Review of North Norfolk's Parishes

A comprehensive review of North Norfolk's 121 parishes is to begin next month.

The review, which will be conducted by North Norfolk District Council, will focus on parish boundaries and parish council electoral arrangements, with the aim of ensuring that parish areas continue to reflect natural community ties and identities.

"Parish reviews take place every 15 years or so, and the last one in North Norfolk was completed in 1985," said Martin Austin, NNDC's Head of Democratic and PR Services. "It is important to make sure that parishes still match the needs and interests of their communities and that people are effectively represented."

Full consultation will be a vital part of the review process, and local residents and organisations are now invited to submit proposals for the creation of new parishes, alterations to parish boundaries and/or parish councils, and the abolition of parishes.

One suggestion has already been made for a new parish to be created, and another is for the boundary between two parishes to be adjusted.

Proposals should be sent to NNDC by Monday, 31 May, 2004. The Council will consider all ideas and submissions, and then prepare draft recommendations for further consultation in the autumn. Final plans will be submitted to the Secretary of State/Electoral Commission, with any changes likely to come into effect before the next local elections in May, 2007.

For more information about North Norfolk's Parish Review, contact Martin Austin on 01263 516012 or visit www.northnorfolk.org/democracy

ENDS