What is the Parish Council?

A Parish Council is the lowest tier of government in the United Kingdom.  In the case of Dedham it works closely with Colchester Borough Council and, in some matters, with Essex County Council.  The Borough Councillor for the Dedham and Langham Ward usually attends Parish Council meetings.

Dedham Parish Council consists of nine people who have been elected for a four-year term by the people of Dedham  to address, on an unpaid basis, the communal needs of the village.  Some of these needs (such as refuse disposal, road repairs, planning applications etc.) are primarily the responsibility of Colchester Borough Council.  The Parish Council, however, performs an important role in monitoring that these key functions are being discharged satisfactorily  by Colchester Borough.   The Parish Council is supported by a Parish Clerk who carries out administrative duties and receives a modest remuneration.

The Parish Council receives an annual precept raised through Council Tax.  These funds are used to address truly local matters, such as additional litter clearance, children's play equipment and a host of other concerns that arise periodically.  The Parish is also involved in footpath maintenance,  through Colchester Borough Council and Essex County Council.