Spending Powers of DPC
Dummer Parish Council is the first tier of local government and plays an important role in representing the interests of the local community. One of the Council’s core responsibilities is managing public funds to support local services, projects, and facilities that enhance life in the parish.
This page explains what Dummer Parish Council can spend money on, the legal powers it operates under, and how spending decisions are made.
Legal Basis for Spending
The Council can only spend money where it has legal powers to do so. These powers come from legislation such as:
- The Local Government Act 1972
- The Localism Act 2011
- Other specific Acts of Parliament
Parish councils cannot spend public funds unless it is permitted by one of these powers.
There are two types of powers:
- Statutory Powers – Specific powers granted by law.
- General Power of Competence (GPC) – A broader power available to eligible councils, allowing them to act as an individual would (subject to legal limitations).
What Dummer Parish Council Can Spend Money On
Below are examples of areas where the Parish Council may legally spend money:
| Activity | Legal Power | What It Allows |
|---|---|---|
Allotments |
Provide and maintain allotments. |
|
Bus Shelters |
|
Erect and maintain bus shelters. |
Burial Grounds |
Maintain or contribute to cemeteries. |
|
Community Facilities |
|
Provide and equip community buildings. |
Highways |
Maintain verges, provide lighting, and install signs. |
|
Litter and Dog Bins |
Provide bins and cleanliness measures. |
|
Crime Prevention |
Crime and Disorder Act 1998 |
Support local crime prevention work. |
Recreation & Open Spaces |
Maintain parks, greens, and play areas. |
|
Tourism Support |
Support events or initiatives promoting Dummer. |
|
War Memorials |
Maintain and protect memorials. |
General Power of Competence (GPC)
The General Power of Competence, introduced by the Localism Act 2011, gives eligible councils the flexibility to act more innovatively. It allows Dummer Parish Council to do anything an individual could legally do, provided it benefits the community.
To qualify for this power, the Council must:
- Employ a qualified Clerk
- Have at least two-thirds of councillors elected
Dummer Parish Council does not currently hold the General Power of Competence but may seek to adopt it in the future if eligible.
How the Council is Funded
The Council’s spending is funded through:
- Precept – Collected through Council Tax.
- Grants and Donations
- Service Income – From facilities or assets.
- Public Loans – e.g., via the Public Works Loan Board (with permission).
For details, view:
FINANCE
Transparency and Accountability
Dummer Parish Council is committed to openness in financial matters. To ensure full accountability, the Council:
- Sets and publishes an annual budget
- Undergoes an annual internal and external audit
- Prepares and publishes an Annual Governance and Accountability Return (AGAR)
- Adheres to proper Financial Regulations and Standing Orders
View our key documents:
HERE
Get Involved
Do you have suggestions for how Dummer Parish Council should invest in the parish? Your input is always welcome.
CONTACT
MEETING AND MINUTES