A significant change may be on the horizon for the Somerset region, as the town of Langport and the neighbouring parish of Huish Episcopi move closer to merging into a single administrative entity. This potential union comes after years of debate and consultation, with the goal of creating a more balanced approach to funding and managing local services.
Langport is almost entirely enclosed by Huish Episcopi, the parish that has accommodated most of the recent housing growth in the area. Despite a relatively stable population, Langport Town Council has faced the challenge of funding services through increased council tax—burdens that, in effect, support many residents of Huish Episcopi. To address this imbalance, both councils are exploring a merger that would come into effect in time for the local elections in May 2027.
Earlier this year, a consultation was conducted to gauge public opinion on the merger. Out of over 550 responses, 52% were generally in favour. Yet, opinions differed sharply between the communities: a striking 94% of Langport residents supported the move, contrasting with just 33% of participants from Huish Episcopi.
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Local leaders have been active in discussing the merger’s implications. Sean Dromgoole, chairman of Langport Town Council, emphasized the extensive and transparent nature of the discussions: “There have been three public meetings, two surveys, constant debates in both councils culminating in votes of support from each council. The suggestion that anyone interested was unaware is highly unlikely—it has been a very long, and very public, journey.”
Julia Gadd, chair of Huish Episcopi Parish Council, voiced similar sentiments: “The subject has been controversial and hotly debated for years. Having served as a Langport councillor since the 1990s, I have long questioned why there are separate councils when merging would make economic and administrative sense. A thoughtfully guided merger will help address concerns and pave the way for a vibrant, unified parish council in 2027.”
However, not all councillors were convinced. John Wood of Huish Episcopi expressed concerns that his parish was being pressured into the union without clear benefits, stating, “Both councils have gone about this in totally the wrong way. The majority of Langport-minded councillors trying to steamroller this join-up are responsible for the state we see today. To date, no advantage has been identified for Huish Episcopi residents.”
Financial considerations also play a role. If the merger proceeds, residents of Huish Episcopi could expect a modest increase in council tax—approximately £65 more annually for an average Band D property, according to Mr. Dromgoole.
Councillor Mike Stanton, whose division includes both Langport and Huish Episcopi, highlighted the practical benefits of the merger, noting inconsistencies in current boundaries. “During canvassing, a resident pointed out that their property straddled Langport and Huish Episcopi, with the boundary even running through a house. It’s an absurd situation,” he said. Stanton expressed optimism, adding, “Considerable effort has gone into this, and I believe it will work very well.”
Following a robust debate, Somerset Council’s constitution and governance committee voted 11 to 2 to advance the merger proposal. The final decision rests with the full council, which will deliberate at its upcoming meetings on September 25 or December 17.