TAUNTON Deane taxpayers are at risk of paying for the financially challenged West Somerset Council.

You have until January 19 to respond to this proposed folly.

Your councillors (TDBC) will be reduced in number, while all the time reducing staff numbers to serve both the residents of Taunton Deane and West Somerset!

Your Council Tax bills will rise as TD taxpayers will be required to pick up the costs, including the West Somerset pensions deficit, which currently stands at approximately £15.6 million. 


READ MORE: Government backs council merger plan


The costs of this unwanted merger and pension bail out will far outstrip the alleged savings.

The un-promoted but much vaunted “consultation” was responded to by less than 1 per cent of voters - only approximately 200 out of 100,000 were in favour of this merger, the other two thirds were opposed to it.

“Widespread support” it is not! 

The financial drain on TDBC will inevitably mean less money, time, expertise to solve all our local issues, as all efforts will be on turning West Somerset Council around. 


READ MORE: ANALYSIS: What would a council merger actually mean?


Residents can sign the petition to reject this proposal at www.tdld.co.uk/stop-the-merger.

CLLR SIMON COLES
Liberal Democrat Group Leader 
Taunton Deane Borough Council