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Parish Councils are one of the three tiers of local government. Parish Councils may choose to call themselves a Town Council, but this does not alter their status or responsibilities. Town and Parish Councils are also known as Local Councils.
Parish Councils represent civil parishes with populations of over 200 electors. Parishes do not have to have a council if the electors decide they do not want one at the Parish Meeting. In sparsely populated areas a number of parishes may join to elect a parish council. Parish Councils have a chairman and at least four other councillors.
What do they do?
Town and Parish Councils may provide or maintain shelters, village halls, clocks, war memorials, playing fields, and playgrounds to name but a few. They have special duties concerning public footpaths and obstruction to rights of way.
Parish Councils must be notified of all planning applications and must be consulted on the making of certain byelaws. They may administer some local charities.
When do they meet?
Every parish must have a Parish Meeting which all electors in the parish are invited to attend. If the parish has a council the annual Parish Meeting must take place between the 1st of March and the 1st of June. If the parish does not have a council the "Parish Trustees" who are proper offices in the District Council must hold the Parish Meeting.
Most Parish Council meetings are open to the public. At least three clear days before a meeting, a notice specifying the time and place of the meeting must be displayed in a conspicuous place in the parish. The public does not have a right to speak at a Parish Council meeting but may be invited to do so. If an elector wants the council to discuss a subject they must tell the clerk at least three clear days before the day of the meeting.
When are they elected?
Parish Council elections are held if there are more candidates than places on the Council. Elections should be held every four years or by thirds, similar to District Councils.
How do they raise funds?
Parish Councils may receive funds from the Council Tax. They will decide how much money they need to raise and add a "precept" to the Council Tax that is collected by the District council. Parish Councils may also be paid to provide some services on behalf of the District Council. They may also have funds from local trusts or bequests.
A-Z of Parish Councils and Clerks in Cheshire :: Cheshire Association of Local Councils
Cheshire Community Council :: ParishWeb |