Constitution
The constitution sets out how the Council operates, 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 law, while others are a matter for the Council to choose.
The Constitution is divided into articles which state 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.
Article 1 of the Constitution commits the Council to an open, transparent and democratic system of governance which will enable it to lead and support its citizens, councillors, employees and other customers, and to deliver services in an efficient and effective way. The following articles explain the roles of Councillors, the rights of citizens and how the key parts of the Council operate.
- Part 1 - Summary and Explanation
- Part 2 - Articles of the Constitution
- Part 3 - Council Procedure Rules
- Part 4 - Cabinet Procedure Rules
- Part 5 - Review and Development Procedure Rules
- Part 6 - Access to Information Procedure Rules
- Part 7 - Budget and Policy Framework Procedure Rules
- Part 8 - Land and Contracts Procedure Rules
- Part 9 - Financial Procedure Rules
- Part 10 - Responsibility for Functions
- Part 11 - Officer Employment Procedure Rules
- Part 12 - Members’ Code of Conduct Protocol on Planning Matters Protocol on Councillor/Officer Relations
- Part 13 - Officers Code of Conduct
- Part 14 - Members Allowance Scheme