The new plan was approved by all 32 council leaders at a meeting last week and presents the high-level ambitions, priority themes and policy areas which will be the focus of COSLA’s work for the period of the new local government administration up to 2027. Some of the priorities covered include Strengthening Local Democracy, Supporting the Most Vulnerable in our Communities, and Delivering on a Just Transition to Net Zero.

It will provide a strategic framework to help further re-establish the importance of Local Government and guide the work councils do every day to improve the lives of people in local communities.

The plan is launched in advance of COSLA’s upcoming Budget Lobbying Campaign, which will argue for fair funding and powers to allow local government to continue their vital work.

COSLA president Councillor Shona Morrison said: “Council services never stop. Delivering 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

“Councils are constantly working to provide the services that are crucial to the very fabric of our local communities - ensuring the wellbeing of individuals, families, and society. They provide the local democratic accountability needed to ensure our services address the most significant needs and priorities for people.

“Our bold new plan for the next five years sets out the high-level ambitions which will be our focus for the period of the new local government administration up to 2027.

“Local government deserves a place at the top table, and this plan sets out the reasons why. The work councils do is so important to people’s daily lives, and COSLA represents all 32 local authorities in Scotland, so ensuring our voice is heard by both UK and Scottish Governments is imperative. The new COSLA Plan has been agreed by Scotland’s 32 council leaders, helping us move forward as an organisation, taking our full membership along with us.

“The last few years have underlined the requirement for flexibility so our Plan must allow for change – COSLA and its member councils have shown an unquestionable and unprecedented ability to adapt and embrace radical change in recent years and into the future. Annual reviews of the plan and its priorities will allow us to assess the need for change and continue our progress toward a strong positive vision for local government.”