Review of Community Council Scheme of Establishment
Introduction
Shetland Islands Council has completed a review of its Scheme for the Establishment of Community Councils in Shetland.
The Community Council Scheme of Establishment covers a range of matters such as the number of community councils, community council areas and boundaries, election rules, the roles and responsibilities of community councillors, community council funding and other governance requirements.
From time to time the Council is required to review its Scheme. A Scheme review is required to follow statutory guidance and will involve at least three public consultations and further Special Meetings of the Council. The Council’s consultation phases took place as follows:
Phase one: 20 October 2023 – 12 January 2024
Phase two: 18 April 2024 – 24 June 2024
Phase three: 3 December 2024 – 31 January 2025
At a Special meeting of the Shetland Islands Council on 25 March 2025, the Council approved a new Scheme of Establishment for Community Councils. The new scheme was effective immediately.
For more information on each consultation phase click on the links below:
Consultation Phase One - Boundary areas - Complete
Consultation Phase One has been concluded.
During Phase One, Shetland Islands Council developed a number of proposed boundary options which were published and consulted on. The consultation period took place from 20 October 2023 to 12 January 2024, and was seeking views and representations from the community regarding the proposed community council areas and composition.
An online survey was open throughout the consultation period, and the Council held a number of public drop-in sessions across Shetland during November. A total of 100 responses were received.
The responses were analysed and collated and then reported to a Special meeting of the Shetland Islands Council on 26 March 2024.
Consultation Phase Two – Draft Scheme - Complete
Consultation Phase Two has been concluded.
During Phase Two, Shetland Islands Council developed a Draft Scheme with a number of proposed material changes which were published and consulted on. The consultation period took place from 18 April 2024 to 28 June 2024, and was seeking views and representations from the community regarding the proposed draft scheme.
An online survey was open throughout the consultation period, and Council officers attended meetings of each Community Council to discuss the proposals and answer any queries. A total of 57 responses were received.
The responses were analysed and collated and then reported to a Special meeting of the Shetland Islands Council on 19 November 2024.
Consultation Phase Three - Final Draft Amended Scheme - Complete
Consultation Phase Three has been concluded.
During Phase Three, Shetland Islands Council developed a final Amended Draft Scheme with a number of proposed material changes which were published and consulted on. The consultation period took place from 3 December 2024 to 31 January 2025, and was seeking views and representations from the community regarding the proposed final Draft Amended Scheme.
An online survey was open throughout the consultation period, and Council officers were available on request by Community Council to discuss the proposals and answer any queries. A total of 16 responses were received.
The responses were analysed and collated and then reported to a Special meeting of the Shetland Islands Council on 25 March 2025.
Background
Community Councils are voluntary organisations, created by the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, run by local residents to represent their community. Community Councils bridge the gap between the Council and communities and help make public bodies aware of the needs and views of the communities they represent.
Community Councils carry out a range of roles and activities including commenting on planning applications, representing local views to public bodies, responding to consultations, as well as supporting local projects and amenities.
