Local Authority News

Significant Improvement To Housing Repair Services In Highland

Communication improvements within the housing service has helped to reduce the time taken to complete repairs over the past two years.   A performance report to the Council's Housing and Property Committee presented quarterly data which charted its continued improvement from 2022/23.  

Local Authority Pay In Scotland

Intervention by the Scottish Government has led to the suspension of planned industrial action by council workers, including refuse collectors, this week.   The action has been suspended by all three trade unions after the Scottish Government provided £77.5 million to fund an improved pay offer.  

Creating Economic Benefits For Local Communities - Still Time To Have Your Say

The Highland Council is reminding individuals and community groups that there is still time to take part in the consultation seeking views on the Draft Community Wealth Building Strategy.   This new strategy aims to ensure every area and community across the Highlands can participate in, and benefit from economic activity.  

Suppliers Invited To Meet The Buyer Event In Inverness

The Highland Council is seeking contractors to tender for a Highland Energy Efficiency Framework (domestic and non-domestic).   Chair of the Economy and Infrastructure Committee, Cllr Ken Gowans said: "It is vital that local businesses take this opportunity and attend the ‘Meet the Buyer Event' being organised for them in Inverness.  

Work Of Council's Storm Response Team Recognised

The action taken by the Council's roads teams across the Highlands in response to the impact of storms has been recognised.   The team were delighted to win the Team of the Year at the recent Highland Council Staff Recognition Awards.  

Early Learning And Childcare North Consultation Survey Launch

The Highland Council's Early Learning & Childcare (North) Consultation is now live, and we want to hear from those living in the Lairg, Dornoch, Golspie, Farr, Scourie, Durness, Kinlochbervie, Tongue, Wick and Thurso area.   The survey is open until Wednesday 31 July 2024.  

Ecology Strategy And Action Plan Consultation Now Open

Highland Council today (8 July 2024) launched a 12-week public consultation on its draft Ecology Strategy and Action Plan.   The draft Ecology Strategy and Action Plan was approved at May's meeting of Highland Council's Economy and Infrastructure Committee and sets out an ambitious set of actions to tackle biodiversity loss and address the ecological emergency.  Chair of the Economy and Infrastructure Committee, Cllr Ken Gowans, said: "The climate and ecological emergencies are interconnected, and biodiversity loss threatens our well-being and survival.  

New Public Toilets Finally Opened In Wick

A shining example of partnership in action has enabled the reopening of a much-needed public convenience in Wick which was closed for two years due to significant vandalism and anti-social behaviour.   The town of Wick has over 7,500 residents, is a community hub for the surrounding local rural area of East Caithness and has seen a considerable increase in the number of visitors due to the popularity of the NC500 and the increase in staycation visitors.  

The Highland Campervan And Motorhome Scheme - £40 For Seven Days

A new voluntary scheme is now open to all campervan and motorhome users travelling across Highland, with the principle aim of delivering sustainable and responsible tourism in the Highlands.   Earlier this year, the public, partners, and the Highland Council's staff were invited to take part in a survey and share suggestions ahead of the Council's budget for 2024/25.  

Staff Recognised In Highland Council Staff Recognition Award Ceremony 2024

Council staff have been recognised in the Highland Council's Staff Recognition Awards on Friday 21 June.   Convener, Bill Lobban said: "Congratulations to everyone, both those who won awards, but also to all those who were nominated and shortlisted for the Highland Council Staff Recognition Awards 2024.