A new political map for Somerset Council

Somerset Council is set to have new boundaries for its council divisions.  

Proposed divisions for Somerset Council 

Credit: contains Ordnance Survey data (c) Crown copyright and database rights 2026 

High resolution map available at Somerset | LGBCE  

The Local Government Boundary Commission is the independent body that draws these boundaries. It has reviewed Somerset to make sure councillors will represent about the same number of electors, and that division arrangements will help the council work effectively.  

The Commission has published final recommendations for changes in Somerset Council. It says residents should be represented by 96 councillors. This is 14 less councillors than there are currently. 

There will be 90 single-councillor divisions and three two-councillor divisions. 

Publishing the recommendations Bev Smith, Chair of the Commission, said: 

"We are very grateful to people in Somerset. We considered all the comments they gave us on our recommendations for a new electoral map for the area and this has helped us to make changes. We believe the new arrangements will deliver electoral fairness while reflecting the needs and identities of local communities." 

379 people and organisations made comments to help decide the new divisions. Changes in response to what local people said include: 

• Two-member divisions in the areas of Cheddar, Minehead and Wells  

• Amendments to divisions in Frome to reflect local evidence received 

The Commission has made further changes to its earlier proposals. Details can be found on its website at Somerset | LGBCE. 

The changes become law once Parliament has approved them. Staff at the council will ensure that the arrangements are in place for the May 2027 elections.  

Ends/ 

Notes to editors:  

For further information contact the Commission’s press office on 0330 500 1525 / 1250 or email press@lgbce.org.uk  

An interactive map is available at Somerset | LGBCE 

The Local Government Boundary Commission for England is an independent body accountable to Parliament. It recommends fair electoral and boundary arrangements for local authorities in England. In doing so, it aims to: 

• Make sure that, within an authority, each councillor represents a similar number of electors 

• Create boundaries that are appropriate, and reflect community ties and identities 

• Deliver reviews informed by local needs, views and circumstances