The Quality Parish and Town Council Scheme
In its introduction it states that 'Quality status will equip Parish Councils to take on a stronger role in their communities and should be achievable by an Parish Council, regardless of its size, location or current activities'. It goes on to say 'Achieving quality parish status demonstrates that a council has met certain minimum standards expected from an effective, representative and active Parish Council'.
Edenbridge Town Council was the first Council in Kent to achieve this Charter Mark, since when we have seen success for Boxley PC, Sevenoaks TC, Staplehurst PC, Hartley PC, Swanley TC, Cranbrook PC, Ditton PC , Herne & Broomfield PC, Shoreham PC, Wingham PC, Sandwich TC, Broadstairs & St Peters TC, Folkestone, TC, Stanford PC, Headcorn PC, Harbledown and Rough Common PC and Marden PC, Chestfield PC. KALC is encouraged by the increasing takeup from Parish Councils and is hoping that many more Kent Councils will now decide to apply for this award. The following information is provided for those Councils interested in applying.
Application Process
Council submits application and cheque payable to NALC to County Accreditation Panel (c/o KALC). (Council should retain a full copy of the application). Panel meets to consider application.
If approved - KALC sends application form and supporting papers to NALC, CAP notifies principal authorities and applicant and issues Certificate for use, and NALC advise ODPM/Defra of approved Quality Parish/Town Councils.
If denied - CAP notifies Council and outlines area for improvement, along with date for re-submission.
Application Fees
Councils with an actual gross income or expenditure (whichever is the higher) of less than £50,000 will be £50 (total £58.75 including VAT).
Councils with an actual gross income or expenditure (whichever is the higher) of between £50,000 and £100,000 will be £100 (total £117.50 including VAT).
Councils with an actual gross income or expenditure (whichever is the higher) of greater than £100,000 will be £200 (total £235).
For further details write to Rodney Williamson or Clive Powell at 9 West Cliff Gardens, Folkestone, Kent CT20 1SP (e-mail kalc@btconnect.com) or telephone 01303-248252.