Senior Conservative Councillor John Cook-Woodman has officially defected to Reform UK, marking the party’s third seat on Somerset Council.
Having represented the Highbridge and Burnham South division since 2009, initially on Somerset County Council and later on Somerset Council, Cook-Woodman brings significant local experience to the party. He played a prominent role in the previous Conservative administration as cabinet member for highways and transport from 2017 until the May 2022 local elections.
On January 14, Cook-Woodman announced his switch to Reform UK, joining fellow councillors Marcus Barr (Wellington) and group leader Bente Height (Shepton Mallet). Born and raised in Somerset, Cook-Woodman’s family has operated a shoemaking business in Burnham-on-Sea for 150 years. Alongside his political career, he works as a self-employed electrician and landlord.
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Expressing his reasons for the move, Cook-Woodman stated, “I believe Reform UK, led by Nigel Farage, is best positioned to bring prosperity, opportunity, security, and law and order to our nation. I am committed to delivering these values locally for the people of Somerset.”
He further emphasized his aim to improve local transport, enhance community facilities, and restore hope in his division.
Reform UK group leader Bente Height welcomed the new addition: “I am delighted to have John join the Reform UK team on Somerset Council, and I look forward to working together in serving our community.”
A spokesperson for Reform UK echoed this sentiment, highlighting Cook-Woodman as “a valued member of the Somerset community and an excellent addition to our growing South West team.”
Following his defection, Cook-Woodman relinquished his shadow portfolio for economic development, planning, and assets. He currently serves on the council’s climate and place scrutiny committee, pension fund committee, Burnham local community network, and the Hinkley Point C monitoring group.
Cook-Woodman’s defection shifts the political landscape slightly: the Liberal Democrats remain the largest party on Somerset Council with 62 of 110 seats, followed by the Conservatives with 31 seats. The Greens and Labour each hold five seats, independents or non-aligned councillors hold four, and Reform UK now holds three.
Due to council rules ensuring committee representation aligns with party strength, Cook-Woodman’s committee roles may be reviewed before the full council meeting scheduled for February 25.