A Review of Contemporary Linked Challenges for Scottish Local Government

Abstract

This article reviews recent linked challenges to Scottish Local Government viewed through the lens of ‘governance’ in the post-Scottish independence referendum context. This is an appropriate juncture to consider the range of contemporaneous and linked issues and challenges that face this level of governance. The article includes an update on the debates associated public sector reform and the agenda to ‘renew local democracy’. Moreover, the article addresses recent developments with regards to empowerment as a result of the Community Empowerment Act (passed in June 2015). The article concludes by providing an update on the challenges associated with the democratic representation of Scottish local authorities. By drawing these themes and developments together, highlighting their historical roots, the article provides an important platform for a new research agenda in relation to local democracy and community empowerment in Scotland.