A parish council is a democratically elected authority given legal powers to run certain local facilities and services. Parish councillors are elected to represent the best interests of their local residents.

Parish councils need funds to support their activities. These funds are raised by adding an extra cost known as a "precept" to each householder's Council Tax bill.
 

The Parish Clerk, Jo Burton is employed to act in legal and administrative matters and as a point of contact.

Craven District Council consults us on local planning issues, appeals, inquiries and licensing where they affect the parish. ( honest!)

The main areas of responsibilty of Bentham Town Council are providing, maintaining and protecting areas such as:
• cemeteries
• open spaces & playing fields
• some street lighting
• litter control
• ponds, footpaths, roadside verges
• seats and shelters

We also manage the Town Hall maintenance and bookings.

The markets and now the Tourist information point are under our guidance.

We produce a calendar every year and the proceeds of the sales go to a nominated local organisation that is in need of funds.

At the time of setting the precept, organisations are invited to apply for grants.

The required information will be posted on this web site in good time, Please don't be late with your request as we MUST set a figure and if a request comes in after the cut off date, we may not be able to help you.