a. Role of parish councils

The Local Elections (Parishes and Communities) (England and Wales) Rules 2006 apply to the election of councillors to parish and town councils.

Local elections are held every four years. They are run by the district councils and there is no specific role for local councils in the process. 

When a casual vacancy arises, the initial role of the local council is one of public notification. If a by-election is subsequently required (by ten or more local electors) it will be run by the district council, with the costs falling to the parish or town council. If no such election is required, the local council is then required to co-opt someone as soon as practicable.

If the vacancy arises within the final six months of the Council (i.e. the next ordinary election), the local council must still give public notice but there is no requirement to fill the vacancy.