WHAT IS A COMMUNITY COUNCIL?

• Community Councils were introduced in Scotland in 1976 through the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973.
• The purpose of a Community Council is to find out the views of the local community and express these to Inverclyde Council and other bodies and take any action in the interests of the community which are appropriate".
• Provision is made for 12 Community Councils in Inverclyde based on 1,2 or 3 Ward Areas depending on local circumstances.
• It is essential that Community Councils are properly representative of the communities they serve. The purpose of Community Councils is to represent a full cross section of the community. It is important that they do not appear to favour any particular sections of the community. By implication this also means that they should not be party political but should attempt to encompass the view of all interests within the community.
• Local Councils are required to consult Community Councils on planning applications affecting their area Community Councils have a statutory right to object to any application for a liquor licence made to Inverclyde Licensing Board.
• Local Councillors regularly use Community Councils as 'sounding boards' to ensure local opinion is taken into account before taking decisions on policy or operational matters.
• The relationship between a Community Council and the local Council is about working towards a positive partnership.
• Health Boards must consult Community Councils regarding any proposed changes to the service.
• Local Police consult and provide regular reports for Community Councils.