New website
We're currently redeveloping our website so you may see a mix of old and new style pages while we complete this work. We'd love to hear your feedback on the new style.
Types of committees - Working parties
What are working parties?
Working parties are informal groups that help councillors explore complex issues before any formal decisions are made. They’re a useful way to dig into the details, share ideas, and get advice without the pressure of official decision-making.
How do they work?
When a working party is set up, the group’s members and chairperson (who can be either a councillor or an officer) are agreed upon, and clear terms of reference are set to guide the work.
Unlike formal committees, working parties don’t need to be politically balanced. Because they’re informal, they’re not bound by the usual meeting rules - officers can actively take part, and discussions can be more flexible.
What do they do?
Working parties don’t make decisions themselves. Instead, they provide advice and recommendations. Any reports they produce - whether drafts or final versions - are passed on to the relevant committee for review and action.
