Berwick News
Would you like to become a Town Councillor?
12 March 2025
Would you like to become a Town Councillor? Council Elections are on May 1st this year.
What does the Town Council do?
Berwick Town Council operates and maintains 7 play areas, over 300 benches and dozens of litter bins across the three communities of Berwick, Tweedmouth and Spittal. We erect seasonal displays, such as hanging baskets and Christmas lights, and organise the town's civic events like Remembrance Sunday. We have a grant programme for local community groups and we work in collaboration with various partners on projects throughout the town. We are responsible for preparing the Neighbourhood Plan and act as a consultee on planning applications.
Our Wardens repair benches, bins and bus shelters. They cut and strim the grass in the playparks and maintain the equipment, keeping them and the splash park in safe working order. They also plant, weed and water the town’s flower beds, baskets and tree planters, all of which help to make the town look its best.
Will it take up all my time?
No, all of our members are volunteers. There are approximately 10 Full Council meetings next year and there are various working groups and advisory groups which meet separately. These meetings are supported by the Chief Officer and staff who deliver much of the day-to-day business for the council such as preparing the paperwork for each meeting. The Chief Officer is the Proper Officer and the Responsible Financial Officer and provides advice to the members.
How can I find out more?
If you’d like to find out more about being a Councillor, we are holding an informal drop-in on Wednesday 19th March between 6-8pm at our office on Marygate, or alternatively please contact us at info@berwick-tc.gov.uk or call 01289 302391. We can also put you in touch with current Town Councillors if you would like an informal chat about the role.
Please note:
In order to apply, you must be at least 18 and qualify by meeting one of the following criteria:
• you are on the register of electors
• you are an owner or tenant of land or property within the Council’s area
• your main or only place of work during the preceding 12 months has been in the Council’s area; or
• you have resided in the Council’s area for at least 12 months or within three miles of it.