A local councillor has raised concerns that the “democratic principle” could be undermined if North Somerset joins the West of England Combined Authority (WECA) under a mayor the area did not elect.
North Somerset Council is poised to become a member of WECA, potentially by the end of the year. This move promises millions in additional government funding and improved collaboration across local boundaries. However, Caritas Charles, independent councillor for Portishead East, cautions that the democratic legitimacy of the arrangement is at stake.
Currently, WECA is led by Labour’s Helen Godwin, elected less than a year ago, with no election scheduled until 2029. No plans exist to hold an early election coinciding with North Somerset’s potential entry. “There are certain powers that are going to be given to a mayor that not one person in North Somerset voted for,” Charles said.
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While North Somerset’s council leader will have a vote on the WECA committee, Charles insists decisions made by the mayor should first require ratification by the local council cabinet before they affect North Somerset residents. “The voters chose this administration and council here. They did not vote for Helen Godwin,” he emphasized. “Protecting democratic principles is essential, and that’s what worries me.”
Known for advocating increased direct democracy and public engagement, Charles plans to introduce a motion at North Somerset’s full council meeting on April 21 urging support for this position. Though he doubts it will pass, he aims to bring public attention to the issue.
Additionally, Charles will propose a motion calling on the council to urge WECA to establish a citizens’ assembly to decide major regional strategies and co-design panels to shape policies. “I’m not a fan of mayors,” he explained, “because concentrating significant power in one individual is risky.”
A public consultation on North Somerset joining WECA closed on April 10. According to Charles, most locals are “either vehemently opposed or utterly confused” by the proposal.
In response, Helen Godwin said in January: “The electoral cycle is fixed, and there isn’t an election until 2029. But the benefits for residents can come much sooner, so it’s important we proceed quickly.”
If North Somerset joins, the government will provide WECA with £15 million for “short-term projects,” with future funds reflecting the expanded population and area. Council leader Mike Bell stressed: “Whether people like it or not, mayoral strategic authorities are the only option for driving growth and ambitious plans.”
Controversy also stems from the fact that joining WECA would mirror the footprint of the former County of Avon, a Bristol-centric county established in 1974 but abolished in 1996 amid widespread unpopularity. Bell reassured residents: “Mayoral strategic authorities are not county councils. We are not returning to Avon County Council.”
North Somerset Council voted to join WECA in September, followed by the WECA committee’s approval in February. The final decision now rests with government ministers, who will consider the public consultation results. Approval from the secretary of state and parliamentary legislation are required, with full membership expected by late 2026 or early 2027.