Step up, make a difference and help shape your community’s future.
Councillors are elected community representatives who work to improve local life. They:
Councillors are the bridge between the community and the council.
For most Town Councillors, the time commitment is flexible and depends on how involved you choose to be. While NALC’s Local Councillor Census Survey highlights that some councillors spend around three hours a week on core duties, many Town Councillors find their workload varies. Typical activities include attending council and committee meetings, reading agenda papers, responding to residents, and representing the council at local events or community groups.
The time you give will depend on your committees, interests and availability – some councillors keep to a few hours a week, while others choose to be more active and take on additional responsibilities. Town Council roles remain highly adaptable, making it possible to contribute meaningfully alongside work, family or other commitments.
What Does Newquay Town Council Do?
Newquay Town Council delivers a wide range of local services and community projects that help keep the town clean, safe, vibrant and well-maintained. We look after many of the facilities and public spaces people use every day, as well as supporting local organisations, events and initiatives that strengthen our community.
We provide and oversee services such as:
Footpaths, verges, bus shelters and public seating
Ensuring community areas are clean, safe and accessible through regular maintenance, repairs and improvements.
Allotments and community buildings
Supporting local growing spaces and managing community venues that host clubs, groups and public activities.
Public toilets and town-centre amenities
Operating and improving several public toilet facilities to support both residents and visitors.
CCTV and community safety initiatives
Managing the town’s CCTV network and working with partners to keep Newquay welcoming and safe.
Local events, grants to community groups and neighbourhood improvements
Organising and supporting community events, providing grant funding to local groups, and contributing to projects that enhance Newquay’s appearance, culture and community spirit.
Most people are surprised by how simple the requirements are. You don’t need formal qualifications or political experience — just an interest in your community and the time to take part.
You can stand for election to Newquay Town Council if:
On the day you submit your nomination, you must meet at least one of the following:
If you meet these criteria, you’re eligible to stand.
Town and parish council elections take place every four years, and Newquay follows the national election cycle. Although the most recent election has now passed, the information below will help you prepare if you’re thinking about standing in the future.
When the next election approaches:
Cornwall Council will publish an official election notice, which marks the start of the nomination period.
Nomination papers will be available directly from Cornwall Council, who manage the election process for Newquay.
Completed nomination forms must be submitted in person to a designated Cornwall Council elections office before the stated deadline (usually around three weeks before polling day).
You can choose to stand:
As an independent candidate, or
Representing a political party, which requires contacting the party for approval and guidance.
You will also need to select the ward (area of Newquay) you wish to represent.
The next full Town Council election will follow the standard local election cycle. Cornwall Council will publish all confirmed dates well in advance, including:
We will also share these updates on the Newquay Town Council website and social media channels.
If you’re interested in standing in a future election and want to learn more about the role, we encourage you to speak with an existing Councillor or contact our team.
Step up, make a difference, and help shape Newquay’s future.
