The Constitution is the rulebook that guides everything - from how councillors are elected to how public services are delivered. It’s not just a legal document; it’s a blueprint for transparency, accountability, and good governance.
What Is the Constitution?
The Constitution sets out:
- how the council operates
- who makes decisions and how
- the rules and procedures that ensure fairness and efficiency
Some of these rules are required by law, while others reflect local choices made to best serve the people of Norwich.
Why It matters to you
Whether you're a resident, business owner, or community group, the Constitution affects:
- how you can engage with the council
- what rights you have to access information
- how decisions that impact your neighbourhood are made
It’s designed to be transparent and accessible - so you can understand how your city is run and how to get involved.
What’s inside?
The Constitution is divided into clear sections, including:
- roles and responsibilities of councillors, officers, and committees
- decision-making processes, including key decisions and urgent actions
- public participation rules and rights
- financial and legal procedures
- codes of conduct and ethical standards
Recent updates have made it easier to navigate, with a streamlined structure and a searchable format. It’s now more readable and reflects modern governance practices.
The council's Constitution is currently being reviewed by a cross party Constitution working group.
Want to dive deeper?
You can download the full Constitution or request it in alternative formats like large print, Braille, or audio.
Get involved
Your voice matters. The Constitution includes ways for residents to:
- attend council meetings
- submit questions or petitions
- call for action on local issues
- participate in scrutiny and oversight
Get in touch
If you have questions or want help understanding a specific part of the Constitution, Norwich City Council’s Democratic Services team is here to help.
