Association of Shetland Community Councils

The ASCC

• Organises and services the biannual ASCC meetings
• Organises and services ASCC/SIC Joint Liaison Group meetings
• Is represented on all the relevant SIC forums and provides a community voice on all issues raised
• Provides information to Community Councils and the public
• Liaises with the SIC and other agencies on matters pertaining to Community Councils

There is a lively Community Council scene in Shetland with 18 Community Councils representing the isles.  

Community Councils are voluntary bodies established within a statutory framework.

Community Councils are intended to act as a voice for their local community, representing the views of the community to the SIC and other public bodies operating in their area and  otherwise acting to further the interests of their communities.

Each Community Council meets as often as is necessary to fulfil their duties, usually every 4—6 weeks.

All planning and works licence applications for the area are considered, the Community Council will then give their views on the application to the planning department.

The SIC Councillor(s) for the area usually attends the meeting and people from outside agencies are often invited to discuss current issues.

Most Community Councils have a representative on one of the SIC forums, he/she will report back to the meeting.

Applications for financial assistance are considered by members, these may be for local groups or for road grants.

Community Councils regulate the refuse skips within their area.

Members are asked for comments on a wide range of consultation papers from many outside agencies such as the SIC or NHS Shetland, members will consider these items within the context of their community.  Issues covered could include transport / roads / local housing.

For further information please contact Kate Massie at kate.massie@shetland.org  or telephone 01595 743906.

Shetland Islands Council holds an up to date list of Community Councillor contact details.  For a list of clerks please click here.