Two new community councils in Edinburgh are seeking their first members.

Nominations open on 3rd September for Grange/Prestonfield and Craigleith/Blackhall Community Councils and people interested in representing their local community are being invited to put themselves forward for membership.

Community councils play an important part in enabling local residents to speak out on local issues and conveying their views to a range of organisations.

In addition, community councils have an influence in a number of areas such as local planning applications, transport, environmental and licensing matters.

Councillor Tom Buchanan, Convenor of the Economic Development committee, said: "As a Council we are committed to working in partnership with local communities and community councils play an important part in that process. They are also an integral part of the new Neighbourhood Partnership arrangements which have been established across the city, resulting in a greater involvement of local communities in determining priorities for their area. Hopefully they will attract a broad range of individuals willing to work for their communities. I would encourage people to take the time to get involved."

Nominations for community council membership must be made between Monday 3rd September and Tuesday 18th September 2007.

If there are more candidates than places, an election will be held on Thursday 11th October.

Those interested in representing their community and having a say on issues affecting their area should contact 0131 529 4980/4226 for full details and nomination forms.

Tollcross Community Council