Concerns raised over attitudes of Christchurch town councillors

The concerns were raised by councillor Avril Coulton, who feared the reputation and effectiveness of Christchurch Town Council could be at stake.

Cllr Coulton made a statement at July’s full council meeting but said she would not ‘mention any names’ or ‘point any fingers’.

She told members she had attended the recent Civic Service to celebrate the appointment of the new mayor, and was ‘surprised and extremely disappointed’ only six councillors in total attended.

Cllr Coulton said: “Six councillors - to support their mayor out of 18. Our MP and wife, the police, NCI Officers, the scouts and our residents attended and Christchurch town councillors couldn’t be bothered.

“I am concerned that there appears to be a lack of commitment, responsibility, and tradition from councillors to the role that you have all signed up to.

Councillor Avril Coulton (Image: Christchurch Town Council)

"You put yourselves forward, you signed the official document and now you should be proving you are a worthy councillor by supporting the mayor, Christchurch Town Council and its residents.”

Cllr Coulton then raised concerns about councillors attendance to other events, meetings and training sessions.

Talking specifically about planning training provided to councillors, she said: “Five councillors out of 18 turned up, this again wastes your resident’s precept money, what message does that give to residents regarding confidence in their councillors?”

Cllr Coulton added: “I am worried that this attitude of apathy towards the responsibility of taking on the role of a councillor will only weaken the reputation and effectiveness of Christchurch Town Council going forward.

“You are given a list of dates at the beginning of the mayoral year so unless something crops up without warning and we all know this does happen, you should be there and an apology if not – it is a simple and polite process.”

Cllr Coulton finished her address with two questions, “Why aren’t councillors stepping up to the plate, acknowledging their role supporting their mayor and giving 100 per cent service to their residents and Christchurch Town Council?”, and, “Are you prepared and committed to help the borough of Christchurch and its residents in your role as town councillor?”

The mayor Cllr Hilliard thanked Cllr Coulton for the points she raised during the meeting and encouraged all members to improve their attendance.