Parish Councillor Vacancy

Parish Councillor Vacancy

Following the recent uncontested election and the resignation of Cllr Russell Cruse, the Parish Council is able to fill a current vacancy by co-option.

Local councillors are the champions of their community who invest time in local projects and issues to the benefit of residents and the neighbourhood.

Parish Councillors, in collaboration with the County and Borough Councils, help make decisions on local needs, services and facilities, comment on planning applications, manage budgets, and represent the views of residents.

To become a Parish Councillor you must be at least 18 years old and a British citizen, qualifying Commonwealth citizen, or citizen of the Republic of Ireland, and meet at least one of the following criteria:

• Registered as a local government elector for the parish
• During the whole of the preceding twelve months occupied as owner or tenant, any land or premises in the parish
• Principal or only place of work during the preceding twelve months has been in the parish
• During the whole of the preceding twelve months resided in the parish or within 4.8 km of it

No previous experience is required, just a genuine interest in the community, a willingness to work as part of a team, and time to attend meetings and support council activities.

If you are interested in being considered for co-option, please submit a short written expression of interest outlining:

• Why you would like to join the Parish Council
• What skills or experience you could bring to the role
• Confirmation that you meet at least one of the eligibility criteria above

Written submissions can be sent via email to the clerk, clerk@benendenparishcouncil.gov.uk, or posted to the Community Office, Benenden Village Hall, Benenden, Cranbrook, Kent, TN17 4DE to be received by 10th July 2026. The Parish Council will consider applications at its meeting on 20th July.

For further information or an informal discussion about the role, please contact Nicola Thomas, Chair, nicola.thomas@benendenparishcouncil.gov.uk.

Benenden Parish Council encourages applications from all sections of the community and welcomes anyone who is passionate about supporting the parish.