Statement by Chris Harding, Chair of Hawkesbury Parish Council.

After six years as a member of Hawkesbury Parish Council and five years as Chair, I have decided not to seek re-election in May; another Councillor vacancy will therefore arise. I have mostly enjoyed my time as a Councillor which has been during some testing times, The Park Street Development and Covid being just two, but I would like to think that the Council has always fulfilled its legal duty and done its best to look after the interests of the Parishioners and the Parish, and represent their interests with South Gloucestershire Council.

Being a Councillor is an important privilege and the Council requires a good cross-section of people to ensure that the interests of the Parish are properly considered and represented. Hawkesbury Parish Council should have nine Councillors, but for some time we have had two vacancies which, despite regular advertising, we have been unable to fill by co-option because we have had no applicants. Apart from potentially reducing its effectiveness, it can compromise democracy and due process.

The Council can have some wide-ranging powers but for some decisions, it requires a General Power of Competence which requires an experienced Clerk, which we have with Hazel Jones, plus a majority of two-thirds of Councillors who have been elected; not co-opted. I do hope that when you read this statement you will consider applying for one of the roles as the Council requires dedicated people to ensure that it continues to be effective and properly represent the Parish and its residents.

Chris Harding.