How to get involved
There are many ways you can get involved in decision making.
Attending Council, Cabinet and Committee Meetings
Members of the public are very welcome to attend and watch meetings of the Council, together with the Cabinet, Overview and Scrutiny Committee and the Planning and Licensing Committees. There are also opportunities to participate at various meetings and more information on how you can do this is detailed below.
All Council and Committee meetings are open to the press and public (subject to various legislative exclusions) and agendas and reports. Most meetings start at 7.45pm and are held in the Council Chamber or in Committee Rooms at the Civic Centre, Esher. Cabinet meetings and Audit & Standards Committee meetings start at 7pm.For more information see Council meetings.
Sending a deputation to a Cabinet or Committee Meeting
A deputation is a group of at least 3 people, who live or work within the borough, who wish to express their views on a particular topic. A spokesperson may address the Cabinet or the Committee for a maximum of 3 minutes.
Other members of the deputation are welcome to attend as observers.
Cabinet and Committees may receive a deputation on any matter within their terms of reference except in the case of the Planning Committee, when deputations shall not be received in respect of development control matters, which are covered under speak at a planning committee.
Speaking at Area Planning Sub-Committees
Members of the public have the right to speak on certain planning applications being considered by the Council's East, North and West Area Planning Sub-Committees. Find out more about speaking.
Making a representation against a licensing application
There are opportunities to enable members of the public to submit representations against a licensing application.
Standing to be a borough councillor
If you care about what happens in your local area, are interested in making a real difference, like getting involved and want to have your say, then you could consider standing for election as a borough councillor.
Becoming a local councillor is a rewarding experience. It gives you the opportunity to help your local community and is a great way to help you contribute to decisions that will develop and define Elmbridge for future years. To find out more, see standing for election as a borough councillor.
Becoming an Independent Member of the Audit and Standards Committee
There are currently 3 Independent Members that serve on the Council's Audit and Standards Committee, and although it is no longer a statutory requirement to have independent co-optees after the recent Localism Act (2011), here at Elmbridge we believe that our Independent Members have provided a valuable service to the Committee, offering expertise, insight, and a distinct independent perspective. The Council values the contribution that these members make to the work of the Committee.
If you are interested in more information on how to become an Independent Member, please contact committee@elmbridge.gov.uk.
Becoming an Independent Remuneration Panel Member
The Independent Remuneration Panel, which consists of 3 members, is responsible for advising the Council on the type and level of allowances to be paid to elected councillors of the Council.
It is an opportunity to influence the way in which elected councillors are reimbursed for their public service. The Panel is currently constituted and has no vacancy at the present time. Any vacancies will be advertised on this website.