GREAT MASSINGHAM 
PARISH COUNCIL

Parish Council Meetings

Anyone is welcome to attend the meetings but whilst members of the public cannot participate, a short period of time is given for members of the public to air their views on matters directly related to the Parish Council.

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Here is some advice for members of the public wishing to speak at Parish Council meetings.

Am I able to speak at a council meeting? All public meetings of the Council will give an opportunity for members of the public to speak.

How will I know when to speak? The Chairperson will announce this part of the meeting. This is called public participation and it’s usually early in the meeting.

Are there items I may not discuss? Matters that are confidential or commercially sensitive may not be addressed in public. If you are unsure, speak to the Clerk.

How do I know what is on the agenda? The agenda is published on the website and the Council’s notice board/s.

How do I arrange to speak? Just raise your hand when the Chairperson invites the public to speak during the public participation section of the meeting.

How long may I speak for? You will be allowed 3 minutes. At the discretion of the Chairperson you may be allowed slightly longer. The maximum time set aside for public participation is 15 minutes to hear from everyone wishing to address the Council.

May I raise an issue that is not on the agenda? Yes, although we might not be able to give you a response immediately. We can only make decisions on items on the agenda. Leave your contact details with the Clerk before you leave the meeting so that we can get back to you. Can I provide written information? Yes, contact the Clerk at least a week before our meeting so that it can be circulated.

Will the Council respond to my concerns? Yes, on a case by case basis.

When will a decision be made? There is no given timescale for decisions but please feel free to contact the Clerk sometime after the meeting if you wish to have an update.