Area Committees

Background

In 1996, the Decentralised committees operated by Strathclyde Regional and Glasgow District Councils were brought together to form Area Committees.  This interim system operated until 1999 when the Council carried out a “best value review” of the Committees, taking into account the views of Councillors, community representatives and Council officers. 

The review team also took into consideration several government and Scottish Executive initiatives aimed at making Councils more open and accountable and encouraging closer working with local communities, for example, Modernising Government, Working for Communities.  

The major conclusion of the review was that the Area Forums should monitor how Council services are delivered and developed locally.  They should offer local Councillors and local people more influence on activities within their area, allowing a better understanding of local needs and priorities.

The current administration agreed that the Forums should continue to develop as Area Committees and future development will take account of changes that follow as a result of community planning.

The Council established eleven Area Committees covering the entire City.  Area Committees are unique among the Council’s committees because they are the only committees with community representatives, giving local people a real say in how Council services are delivered in their area.