In Scotland, a community council is a statutory body of local residents who volunteer to act as a voice for their area, representing the community's views and concerns to the governing local authority and other public bodies. They are the most local tier of representation and a key part of local democracy, but are independent of the council. Community councils discuss local issues, such as planning and licensing, hold public meetings, and can undertake projects to benefit their community. They also advocate for and behalf of residents and support local residents to resolve issues.
Fortrose & Rosemarkie Community Council is one of 9 in the Black Isle. Altogether there are over 150 community councils across the whole of the Highland Council region, though not all are currently formed.
FRCC area Community Council governance
In Highland, the governance of community councils is through the Scheme of Establishment for Community Councils, which in turn is based on the model scheme published by the Scottish Government.
As a former Royal Burgh, Fortrose & Rosemarkie had "common good" assets - land and other items - now looked after on our behalf by The Highland Council. You can find out more below:
Becoming a Community Councillor
Community councillors are all volunteers and a key requirement is that members are required to be on the electoral role and be resident in the Fortrose & Rosemarkie Community Council boundary. The number of members is determined by the numbers on the electoral role and, currently for our area, 9 members are permitted with the addition, if required, of 2 youth members. Where there are vacancies during the term of the council, existing members can co-opt up to 3 new members.
If you would like to know anything further about the work of FRCC or would like to consider being a member, please get in touch with any of the existing members or email us. You can find information about community councils and becoming a community councillor here.