Community Council Elections

Residents in Aberdeen are being invited to stand and represent their communities in forthcoming Community Council elections. 

The city-wide elections which take place every three years will this year be held on 3 October.

Community Councils act as a voice for their local area and express the views of local people on issues that are most important to them. They are also a statutory consultee on all planning applications and liquor licensing applications. 

Anyone considering standing for election need not have any special skills or experience but should have a keen interest in their local community and be public spirited.  Candidates must be at least 16 years old and named on the current electoral register for the Community Council area in which they reside. 

Information sessions for potential candidates will be held cross the city during August and early September.  The first information session will be held on Wednesday 7 August at 6pm at the Town House, Aberdeen.

The closing date for nominations is Thursday 5 September at 4pm with the notice of poll or uncontested election being on 16 September.  Polling day, if required, runs between 8am and 8pm on 3 October.   

Councillor Miranda Radley, Communities, Housing and Public Protection Convener, said: “Community Councils have a huge role to play in shaping the future of Aberdeen. Community Councillors represent and help to improve our communities, influence the Council’s Local Outcomes Improvement Plan (LOIP) and ensure that local participatory democracy is at the forefront of positive change.

“Getting involved in your local Community Council is a great way to make a difference in your local area. If you are keen to make a positive impact in your local community, I would strongly encourage you to get involved.”

Community Councils usually meet once a month, to discuss concerns in their local area and through public engagement should encourage feedback and involvement from everyone in the local community. This could include consultations, public meetings and actively promoting the work of the Community Council.    

Established under the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, most Community Councils comprise of up to 12 members with some having more, depending on the size of the population for that location, with each community councillor elected to serve for a period of three years.  

Anyone interested in standing as a Community Councillor and who would like to know more about the information sessions should contact Karen Finch, Community Council Liaison Officer, Aberdeen City Council, via email communitycouncils@aberdeencity.gov.uk or telephone 01224 053945.