Public attendance at council meetings

Due to the easing of Covid restrictions, and the Government’s decision to not extend the relevant legislation, Copeland Council has resumed in-person meetings from May 7, 2021.

Members of the public and press are welcome to attend council and committee meetings.

Attendance at meetings is being monitored in order to adhere to Covid-19 safety measures.  Advanced notice of public attendance must now be given to the Democratic Services Team due to restrictions on the number that can be in attendance at meetings at any one time.

Places will be allocated on a 'first come, first served' basis and public access will be from 15 minutes before the start time of the meeting. The venue and start time for all meetings will be set out on the agenda front page. 

If you wish to attend a meeting, please submit notice in writing, at least three working days in advance of the date of the meeting, to democraticservices@copeland.gov.uk

Any member of the press who wishes to attend a meeting should email communications@copeland.gov.uk at least three working days in advance of the date of the meeting.

All those attending a meeting, must complete a short Covid-19 questionnaire and return this to democraticservices@copeland.gov.uk prior to the meeting.

Numbers in the public seating area will be limited and all seats will be sufficiently spaced to allow for social distancing.  Masks will need to be worn when moving around the building and hand sanitising stations will be provided.

A copy of the agenda and meeting items for all meetings will be available on our website five working days in advance of the meeting.

The law does not allow members of the public or press to attend for Part 2 (private) items on the agenda. When Part 2 items on the agenda are to be discussed, attendees will be asked to leave the meeting.