Civil parish

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Civil parish is a territorial designation and the lowest unit of local government in England. Civil parishes are distinct from ecclesiastical parishes, which are church-based administrative units. Civil parishes are governed by parish councils or parish meetings, depending on their population size.

History

The concept of the civil parish originated in the Anglo-Saxon period and was formalized in the Local Government Act 1894. This act separated civil and ecclesiastical functions, creating the modern civil parish system. Over time, the role and functions of civil parishes have evolved, particularly with the Local Government Act 1972, which redefined local government structures.

Governance

Civil parishes are governed by parish councils if they have a population of 200 or more. Smaller parishes may hold a parish meeting instead. Parish councils are elected bodies responsible for local issues such as maintenance of community buildings, local planning, and community events. They have the power to levy a precept (a form of local tax) to fund their activities.

Functions and Powers

Civil parishes have various powers and responsibilities, including:

• Maintenance of community buildings and spaces
• Local planning and development control
• Management of cemeteries and burial grounds
• Provision of recreational facilities
• Organizing community events and activities

Creation and Abolition

New civil parishes can be created, and existing ones can be abolished or altered, through a process known as a community governance review. This process is typically initiated by the principal authority (district or unitary council) and involves consultation with local residents.

Related Pages

• Parish council
• Local Government Act 1894
• Local Government Act 1972
• Ecclesiastical parish
• Community governance review
• Precept