Something that could have been written just for Nairn

One of our regular readers earlier today sent us some information he had received in an e-mail. It could have been designed to resolve some of the problems that have been facing Nairn in recent years, here it is:

•       a new way for communities to take on public sector land and buildings

•       opportunities for communities to be more involved in shaping and delivering better outcomes locally

•       greater transparency in the management and disposal of the Common Good

•       improved powers for local authorities to recover the costs of dealing with dangerous and defective buildings

•       measures to streamline and extend the rural community right to buy

•       new duties to strengthen Community Planning, so that public sector agencies work as one to deliver better outcomes for communities

•       updated and simplified legislation on allotments

•       new powers for local authorities to create local business rate relief schemes.

It is actually information contained in an e-mail describing the Scottish Government's Community Empowerment Bill. It also said: The Minister for Local Government and Planning, Derek Mackay, today launched a consultation on the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Bill. The aim of the Bill is to make the most of the talents that exist in our communities; deliver high quality and improving public services; and support strong local democracy and local decision-making"

It could almost be a manifesto of demands drawn up by our Community Councillors and laid at the door of Highland Council. This evening the sentiment of the Scottish Government's proposed bill was praised at the joint meeting of the Nairn Community Councils in the URC hall. More from that meeting when time permits. Incidentally the usual suspects had a meeting with the high heid yins in Inverness on Monday and have also met this week with our four Highland Councillors in Nairn. More about those meetings too. 

The Scottish Government is seeking views on their proposed bill - more info here.