Voters in Fort William and Ardnamurchan will head to the polls this December after Councillor Sarah Fanet stepped down from her role.
Fanet’s departure has triggered a by-election in Ward 21, a four-member ward that also includes councillors Andrew Baxter, Thomas MacLennan and Kate Willis.
The Highland Council has confirmed that the by-election will be held on Thursday 11 December.
The vacancy opens the door for a new local voice to join the chamber and nominations are now officially open.
Returning Officer Derek Brown encouraged locals to consider putting themselves forward.
“This is an opportunity to join The Highland Council to represent the Fort William and Ardnamurchan Ward,” he said.
“So I encourage anyone interested to put themselves forward.”
Those hoping to stand have until 4pm on Friday 7 November to submit their nomination.
Candidate nomination forms for this by-election can be downloaded here or by contacting the Election Office via email election@highland.gov.uk or phoning 01349 886657.
Candidates must deliver completed papers in person, by appointment, to either the council’s Inverness headquarters or the Charles Kennedy Building in Fort William.
Before handing in official documents, candidates are being asked to send scanned copies for an informal check.
If more than one candidate stands, the seat will be contested and residents will get their say on polling day.
Anyone aged 16 or over who lives in Ward 21 will be eligible to vote if they are registered by midnight on Monday 24 November.
Votes can be cast in person, by post, or by proxy.
With the election landing in the middle of winter, voters are being reminded they can choose a postal vote if travel is likely to be difficult.
The deadline to apply for a postal vote is Tuesday 25 November at 5pm.
Anyone wanting to vote by proxy must apply by 5pm on Wednesday 3 December.
For advice or to register by paper form, residents can contact the Electoral Registration Office on 0800 393783.
The count will take place electronically on Friday 12 December.
