Shepton Mallet Town Council is trying a fresh approach to get residents involved in local decisions – by launching a five-minute audio guide to explain what's going on.

Dubbed "Decoding Your Town Council", the new audio briefing breaks down what's on the agenda at the next big council meeting, set for Tuesday 2 September. The aim? To make council meetings feel less mysterious and more accessible.

It's part of a wider push to get more locals through the doors – or online – to have their say on how the town is run.

Top of the agenda is the town's finances, with the council looking at overspending on sites like the Depot and public toilets due to soaring utility bills. There's also a proposal to simplify its 2024–2029 Strategic Plan by splitting it into three clearer sections: Strategic, Tactical and Operational.

Big projects like the Coach House purchase for a new council office and the Collett Park Gateway plans – including a permanent café and upgraded Changing Places-standard toilets – are also up for discussion.

The council is urging locals to tune in to the audio, check the agenda online, and turn up to the meeting, either in person at the Council Chamber on Cannards Grave Road or online with a provided meeting ID and passcode.

Residents can speak at the start of the meeting, but they must register by noon on 2 September. Each person will get up to three minutes, with the whole public section lasting 20 minutes.

A spokesperson said the council is keen to hear whether the audio briefing helps more people get involved. Locals are being encouraged to send in feedback on the new format.

The full agenda, supporting papers and audio guide can be found now on the Shepton Mallet Town Council website.