University Ward Parish Councillors represent the University Ward on Ashow and Stoneleigh Parish Council. The University Ward incorporates Cryfield, Hurst, Redfern, Heronbank, Lakeside and Sherboune residences, all of which fall within the parish boundary. We do not, as is often misunderstood, represent the University itself. Our constituents are those residents within the parish area that are regi
stered to vote from their address within the parish boundary. A Town/Parish Council is the tier of local authority closest to its community as it elects representatives from within that community. Parish and Town Councils are democracy on your doorstep. Parish Councils were officially formed in England under the Local Government Act 1894 to give rural villagers the power to manage their own affairs. However, even before this date, local community groups based around ancient parishes had enjoyed responsibility for such matters for centuries. Ashow and Stoneleigh Joint Parish Council is no exception, being able to trace its history back to medieval times. Parish Councils are strictly apolitical bodies and seek only the best interests of their communities. WHAT IS THE ROLE OF PARISH COUNCILLORS? Parish Councillors represent the local community, deliver services within their powers to meet very local needs, and work to improve quality of life in their community. Examples of Parish Council activities include providing facilities, commenting on planning applications and providing grants to community groups. Parish Councillors give all their time voluntarily, receive no allowances or reward for their time and are not elected on a political platform. The decisions of the Parish Council are made by those Councillors who have been elected or, or if someone stands uncontested, co-opted to the Council. Council meetings are open to the public and Parish Councils must hold one meeting per year which is a meeting for the whole parish known as the Annual Parish Meeting.
