The Council is empowered by section 249(5) of the Local Government Act1972 to admit as Honorary Freemen/Freewomen of the borough ‘persons of distinction and persons who have in the opinion of the Council, rendered eminent services to the borough’.

The Freedom of the Borough Ad Hoc Panel will consider any proposals relating to the granting of the Freedom of the Borough including any nominations for that award and make recommendations accordingly for consideration by Full Council.