Wells City Council: Roles and Responsibilities
Wells City Council is responsible for a range of local services, facilities and activities, as well as representing the interests of the city and its residents.
Council facilities and services
- Management of The Town Hall, which accommodates the City Council offices and meeting chamber and, on occasion, the Coroner's Court.
- Operation of The Town Hall as a venue for markets, meetings, concerts, conferences, weddings, classes, clubs and other community activities. Find out more about venue hire.
- Management of Wells Cemetery.
- Management of public conveniences in the city.
- Management of allotments at Burcott Road, Barnes Close and within the grounds of The Bishop's Palace.
- Management of the Wells skatepark.
- Management of the two funfairs held in the Market Place each year, in May and November.
Supporting the city and its communities
- Providing grants and financial support to local clubs, organisations and community groups.
- Oversight of the Wells in Bloom programme.
- Partnership working with a wide range of councils, organisations and community groups on issues affecting the city, its residents and visitors.
- Involvement in City Centre Management, including CCTV and alcohol-restricted zones.
Planning, licensing and local decision-making
- Representing the interests of Wells in the scrutiny of planning and licensing applications affecting the city.
- Working with other councils and organisations on matters that affect Wells and its communities.
The city's heritage and identity
- Maintaining the records of the city, some of which date back to the 12th century, with an Archivist responsible for their care and interpretation.
- A strong ceremonial role in the city, including representing Wells at civic occasions and events.
- Responsibility for the water running down the south side of the High Street. The water on the north side flows directly from the well pools at The Bishop's Palace.
What isn't the responsibility of Wells City Council?
Two councils serve Wells: Wells City Council and Somerset Council. The councils have different responsibilities, and some local services are provided by Somerset Council or other public bodies rather than Wells City Council.
If you are unsure which council or organisation is responsible for a particular service, find out who to contact.