Mendip District Council may well follow in B&NES’ footsteps as it discusses a bid for a devolution scheme of its own.

Mendip is one of thirteen district councils, that, along with Devon County Council, Somerset County Council, Plymouth and Torbay, could form part of a devolved region known as the Heart of the South West, which like the deal offered to B&NES, Bristol and South Gloucester, would set up a single combined authority with powers handed down from Westminster.

Mendip Councillors are said to have agreed to back the plans, after being reportedly assured that, unlike the deal offered to B&NES and the other West of England councils, there would be no imposed Elected Mayor.

A full public consultation is due to take place as part of the negotiation process. Mendip Councillors, along with those from the other Heart of the South West councils are now working towards securing the right deal, with a decision expected in the Autumn.