The document discusses the role and powers of parish and town councils in England. It outlines that there are over 8,500 local councils that represent over 15 million people and have expenditures over £400 million. The document advocates empowering local councils through community-led planning and greater representation of local interests. It also summarizes upcoming reforms in the Community Empowerment White Paper that aim to shift more power and responsibility to local communities through local councils and participatory democracy.

2. John Findlay Chief Executive Action for Market Towns Convention 2008 Empowerment through community-led planning

7. Representation and participation “ Elected representatives remain the indispensable link between the public and decisions. Representative democracy is informed and enhanced by participatory democracy.” - Councillors Commission Report, 2007

14. Further information: www.nalc.gov.uk