Powers and Duties

What Can Local Councils Do?

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The powers which have been vested in Parish, Town and Community Councils being Acts of Parliament are summarised in this publication as a guide to Councillors and others. Each description is brief and is intended to be a general indication. Like all powers given to public bodies, the powers of local councils are defined in detail in legislation and these details may include a requirement to obtain the consent of another body (for example the approval of the County Council for the provision of a car park). Local Councils must exercise their powers subject to the provisions of the general law (for example planning permission is necessary for a sports pavilion). Information on all these details should be in the hands of the Clerks of the Council.

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The powers are listed below: