Search is on for Place Panel members
Canterbury City Council has kicked off the search for people to join its new Place Panels.
The panels have come about as part of the council’s work to develop city and town centre strategies that set out a vision for the future of Canterbury, Herne Bay and Whitstable.
Each of the three areas will have its own Place Panel whose role will be to prioritise local projects, shape future priorities, advocate for investment and support, and consider and evaluate new ideas that come forward for their city or town.
The panels will have a mixed membership featuring some city councillors, some county councillors and the local MP, but also a group of members who are non-elected, such as representatives from local institutions and businesses.
Residents who also want to contribute to the future success of their place can also apply to join the panels as independent members.
And it is that recruitment of these members that has begun today (Thursday 15 October), with the council asking people to put themselves forward for consideration.
It particularly wants to hear from people from different backgrounds who can bring experiences and perspectives, and who care passionately about their area.
The panels would meet two or three times a year with members also invited to take part in occasional workshops or working groups.
Membership is on a voluntary, unpaid basis with the starting term likely to be for three years.
Cabinet member for economic development and regeneration, Cllr Chris Cornell, said: “If you are passionate about your town and genuinely want to help shape its future then this is the job for you.
“If you are bursting with ideas about what your neighbourhood needs, a trusted voice for local businesses or can speak up for people whose voice we don’t often hear from, apply today.
“The Place Panels are a completely different way of us helping breathe life into our high streets with residents at our heart.
“Participants will be invited to help the council spend money raised from local developers from new house building, our own budgets and new grants we will secure along the way.
“Come and join us.”
Anyone interested in the role should send a CV and supporting statement or covering letter (750 words maximum) to democracy@canterbury.gov.uk. The closing date is Monday 2 November.
Find out more information about the Place Panels and further details on the application process.
Image credits:
Canterbury: Andrew Hastings
Herne Bay: Andrew Hastings
Whitstable: David Willis
Published: 15 October 2026