Your Parish Council provides the first tier of local government with particular emphasis on ensuring effective local community liaison. They have a clearly defined role and duties laid down under legislation. Whilst the powers of the Parish Council is somewhat limited, it is consulted by the principal authorities on matters affecting the local community such as planning applications which can then be considered with the benefit of local knowledge. The Parish Council meets at least six times per year and residents of the parish may forward relevant issues (preferably in writing to ensure clarity) for consideration or attend meetings. The principal contact for formal correspondence is the Clerk but any member of the Parish Council may be contacted for advice.