Become a Newton Abbot Town Councillor

Why become a Newton Abbot Town Councillor?

As a Town Councillor, you get to influence local governance and represent the interests of Newton Abbot’s residents. You also help strengthen community ties, address issues such as public safety and infrastructure, and can foster your own personal growth and leadership. Ultimately, the role is about working towards positive change in Newton Abbot and enhancing life for all community members.

What does a Town Council do?

Newton Abbot Town Council serves as a local authority that advocates for its residents in decision-making and is responsible for ensuring the well-being and quality of life of the community.

Its primary functions include providing services such as:

• allotments
• footpaths
• town assets
• grants to local organisations
• events.

Town councils also have a say in local planning decisions, as statutory consultees.

Similar to parish councils, town councils operate at a local level, making them the closest form of governance to the community when compared to district and county councils.

What decisions can be made?

Councillors have the authority to help make decisions on various local issues, including budget allocations, land use planning, community services, public safety, and local regulations. They may also influence policies related to housing, transportation, and environmental initiatives, among others. Newton Abbot Town Council meetings are split into five main committees:

• Community & Heritage

• Finance & Audit

• Planning

• Policy & Resources

• Staffing

The public are free to attend any of these meetings. You can find agendas and supporting documents for all our meetings here.

How long can you be a councillor for?

Newton Abbot Town Councillors serve fixed terms of four years until re-election.

Am I eligible to be a councillor?

Eligibility criteria for becoming a councillor can be found here.

How can I become a town councillor?

There are two primary paths you can take to stand for election as a councillor:

• Representing a Political Party

If you wish to represent a political party, engage with the local branch of the party of your choice as soon as possible. They will guide you through the process and ultimately select a candidate.

• Standing as an Independent Candidate

If you wish to run as an independent candidate, reach out to Teignbridge District Council’s electoral services department. It’s essential to familiarise yourself with the local issues, understand what your council is doing to address them, and recognise how your views differ from those of the political parties.

To get officially nominated, you will need to go through a process about which you can read more here.

Talk to someone who knows first-hand!

The Councillors at the Newton Abbot Town Council are more than happy to talk about their experiences and answer any questions. You can find contacts for councillors on this page. Alternatively, do not hesitate to get in touch with the Town Clerk or with council officers for an informal conversation.