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Community council candidates sought into two Caithness areas


By Staff Reporter- NOSN

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Tannach and District is among the areas where community councils remain unformed after the elections in December. Picture: Alan Hendry
Tannach and District is among the areas where community councils remain unformed after the elections in December. Picture: Alan Hendry

People in two Caithness districts are being urged to support their neighbourhood and stand for election to their area's community council.

Caithness West and Tannach and District are among 16 community councils in the Highlands that remain unformed after the elections in December.

Now people are being given another chance to get these groups back up and running, with nominations for membership due by noon on Wednesday, February 26.

Community councils are voluntary organisations that act as a voice for their area. They express views and concerns of local people across a wide range of issues, from new buildings and roads to local services and facilities. They also have legal duties – by law, the 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.

The maximum membership of each of the Highland community councils is determined by the population it serves and varies from seven to 13 members.

Those wishing to stand as a candidate must reside within the community council boundary and must be a registered voter. A ballot will be held where the number of nominations exceeds the maximum membership.

Nomination forms and copies of the scheme for the establishment of community councils can be downloaded from the "community councils" section of Highland Council website at www.highland.gov.uk/elections; obtained on request by email to elections@highland.gov.uk; obtained in person from any council service point; or obtained by phoning the council’s service centre on 01349 886657.


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