The important issues discussed in this document are of direct interest to the wide range of non-local government interests which should be at the heart of community planning. Part IV of the paper deals with widening access to council membership, a vital strand in our efforts to renew local democracy. McIntosh was concerned that the current restrictions on council employees standing to become councillors exclude a substantial body of the working population which could bring relevant skills and experience to bear. We have listened to those concerns and balanced them with the need to safeguard against potential conflicts of interest. Part IV suggests a relaxation of the current rules which we believe offers a sensible and constructive way forward.
Local government has a proud record of adapting to change.
It now has an opportunity to help shape future developments in partnership with other local interests, with the Parliament, and with the Executive. I invite you to join us in forging a dynamic and creative vision for our communities by giving us your views on the proposals contained in this document. The information contained on this WWW site is Crown Copyright but may be reproduced without formal permission or charge for personal or in-house use. Privacy and Content Disclaimer .