Community voices sought as Aberdeenshire moves to single community council election date

Aberdeenshire’s network of around 70 community councils will be seeking interest from potential new members over the next few weeks as the area moves to a single election date for the first time. 

Previously, community councils sought to fill vacancies on various dates throughout the year. From this year onwards, the nomination period will be the same for all groups in the area. 

This year, nominations to join an Aberdeenshire community council open on Monday, August 19, and will close on Sunday, September 8. 

Community councils are voluntary groups made up of people who care about their community and want to make them a better place to live. 

Leader of Aberdeenshire Council Cllr Gillian Owen said: “Community councils provide an important voice for residents across Aberdeenshire and have been responsible for some fantastic activities and projects that have made a real difference locally. 

“While in many cases previous members will want to continue representing their communities, it’s also important to attract new members to keep groups sustainable and bring new ideas to the table, and I would encourage anybody who would like to be involved to complete a nomination form.”

Deputy Leader Cllr Anne Stirling said: “Aberdeenshire Council benefits from a very close relationship with the community council network and together we can help achieve successes at a very local level. 

“That’s why it’s important to ensure there are enough candidates to allow each community council to form, otherwise this could leave considerable gaps in the representation of local views and involvement in council activities. By offering just a few hours a month, a great deal can be achieved.”

Duties of community councils can include carrying out local projects, preparing community newsletters, responding to council consultations, campaigning on local issues, and organising community events. 

Community councillors will be provided with training and ongoing support from Aberdeenshire Council. 

Further information, including the nomination form and guidance, can be found at www.aberdeenshire.gov.uk/nominate