Parish Council Responsibilities

The Parish Council is considered the first rung of local Government, and the closest to the electorate, therefore best placed to serve the local community. Their role is to provide a focus for the wider Parish, to identify concerns and projects whilst endeavouring to solve them locally.

Our Responsibilities

Management and Maintenance of Local Facilities

The Parish Council is responsible for managing and maintaining a variety of community facilities to ensure they are safe, accessible, and well-kept. These facilities include:

  • Village Greens and Open Spaces: Maintaining parks, green spaces, and natural areas for public enjoyment.
  • Playgrounds: Regular inspections, repairs, and upgrades to keep playgrounds safe and welcoming for children and families.
  • Allotments: Providing and managing allotment gardens for local residents to cultivate plants and enjoy outdoor activities.
  • Burial Grounds: Overseeing the maintenance of the burial ground, managing interments, and ensuring respectful upkeep of the area.

The Parish Council works to protect and improve the local environment, supporting initiatives that enhance the natural landscape and community facilities. This includes:

  • Tree Planting and Conservation: Planting trees, promoting biodiversity, and supporting environmental conservation efforts within the parish.
  • Litter and Waste Management: Arranging litter collection, waste disposal, and encouraging responsible waste practices in the community.
  • Wildlife Preservation: Working with local groups to protect habitats and support biodiversity projects that benefit local wildlife.

The council fosters a strong sense of community by supporting events, social activities, and public engagement. Responsibilities in this area include:

  • Community Events: Organising and promoting events such as the village fete, seasonal celebrations, and local fairs to bring residents together.
  • Supporting Local Groups: Providing grants, space, and support for community groups, social clubs, and volunteer organisations.
  • Public Notices and Information: Keeping residents informed of council decisions, upcoming events, and community news through public notices, the council’s website, and local newsletters.

While the Parish Council does not have the authority to approve or deny planning applications, it acts as a statutory consultee in the planning process, representing the community’s interests. Responsibilities in planning include:

  • Reviewing Planning Applications: Assessing local planning applications and providing recommendations to the borough council based on community impact.
  • Neighbourhood Development: Involvement in neighbourhood planning to help shape sustainable development within Waltham St Lawrence.
  • Consulting with Residents: Engaging with residents on significant planning matters and voicing community opinions to the planning authorities.

The Parish Council works closely with local authorities to address issues related to traffic, road safety, and public pathways. Responsibilities in this area include:

  • Traffic Management: Advocating for traffic-calming measures, speed limit enforcement, and safe pedestrian crossings within the parish.
  • Footpaths and Rights of Way: Ensuring footpaths are accessible, well-maintained, and clearly marked for public use.
  • Street Lighting and Road Maintenance: Reporting issues with street lighting, potholes, and other road concerns to the relevant authorities and following up on repairs.

The Parish Council is responsible for managing public funds to ensure they are spent effectively and responsibly in the community’s best interest. Key financial responsibilities include:

  • Budget Management: Preparing an annual budget to allocate funds for council services, maintenance, and local initiatives.
  • Transparency and Reporting: Publishing regular financial reports, budget details, and accounts to maintain transparency with residents.

Ensuring the safety and wellbeing of residents is a key priority for the Parish Council. Responsibilities in this area include:

  • Public Health Initiatives: Supporting health campaigns, encouraging safe outdoor activities, and collaborating on initiatives to improve community health.
  • Emergency Preparedness: Working with local authorities to establish plans for emergencies, such as flooding or severe weather, and providing information to residents.
  • Community Safety: Supporting Neighbourhood Watch schemes, advocating for safer roads, and promoting local security measures.
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