Town and community councils provide the first and most local tier of government. Their members are the closest to the community they represent. They act as a bridge between the community and higher levels of government, advocating for the specific, place-based needs and priorities of the town or community they represent.

Blaenavon Town Council is not to be confused with Torfaen County Borough Council. The two are separate legal entities. Torfaen County Borough Council is a ‘principal authority’ and covers Blaenavon, Pontypool and Cwmbran, as well as the surrounding villages. Torfaen Council delivers most local services and has a much broader range of responsibilities, including education, social services, highways, planning and development, waste management, economic development, and major infrastructure projects. It deals with matters that affect the entire borough and is responsible for coordinating and providing major public services.

Blaenavon Town Council, as a town or community council, is much smaller, with more limited powers, responsibilities, and financial resources. Nevertheless, town and community councils provide an important voice for the local community and can deliver a wide range of projects, events and initiatives that contribute to local wellbeing, as well as providing funding and support to organisations and community groups.