Somerset County Council (SCC) has appointed Duncan Sharkey as its new chief executive as preparations are made to bring the county’s five councils into one authority.
Mr Sharkey, who was previously chief executive of the unitary Windsor and Maidenhead Borough Council, began work in his new post with a meeting of the most senior officers from each of Somerset’s county and district councils.
SCC said “immediate actions” were needed for the creation of a “resilient" new unitary council, which is set to be established from April 1 next year. Mr Sharkey said it was “exciting” to be joining at what he described as a “pivotal moment” for the county.
He added: “We are about to create one of the largest unitary councils in the country and we’re going to do it in a way that strengthens relationships with local communities and strengthens our ability to fight for a fair deal for Somerset nationally.
”There are big economic challenges too. Council budgets are hit hard by inflation, we have to get that under control so we can be there for people who need our support. With the team I have around me, I know we can succeed.”
Bill Revans, leader of Somerset County Council, said: “Duncan will lead our officers through the transition to the new unitary Somerset Council and the crucial work that follows, transforming services for the better.
“There’s no escaping today’s financial realities, but we must stay focused on our positive vision for a fairer, greener and more prosperous Somerset.”
In addition to SCC there are currently four district councils - Mendip, Sedgemoor, Somerset West and Taunton and South Somerset.
The government confirmed the restructure in March, with the inaugural election of 110 councillors to the new authority taking place in May.
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