This information is being published in line with the Transparency Code for Smaller Authorities as required by the Department for Communities and Local Government. This code gives local people the tools and information they need to hold public bodies to account and meets the Government's desire to place more power into citizens' hands to increase democratic accountability.

The Local Audit and Accountability Act 2014 sets out a new audit framework for local public authorities which are currently covered by the Audit Commission regime.  Under the new audit framework smaller authorities, including parish councils, with an annual turnover not exceeding £25,000 will be exempt from routine external audit.  In place of routine audit these smaller authorities will be subject to the new transparency requirements laid out in the Code.  This will enable local electors and ratepayers to access relevant information about the authorities' accounts and governance.