Somerset County Council Leader David Fothergill is encouraging people to help build the new unitary authority which comes into being in April 2023.

And he said he wants to move away from the One Somerset campaign name.

Cllr Fothergill said: “One of the things we’ll need to agree collectively over the next 18 months is a name for the new council. It’s clear it won’t be called One Somerset and I think it’s important we stop talking about the campaign and devote our energies to building the new council.

“Our business case is much more than just reducing waste and confusion. It also sets out ambitious plans for up to 20 new Local Community Networks across Somerset, reaching every part of the county and giving communities real power and influence over the decisions that affect them most.

“This is the exciting part and in creating these we have a fantastic opportunity to transform how public services operate and put our communities first. Please get involved and help us build a new council which works for everyone.”

Everyone is invited to join one of the new consultative groups – to register an interest, or to stay up to date with progress as the new council is created, visit www.newsomersetcouncil.org.uk.

Residents can also follow @SomersetNew on Twitter, @NewSomersetCouncil on Facebook, [email protected] or write to New Somerset Council Programme, County Hall, Taunton TA1 4DY.