Traditionally, the first Thursday in May sees local elections taking place across many parts of the UK. Voters typically cast their ballots every four years to elect local representatives who oversee important community issues — from waste collection schedules to housing development plans.
Local elections are often viewed as a reflection of the national political mood. They can serve as a barometer for public opinion on the government in Westminster, with voters sometimes using them to express dissatisfaction by voting against the ruling party.
On May 7, several areas, including Exeter and Plymouth, will elect one-third of their city council seats. However, Somerset residents will largely sit this year’s local elections out, save for a single by-election.
Why No Local Elections in Somerset This Year?
In Somerset, local elections are held every four years, with the last full election occurring in May 2022. That election marked the first for the newly formed unitary Somerset Council, where the Liberal Democrats, led by Bill Revans, took control by winning 61 of 110 seats — unseating the previously dominant Conservative group.
Although these councillors were elected in 2022, Somerset Council officially came into existence only on April 1, 2023. Until then, those elected served as county councillors for the old Somerset County Council and the four district councils, which were abolished upon the new council’s formation.
Because of this timing, the four-year term for these councillors does not end until spring 2027. This means there will be no regular local elections for Somerset Council in 2024, extending current representatives’ terms by an additional year.
This situation is similar in other newly established unitary authorities such as Cumberland, North Yorkshire, and Westmorland & Furness, which were created simultaneously.
Can I Vote at All This Year?
The only local contest in Somerset on May 7 is a by-election in the Mendip Hills division, covering villages between Midsomer Norton, Radstock, Shepton Mallet, and Wells. This by-election was triggered by the unfortunate passing of Councillor Tony Robbins in February.
Six candidates are competing to fill this seat:
- Terry Ledlie (Labour)
- Abi McGuire (Independent)
- Nicola Perold (Conservative)
- Sam Phripp (Liberal Democrat)
- Greg Stone (Reform UK)
- Victoria Welsh (Green)
Polling stations across the Mendip Hills will be open from 7am to 10pm on May 7, with results announced the following morning.
Additionally, some town and parish council seats will be contested, including West ward in Shepton Mallet, Pyrland ward in Taunton, and St. Thomas ward in Wells. An election for two seats on Porlock Parish Council was planned but will not take place due to lack of candidates; these seats will remain vacant until filled through co-option.
When Will the Next Full Local Election Happen?
Full local elections for Somerset Council are scheduled for May 1, 2027. Ahead of these elections, new boundaries will come into effect, reducing the number of councillors from 110 to 96 across 93 divisions. These changes follow recommendations from the Local Government Boundary Commission for England (LGBCE), finalized in March.
Each councillor elected in 2027 will represent an average of 4,867 electors, although some variation will exist across divisions.
Candidates for the 2027 elections will be announced after Christmas 2026, giving current councillors time to decide whether they will stand for re-election.
For now, apart from the Mendip Hills by-election and a few parish council contests, Somerset residents won’t be heading to the polls this May.