A Community Council is a voluntary organisation established by statute by the Local Authority and run by local residents to act on behalf of its area. As the most local tier of elected representation in Scotland, Community Councils play a vital role in local democracy.
Rosewell & District Community Council (RDCC) acts as a bridge between the community and Midlothian Council, as well as other public bodies, agencies and service providers. We help ensure that decision-makers are aware of the opinions, concerns and priorities of the people who live and work in our area.
Our primary purpose is to ascertain and express the views of the community to the local authority and other public bodies. We do this by:
- Listening to residents and community groups
- Discussing local issues at our meetings
- Responding to consultations
- Submitting comments on planning and licensing applications
- Raising matters of concern directly with the Midlothian Council
Community Councils have a statutory right to be consulted on major planning applications. This gives us an important opportunity to reflect local views on developments that may affect the character, infrastructure and environment of Rosewell and the surrounding district.
There are currently around 1,200 Community Councils across Scotland, all composed of elected volunteers from their local communities. Together, they form the foundation of grassroots democratic representation.
Community Councils are one of the strongest ways to become involved in your local area. Membership offers valuable insight into how local government works and provides an opportunity to influence issues both locally and nationally. All local authorities in Scotland actively encourage residents to consider becoming Community Councillors.
Our Members
Rosewell & District Community Council is made up of volunteers who live within the Rosewell & District Community Council boundary and are registered to vote in the area. Members are elected by local residents during Community Council elections held under Midlothian Council’s Scheme for Community Councils.
In addition to elected members, RDCC may also appoint co-opted members. These individuals can bring specific skills, knowledge or community links that strengthen the work of the Community Council.
All Community Councillors give their time freely and are unpaid. They offer their commitment, experience and dedication in service of the community.
If you are interested in finding out more about what the role involves, we would be pleased to hear from you. Please get in touch via our contact page or email us directly for more information about current vacancies or future elections.
Jamie Scanlon
Chair since 2023
Janey Hoeflich
Vice-Chair since 2023
David Maltman
Secretary since 2026
Raymond Milne
Member since 2024
Patrick Krause
Member since 2024
Damian Irisarri
Member since 2024
Helen Blackburn
Treasurer since 2018
Our Area
Rosewell & District Community Council represents the village of Rosewell and its surrounding district within Midlothian.
Our area includes residential neighbourhoods, local businesses, schools, community facilities, green spaces and surrounding countryside. We aim to represent the interests of everyone who lives and works within our boundary.
From planning and transport to environmental matters and local services, we seek to ensure that the unique character and needs of Rosewell are properly considered in decision-making processes.
How We’re Funded
Community Councils receive a modest annual administration grant from Midlothian Council. This funding helps cover essential running costs such as:
- Hall hire for meetings
- Insurance
- Printing and stationery
- Website hosting and communication costs
Where appropriate, the Community Council may also apply for small grants or undertake fundraising activities to support specific community initiatives.
All funds are managed responsibly and transparently in accordance with Midlothian Council’s Scheme for Community Councils. Annual accounts are prepared and made available to the public.
Governance Documents
Governance
Rosewell & District Community Council has been established in accordance with the provisions of Midlothian Council’s Scheme for Community Councils.
We operate under a formal Constitution which:
- Sets out our objectives
- Explains how Community Councillors are elected
- Defines membership criteria
- Provides guidance on how meetings are conducted
- Outlines how decisions are made
As required by the Scheme, we also adhere to a Code of Conduct. This sets clear standards for behaviour and ensures that Community Councillors act with integrity, transparency and in the best interests of the community at all times.
For full transparency, the following documents are available to download below:
- Midlothian Council Scheme for Community Councils
- RDCC Constitution
- Standing Orders
- Code of Conduct
- Annual Accounts
- Recent Meeting Minutes
We are committed to openness, accountability and good governance in all that we do.
