Sitting at the heart of the town centre, the historic Wokingham Town Hall is more than just a landmark – it’s the home of Wokingham Town Council. Sometimes confused with Wokingham Borough Council, the Town Council operates independently and has a distinct role.
As one of three town councils within the Borough (the other two are Earley and Woodley) and 14 parish councils, Wokingham Town Council focuses on community wellbeing, events, green spaces, and the preservation of local heritage. Borough-level services, such as road maintenance, waste collection, and social care, remain the responsibility of Wokingham Borough Council.
The Council is made up of 25 volunteer councillors – currently 17 Liberal Democrat, 4 Labour, 2 Conservative and 2 Independent – and supported by a team of dedicated, professional staff based at the Town Hall. This beautiful building houses a public information hub, hosts council meetings and community events, and even serves as a charming wedding venue! It’s also home to the town’s War Memorial, a lasting symbol of civic pride and remembrance.
Throughout the year, the Council plays a major role in keeping the community spirit alive with a packed calendar of events. Coming up this summer are two family favourites: the Children’s Fun Day on May 24 at Langborough Recreation Ground, and Party in the Park on June 7 at Elms Field – both free to attend. The Council also financially supports long-standing traditions like the May Fayre (May 5) and Winter Carnival (November 30), run by the Wokingham Lions Club.
Supporting the local community goes beyond events. Every year, the Council awards grants to voluntary organisations whose work aligns with its values of sustainability, inclusivity, town pride and community enrichment. For 2025/26, recipients include Citizens Advice Wokingham, Holt Copse Conservation Volunteers, Me2 Club, Wokingham Pride, The Link Visiting Scheme and more. Local organisations are encouraged to apply for funding for work, activities and events that support residents of the town.
The Council helps make the town centre feel welcoming all year round. In the summer, flower displays bloom across public spaces. Come winter, the Christmas tree and festive lights add seasonal sparkle, drawing visitors and boosting local trade. Wokingham’s popular markets next to the Town Hall are run by the Town Council, offering a blend of fresh produce, artisan goods, and community atmosphere. The Council also comments on planning applications that significantly affect the character of the town.
Green spaces are a top priority and an investment in the future. Elms Field, complete with its bustling playground, serene Langborough Recreation Ground, and Howard Palmer Gardens (home to the popular Park Yoga) are all taken care of by the Council, which also maintains five other parks and eight allotment sites.
Wokingham Town Council plays an important role in upholding Wokingham’s civic life, its history, and traditions. The Mayor represents the town at local events, visits local businesses and voluntary groups, and recognises community contributions through the Civic Awards. A Mini Mayor, chosen from Year 6 pupils in local schools, adds a youthful presence to the town’s ceremonial life. The Council organises monthly museum open days at the Town Hall and the town’s annual Remembrance parade and service, connecting Wokingham’s present with its past.
Curious to find out more? Pop along to the Annual Town Meeting on Saturday, April 26 at the Town Hall. It’s a chance to meet councillors and staff, share your ideas, ask questions and, yes, there’ll be cake.
For updates, visit www.wokingham-tc.gov.uk and follow Love Wokingham on social media.
Maria Gee is the Leader of Wokingham Town Council
