Scottish local governance review launched

Communities are to be given more say about how public services are run as part of a review into local governance.

Launched by the Scottish Government and Convention of Scottish Local Authorities (COSLA), the review will hear from communities across the country to get a clear understanding of the type of changes required and how these can happen.

Communities Secretary Angela Constance said: “The Scottish Government and COSLA stand together with the community sector to launch a comprehensive review of how decisions are taken about those things that matter most to local people.

“A transformation of local democracy can be best achieved by looking at how public services work with each other, and inviting communities to identify the powers and resources they need to thrive.

“National and local government know the only way to really put people and places first is if we listen carefully and with intent to what communities – large and small - want to see happen.  We will take the conversation out into communities in the new year.”

COSLA President Alison Evison believes strong local democracy really matters to people’s lives. 

She said: “One size cannot fit all.

“For the first time, this review will look at the changes that are needed across all public services, and local and national Government, to give communities more say in decisions that impact on them. 

“This is an exciting challenge, and I look forward to what might be achieved. Get it right and the prize is better and more equal communities in every part of Scotland.”