Third attempt at forming Fort community council

THE HIGHLAND COUNCIL has announced it will make a third attempt to form a Fort William community council despite it being disbanded last November.

In December The Oban Times reported the news after an anonymous source claimed more than 20 people had signed a petition urging the council to hold another election.

A Highland Council spokesperson confirmed the council received a petition from more than 20 people in the community requesting an election.

‘ We follow a statutory process which has begun today (Tuesday January 17). The opportunity is promoted on our website homepage, through social media and via the local press,’ said the spokesperson.

Nominations are now being sought, with the cutoff date set for 4pm on Wednesday February 1 and elections on Thursday March 2.

Former community councillor Patricia Jordan had mixed feelings on hearing the news. She said: ‘I am delighted there has been enough interest from people to hold another election. But it is a disgrace the Highland Council has not publicised this more. Maybe it is not keen for the Fort William community council to reform – it always has been a thorn in its side.

‘The community council is the voice of the people here. We need to have a body speaking for the community.’

Nomination forms can be downloaded from www.highland.gov.uk/info/799/elections_ and_voting/643/community_councils by emailing elections@highland.gov.uk or calling 01349 886606.

Forms should be sent to Dot Ferguson, Senior Ward Manager, The Highland Council, Lochaber House, High Street, Fort William, PH33 6EL, or emailed to dot.ferguson@highland.gov.uk by the deadline date.