RESIDENTS will be given a say on the future of grassroot democracy.
And it could mean an end to the parish councils dotted around the Huddersfield area.
Kirklees Council have confirmed that parish councils will be reviewed.
They are the lowest level of local government – funding things like parks, bus shelters and village fairs.
Five parts of Kirklees have parish councils – Meltham, Holme Valley, Kirkburton, Denby Dale and Mirfield.
The review could lead to some of the councils being abolished or new parish councils being set up.
Eight weeks of consultation began yesterday. Final recommendations are then expected to be drawn up by next June.
Kirklees Council spokesman Philip Hume said: “Everyone living within the five parish areas in Kirklees will have the opportunity to have their say on what they think about the parish arrangements in their area.
“The consultation will centre on two key issues – do the parish councils in your area reflect the identity and interests of the community and are they effective and convenient?
“There will be a programme of consultations which will provide a lot of background information about the parish arrangements in the five areas and provide a number of mechanisms for people to express their views. This will include a simple submission form for people to complete.
“Residents can also send their views in writing.We will be sending letters to community groups and other interest groups within the areas.”
