Part of the requirements of the Local Government Act 2000 Section 37 was that each local authority should prepare, keep up to date and publicise a document known as the council's constitution.

The constitution was approved by council on the 29 April 2002 and is regularly updated. The purpose of the constitution is to set out clearly in one document how the council works, how decisions are made and procedures which are followed to ensure these are efficient and clear. Some processes are required by law while others are a matter for the council to choose. This provides the council with an operational framework to do its job.

If you want to know more please contact committee.services@eastdorset.gov.uk

The constitution is a very detailed document divided into 7 parts:

• Part 1 Summary and explanation

  This section provides a broad overview of the constitution.

• Part 2 Articles of the constitution

  All articles contained within the Constitution.

• Part 3 Responsibility for functions

  We have agreed a scheme of delegation of the Council's powers and duties to committees, sub-committees and employees.

• Part 4 Rules of procedure

  This section of the Constitution sets out the various procedures employed in carrying out our functions.

• Part 5 codes and protocols

  The various codes of conduct and other protocols that govern our operations.

• Part 6 members allowances scheme

  The Members' Allowances Scheme has been developed by an Independent remuneration panel appointed and maintained jointly by the East Dorset District Council, Christchurch Borough Council and Purbeck District Council.

• Part 7 Management structure

  This section describes the management structure in operation at East Dorset District Council.