What We Do
The Council represents the electorate at grass roots level and works in partnership with local organisations to ensure that the views of residents are heard. It will initiate appropriate action on matters of public interest in the Parish and is empowered under the provisions of the Local Government Act 1972 to incur expenses for any purpose that is in the interests of its residents.
The Parish Council is the third tier of local government, after the County Council and the District Council, but it is a non-political body. It is at the "grass roots" and is in the best position to represent the views of the local community.
The Parish Council, which has been in existence since 1894, has a surprising number of powers, which it can exercise if it so wishes. Below are some of the activities Burton Parish Council currently carries out for the benefit of the village:
- Owns a number of amenities, including Plain Quarry
- Considers all planning applications relating to Burton, and makes comments, as appropriate, to the South Lakeland District Council
- Provides and maintains the playing fields and children's play equipment at Boon Town
- Maintains the War Memorial and the Market Cross
- Provides lighting, litter bins, signs and seats in parts of the village
- Insures Parish Council property
- Works in partnership with the County and District Councils, other Governmental and non-governmental bodies, local organisations and village groups for the benefit of the parish
- Undertakes special projects such as conducting parish surveys and drafting the Village Plan
The Parish Council raises the funds to undertake these services and facilities through what is known as the precept. This is charged to residents through the council tax.