Local Government Elections

Local Government By-election

Due to 2 resignations, a by-election is to be held to elect:

•        1 Councillor to Electoral Ward 7, Tain and Easter Ross

•        1 Councillor to Electoral Ward 11, Caol and Mallaig

The Returning Officer has determined that polling should take place on Thursday 25 September 2025.

If the seats are contested, voting will take place on Thursday 25 September 2025 with the count taking place the following day on Friday 26 September 2025.

The formal Notice of Election has been published on Friday 15 August 2025.  The period for nominations will run from Monday 18 August 2025 until Monday 25 August 2025.

Notice of election and candidate information

• Notice of election – published 15 August 2025
• Nomination Pack
• Request for copy of Register and Absent Voters Lists
• By-Election Timetable 

Before officially lodging nomination documents in person, Candidates and Agents may submit scanned copies via email to election@highland.gov.uk for an informal check.

Nominations must be submitted before the deadline of 4pm on Monday 25 August at the location indicated within the notice of election. 

Prior to lodging papers Candidates and Agents must email election@highland.gov.uk or contact 07496 176004 or 07345 447416 to arrange an appointment.

Pre-election Guidance and Poster Policy

• Pre-election guidance for Council staff
• Pre-election guidance for Elected Members
• Pre-election guidance for Schools
• Policy - Display of election posters

Further information on becoming a Candidate  

• Video on Becoming a Councillor
• Becoming a councillor | How the council works | The Highland Council
• Councillors information | The Highland Council
• What do councillors do?
• Electoral Commission’s Guidance for Candidates and Agents
• Access to Politics - Inclusion Scotland
• Factsheet on voting in Local Government elections
• Access to Elected Office Fund - Inclusion Scotland

Privacy Notice 

Privacy Notice for registering candidates and agents prior to elections and referendums