Funding, elections and how the new Lowestoft and Oulton Broad councils will work - all you need to know at open days
Lowestoft seafront. PHOTO: Nick Butcher - Credit: Nick Butcher
Residents are being given the chance to find out more about the new councils due to be formed for Lowestoft and Oulton Broad.
Oulton Broad. PHOTO: Nick Butcher - Credit: Nick Butcher
The first ever elections are now only two months away and events have been organised to provide information on how to stand for a seat, how the councils will be funded and what the new councils could bring to the area.
There will be 20 seats available for the new Lowestoft Town Council, with 12 for Oulton Broad.
On Thursday, March 16, a drop-in event will take place at St Mark's Church in Oulton Broad from 12.30pm to 6pm, with information available specifically about the new parish councils.
Following this, information will also be available at the Lowestoft Information Event on Friday, March 17 from 1.30pm to 4.30pm and Saturday, March 18, from 10am to 4pm at the old QD store in Lowestoft Britten Centre.
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Colin Law, leader of Waveney District council, said: 'Town and parish councils play a vital role in supporting and enhancing a community's identity, services and quality of life. And as well as being able to deliver a range of key local services, town and parish councils are also able to support events and initiatives which promote community spirit and inclusiveness, award funding grants to deserving causes or groups and invest in an area's public spaces. This is an exciting time for local people.'
The new councils will represent local people on local issues and will be responsible for some services and assets in the area like play areas, parks and gardens. Some of the larger assets due to be transferred include Lowestoft Town Hall, the Marina Theatre and Nicholas Everitt Park.
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The planned events will also help people learn more about standing for election. New councillors for both Lowestoft and Oulton Broad will be chosen by residents on May 4 and local people who understand the issues and priorities are being urged to stand.
There are no formal qualifications needed to stand for election, however candidates must meet certain eligibility criteria. New councillors will receive full training and support.
For more information visit www.eastsuffolk.gov.uk/elections
