A seat on Shepton Mallet Town Council has become vacant following the resignation of West Ward councillor Kai-Thomas Roth — but a by-election has not yet been triggered.

The vacancy was formally announced in a Notice of Vacancy published on Wednesday, 4 March 2026, starting the process that will decide whether the seat is filled by public vote or by co-option.

For a by-election to be held, at least 10 registered electors in Shepton Mallet West Ward must submit a written request to Somerset Council's Returning Officer by Tuesday, 24 March.

At present, that threshold has not been reached.

If 10 valid requests are received before the deadline, a by-election will be called and voters in West Ward will choose a new town councillor.

If fewer than 10 electors come forward, the vacancy will instead be filled by co-option, with the council inviting eligible residents to apply before councillors vote in public on an appointment.

Requests for an election must include the elector's name and address and clearly state that the request is to fill the vacancy in Shepton Mallet West Ward.

Shepton Mallet Town Council has thanked Kai-Thomas Roth for his service, and for the time and commitment he gave to the council and the wider community.

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