Wentworth Parish is one of the largest rural parishes in Rotherham. It covers the communities of Wentworth, Harley, Nether Haugh and Barley Hole and has a population of approximately 1300 people. Agricultural fields surround the Parish and because of the area’s strong connection with the Fitzwilliam (Wentworth) Estates and Wentworth Woodhouse the area has become a magnet for tourists.
Wentworth Parish Council exists by statute to represent the parishioners interests. It should not be confused with the Parochial Church Council, which is linked to church affairs.
As a body the Parish Council contributes to the protection and improvement of the parish environment and keeps a constant eye on activity that could operate against the interests of the parish and its parishioners e.g. planning applications, traffic matters etc.
What part does Wentworth Parish Council play in Local Government?
The Parish Council is the second tier of local government, after the Borough Council.It is at the “grass roots” and is in the best position to represent the views of the local community. All meetings of the Council are advertised on the Parish Council notice boards, and on its website.
The meetings are open to the public, and the Council would like to encourage residents to come along – the elected Members are your representatives and your views are important to them.
What does the Parish Council do?
The Parish Council has a surprising number of powers which it can exercise if it so wishes.
Below are some of the activities Wentworth Parish Council currently carries out for the benefit of the village(s):
- Provides many parish organisations with financial assistance.
- Considers all planning applications relating to Wentworth & Harley, and makes comments as appropriate, to the Bourgh Council
- Provides litter bins and some seats and benches in the village(s)
- Undertakes projects
- Grounds Maintenance
- Maintain two pavilions one at Wentworth & one in Harley.
- As a mediator between parishioners and the higher levels of local and central government
Who pays for the Parish Council?
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 on an annual basis.