Bower and Sinclair’s Bay look to form community councils in Highland elections
Two communities in Caithness are looking to set up local councils to represent people in their areas.
Sinclair’s Bay had previously fallen into abeyance while Bower is looking to be re-established after residents submitted a petition to Highland Council to be included in upcoming interim elections.
Community councils are voluntary organisations that act as a voice for their local area. They express views and concerns of local people within their area across a wide range of issues such as new buildings and roads to local services and facilities.
They also have legal duties: by law, Highland Council must consult with community councils on planning and licensing applications in their area.
In some areas, community councils receive community benefit money from wind farm projects which they can reinvest in the community. Others are involved in setting up community development companies which can lead on larger scale projects to improve the area.
Nominations are now being invited from people seeking election to these community councils.
The Notice of Election and the Online Nomination Form to be completed for candidates wishing to serve their local community councils in the Highlands will be published at www.highland.gov.uk/ccelections from Monday.
Anyone considering putting themselves forward has from then until noon on Monday, February 10 to complete and return their online form.