The organisation which represents almost all town and parish councils across Dorset say they were not consulted over proposed new charges for local elections and parish polls.

Members of the Dorset Council shadow executive is being asked at its meeting this Monday to agree new arrangements which would increase the costs of some elections at parish level.

Chairman of the Dorset Association of Parish & Town Councils (DAPTC) Cllr John Parker said: “The association was not asked about its views on this matter. It has always asked district, county and the shadow unitary councils to involve town and parish councils in any decisions which affect them and we have always been willing to help pass on information to town and parish councils.

“Each individual parish and town council is responsible for its own budget and the amount it charges through council tax bills. Any increased costs to town and parish councils will affect what they charge through the council tax bill.”