Powers and Duties

Powers of The Council

  • General Power of Competence

    Allows eligible councils to do anything an individual can do, unless restricted by law.

  • Raising Funds

    Councils can raise money through a precept (local tax) to support their activities.

  • Community Facilities

    Provide and maintain community centres, public toilets, allotments, burial grounds, and bus shelters.

  • Street Furniture and Communication

    Install and maintain seats, shelters, and public noticeboards.

  • Land and Pathways

    Maintain or improve footpaths, bridleways, commons, village greens, and open spaces.

  • Parks and Cleanliness

    Support playing fields, parks, litter bins, dog waste bins, and where applicable, street cleaning and lighting.

  • Crime Prevention

    Fund community safety initiatives like CCTV and policing support.

  • Community Grants and Events

    Support voluntary groups, local markets, festivals, and tourism.

  • Cultural Promotion and Sustainability

    Promote local heritage, culture, and sustainable development.

Duties of The Council

  • Regular Meetings

    Must hold at least five meetings annually, including one Annual Meeting.

  • Appointments

    Required to appoint a Chair and a Proper Officer (typically the Clerk).

  • Financial Transparency

    Publish annual accounts and make them publicly accessible.

  • Good Governance

    Maintain standards through a code of conduct and declaration of interests.

  • Well-being Responsibilities

    Consider well-being goals under the Well-being of Future Generations (Wales) Act 2015.

  • Annual Reporting

    Prepare and publish an Annual Report on council activities.