Town Councillors

Charlbury Town Council

Charlbury Town Council is made up of twelve councillors who represent the whole town. The Council meets monthly, usually on the fourth Wednesday, and members of the public and press are welcome to attend, except when confidential matters are discussed. A dedicated time slot is available for public participation, which must be arranged in advance with the Town Clerk. Elections for councillors take place every four years.

Register of Members’ Interests for the councillors can be found on the West Oxfordshire District Council website here.

Council Committees

The Council operates through its committees, working groups, and external partnerships. The four main committees are:

• Planning – Reviews and responds to planning applications within the parish.
• Traffic – Considers traffic-related matters as needed.
• Finance – Prepares the annual budget and sets the precept.
• Allotments – Oversees and maintains the town’s allotment sites.

The Role of the Town Clerk

The Town Clerk, as the Council’s Proper Officer and Responsible Financial Officer, ensures that the Council complies with all legal requirements and carries out its decisions effectively.

Council Responsibilities

Charlbury Town Council is responsible for a range of local services, including:

• Managing allotments, the town burial ground, and recreational facilities
• Maintaining bus shelters, notice boards, public seating, and open spaces at Ticknell Piece, Wigwell, Mill Field, and Nine Acres
• Responding to consultations and identifying the need for affordable housing
• Advocating on transport and infrastructure issues
• Setting the annual budget/precept
• Acting as trustees for the Nine Acres charity

The Council also appoints representatives to serve on the following organisations:

• Parish Stock Charity
• Charlbury Exhibition Foundation
• Thomas Gifford Trust
• Chipping Norton School Trust
• Nature Conservation Advisory Committee
• Conservation Area Advisory Committee

Engaging with the Community

The Town Council encourages public participation and engagement in local matters.

• The Annual Parish Meeting provides an opportunity for residents to raise concerns and discuss key issues.
• A ten-minute public session is held at the start of each Council meeting. To speak, please arrange this with the Clerk in advance.
• Public meetings are organised as needed to discuss major local issues.
• Councillors and the Clerk are available to offer advice on council matters or direct residents to the appropriate authority.

For more information, or to raise a concern, please contact the Town Clerk or any councillor.