Elections

The timing of the election cycle is linked to that of the election of district councillors for the ward containing the parish

Uncontested Elections

Where there are an equal number or fewer candidates than there are vacancies, all candidates are elected unopposed, and no poll is taken.

Where there are fewer candidates than vacant seats, the parish council has the duty to co-opt any person or persons to fill the vacancies. This power, however, may only be exercised if there is a quorum of councillors present and within 35 days of the election.

If the parish council fails to fill the vacancies within this period, the district council may dissolve it and order fresh elections.

Contested Elections

Where there are more candidates than vacancies, a poll must be held.

Casual Vacancies

Where a vacancy occurs during the term of a parish council, it may be filled by either election or cooption. Elections only occur if, following the advertisement of the vacancy for 14 days, 10 electors send a written request to the returning officer. If no request is received, the parish council will be required to fill the vacancies by cooption.

If the number of vacancies on the parish council is such that there is no longer a quorum, the district council may temporarily appoint persons to bring the council up to strength in the interval prior to an election.