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Political and committee structure

Our district is made up of 36 wards represented by a total of 61 councillors.

Following the 2007 district elections the political make-up of North Somerset Council is as follows:

  • Conservative 46 seats
  • Independent 6 seats
  • Liberal Democrat 5 seats
  • Labour 3 seats
  • Greens 1 seat

For more detailed election result information please visit our Council Elections 2007 website.

For further information about each elected official please visit our Councillors section.

Our council operates under a modern decision-making executive structure.

This Executive is made up of eight councillors including the leader of the council and seven cabinet members responsible for individual portfolios.

It is responsible for making decisions on all matters except those concerning planning and licensing issues.

For further information and for the current make-up of this body please visit our Executive page.

Other recommendations and decisions are made through our various committees which include the following main bodies:

  • Area Committees - Determine planning applications for particular geographical areas across North Somerset. Made up of councillors from each specified area who also consider the views of town and parish councils and the public on issues of concern
  • Overview and Scrutiny Panels - These seven panels ensure there is accountability for decision-making across the council and addresses important issues relevant to those living and working within the North Somerset. Made up of councillors they monitor the council's performance and offer constructive proposals for the efficient working of all council services
  • Planning and Regulatory Committee - Has overall responsibility for granting and refusing planning applications and Listed Building consent and overseeing the regulatory functions of the council. Made up of a mix of Executive and non-Executive councillors
  • Standards Committee - Oversees councillor behaviour as they carry out their council duties and responsible for ensuring the council conducts itself in accordance with the National Code of Conduct for Councillors. Made up of four councillors, a parish councillor and two independent people

For further information please our Committees section or contact our Democratic Services on 01934 634 900.