This page provides key information about nominations, important dates (timetable) and how to stand for election.
The Community Councils who have remaining vacancies are:
Mid Argyll, Kintyre & the Islands Area (6)
Ardrishaig; Craignish; North Knapdale; South Knapdale; The Laggan; and West Lochfyne
Oban, Lorn and the Isles Area (2)
Lismore and Seil & Easdale
Bute & Cowal Area (4)
Ardentinny; Bute; Hunter's Quay; and Kilmun
Helensburgh & Lomond Area (2)
Garelochhead and Luss & Arden
Timetable For By-Elections
- Register in Force - 1 July 2026
- Publish Notice of Election - 29 July 2026
- Nominations Open - 30 July 2026
- Close of Nominations and last date for withdrawal - 20 August 2026 (4pm)
- Publish Notice of Poll or Uncontested Elections - 27 August 2026
- Issue postal votes - 10 September 2026 (if required)
- Election day/last day for receipt of postal votes - 1 October 2026 (4pm)
- Count - 2 October 2026 (if required)
Nomination Packs
Download a nomination pack. If you require a paper copy, please email elections@argyll-bute.gov.uk
Please note that nomination forms must not be submitted before nominations officially open on Thursday, 30 July 2026.
How to Submit Your Nomination
Nomination forms must be received by the Returning Officer no later than 4:00 pm on Thursday, 20 August 2026. Forms may be submitted by post to Returning Officer, Kilmory, Lochgilphead, PA31 8RT or by email to elections@argyll-bute.gov.uk
In exceptional circumstances the Returning Officer may accept hand delivered nomination papers to the address above.
Who Can Stand for Election?
To become a Community Councillor, you must live within he Community Council area and be registered on the Local Government Electoral Register. If you need to check your electoral number, please contact the Elections Office on 01546 603264 or elections@argyll-bute.gov.uk
About Community Councils
Argyll and Bute has provision for 56 Community Councils covering communities from Cardross in the East to the islands in the West. Community Councils are voluntary bodies established within a statutory framework and represent the views of local communities. Their role is to represent local views and concerns, identify local needs and priorities, engage with residents and communicate community views to Argyll and Bute Council. More information on community councils can be found on the webpage Community Councils - Overview | Argyll and Bute Council.
Community Council Scheme
Details of the revised Community Council Scheme for 2026 can be found on the Community Council Review 2026 page on the Council website.
Contact the Elections Team
Email: elections@argyll-bute.gov.uk
Telephone: 01546 603264
