Devolution: What It Means for Wells
Wells City Council is reaching out to residents for their views on the potential impacts of devolution—a process that could reshape the way local services are managed. As Somerset County Council grapples with financial challenges, the transfer of certain services to local City, Town, and Parish Councils is under consideration.
Devolution, in essence, would shift the responsibility for various services from Somerset to more localised councils. Wells City Council is determined to safeguard and sustain these services, with a particular focus on those most vital to the community.
The City Council sees this moment as a once-in-a-generation opportunity to ensure the continued delivery of essential services while exploring ways to enhance and expand them for the future.
Cllr Stewart Cursley, Chair of the Council’s Finance and Council Matters Committee, emphasised the significance of the project, stating: “This is a significant undertaking. We must be prepared to manage services effectively for our residents, businesses, and visitors. However, it's equally important that our priorities align with those of the community, which is why we are seeking public input.”
Residents are encouraged to voice their opinions on the potential devolution and its effects on local services.
Haylee Wilkins, the Council’s Devolution Officer, stressed the urgency of community engagement, saying: “We are working to a very tight timeline and need to hear from as many residents as possible.
The future of Wells' local services could be shaped by your input—make your voice heard.
PUBLIC CONSULTATION MEETING
A public consultation meeting took place on Thursday 26th September 2024 in Wells Town Hall. Click HERE for the minutes from this meeting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Following the consultation via Wells Voice, and the Council’s website, as well as the Public Meeting held on 26th September 2024, the Council wishes to ensure that all residents have access to the information gathered, and specifically, the answers provided to questions that have arisen from the engagement. The Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s), will be updated at regular intervals and posted here. Wells City Council encourages further questions, and should you have anything that you wish for us to consider, please email reception@wells.gov.uk or send it to us at, Wells City Council, Town Hall, Market Place, Wells, Somerset. BA5 2RB.
Click here to download the full list of Frequently Asked Questions