About the Council
Whittingham, Callaly and Alnham Parish Council is the first tier of local government serving the communities within Whittingham Vale in Northumberland.
The Parish Council represents the civil parishes of Whittingham, Callaly and Alnham, covering a rural area of approximately 50 square miles in the upper valley of the River Aln. The area includes the villages and hamlets of Whittingham, Alnham, Callaly, Great Ryle, Little Ryle, Lorbottle, Prendwick, Thrunton and Yetlington.
The Council works on behalf of residents to represent local views, support community initiatives, and help maintain and improve the quality of life within the parish.
What Does the Parish Council Do?
Parish councils are the level of local government closest to residents. Their role is to represent local interests and help ensure that community needs are heard by other public bodies.
The Council's responsibilities include:
- Representing the interests of local residents
- Commenting on planning applications affecting the parish
- Supporting community projects and local organisations
- Maintaining and protecting community assets where appropriate
- Raising local concerns with Northumberland County Council and other agencies
- Managing public funds for the benefit of the parish
The Council raises a proportion of its funding through the parish precept, which forms part of Council Tax and helps support local services and projects.
Councillors and Meetings
The Parish Council is made up of elected councillors who serve the whole parish and work collectively to make decisions in the best interests of the community. Councillors are elected for a term of four years.
Find our more about our Councillors and how to contact them HERE
Council meetings are held regularly and are open to the public, providing an opportunity for residents to attend and engage with local matters.
The Clerk to the Council
The Parish Clerk is a professional officer employed by the Council and is responsible for the day-to-day administration of the Council’s business. The Clerk also acts as the Responsible Financial Officer, managing budgets, accounts, and audit processes.
Working with Other Authorities
Whittingham Parish Council works alongside Northumberland County Council, which is responsible for services such as highways, education, social care and waste collection.
By working together, these organisations help ensure that local services are delivered effectively and that the needs of the community are represented at all levels.
Our Community
The parish lies within the beautiful landscape of Whittingham Vale, a rural area centred on the River Aln and characterised by small villages, farmland, and historic settlements.
The Parish Council is committed to preserving the character of the area while supporting a sustainable and thriving community for residents and visitors alike.