On Monday 15th September, DALC attended the Derbyshire County Council-hosted Parish Liaison Forum at County Hall in Matlock. These forums provide an invaluable opportunity for Parish and Town Councils across Derbyshire to come together, share experiences, network with peers, and engage directly with the County Council. Councils can meet heads of services that affect their communities, ask questions, and receive the latest updates on changes that may impact local governance.
We explored the appetite for Parish and Town Councils to take on new assets or services, even if this would require increasing the precept. This question is particularly pertinent as local communities brace for the changes reorganisation will bring.
When asked, 77% of attendees indicated that their Council would consider taking on new responsibilities, even at the cost of a higher precept. For those Councils who couldn't attend we would like to hear from both Clerk's and Councillors on your view.
This discussion occurs in the wider context of the Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) across Derbyshire, which will have a significant impact on Parish and Town Councils. Changes to local governance structures, service delivery, and funding arrangements mean that Parish and Town Councils may be called upon to play a more active role in providing services or managing assets previously overseen by district or county authorities.
As Derbyshire prepares for significant changes in local government, it is crucial that Parish and Town Councils have a clear voice. By sharing your views on whether Councils should take on new services or assets, even if it impacts the precept, you help shape the future role of local government in your community.
