Constitution

Council Constitution

We have agreed a constitution which sets out how the we operate, how decisions are made and the procedures which are followed to ensure that these are efficient, transparent and accountable to local people. Some of these processes are required by the law.

The constitution is divided into 16 articles which set out the basic rules governing the council's business. More detailed procedures and codes of practice are provided in separate rules and protocols at the end of the document.

The constitution was adopted in 2001 and has been revised in 2011.

Part one: Summary and explanation

Summary and Explanation

Part two: Articles of the Constitution

Articles of the Constitution

Part three: Responsibility for functions

Scheme of Delegation Reference of Planning Applications to the Regulation Committee for Determination

Part four: Rules of procedure

Financial Regulations

Part five: Codes and protocols

Guidance on Gifts and Hospitality

Part six: Members' Allowances Scheme

Members' Allowances and Expenses

Part seven: Management Structure

Management structure

Part eight: Petition Scheme