GAPTC’s Progress on Devolution: Ensuring Parish and Town Councils Are Represented
At GAPTC, we have been working hard to ensure that parish and town councils are fully informed and represented as Gloucestershire navigates the evolving devolution agenda. We recognise the importance of keeping our members updated and engaged in these discussions, so here’s a look at what we’ve been doing and how you can get involved.
Bringing National Knowledge to Gloucestershire
We have been actively participating in knowledge-sharing meetings and groups run by the National Association of Local Councils (NALC) and other county associations. These discussions have been invaluable, as we are learning from colleagues who have already been through the process of unitary authority restructuring in their areas. Their insights help us anticipate challenges and prepare better guidance for our members.
Ensuring Parish and Town Councils Have a Voice
GAPTC is engaged in district- and county-led workstreams, ensuring that parish and town councils are considered in every stage of the devolution process. We have also established a dedicated Working Group of 12 councils, tasked with consolidating information from the county and district levels while collecting feedback from local councils. This working group ensures that parish and town councils’ views are heard at every level.
A Central Hub for Devolution Updates
To keep everyone informed, we have created a Devolution page on our website, where you can find the latest information, resources, and updates. Visit the Devolution page under the ‘Services’ menu to stay up to date.
Upcoming Information Sharing Event
One of our key initiatives is an Information Sharing Event on 24 March from 6–8pm, where district and county officers will outline what devolution means for Gloucestershire. This event will provide an overview of what is happening at district, county, and national levels, as well as what parish and town councils can expect in the coming months.
Crucially, we will have breakout discussion groups where attendees can share their concerns and perspectives directly with district and county officers. We are encouraged by the recognition of the crucial role that parish and town councils will play in shaping Gloucestershire’s future.
Book your place now: Register here.
Refreshing the Parish Charter
We are also engaging in discussions to update the Parish Charter, which was last published in 2006. This document outlines the relationship between principal authorities and parish and town councils, making it a key tool in devolution discussions.
If you would like to be involved, join us for a review event hosted by Cllr Stephen Davies on 17 March at 6pm.
Event details and registration: Click here.
Latest version of the charter: Read here.
What Can Your Council Do?
Now is the time for parish and town councils to take action. Here are some steps we recommend over the coming months:
Attend the Information Sharing Event – Register here.
Create a council working group to discuss which local services and assets your council would like devolved.
Consider budget implications for taking on additional services.
Collaborate with neighbouring councils – find your council hub here and explore joint working opportunities.
Engage with your district or borough council – we have provided a template letter to help councils highlight the importance of local service continuity and their willingness to discuss devolution options.
Introducing Council Hubs
In line with our devolution work, we have now finalised the Council Hubs that we discussed at our Onboarding and Engagement events last year. These hubs will help neighbouring councils connect and collaborate. You can find your council hub here. If you would like to change your assigned hub, please let us know – the system is still flexible at this early stage.
Shaping the Future Together
Devolution presents both challenges and opportunities for parish and town councils. By working together, sharing knowledge, and ensuring strong representation at all levels, we can help shape a future where local councils play a central role in decision-making and service delivery.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss how your council can prepare, please get in touch. We look forward to seeing many of you at the upcoming events!