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Parish council seats in South Kesteven uncontested among 'growing crisis' in local democracy




A high percentage of parish and town council wards have gone uncontested in this year’s local elections in what leaders believe is a “growing crisis” for local democracy.

A lack of awareness around parish councils and declining community involvement have been blamed for the falling interest.

Out of 429 wards across Lincolnshire – including both parish and town councils – just 38 have been contested by candidates of different affiliations, about nine per cent.

Polling station
Polling station

A total of 372 wards have seen candidates walk into seats due to a lack of competition.

In South Kesteven, out of a total 83 nominations, 11 are contested and 69 uncontested.

Three wards have had no nominations. These are Bridge End ward for Dyke Fen ward on Bourne Town Council, Gunby and Stainby parish and Londonthorpe and Harrowby Without.

The candidates standing for town councils in the area can be found here.

Labour group leader in East Lindsey Councillor Ros Jackson said: “This is a really important issue for democracy, and potentially a growing crisis.”

She said there were a number of causes, including a lack of awareness around parish councils and local government, a drop in the number of volunteers and those available for community involvement following the COVID-19 pandemic, the cost of living crisis and the poor state of the economy.

“Parish councils are important, helping link more distant upper tiers of government with local communities, fostering pride of place, and carrying out many local functions such as maintaining benches and bus shelters, commenting on planning applications, and running events,” said Coun Jackson.

She suggested the number of parish wards needed reconsidering due to moving populations.



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