community councils

Community Council success strengthens local democracy

A record-breaking response to the city’s Community Council elections has been hailed as great news for local democracy.

Applications earlier this month to become community councillors have resulted in an uncontested election on 16 September and 26 out of a possible 30 Community Councils being established; the most achieved at any triennial election.

Community councillors will take up their roles on 3 October.

Councillor Miranda Radley, Communities, Housing and Public Protection Convener, said: “This is fantastic news and a huge boost for local democracy in Aberdeen.

“Community Councils and community councillors play such a positive role in influencing the future of our city for the better.”

Community Councils act as a voice for their local area and express the views of local people on issues that are most important to them. They are also a statutory consultee on all planning applications and liquor licensing applications.

Community Councils usually meet once a month, to discuss concerns in their local area and through public engagement should encourage feedback and involvement from everyone in the local community. This could include consultations, public meetings and actively promoting the work of the Community Council.   

Established under the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, most Community Councils comprise of up to 12 members with some having more, depending on the size of the population for that location, with each community councillor elected to serve for a period of three years. 

 

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