RESIDENTS in Salisbury are being urged to have their say on the issues that matter most to them as the city prepares for one of its key civic events of the year.

Salisbury City Council will host its Annual Parish Meeting at the historic Salisbury Guildhall on Monday, April 27, from 6.30pm – offering people a rare chance to directly question decision-makers.

Unlike a standard council meeting, the Annual Parish Meeting is designed as an open forum for the whole community, giving residents a platform to speak up about everything from local services to bigger issues affecting the city.

During the evening, the mayor of Salisbury, Cllr John Wells, and the leader of the council will reflect on the past year, outlining key developments, challenges and achievements – before opening the floor to questions from the public.

In a bid to make the event more accessible than ever, residents who cannot attend in person are now able to submit questions in advance – a move aimed at widening participation and ensuring more voices are heard.

Cllr Wells said: “I encourage all residents to get involved, either by attending the meeting or sending a question in advance.

“This new approach is designed to give more people the opportunity to take part and have their voice heard.”

Questions can be submitted by email up until 5pm on Monday, April 20, and can be asked anonymously if requested.

Responses will be shared during the meeting, which will also be livestreamed and available to watch back online.

While formal in structure, the meeting offers something more valuable – a direct line between residents and those making decisions about the future.