Parish and Town Councils are independent of District and County Councils, although they maintain a close working relationship with both. They are the most local level of government in England. 

Powers
The use of the powers given to Parish and Town Councils can vary depending on how large and how active they are. 

Their functions and responsibilities include allotments, bus shelters, amenity lighting, commons, village halls, playing fields and open markets, war memorials and markets.

They are notified of all planning applications affecting their areas and able to make informed local comment. They are engaged on an increasing basis by County and District Councils on a wide range of matters. 

Meetings
They are required to hold at least four meetings each year which are open to the public, one of which must be an Annual Meeting at which Chairmanship and other appointments are made. They may also appoint Committees and Working Groups.

All Parishes/Towns must also convene an annual meeting of the local government elections of the area. This will normally be administered by the Parish or Town Council. These will be open public meetings at which only the registered local government elections for the Panel/Town may vote on any issue.

For more information, please contact the relevant Parish/Town Clerk under Parish Council Contacts.