Shepton Mallet council seat up for grabs in West Ward
By Laura Linham 9th Mar 2026
A seat on Shepton Mallet Town Council has become vacant following the resignation of councillor Kai-Thomas Roth.
The vacancy affects West Ward and has triggered the formal process that determines whether the position will be filled through a public election or by appointment from the council.
A Notice of Vacancy was published on Wednesday, 4 March 2026, starting a 14-day period during which local electors can request that the seat be filled by election.
Residents can trigger a by-election
If 10 or more registered electors from West Ward submit a written request to Somerset Council's Returning Officer by Tuesday, 24 March, a by-election will be held.
Requests must include the elector's name and address and clearly state that the request is for an election to fill the vacancy in Shepton West Ward.
If the threshold is reached, voters in the ward will be given the opportunity to choose who should represent them on the Town Council.
What happens if no election is requested
If fewer than 10 electors request an election before the deadline, the council will instead fill the vacancy through co-option.
This means the Town Council will invite eligible residents to apply for the role before councillors vote to appoint someone at a public meeting.
Although co-opted councillors carry out the same duties as elected members, the process does not involve a public vote.
Council thanks outgoing councillor
Shepton Mallet Town Council said it wished to thank Kai-Thomas Roth for his service and the time and commitment he gave to the council and the community during his time in office.
The council said it will provide an update after 24 March 2026 confirming whether an election will be held or whether the vacancy will be filled by co-option.
Residents interested in standing as a councillor or learning more about the process can contact the Town Clerk for further information.
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