Residents unsure over town council proposals

local people on this issue before taking a firm view.

“Many residents have stated that they are concerned about the increase in their council tax that a town council would create.

“Residents also stated that a town council would not make much of a difference on the big issues affecting Brighouse, such as the plans for 4,000 new houses and the imposition of on-street parking charges, because Calderdale Council would still have the final say on big issues such as this.

“Although people like the idea of having more local democracy I think that they were put off the idea when they learned that the powers which the town council could have were very limited.”

Brighouse used to have a borough council – these had extensive powers – until the Local Government re-organisation of 1974.

Other parts of Calderdale, including Todmorden, Hebden Royd and Ripponden, decided to elect town or parish councils – which still play a role today.

Town and parish councils do have a wide range of powers including limited spending to benefit their community.

Town and parish councils can buy and sell land and have the power to prosecute and defend any legal proceedings in the interests of the community, and have the power to take part in any public enquiry.

They also have the right to be consulted on matters such as highways alterations and on planning applications where their comments must be taken into account – but Calderdale councillors make the final decision.