West Somerset Council covers 280 square miles of coast and countryside.
The population of the district is approximately 35,000 with about one third living in Minehead, which is the principal town.
The district encompasses Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with much of the district area falling within the area of the Exmoor National Park.
West Somerset is divided into 16 wards, each of which is represented by one or more Councillors (also known as members). There are 28 Councillors.