Seeking new Parish Councillors

Following a recent retirement, we now have vacancies for Parish Councillors. Our huge thanks go to Lesley Brookes, who has given great service to the Parish Council for years. She has moved on to pastures more pastoral, and we will miss her energy and ideas.

Lesley’s departure adds to our two existing vacancies, meaning we are now seeking up to three new Parish Councillors. As the Council covers Sheldwich, Badlesmere, and Leaveland, we aim to balance representation across the villages—though you are eligible to stand as long as you live within three miles of the Parish boundary.

What the Role Involves The Parish Council represents the first tier of local democratic government, playing a vital role in connecting our local communities with Swale Borough Council and higher authorities. Beyond meetings, you can simply act as the eyes and ears of your community, bringing local issues to our attention. While our immediate statutory powers are limited, we hold genuine influence with decision-makers and manage a budget dedicated to local needs. For example, we own, insure, and maintain the village bus shelters—allowing us to quickly replace the Badlesmere shelter after recent vehicle damage.

Meetings & Commitment

• Frequency: We meet 9–10 times a year (typically taking a break in August and January).

• Schedule: Meetings take place at 8:00 PM, usually on the first Tuesday of the month, alternating between St James’s Church Parish Rooms, Sheldwich and Badlesmere Village Hall.

• Requirement: Councillors must attend a minimum of 6 meetings per calendar year.

Finances & Planning

• Budget & Precept: We agree our budget annually, funded via Council Tax (shown as a separate line on your bill).

• Expenses: Each Councillor receives a small allowance for travel, printing, and sundries, which can also be directed toward small community projects.

• Planning: We regularly review local planning applications and carry significant weight when making representations to Swale Borough Council.

How to Join Our meetings are relaxed, constructive, and collaborative. Because these vacancies have arisen between election cycles, new members will be appointed through a straightforward co-option process, which we will happily explain.

If you would like to help give your community a voice, please contact any of the Councillors via the email addresses on our website, or email our Clerk at clerk@sbl-pc.gov.uk.