Fishbourne Parish Council

Local governance and parish matters

Fishbourne Parish Council is the most local tier of government serving the village. The council is responsible for managing parish assets including the recreation ground and village hall, representing the community on planning matters, maintaining footpaths and verges, and providing a voice for the village in discussions with Chichester District Council and West Sussex County Council.

The council consists of elected parish councillors who serve four-year terms. Meetings are held regularly and are open to the public. The agenda typically covers planning applications affecting the parish, maintenance of public spaces, financial matters, and community issues raised by residents.

Planning is often the most contentious area of parish council business. The council is consulted on planning applications within the parish, and its comments are submitted to Chichester District Council, which makes the final decision. Residents concerned about proposed developments often attend parish council meetings to express their views.

The parish council is funded through the parish precept, a small addition to the council tax bill that is set by the council each year. This funds the upkeep of the recreation ground, the village hall contribution, and other parish expenditure.

The parish clerk handles the administration and can be contacted for information about meetings, planning matters, and community issues. Meeting minutes and agendas are published on the parish council website and on local noticeboards.