A FORMAL review over the possible merger of councils in Langport and Huish Episcopi has been launched.

Somerset Council has confirmed it is undertaking a “formal review into the local government and electoral arrangements” for the parishes, which neighbour each other.

The review, called a Community Governance Review (CGR), comes after a petition from people living in both existing areas was submitted, calling for the current councils to be dissolved in favour of a single parish in the interests of efficiency and cost effectiveness.

“The review will start by consulting key stakeholders including the MP for Glastonbury and Somerton, the elected members for the Curry Rivel and Langport divisions at Somerset Council, Huish Episcopi Parish Council and Langport Town Council,” a Somerset Council spokesperson said.

“Issues that will be considered as part of the review include the number of new councillors for the new parish council and whether it should be divided into wards.

“Final recommendations are due to be considered by Somerset Council this autumn, with implementation of the decision to be effective from April 2027.”

The potential merger of the two parishes has long been a topic of debate in the area, with the areas covered Langport Town Council and Huish Episcopi Parish Council so closely linked.

Last year, the results of a Community Plan, which garnered more than 500 responses were revealed by both councils.

Part of the report, entitled the ‘Action Plan’ detailed the merger proposal, to create a single council covering both areas.

Anyone wishing to make written representations on the Community Governance Review, should do so by email to cgr@somerset.gov.uk, or by mail to CGR-Electoral Services, Somerset Council, County Hall, The Crescent, Somerset TA1 4DY.