Somerset Council has called in private sector reinforcements in a last-ditch bid to save services and balance the books — signing off a deal worth up to £20 million with transformation specialists Newton Consulting.

At a crunch Executive meeting on 8 September, councillors gave the green light to bring in Newton as the council's new Strategic Transformation Partner—tasked with revamping how the authority runs, cuts costs, and keeps vital services afloat.

The first phase will cost up to £1.5 million, with the full contract capped at £20 million. But officials say the investment will pay off, claiming every £1 spent will bring back £2.50 to £3 in savings.

Cllr Theo Butt Philip, who oversees transformation, said the situation was urgent: "Like most councils, our finances are in a critical state. We've already clawed back £34 million through restructuring - but now we need the big guns.

"This isn't outsourcing. It's a proper partnership. We stay in control, staff get skilled up, and taxpayers get better value."

The move is part of the council's Inspiring Innovation programme, a sweeping shake-up designed to drag Somerset's systems into the 21st century. First approved in July 2025, it focuses on five areas: budget reform, cultural change, transformation projects, capability building, and long-term direction.

Officials say the goal is clear—ditch the outdated bureaucracy, modernise services, and build a leaner, faster, digital-first council that can cope with soaring demand and tight budgets.

Councillors also approved the People Strategy 2025–2028, which lays out how the council plans to build a "skilled, resilient and empowered" workforce fit for the future.

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