What is the Parish Council?

What is the Parish Council?

Parish Councils are first-tier local authorities.  Although they have very limited duties compared to principal authorities (county councils), they have surprisingly wide powers.  This means they can choose to provide a range of services, either on their own or in partnership with principal authorities.  So keen and active parish councils can make a real difference to life in a village or town.

What powers do parish council have?They have a wide range of powers which relate to local matters , such a looking after play areas, looking after land owned by the a parish,( village green. the square and the pond to name 3 ) allotments, bus shelters., look after footpaths and bridle ways, They discuss planning applications

The parish council  has the right to be consulted on issues affecting the  village, the recent issue is the proposed changes to the bus timetables.

How is the parish council funded?Parish Councils are funded through the precept (sometimes called the parish charge)   which is collected as part of your Council Tax.

The money  may be used  to provide/improve facilities for the village.One example is the planned  refurbishment to Goddards Lane Play Area where a small amount of precept money is being  added to the grant money awarded from the Lottery  Awards For All.

Who are Councillors?

 Councillors are elected every four years but if the someone  resigns during the four years then after a period of time a person  may be co-opted onto the council

 A councillor must live within 2 miles of the parish boundary and be over 18 years of age.

There are on average 12 members  which include a chairman, vice chairman.

The  Parish Clerk is not a councillor

Parish Clerk  The Parish clerk is the only paid official  on the council. All reports, letters, payment of bills, quotes for work etc go through the Parish Clerk.

Aldbourne council meets first Wednesday in the   month.7.30pm Memorial Hall. There is a slot early on for the public to speak as well as at the end of the meeting

 

So with apologies to M&S! repeat after me using a husky voice…..

     This not just any parish council it is

                YOUR parish council

© A.E 2010