And more on elections … nominations open for Muirhouse Salvesen Community Council

Nominations are now open for places on Muirhouse Salvesen Community Council.

The Council is calling on people passionate about their area to play an active role in representing the views of their community. 

Community councils give local residents the opportunity to influence what happens in their area  – members get involved in a wide range of activities, comment on planning and licensing applications, take part in community campaigns and work with others to improve the local area.

Community councils are made up of local residents and community groups such as youth forums, parent councils and student bodies. Each one is represented on the Neighbourhood Partnership for the area, where they work with local elected members, Police Scotland, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, NHS Lothian and the voluntary sector to identify and deliver local priorities.

Meetings are held usually once a month and members get involved in a wide range of issues. Some successful community council achievements across the city include lobbying to increase the frequency of a bus service, setting up local festivals and campaigning for environmental improvements such as play equipment for parks.

People aged 16 years or older and are registered to vote can join. The nomination period for the Muirhouse Salveson community council election runs from Monday 5 June to Friday 30 June 2017.  The poll, if required, will take place on Thursday 27 July 2017. You can apply as an individual or as a local interest group, such as a Parent Council, Friends of Parks or sports club.

Edinburgh’s Lord Provost, Frank Ross, said: “Community councils play such an important role in local democracy.  By joining your local community council you can make a real change in your neighbourhood, meet new people, learn new skills and take action on issues raised by local residents.” 

“We are looking for people of all ages and from all walks of life to get involved.  Ideas, energy and enthusiasm are welcomed and the Council will provide support to get the best from being a community council member. I would encourage anyone who is committed to making a difference to the Muirhouse Salvesen area to get involved – be part of something great.”

Nomination forms and further details can be obtained by contacting the returning officer or visiting the Council website.