Local Authority News

Councillors to consider Highland Investment Plan update

Highland Councillors will be asked to consider a new approach on the future of the Highland Investment Plan (HIP).   Approval is being sought for the allocation of funding for the first phase of proposed projects for 2024/25 to 2029/30 which will help improve local public facilities and sustain local communities and population.  

Highland Coincillors approve ambitious Talent Strategy to foster growth and innovation

Members of today's Corporate Resources Committee (Thursday, 20 March) were presented with and approved the organisation’s Talent Strategy and Talent Action Plan These have been designed to support initiatives to grow and retain talent within the Council, ensuring a sustainable workforce for the future.   The Talent Action Plan includes initiatives such as developing apprenticeship programmes, enhancing diversity and inclusion, and promoting flexible work models.  

Highland Council approves £2 million investment in environmental and community services

As agreed at The Highland Council's budget meeting on Thursday 6 March, more than £2 million has been approved for investment in environmental and community services throughout the Highlands including a community development fund, a community-focused operating model, Access Rangers and grass cutting maintenance.   Councillor Bill Lobban, Convener of Highland Council, said: "These investments reinforce our commitment to working with communities to create a resilient, sustainable and nature-positive Highland.  

£4.3M Budget investment to strengthen Education Even When Facing Budgetary Issues

A £4.3m investment for education was agreed in Highland Council's 2025/26 budget.   This investment is a key indicator of change for Highland schools, its 31,000 pupils and their 2,000+ teachers and support staff that will further consolidate the Council's on-going path to improvement.  

Highland Council proposes £14 million investment in bus expansion projects and renewable energy

As part of The Highland Council's proposed three-year Medium Term Financial Plan, £14 million has been allocated for expansion of bus company operations across the Highlands and shared investment in renewable energy opportunities.   £6 million is proposed to be allocated for an ‘Investment in Community Transport’ programme to build on the success of the Council’s in-house bus service by expanding its services to benefit more communities across the Highlands.  

Highland Council Proposes 7 percent Rise in Council Tax But Some Cuts Will Be Made

Highland Council at its special meeting on 3 March 2025 will propose to raise council tax by 7%, with 5% for core service provision and 2% for investment in schools and roads through the Highland Investment Plan.   The SNP led administration has a majority so the proposals are likely to be passed at the council meeting.  

Trading Standards take action on illegal cigarettes

After receiving numerous complaints from businesses and the public, Highland Council Trading Standards has seized a significant quantity of illicit tobacco products from a retailer in the Highlands.  This operation underlines the Council's commitment to protecting consumers and supporting legitimate businesses.  

Construction underway at new Nairn Academy

Construction work is taking place on the new Nairn Academy which is programmed to be operational in August 2026.   The school has a planning capacity of 800 pupils and is part of the Scottish Government's Learning Estate Investment Programme (LEIP).  

Community Council Interim Elections results - Bower Misses Out Again For Representation

Following the deadline for nominations, The Highland Council can confirm that the following community councils have received sufficient nominations and will form uncontested:.  Carrbridge Community Council Kilmuir and Logie Easter Portree and Braes Resolis Sinclairs Bay Tannach and District.   Unfortunately, the following four Community Councils failed to form: Bower Conon Bridge Lochalsh Smithton There will another opportunity to try and form these in August 2025 when the next Notice of Election will be published. .  

Committee notes progress of Community Wealth Building Strategy

Members of the Economy and Infrastructure Committee have had the opportunity to be updated on progress being made for the Community Wealth Building action plan when they met on Thursday 13 February 2025.  They have given their backing to a stand-alone Highland Social Value Charter update report coming to their May 2025 committee.