Barnsley Council updates Constitution as part of ambition to continuously improve

Barnsley Council has completed a review of its Constitution. The Constitution is the document that sets out how the council works, how decisions are made, and what’s expected of councillors and officers. 

The council has a legal obligation to keep its constitution under review. 

The updated Constitution aims to make council decision-making clearer, more transparent and easier to understand for councillors, staff and residents. It explains how the council is run, how decisions are taken, and how the council is held to account.  

The review will be presented to Full Council on Thursday 5 February. If approved, the proposed changes will come into effect from 31 March 2026. 

Sarah Norman OBE, Chief Executive of Barnsley Council, said: “Our constitution is our rulebook. It explains how the council works and helps people trust that our decisions are fair. 

It shows who makes decisions, how meetings work, and how people can find information. It also explains how we check decisions, how committees work, how money must be managed, and the rules councillors must follow. 

Our review has streamlined the document, making it easier to read and use. It’s an excellent example of how the council is Enabling Barnsley. It demonstrates our commitment to delivering the best value in everything we do. Together, we’re helping to make sure that everyone’s contribution can shape Barnsley - the place of possibilities.” 

View the Full Council agenda to learn more about the Review of Barnsley Council's Constitution 2025-26 on our website.