Parishes represent the smallest units of civil administration in England, with their Town and Parish Councils serving as the closest statutory form of local government to the people. (It’s important to note that civil parishes should not be confused with Church of England ecclesiastical parishes and their Parochial Church Councils.)
In Cumbria, the county is divided into 268 parishes. Among these, 233 are served by elected Town or Parish Councils, operating on a four-year electoral cycle, while the remaining parishes hold Parish Meetings, mandated to convene at least twice annually. Cumbria operates with a two-tier local government system consisting of Cumberland Council and Town/Parish Councils and Parish Meetings.
Town and Parish Councils play a crucial role in local democracy, serving as representatives of their communities. They:
- Advocate community viewpoints on planning applications and other initiatives affecting the parish.
- Execute projects and initiatives for the benefit of local residents.
- Collaborate with other entities to advance parish interests.
- Report pertinent issues to relevant authorities and advocate for necessary actions.
- Facilitate communication between higher tiers of local government and their respective communities.
These councils possess a wide array of legal responsibilities and authorities, including the upkeep of community infrastructure and land, among other duties. They also possess the authority to raise funds through local council taxes.
For a comprehensive list of legal duties and powers, refer to the Cumbria Association of Local Councils website: http://www.calc.org.uk/about/powersanddutiestable.asp
Parish councils are established and regulated by statutes, meaning they operate within the framework outlined by Acts of Parliament. This framework delineates:
- Obligations that councils must fulfill (their duties)
- Actions councils are empowered to undertake (their powers)
- Limitations on council actions.
Bassenthwaite Parish Council 