A parish council is the most local level of government in England. It sits below borough and county councils and focuses on issues affecting a specific town, village or neighbourhood.
Parish councils are made up of locally elected councillors who represent their community and meet regularly to discuss local matters.
They don’t replace the borough or county council, but they can influence decisions and take responsibility for some local services.
What does a parish council actually do?
Parish councils can:
- Represent residents’ views to borough and county councils
- Comment on planning applications in their area
- Run or support community facilities such as parks, play areas, noticeboards, benches and community centres
- Award grants to local groups and charities
- Organise or support local events
- Campaign on local issues like traffic, parking, green spaces and amenities
What they do varies from place to place, depending on what local councillors and residents want them to focus on.
Do parish councils have any real power?
They don’t have the same powers as a borough or county council, but they do have influence.
Because they are close to the community, parish councils are often the first body to raise concerns or push for improvements. Their views are usually taken into account when bigger councils make decisions, particularly on planning and local services.
Do parish councils cost money?
Yes – parish councils are funded through a small addition to council tax, known as a precept.
The amount varies depending on what the parish council provides. In many areas, this works out as a relatively small sum per household each year, but it would be a local decision.
Who runs them?
Parish councillors are:
- Local residents
- Elected by the community
- Usually unpaid volunteers
If not enough people stand for election, seats can sometimes be filled by co-option.
Why are some Ilkeston areas considering one?
In areas without a parish or town council, residents are represented only at borough and county level.
Supporters of parish councils say they:
- Give communities a stronger local voice
- Improve accountability
- Focus attention on very local issues that can get lost at higher levels
Opponents sometimes raise concerns about cost or duplication, which is why councils are required to consult residents before making any changes.