A parish council is a democratically elected authority given limited legal powers but with wide responsibilities to manage certain local facilities and services. Parish councillors are elected to represent the best interests of their local residents.
Parish councils need funds to support their activities. These funds are raised by adding a “precept” to each householder’s Council Tax bill via the District Council.
Tandridge District Council has to consult parish councils on all local planning issues, appeals, inquiries and licensing where they affect the parish.
Parish councils get involved in providing, maintaining and protecting areas such as:
- Allotments
- Churchyard & cemeteries
- Open spaces & playing fields
- Litter control
- Ponds
- Seats and shelters
In some cases the parish Council can make recommendations but has no further jurisdiction, for example over public rights of way that Surrey County Council Highways control.
Parish Councils can spend money for any purpose considered to be of overall benefit to the area and its residents.
Godstone Parish Councillors listen to parishioners and work toward building a positive and progressive community for those who live here.
