At stage two of the process we asked residents for their views on whether Cheltenham should have a town council.
Why are we consulting on a town council?
Central government is currently considering changes to local government structures across England. This is called Local Government Reorganisation. If this goes ahead next year, Cheltenham Borough Council would be replaced by a new authority covering a larger area. Existing parish councils would continue to exist. In that context, a town council could help maintain local civic representation and identity in Cheltenham. This consultation is an opportunity to understand whether residents support that idea.
What is a town council?
A town council, like a parish council, is made up of elected councillors who represent local communities and manage local amenities. The key difference is that a town council may also appoint a civic mayor, helping to strengthen Cheltenham’s ceremonial leadership and identity. Town councils exist in many places across England and can play an important role in representing local voices.
What can a town council do?
The services and responsibilities of a town council vary from place to place and are decided locally. Depending on future decisions, a town council can be responsible for some local services such as:
- Local arts, events and landmarks
- Tourism and heritage assets
- Street furniture like benches, bus shelters and lighting
- Cemeteries
- Parks, playing fields and leisure
- Lidos and swimming pools
- Community centres
- Litter
- Allotments
This consultation is not asking you to decide on services now. It is about whether you support the principle of creating a town council.
What area would a town council cover?
The proposed boundary would be the entire unparished area of Cheltenham but we would welcome views on alternative boundaries. The current review considers arrangements across different parts of Cheltenham. Any final proposals would ensure clarity about boundaries and responsibilities.
Where would a new town council be based?
If established, a town council, would require office and meeting space. At this stage no decision has been made about premises, but options such as using existing council buildings could be explored. Any future arrangements would be subject to practical, financial and accessibility considerations.
How would a town council be funded?
Town and parish councils are funded through a precept, which is an amount added to council tax bills. In Cheltenham, existing parish councils currently charge between £13 and £48 per year for a Band D property (around £1 to £4 a month).
The precept for any new town council would depend on the services it takes on and the area it is responsible for. If a town council were to take on a broader range of responsibilities than existing parishes, the precept could be higher. No decisions have been made about the level of any precept and would be subject to formal approval.
Would a town council work with existing parish councils and other groups?
Yes, if created a town council would be expected to work collaboratively with existing parish councils and local partners and communities. The current review considers arrangements across different parts of Cheltenham. Any final proposals would ensure clarity about roles and responsibilities between areas.
If a town council were created, decisions about advisory panels, engagement and community forums would be for that council to determine once elected.
What would happen if there is not support for a town council?
If a town council is not established, existing borough council arrangements would continue.
Visit our timeline page for more information about the stages of this review.