Casual Vacancy in Selsey North Ward

Thinking of Becoming a Town Councillor? Here's What You Need to Know

Becoming a Town Councillor is a rewarding way to support the community of Selsey, but it's important to understand the role clearly before putting yourself forward. Councillors serve in a civic role and do not receive a salary, and you will be one of 14 councillors who together form Selsey Town Council. As such, you are part of a team: decisions are made by majority vote, and once agreed, they represent the collective voice of the Council.

Selsey Town Council has a number of statutory responsibilities, including the management and maintenance of 24.9 acres of publicly accessible land and buildings. The Council also acts as a statutory consultee on planning matters and works in partnership with Chichester District Council and West Sussex County Council to improve services and infrastructure across the town.

Statutory Responsibilities of Selsey Town Council

• Managing community assets such as recreation grounds, play areas, the Town Hall complex, and The Selsey Centre.
• Providing and maintaining public amenities including bus shelters, hanging baskets, and Christmas lighting.
• Hosting a licensed venue for weddings and civil partnerships.
• Supporting local services such as the Selsey Cinema and Community Bus Garage.
• Contributing to community safety through funding for CCTV and the Community Warden.
• Leasing premises to Sussex Police for the local police base.
• Acting as a statutory consultee on planning applications and infrastructure projects.
• Supporting local voluntary groups, charities, and businesses through grants and partnerships.
• Engaging with residents through public meetings, notice boards, and social media.

Working with Other Authorities

Selsey Town Council also lobbies and collaborates with Chichester District Council and West Sussex County Council on wider initiatives. These authorities have their own statutory responsibilities:

Chichester District Council is responsible for amongst other things:

• Waste and recycling collection
• Housing services and homelessness prevention
• Local planning and building control
• Environmental health and licensing
• Leisure, car parks, and CCTV

West Sussex County Council is responsible for amongst other things:

• Education and children's services
• Adult social care and public health
• Highways and transport
• Libraries and Archives
• Fire and rescue services
• Waste disposal and trading standards

If you are keen to make a difference locally, we warmly encourage you to consider standing. Before doing so, please take time to research what a Town or Parish Council does, and what being a councillor truly involves, so you are fully prepared to contribute positively as part of the whole Council.

For information on how to apply and dates please open the document below:

Casual Vacancy N Ward 2025.09.04 (PDF, 67 KB)