Community Council nominations open
Candidates are being encouraged to put themselves forward to become a community councillor and help make a positive difference to where they live.
Inverclyde has 11 community councils: Gourock; Greenock Central; Greenock East; Greenock Southwest; Greenock West and Cardwell Bay; Holefarm and Cowdenknowes; Inverkip and Wemyss Bay; Kilmacolm and Quarriers Village; Larkfield, Braeside and Branchton; Port Glasgow East; and Port Glasgow West.
A minimum of five community councillors are needed for each to be able to legally form and up to a maximum of between eight and 11, depending on the area and size of the population.
If there are more candidates than there are seats available in any of the areas, an election will be held.
Community councils are the third tier of government, bridging the gap between communities, council and national governments.
They play an important role in towns and villages across Scotland.
Councillor Paul Cassidy, Inverclyde Council’s community councils champion, said: “Only a fraction of our community councils are currently active and they do terrific work in their respective areas.
“But imagine how much more great work could be done if we had more representatives to help form more or all of them across Inverclyde.
“I know first-hand the positive impact community councils can have in delivering change and improvements for local areas and there has never been a better time for people to get involved and make a real difference to their community.”
Candidates have until Wednesday 7 February 2024 at 4pm to submit their nomination to become a Community Councillor.
In preparation for the elections, a review of community councils recently took place to ensure they continue to meet the needs of the places and people they serve.
It was part of Inverclyde Council’s statutory duty to examine how community councils look and operate and make changes if necessary.
To submit a nomination and to find out more about Community Councils, visit: www.inverclyde.gov.uk/ccelection.
