Since its formation in 1987 Lindfield Parish Council has worked with residents to support village life. Notable events include the annual Christmas Festival Night, initiating Spring and Autumn Clean events and producing a Neighbourhood Plan to support appropriate development whilst protecting the village’s historic conservation area and green spaces. Current projects include seeking to introduce 20mph speed limits within the village.
If you want to help maintain and enhance our beautiful village, perhaps you could stand as a co-opted Councillor representing your community. The role is voluntary, but most importantly, you will be in a position to develop plans for the future of Lindfield and deliver projects in support of village life. By becoming a Councillor, you become someone your community will look to for help, guidance and support - a community leader with the power to influence decisions for the benefit of the people you serve. The role would include:
Attending Full Council and becoming a member of two committees (plus working groups). Representing the views of residents within the parish.
• As part of the council, you will have responsibility for running local services which include: Wilderness Field, Denmans Lane Allotments, Denmans Lane Public Toilets and potentially more.
• Deciding on how much to raise through the precept (council tax) to deliver local services.
• Influencing and shaping the long-term development policy for the parish, and as part of the planning process, commenting on planning applications in the parish.
• Improving the quality of life and the environment in the local area.
• Working to identify issues which are important to the lives of the residents.
• Working to bring about improvements through local projects.
• Engaging with other service providers (e.g. District & County Councils) and working in partnership with other parishes and agencies.
You do not need any experience or belong to a political party; just enthusiasm, an ability to develop and implement projects with other members, alongside building relationships within the village and with District and County Councillors. Training for the role will be offered and is encouraged.
Ideally, the successful candidate will have the following skills/experience:
• Forward thinking
• A good team player
• Good interpersonal skills and able to contribute opinions at meetings whilst willing to see others views and accept majority decisions.
• Ability to listen constructively
• Basic IT skills
• Willingness to undertake training.
You will be supported by a small but experienced Parish Office team. Please contact the Parish Clerks on 01444 484115 or clerks@lindfieldparishcouncil.gov.uk if you would like to know more about standing for co-option or would like a chat with one of our existing councillors about this opportunity.