Community governance review 2025 - Hinckley Town Council

What is a parish/town council?

A parish or town council is the most local level of government in England. These councils are statutory bodies, established under the Local Government Act 1972, and they operate independently of district or borough councils.

While the terms 'parish' and 'town' council are often used interchangeably, the main difference is in name only: a town council is simply a parish council that has chosen to adopt the title 'town. Both have the same powers and responsibilities.

Parish and town councils are made up of elected councillors who represent specific areas (called wards) within the community. These councillors make decisions on behalf of local residents and are directly accountable to them.

Parish or town councils can:

• Deliver local services
• Support community activities
• Influence planning decisions
• Raise funds through a small council tax charge (known as a precept)

If Hinckley were to establish a parish or town council, it would create a new, independent body focused on the needs and priorities of the town's residents. This could give the community a stronger voice and more direct control over certain local services and decisions.

What services could a new parish/town council provide?

Parish and town councils have some flexibility to choose which services to provide based on the needs and priorities of their local communities. If a new parish or town council were created for Hinckley, it could take responsibility for a range of local services, such as:

• Allotments
• Burial grounds and cemeteries
• Parks and open spaces
• Public toilets
• Litter control and bins
• Play areas
• Community centres
• Local events 
• Neighbourhood planning

How much would it cost?

A parish or town council is funded through a precept, an additional charge added to your council tax. This precept is used to pay for the services the council chooses to provide. The exact cost would depend on:

• The range and level of services the new council decides to deliver
• The number of households the cost is shared between

At this stage, it is too early to provide a specific figure for Hinckley. However, if a town council is created, the initial precept would be set by Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council, based on the expected level of services.

Currently, services specific to Hinckley are funded by all borough taxpayers, with additional contributions from Hinckley residents through a special area expense account. A new town council would have the power to raise its own funds and decide how they are spent, offering greater local control and accountability.

What area would a new parish/town council cover?

The review will consider whether the current unparished area of Hinckley should form the boundary of a new parish or town council, and whether any changes should be made to neighbouring parish boundaries. Consideration will be given to natural communities and clear, recognisable boundaries. The aim is to ensure that any new parish or town council reflects local identities and provides effective and convenient local governance.

When could a new parish/town council be established?

If agreed, a new parish or town council could be established in time for elections in May 2027.

What about electoral arrangements?

If a parish or town council is created, Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council will decide whether it should be divided into wards for electing councillors and how many councillors should represent each area. These arrangements will form part of this consultation.

Last updated: 04/08/2025 17:05