How YOU can become the voice for your area

Monday 31 August marks the start of the 2009 community council election period.

Community councils are looking for people who care about their local area and who want to make it better. By getting involved, you can become the voice of your area and speak out about community concerns and issues.

Each community council receives a grant from the Council to help fund activities and invest in issues you feel are important.

The Council, Police, health and the voluntary and community sectors all work together within the partnerships to enhance the quality of life in local neighbourhoods.

Community council members should be free of political bias and anybody of any race, gender or religion can get involved.

Nomination forms will be available from your returning officer at the end of August. A list of returning officers will be available on the Council’s and the Neighbourhood Partnership’s websites.

Meet Graham Chapman, chairman of Leith Harbour and Newhaven community council

How did you first get involved?

When we moved from North Berwick to Leith in 1996 there wasn’t a community council in the area but, because of all the regeneration, it was really needed. We formed Bonnington community council with locals. When Forth Ports began building up the area, the Council changed the boundaries and we formed Leith Harbour and Newhaven community council.

What are the main issues for your community council?

There is massive regeneration on the shore line. In the old days community councils looked after their own patch but it’s not just about dustbins now.

Forth Ports have actively been involved and we’re brought in to the consultation process. We’ve been able to sit round the table with Forth Ports and our input has been heard.

The community council deals with transport and infrastructure, amenities for developments and brings a community voice.

Can any local person get involved?

We’re always looking for people to get involved. Elections are held in October. We’ve a good team but there are still plenty of spaces.

Do you organise social events?

After Newhaven Primary School was saved from closure we brought neighbouring schools to Newhaven to arrange a firework display over Christmas. It was such a success that we’re planning to make it an annual event. We’re also wanting to reinstate the summer gala from the old days, but that will most likely be next year.