Community Councils

Community councils were introduced through the Local Government (Scotland Act) 1973.

Community councils give local people a voice in decisions that affect their area. They are run by volunteers who work together to raise concerns, organise activities and speak up for their community. This page explains what community councils do, how you can join or start one, and where to find key forms and guidance.

What community councils do

Community councils focus on the issues that matter most to local residents. They usually:

• share community views on planning and licensing applications
• raise concerns with public services
• organise local events and activities
• support projects that improve the area

Each community council is different. They choose what to work on based on the needs of their community.

Community councillors are elected as individuals for a four‑year term. They do not represent political parties. Each community council has a Chairperson who also serves for four years. The Secretary, Treasurer and Vice‑Chairperson step down at each annual general meeting but can be re‑elected.

Members of Parliament, Members of the Scottish Parliament and South Lanarkshire Councillors are automatic members of the community council for any area they represent, but they do not have voting rights.

Start a community council

If your area does not have a community council, you can set one up.

To do this, complete a petition form and collect 20 signatures and addresses from local residents who are eligible to vote. Email your completed form to communitycouncils@southlanarkshire.gov.uk, who will arrange the first election.

Join your community council

If there are vacancies, the officer will explain how you can become a member.

If there are no vacancies, you can still attend meetings. All meetings are open to residents, the press and the public.

Email communityouncils@southlanarkshire.gov.uk for more information.

Funding for community councils

We provide an annual administration grant to support the running of each community council. You can use the grant for:

• stationery, printing and photocopying
• travel for official business at the rate agreed by the council or public transport
• general office equipment
• advertising
• accommodation for meetings
• affiliation fees
• small honoraria for the Secretary and Treasurer, if funds allow

You cannot use the grant to donate money to other organisations.

If a community council stops operating, the Treasurer must return remaining funds to us.

Publications and forms

• Scheme for the Establishment of Community Councils
• Nomination form
• Petition form
• Administration grant guidance
• Community council election results, October 2022