Parish Councils

Parish councils are statutory bodies. Members are elected for a term of four years and the councils are funded mainly by an annual precept (net amount). The net amount is added to council tax and collected by the district council to be paid to parishes in two six-monthly instalments. The Parish council's income and expenditure for the next financial year are calculated in the form of estimates. Parish and town councils can apply for other funding such as grants, but they do not receive any money direct from central government, as principal authorities do.

Parish and town councils have a range of powers and are involved in many activities, including planning, promoting tourism, licensing, community halls, representation and management of town and village centres. They can make a key contribution to the well being of their local community.

If you wish to become a Parish Councillor, please contact your Parish Clerk for further information. You can find their details on the Parish Clerks web page.