All About Councils

There are 735 community and town councils in Wales, representing this tier of government closest to the people. They cover approximately 94% of the land area and 70% of the population of Wales.

The communities they serve range from small rural settlements to large towns and their budgets vary accordingly.  However, what they all have in common is serving their communities and acting to improve the quality of life in their locality.  This is achieved through exercising a range of statutory powers and duties. An independent research study by Aberystwyth University identified 8 key benefits of community councils.
 
Community and town councils are responsible to their local electorates for delivering a wide range of services and for the provision and upkeep of local amenities. 

Each council is made up of elected members, or in some cases co-opted members.  In Wales there are approximately 8000 community and town councillors, who represent the interests of the community they serve as a whole.  They are recognised as having a role in providing the voice of the citizen in the development and delivery of public services in Wales.
 
Some areas in Wales don't have community councils.  If you live in one of these areas take a look at our section on how to set up a council.
 
Also, why not check out our information on becoming a councillor.

What's happening in councils across Wales?

Why not take a look at the document below to learn more about what's going on in some Welsh councils at the moment?

Swansea and Gower