How the council works

Becoming a councillor

We want people from all walks of life to represent local communities. You can stand for election to become a councillor as long as you are:

British citizen, an eligible commonwealth citizen or a qualifying foreign national
Over 18 years old

You must also meet one of the following:

Be registered to vote in the council area
Have lived in the council area for the last 12 months
Have had your main job in the council area for the last 12 months
Have ownership or tenancy of property in the council area for the last 12 months

You can’t be a councillor if you hold a politically restricted post for a council authority, or have been in prison, or declared bankrupt.