Parish Councils are the first tier of Local Government and therefore have an important role to play in local democracy. The Parish Council represents the interests of the local community, using the powers it has to make the Parish a pleasant place to live by maintaining, protecting and developing the environment around us.
In England there are nearly 100,000 Parish and Town Councillors who make up around 10,000 Parish, Town and Community Councils. The seven councillors representing Farnhill are unpaid local volunteers from all walks of life with a common goal of working together to improve the village.
Money is raised to fund the various legal and voluntary work of the Council by a local charge added to the Council Tax. Statutory legal work includes maintenance of the street lights and the Play Area. Voluntary contributions are made to several organisations including Kildwick and Farnhill Institute.
The Parish Council owns The Arbour and in recent years has been trying to improve its appearance for the benefit of residents. It also has responsibility for several seats around the village which are maintained by the Council.
The Parish Council has no power as regards planning matters but can make representations to Craven Council.
To get an idea of the work of the Council, look under Minutes or, better still, why not attend a Meeting.