“The Scottish Government’s proposals leave more questions than answers. It is vital that reforms are based on sound evidence and that meaningful engagement takes place. For that reason, COSLA will participate fully in this period of dialogue to shape the future of local democracy in Scotland.

If local government is to be reformed, it must be about bringing decisions closer to communities, improving local democracy and delivering better outcomes for all. Significant changes like this must be agreed between Scottish Government and local government and not imposed from the top down.

Communities must be at the heart of reform. COSLA Leaders are clear that communities and vital staff delivering services day-in-day out must meaningfully inform the future of local services.

While we all agree on the need for reform, this will not work if it is imposed on councils and the communities they serve so we are calling for Ministers to commit that any changes will be implemented only through agreement with existing local authorities.  This will be an important message to send ahead of next year’s local council elections.

As councils continue to deliver vital services it is vital Scottish Government works with COSLA to bring clarity to these questions and act on sound evidence.”