John Wimperis

Five parties have announced candidates for the September 10 by-election in Hutton and Locking, North Somerset, following the death of long-serving Conservative councillor Terry Porter. The candidates are Georgina Barry for the Liberal Democrats, William Jones for Reform UK, Yue He Parkinson for Labour, John Edward Standfield for the Conservatives and James Gavin Willis-Boden for the Greens. Independent councillor Mike Solomon remains the ward’s other representative, while tributes from councillors across the political spectrum highlighted Porter’s public service and community involvement. The deadline to register to vote is August 24.

Councillors in North Somerset criticised new government planning rules requiring smaller planning committees and stricter criteria for referring applications, arguing the changes reduce democratic accountability. Despite already meeting most requirements, the council approved the amendments to remain legally compliant but will write to the government to express concern. Members from multiple parties condemned the centralised approach, noting rising local housing targets and warning the reforms could sideline residents and councillors in decision-making.