Local Community Networks

Local Community Networks – Consultation

Background

On 1^st April 2023 a new unitary Somerset Council will replace Somerset County Council and the four district councils (Mendip, Sedgemoor, Somerset West and Taunton, and South Somerset).

Somerset Council will cover a large geographical area. Council Leaders are mindful that we need a model for communities where local voices are heard, partners are brought together, and decisions are taken with the benefit of local knowledge and experience. That’s why all the Somerset councils support the development of Local Community Networks (LCNs).

LCNs will be established in every part of Somerset. They will be Committees of the unitary Council, supported by dedicated officers and managers, with formal decision-making powers and influence.  They will enable the Council, partners and communities to work together to address local issues and priorities, support health and wellbeing activities, and improve outcomes for residents. LCNs must be affordable and have the potential to develop their role alongside the new Somerset Council in the years to come.

Throughout the summer we have been working on developing the LCN model. This consultation asks for your involvement in guiding the decisions on the following key aspects:

Function – what roles and responsibilities the LCNs can have in the first and subsequent years of Somerset Council.

Form – development of options for the LCN boundaries, using existing democratic boundaries, Local Plans and community infrastructure.

Name – whether ‘Local Community Network’ is the right name.

Have your say

We recommend you read more about LCNs before sharing your views about the Proposals.

You can respond to the proposals by completing our online form.

If you want to request a paper copy of the survey, or would like the information in an easy-read or alternative format, please contact us by email at LCN@somerset.gov.uk or call Somerset County Council direct on 0300 123 2224.

What happens next?

Timeline

The LCN consultation will begin on 5^th September and close on 17^th October 2022.

Following the consultation a formal decision paper, including a resourcing plan, will be submitted to Somerset County Council’s Executive, scheduled for 16th November 2022.

In-person engagement sessions

We are holding in-person engagement events where you can join us to discuss the proposals in more detail with a member of our team.

Please visit our website for full listings HERE.

If you would like to attend our LCN conference please follow this link for more information and to book tickets.  

Feedback

We will publish feedback on these proposals, once the consultation ends.