RESIDENTS in Chard are being asked to indicate which services they prioritise as Somerset Council faces “significant financial pressures”.

Chard Town Council launched a survey to understand what services currently provided by Somerset Council residents value the most.

The town council said those services, and assets, “might be delivered differently in the future”.

A spokesperson added: "Just like Ilminster and Crewkerne Town Councils have done this week Chard Town Council is conducting a public survey on services people would prioritise if Somerset Council decides to stop some services which it currently supplies to Chard residents."

The full message from Chard Town Council read: “Somerset Council is experiencing significant financial pressures and is actively holding conversations with town and parish councils about services and assets that might be delivered differently in the future.

“Chard Town Council is asking its residents to prioritise these services in Chard to assist with budgeting decisions.

“Continuing to provide these services in the town will result in an increase in council tax.”

Residents can access the survey online, but hard copies are also available from The Guildhall, Chard Library, and Eleos.

Earlier this week, the Mayor of Ilminster, Cllr Leanne Taylor, said “officers are currently working to establish what cost it will be for the town council to take over and provide” some services after Somerset Council’s declared a financial emergency.