Becoming a councillor

Becoming a parish councillor is a rewarding way to make a real difference to the community. Take a look at what is involved, and how to put yourself forward as a councillor. We have one current vacancy – apply by 7 October 2026.

Hartford Parish Council gazebo and information stall at a local outdoor event

At Hartford Parish Council, our councillors work together to help make the village a better place to live, work and visit, and to ensure that local voices are heard. Find out more about what we do, and meet the councillors. 

Joining Hartford Parish Council is a fantastic way to:

  • Give something back to the community
  • Have a say in local decisions
  • Protect and enhance local services and green spaces
  • Meet new people and learn new skills
  • Gain experience that could support personal or professional development.

Vacancy: Apply by 5pm on Weds 7 October 2026

We have one vacancy to join Hartford Parish Council. We recently advertised the vacancy but an election wasn’t called, so we’re looking to fill the vacancy by co-option. 

Interested? Apply by 5pm on Wednesday 7 October 2026. Apply here: Cooption Paperwork – OneDrive

After applying, you will be invited to attend the Parish Council meeting at 7.20pm on Monday 12 October to introduce yourself to Councillors. Councillors then vote on which applicant is to be elected.

The eiegibility criteria for applicants is explained here: Qualifications | Electoral Commission.

For more information: Call 01606 784401 or visit Hartford Village Hall office on Chester Road.

What does a Parish Councillor do?

As a councillor, you will take part in our monthly council meetings to make decisions on what enhancements should be made to the village, where money should be spent and what policies should be implemented. Before meetings, you will be expected to read the agenda and any papers, so that you can take part in decision-making. 

As a councillor, you may also want to get stuck in with:

  • Shaping local facilities and community projects
  • Commenting to Cheshire West and Chester Council on local planning applications and developments
  • Planning our community events
  • Working with local groups, charities and volunteers
  • Raising issues and concerns on behalf of residents.

All councillors commit to abiding by the Code of Conduct, and disclosing any pecuniary interests that may affect impartiality, e.g. employment, ownership of land or property, and business interests. 

Are Parish Councillors paid for their work?
 
Parish Councillors are unpaid volunteers. We do reimburse some expenses, such as mileage to travel outside of the village on council business, but we are unable (by law) to reimburse care costs.
 

Who can become a Parish Councillor?

To be a Parish Councillor, you do not need any special qualifications or previous experience. What you do need is a willingness to get involved, listen to others, and work as part of a team. To be eligible, you must meet the criteria outlined on the Electoral Commission website. 

How do you become a Councillor?

Councillors are usually elected every four years at an ordinary Parish Council election. This is when all 10 seats on the council are up for election. Councillors serve a four-year term. The next ordinary elections are in May 2027.

If a seat becomes vacant between elections, it may be filled by a by-election or by co-option. The elected or co-opted Councillor will serve the remainder of the term and retire with other Councillors at the next ordinary election.

Our Clerk is always happy to explain the process of becoming a Councillor and answer questions. It’s also wise to attend a Hartford Parish Council meeting to see how the council works. For more information, please contact the Clerk. The NALC website also has good information about becoming a Councillor. 

How else can I get involved with the council?

Find out about volunteering for the council.