About Your Council
Working together to serve our community through open, transparent, and accountable local democracy.
About Your Council
Your Council is the local authority responsible for providing a wide range of public services to residents and businesses in our area. As a democratically elected body, we are accountable to the people we serve and committed to open, transparent governance.
Our Values
- Transparency: Open decision-making and public access to information
- Accountability: Answerable to residents for our decisions and actions
- Integrity: Ethical conduct and honest public service
- Inclusivity: Representing and serving all members of our community
How Local Democracy Works
Elections
Councillors are elected by residents to represent their local ward. Elections typically take place every four years, with councillors serving the community and making decisions on their behalf.
Council Meetings
Full Council meetings bring all councillors together to debate major issues, approve budgets, and make key decisions. These meetings are open to the public and webcast live.
Committees
Specialist committees focus on specific areas such as planning, licensing, and scrutiny. Councillors with relevant expertise or interest serve on these committees to ensure detailed consideration of issues.
Decision Making
Decisions are made through debate and voting. All decisions, along with the reasoning behind them, are recorded and published. This ensures transparency and allows residents to hold their council accountable.
What This Website Provides
This democratic services portal gives you access to:
Get Involved
There are many ways you can participate in local democracy:
Attend Public Meetings
Council and committee meetings are open to the public. Check our calendar for upcoming meetings and attend in person or watch live online.
Submit Questions
You can submit questions to be asked at council meetings. Contact Democratic Services for more information on how to do this.
Start or Sign Petitions
Petitions are a powerful way to bring issues to the council's attention. Create your own petition or sign existing ones on topics you care about.
Respond to Consultations
When the council is considering changes that affect you, we want to hear your views. Participate in consultations to shape local decisions.
Contact Your Councillor
Your local councillor is there to represent you. Find your ward councillor and get in touch with any concerns or issues affecting your community.