on councils for a wide range of around 350 important services from schools and caring for vulnerable children, to care for the elderly, libraries, roads, bins and waste disposal. At the moment, the county council provides around 80% of council services in Somerset by cost.

So, it really matters that you have cost-effective and accountable services provided in the most efficient way. It’s important that you get involved and have your say on how these will be provided in future.

Services are split between the two. Also, city, town and parish councils also have responsibilities – for example Frome Town Council looks after the town’s parks and green spaces, provides community grants and makes recommendations to the district planning authority.

District councils collect waste while the county council disposes of it. Districts sweep the streets, but the county council looks after the roads. Districts adapt vulnerable people’s homes, while the county council helps those people live happily at home for as long as possible.

Under a unitary authority these services would all be delivered by the same council. If there was more than one unitary, all the county council’s functions would need to be split and duplicated.