Parish councillors play a crucial role in local governance, focusing on community welfare and development within their respective areas.
Their responsibilities typically include advocating for local interests, participating in council meetings to discuss community issues, and making informed decisions on matters such as local budgets, and community initiatives. They engage with residents to understand their concerns and represent their interests effectively.
The Parish Council is not responsible for national policy decisions, planning decisions, law enforcement, or issues beyond the jurisdiction of the parish council. Its role centres on local governance and enhancing community well-being through collaborative efforts and informed decision-making.
The following matters do not fall into the Parish Council's responsibility:
- Approving or declining planning applications - the Parish Council can object to planning applications, however all decisions are made by Wakefield Council.
- Enforcing traffic and speeding laws - West Yorkshire Police is the main enforcement authority for speeding, dangerous driving, traffic offences, and compliance with road laws.
- Reporting or resolving overgrown trees, bushes and shrubs - this is the responsiblity of Wakefield Council.
- Maintaining of all grass verges and open spaces - this is a shared responsibility between the Parish Council and Wakefield Council.
- Maintaining of public footpaths - this is the responsibility of Wakefield Council.
- Maintaining of public roads and pavements - this is the responsibility of Wakefield Council.
- Reporting nuisance bikes, quad-bikes and off-roaders - West Yorkshire Police is the main enforcement authority.