The debate about public sector reform creates a real opportunity to think differently about where power sits in Scotland.

Changing tiers of local government alone, however, will not create stronger local democracy. The bigger question is whether communities themselves will have greater influence and control over the decisions, resources and priorities that shape their places.

We are not starting from scratch.

Across Scotland, communities have spent decades building relationships, knowledge and capacity.  Community organisations, supported by a wide network of intermediaries, are already bringing people together, developing local plans, managing assets and delivering practical responses to challenges faced by people in Scotland.

If reform is to make a lasting difference, success should be measured not simply by whether decisions move closer to communities but by whether communities gain greater power to shape those decisions and ability to act on the priorities they identify.

This is an important conversation for communities across Scotland, with much to discuss, challenge and develop.  We welcome the opportunity to contribute to these conversations and help shape reforms that deliver meaningful change for communities.

Read more on the Scottish Government Proposal for reform of local governance.