Bentley Parish Council exists to represent, serve and enhance the interests of the local community. As the tier of local government closest to residents, the Council acts as a democratic voice for the parish, working to improve the social, economic and environmental well-being of the area and its inhabitants.

The Council strives to promote a vibrant, inclusive and sustainable community by delivering local services, managing community assets, influencing decisions made by other authorities, and ensuring that the views and needs of residents are effectively represented.

 

Funding

The Parish Council is funded from two main sources:

  • An annual ‘precept’ from Babergh District Council. In 2026 this is £17,000 per annum which equates to £46.24 per year (or £4.62 per month) for a property in Council Tax Band D. This pays our Clerk’s salary, other administration fees, donations to village and other organisations, grass cutting of the village fields and play area, maintenance of St Mary’s closed Churchyard and emptying of our waste and dog bins.

  • Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) charged by Babergh District Council to house builders for any new development in the village. This funds the purchase of equipment (such as Speed Indicator Devices, new benches, the pavilion, storage units and gym equipment on the village playing field), reports from landscape and heritage experts for planning purposes and structural maintenance costs for Parish Council owned land (such as new fencing, gates, replanting, landscaping and aeration treatment of the village playing field).

Details of Accounts and Financial Documents

 

Who we are

Bentley Parish Council comprises a Clerk and nine members of the public who volunteer their services. The Council meets in public on the first Thursday of each month at the Village Hall. Parish Councillors are elected every four years or can be co-opted onto the Council if a vacancy arises between elections.

Details of the Parish Representatives

 

What we do

The work of the Parish Council falls into five main areas:

Community Representation
  • Represent the interests, needs and aspirations of all residents within the parish.
  • Provide opportunities for public engagement and participation in local decision-making.
  • Act as a strong and effective advocate for the community with the District & County Council authorities, government agencies and other organisations.
Planning and Development
  • Represent local views on planning applications and development proposals.
  • Support sustainable development that respects the character, heritage and environment of the parish.
  • Work to ensure that infrastructure and services meet the needs of the community.
Community Well-being
  • Promote the social, economic and environmental well-being of the parish.
  • Support initiatives that improve quality of life, health, safety and community cohesion.
  • Encourage activities and projects that benefit residents of all ages and backgrounds.
Local Services and Assets
  • Maintain, protect and enhance Council-owned land, buildings and community facilities.
  • Deliver and support services that meet local needs and contribute to the attractiveness and vitality of the parish.
  • Ensure community assets are managed effectively for current and future generations.
Environment and Sustainability
  • Protect and enhance the natural and built environment of the parish.
  • Support initiatives that promote biodiversity, sustainability and responsible stewardship of local resources.
  • Encourage measures that contribute to climate resilience and environmental improvement.

 

How we operate

As a Parish Council we seek to operate to the highest standards of Governance

  • Conduct business openly, transparently and in accordance with relevant legislation, regulations and best practice.
  • Ensure public funds are managed responsibly, efficiently and with proper accountability.
  • Maintain high standards of ethical conduct and integrity in all Council activities.
  • Seek feedback from residents and stakeholders to inform decision-making.
  • Promote innovation and best practice in the delivery of local government services.

Link to our Policies and Procedures

 

Our areas of focus

Our current areas of focus for the village include:

  • The Bentley Neighbourhood Plan
  • The Bentley Conservation Area
  • Liaison with other Parish Councils on planning – the “Three Valleys Alliance”
  • Representation to the Brockley Wood and Folly Farm quarries
  • Management of the Village and School Playing Fields, Play Area and Copse
  • Highways Liaison and speed management