Newtonhill’s community council has launched an appeal for new members. Five volunteers are needed from the village to bring the numbers up to full strength.

 

The Newtonhill, Muchalls and Cammachmore Community Council also has two vacancies in Cammachmore.

 

The returning officer is former community council chairman Councillor Ian Mollison. “Leaflets have been distributed round the area, an advert has appeared in the Mearns Leader, and posters have been put up, all in an effort to encourage new blood to come forward and join the existing members.

 

“The community council plays a vital role in shaping the future of the area, and influences the decisions being made by the local authority and other official bodies. There’s a strong link with the police, for example.

 

“The meetings are held on one evening a month, usually in the primary school, so the commitment is not overwhelming. However it is important that there is a full complement of members so that there can be a good cross-section of opinion when discussing issues such as planning applications. With the Chapelton of Elsick development imminent, it is key that there is a strong voice monitoring the plans.

 

“The closing date for applications is Wednesday 20 February, and anyone interested should get in touch with me at cllr.i.mollison@aberdeenshire.gov.uk.”