Portishead Town Council Confirms Precept Increase Following Strong Public Support for Devolution

Portishead Town Council has approved a precept increase for 2026–27, following clear and sustained public support for the devolution of local assets and services.

Last summer's consultation, which received around 670 responses, demonstrated an overwhelming majority in favour of transferring responsibility for key community assets and open spaces from North Somerset Council to Portishead Town Council. The consultation also explored the financial implications of devolution, with a substantial majority supporting an increase in the Town Council precept to ensure these assets can be properly maintained.

North Somerset Council has confirmed that it no longer has the financial capacity to continue maintaining many of Portishead's valued community spaces. Without local intervention, these assets would fall into disrepair. By taking them on, Portishead Town Council can safeguard their future and ensure investment is directed where residents want it most.

The increased precept will fund the maintenance and improvement of the assets and services residents identified as priorities, including:

• Lake Grounds area
• East Wood
• 14 Play Areas
• Parks maintenance
• Grounds maintenance, litter, and dog bin services
• Somerset Hall
• Public toilets
• Allotments

These responsibilities will be managed locally, ensuring that decisions and spending directly reflect the needs and expectations of Portishead residents. The Town Council precept is also the only tax that is spent entirely within Portishead.

Key Precept Information
• Band D household (2026–27): £225.50 per year
• Equivalent to an increase of £1.60 per week (£83.43 per year)
• Band A–C households will pay less; exemptions remain for eligible residents

A spokesperson for Portishead Town Council said: "Residents have been clear about their priorities for Portishead's future. This decision ensures that the places people care about most are protected, improved, and managed locally. We are grateful to everyone who took part in the consultation and attended the recent Council meeting. Your voice continues to shape Portishead's next chapter."

The Council will continue to provide updates as the devolution process progresses.

Councillors will also be available to speak with residents at the next drop‑in session on Friday 30 January at Impero Lounge from 15:00–17:00.