THE possible merger between Taunton Deane and West Somerset councils has been the subject of debate for some time.
The high-level business case document referred to by conservative leader, John Williams, in the Gazette dated 30 June, was made available to councillors and through the Taunton Deane and West Somerset websites on July 5.
This document is about 100 pages long, it is complicated, involving very large sums of money reflecting the difficult decisions to be made.
Yet the two councils have only until July 26, a matter of three weeks – in which to make these very major decisions.
There seems very little opportunity for discussion and amendment of the plan. It is also surprising that seems be no opportunity for public consultation, despite the very considerable changes in local governance and financing being put forward.
The plan has been in preparation for months, one wonders why it is now being rushed through in three weeks.
Is this how democracy works?
SUSAN LEVINGE
Wiveliscombe
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