The Role of Burnhope Parish Council
There are 2 tiers of Local Government in Burnhope - District (Borough) Council and the Parish Council. Councils are made up of individual Councillors, who are elected to serve the needs of their locality. Parish Councils represents the first tier of Local Government - the tier closest to local residents.
Local Authorities - Who Does What? Durham County CouncilBurnhope Parish Council comes under Durham County Council who has responsibility for:
- Children, education, and families
- Health and social care
- Transport and travel
- Roads, potholes, repairs, and gritting
- Recycling centres
- Bins, litter, and recycling collection
- Housing
- Planning applications
- Fire and public safety
- Flooding
- Libraries and archives
- Trading standards
- Births, marriages, and deaths
- Environmental health including noise and dog nuisances
- Leisure centres and play areas
- Parks and allotments
For information on Durham County Council services:
Website: www.durham.gov.uk
Phone: 03000 26 0000
Parish Councils are set up and controlled by law and can only act if there is a legal power to do so. Parish Councils are often consulted on District issues such as planning applications, road improvements and changes to public transport. Parish Councils can provide vital local knowledge such as flooding concerns and transport and access problems.
Parish Councils are being encouraged to deliver more services and can also support local community groups and provide community activities. They also ensure that the principle authorities are aware of local concerns such as problems with potholes, highway visibility, litter and dog fouling.
