What is a district or borough councillor?
A district or borough councillor is elected by the local community
to serve the best interests of that community. From fine-tuning the
details of large-scale planning applications to deciding the
opening hours of the village pub, all are important. Councillors
may raise any issues that affect their communities directly with
the council and work towards resolving them. Being close to their
communities, district and borough councillors are well placed to
serve them.
What are the duties of district and borough councillors?
Councillors have a wide range of duties, including:
- representing the interests of the community whilst taking a
broader view of the needs of the district or borough as a
whole;
- participating in the decision making process;
- campaigning for improvement in the quality of life in the
community;
- playing a leading role in the area as a community leader;
- keeping people in the community informed about work; and
- being accessible to local people and attend civic
functions.
Who becomes a district or borough councillor?
In order to become a councillor, you must be a registered
elector in the area and also be over 21 years of age and have the
support of a number of residents in your area. The minimum age for
eligibility is likely to be changed to 18 years old in the near
future. Councillors are elected for a term of four years and must
seek re-election if they wish to remain in office for longer than
this. Councillors receive a monthly allowance which recognises the
time they devote to their work and which may increase if they take
on extra responsibilities, such as chairing a committee.
Would you like to know more?
If you would like more information on the roles of district and
borough councillors or are interested in becoming one,
please contact your local council
office.