Boundary Commission begins its islands electoral review

The Local Government Boundary Commission for Scotland has begun reviews of electoral arrangements for the six island council , including Argyll and Bute Council.

Sunset from Rothesay Pier. Photo by Iain L. Maceod

The reviews will result in recommendations for the number of councillors on each council and the number and boundaries of wards.

They will not look at councils’ external boundaries.

Ronnie Hinds, chairman of the commission, said: “We welcome the new islands legislation and the flexibility it offers us to use one or two member wards where there are inhabited islands.

“The islands make a unique contribution to Scotland but island communities face distinctive challenges and the new flexibility will help us recognise that, while respecting the other requirements of an electoral review.

“We look forward to engaging with the six councils and their communities. Consultation is key to our work and we hope to encourage full participation in the reviews over the next two years.”