Community councils see late interest rush

Concerns over local apathy assuaged by lastminute nominations rush, leading to deadline extension

membership 5, nominations received 3); Hillside, Dun and Logie Pert (minimum membership 5, nominations received 4) and Muirhead, Birkhill and Liff (minimum membership 5, nominations received 4) would not form.

A council spokesperson said: “In view of the situation, the returning officer has taken the decision to extend the nomination period for community councils by one week, to allow for additional nominations to be submitted.

“For further details, please contact the Angus Council election team on 01307 476060, email elections@angus. gov.uk or visit the community council election pages on the council’s website.”

Angus Council leader David Fairweather had stressed the importance of community councils in the late push to drum up interest.

“Community councils make a difference and that voice should not be lost,” he said.

“Everyone is aware of the challenges the council is facing – we cannot do everything that we used to and it is hugely important that we have as much communication with our local communities as possible.”

Recent years have seen a major upturn in the number of community asset transfers across the district and local groups are now involved in managing facilities ranging from public toilets to Kirriemuir’s Camera Obscura and Brechin City Hall.

Mr Fairweather added: “Community councils play a vital role in local democracy and have an important voice when it comes to representing your fellow citizens’ thoughts and opinions, as well as issues, to Angus Council and other groups and organisations.”