About Devolution
The local devolution programme is Somerset Council’s approach to working with city, town, and parish councils, and in some cases community organisations.
It enables services, land, or buildings to be managed locally where this is appropriate and sustainable, and where it benefits residents.
The programme aims to:
- bring decision-making closer to communities
- strengthen local capacity
- support long-term, well-managed solutions
All proposals must align with Somerset Council’s legal duties and strategic priorities
Devolution key principles
All devolution proposals must:
- be co-produced
- be sustainable
- provide clear community benefits
- align with Somerset Council priorities
More information can be found in the Devolution Framework document below.
Eligibility
You must be one of the following:
- a city, town, or parish council
- a voluntary or community organisation
- a registered charity
Before you apply
We use standard terms for all devolution transfers. We only make exceptions where there is a clear need.
For freehold transfers, key conditions include:
- The asset must continue to serve a public benefit.
- We may apply specific restrictions or covenants.
- Mines and minerals are excluded.
- We hold a right of pre-emption at £1 if use changes or the asset is sold.
- Each party pays their own legal costs.
- We do not provide full commercial property enquiries.
You must pay your own legal fees.
We assess all applications against the devolution framework and legal requirements, including subsidy control and the Local Government Act.
What happens when we transfer an asset or service
What happens when we transfer an asset or service
When we transfer an asset or service:
- we transfer it in its current condition
- we use standard terms
- you take full responsibility from the transfer date
Asset devolution process
These steps apply to asset transfers. Service transfers follow a different process after step 2, which will vary depending on the service being considered for devolution.
Step 1 – You submit an expression of interest. We review it and add it to a prioritisation list.
Step 2 – When your request reaches the top of the list, we start discussions to agree scope.
Step 3 – We review the proposal through asset governance groups. We complete initial checks and agree draft terms.
Step 4 – We follow the relevant decision process. We may set up a management agreement at this stage.
Step 5 – The property team completes checks and prepares legal instructions.
Step 6 – Legal teams complete the transfer. Full devolution then takes place
Somerset Council Highways information and schedules
How to apply
Before you apply, gather:
- land registry details, address, or location
- site plans or screenshots
You can view more information about Council assets on our Council buildings and Assets of Community Value pages.
Submit an expression of interestDue to high demand, response times vary. We will agree a timetable with you once discussions begin, where possible.
If you have any queries or require more information please email: devolution@somerset.gov.uk