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Unitary council plans ’shockingly unpopular’ with locals
Somerset residents oppose the county’s plans for a unitary authority by a ratio of more than three to one, according to a public opinion poll.
Conducted by survey specialist YouGov, the ballot found that 21 per cent of locals support plans for a single county authority, whereas 67 per cent of respondents are against the proposals.
Almost three quarters of Somerset residents believe council tax would rise under a unitary council, whereas just seven per cent would anticipate a drop. One in ten locals polled believe democracy in the county would strengthen under the plans, but 63 per cent see it weakening.
The proposed county council’s plans would encourage a migration of jobs towards the regional city Taunton, a shift considered positive by four per cent of residents, but negative by 71 per cent.
"This poll is the most comprehensive and independent test of public opinion that’s been held in Somerset. It shows quite clearly that the county council’s plans are shockingly unpopular," said councillor Duncan McGinty, leader of Sedgemoor district council.
"Against this background I simply cannot see how the government could allow the county council to proceed with its half baked reorganisation plans."
