Community Council Scheme of Establishment Review

West Dunbartonshire Council is inviting citizens to drop in and take part in the final stage engagement of the Community Council Scheme of Establishment Review.

Purpose of the review

West Dunbartonshire Council is reviewing its Scheme for the Establishment of
Community Councils in accordance with the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973.
The proposals remain in draft and will be subject to final officer review, statutory
consultation and consideration through the appropriate Council decision-making
process.

Community Councils remain an important part of local democracy. They provide a
recognised route for citizens to express local views, influence public bodies and
contribute to community-led action. Experience under the current Scheme has,
however, shown that the existing structure of 17 Community Council areas has been
difficult to sustain. A number of areas are inactive, while others have experienced
continuing difficulties with recruitment, office bearer roles, governance and
engagement beyond those who regularly attend meetings.

The review is therefore intended to create a more sustainable, modern and practical
framework that supports representative Community Councils across West
Dunbartonshire, while retaining local identity and clear links between Community
Councils, the Council, elected members, Community Planning Partners and local
organisations.

Support will be available at sessions to help complete the consultation form online.

For Drop-in sessions, please se artwork below.

Executive Summary July 2026