Archivists and archives play a vital role in local authorities by preserving, managing, and providing access to records that document the administrative, legal, and historical functions of the organisation. Archivists are responsible for appraising records of long-term value, ensuring that important material—such as council minutes, planning records, maps, and corporate documentation—is properly organised, catalogued, and preserved. This work supports accountability, transparency, and good governance by enabling local authorities to maintain accurate and accessible evidence of their decisions and activities. These records are a primary asset of the local authority, and some are deemed to be Vital Records by virtue of their importance.

Archives also serve as a key resource for the public, supporting research into local history, genealogy, land use, and social development. By making records available through reading rooms, digital platforms, and outreach programmes, archivists help communities and individuals engage with their heritage and understand the evolution of their local area and identity.

The obligations of local authorities regarding the care, preservation and availability of its archives are outlined in Section 65 of the Local Government Act 1994 and reiterated in Section 80 of the Local Government Act 2001