THE second stage of a consultation on community councils is under way.

Inverclyde Council is carrying out a review to help shape how the organisations will look in the future.

At the moment there are 11 of them, but the new consultation proposes merging some areas to create eight.

Local authority community council champion Councillor Paul Cassidy said: “It’s important to emphasise these proposed boundary changes are exactly that, proposals. They are not the final boundaries, but they are ones that we genuinely want to hear the public's views on.

“I see community councils from two sides. As a former community council member myself, I know only too well the dedication of community council members in being a strong voice and advocates for their community, working closely together to make sure the towns and villages of Inverclyde are great places to live and visit.

“As a councillor with Inverclyde Council, I also now get to see community councils from a different view and the crucial role they have in local decision making, working with community partners such as the police and having a voice in issues such as planning.

“The consultation will help to shape, strengthen and enhance what community councils look like for years to come.

"I hope that it raises the profile of community councils going forward and encourages many more people to give their time and skills to their local community council. It is very worthwhile and can help to make sure your town or villages voice is strong.”

You can have your say on the community council consultation at: www.inverclyde.gov.uk/communitycouncilreview

The consultation is open to any individual and organisation and written suggestions or representations should be received by 5pm on August 15 by email to community.councils@inverclyde.gov.uk or in writing to the Head of Legal, Democratic, Digital and Customer Services, Inverclyde Council, Municipal Buildings, Clyde Square, Greenock, Inverclyde PA15 1LY.