Local Authority News

Literacy skills help from HLH during Book Week Scotland

For many people, literacy is taken for granted - but for some across Highland, reading can be a struggle.   High Life Highland is highlighting that help is available, during this year's Book Week Scotland, for those who want to improve their literacy skills.  

Environmental Health Work Commended During ‘Challenging Year'

The work of The Highland Council's Environmental Health Team has been commended by Members of the Council's Communities and Place Committee.   A report to Councillors this week has highlighted that the Environmental Health Team responded during COVID-19 in 2020/21 by investigating almost 1000 clusters and outbreaks.  

Councillors Updated On Waste Infrastructure Projects

An update on waste management projects was presented to Members of The Highland Council's Communities and Place Committee on 10 November 2021.   The Council is undertaking a number of projects aimed at meeting its responsibilities for disposal of waste collected from around 110,000 households and 5,800 businesses.  

Assistance For Communities To Clear Snow And Ice From Footpaths

The Highland Council is reminding communities that its winter gritting programme has started and will continue until 14 April 2022.   As in previous years, the Council is offering assistance to communities who wish to take action in their own area to help clear snow and ice from footpaths.  

Highland Council Agree Initial Cuts And Increased Charges From Next Year

The Highland Council has approved a number of key recommendations as part of its medium term financial planning approach.   Councillors considered revenue budget projections for the coming financial year, medium term planning for future budgets over the next 5 years and forecasted budget gaps, as well as a number of capital developments and future capital strategy.  

Highland Council to set out plans for Green Hub

Ahead of the Highland Climate Change Conference this week and the Highland Council meeting on 28 October, Council Leader Margaret Davidson highlighted the green ambitions of the Council.   She said: "I am delighted there was cross chamber support at our meeting of Highland Council, on 9 September, for a Future Highlands Strategy, with the development of a Green Energy Hub in Highland at its heart.  

Committee Chairs Express Relief As Boundaries Scotland Proposals For Highland Are Rejected

The Chairs of two Highland Council Area Committees have spoken of their relief that the voices of communities have been heard following the announcement yesterday that the Scottish Parliament's Local Government and Housing and Planning Committee have recommend that the proposals by Boundaries Scotland to change the electoral wards in Highland be rejected.   Chair of the Sutherland Committee, Councillor Richard Gale said: "I am delighted with this result.  

Internal Audit Reports Demonstrating Diligent Work Within The Council Praised By Audit And Scrutiny Members

Members of the Audit and Scrutiny Committee (which took place yesterday, Thursday 23 September) were presented with a report outlining the areas of work which have been undertaken by Highland Council's Internal Audit section since the Committee’s previous meeting during June 2021.   Of the five audit reports considered, three were given the audit opinions of significant assurance or full assurance.  

Archaeology Festival To Showcase Highland's Historic Past

The high point of the year for celebrating our heritage starts on Saturday 25 September.  For three weeks, the Highland Archaeology Festival will offer a range of walks, talks, workshops, exhibitions, and activities for all ages.  

Public Opinion Sought On Draft Gambling Policy Statement

Members of the public are being invited to comment on a Draft Gambling Policy Statement for the coming years 2022-25.   The Highland Council is consulting on the draft policy statement on behalf of The Highland Licensing Board under the Gambling Act 2005.