This week's community column comes from Norman Muir, the chairman of Helensburgh Community Council.

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I am continually surprised by the negative comments made about the town by residents on social media, and indeed from correspondents to this newspaper. They fly in the face of the efforts of statutory bodies, organisations and societies to make the town a great place to live, work and play in.

Let's start with our AB councillors who represent us in Argyll and Bute. The Community Council closely follows and we have a statutory duty to represent the community. Next up, the AB staff who work for us across the spectrum of administration and infrastructure. In addition, we have thriving clubs, societies and voluntary bodies bringing their specialist interests to enrich our lives. There is therefore no shortage of agencies who can be turned to in solving whatever problems arise.

Undoubtedly, things go wrong, cause concern, and have to be corrected. But instead of aimless grandstanding, report the matter to those who may be in a position to resolve it. In this regard the community council website is an ideal start point.

Helensburgh Architecture and Design Forum: The HCC held a successful meeting recently which ended with the formation of a forum to maintain and enhance the architectural and design heritage of the town. In particular, it will address the large housing developments in the pipeline. It will bring together the HCC, local architects, planners, roads and police representatives to ensure that the best standards of architecture and design are upheld as a counterbalance to the developers of such schemes. Details of its terms of reference and composition will be posted on the HCC website shortly.

Helensburgh Retailers Conference: A note for diaries; the conference will be held in Victoria Halls on Tuesday 11 October this year from 18.00-20.00 hrs. Details of the conference will be circulated individually to each retailer in the town and we hope that everyone attends. The HCC wants to give a prominent public voice to retail and experience and knowledge are key.

Community Council Elections: The HCC has a membership of 20 and at present we have vacancies. There will be a bye-election this year to fill these vacancies. We would encourage anyone who wants to make a difference, to enter their names for the election process. Nominations close on 6 October and election application forms are available from the Civic Centre, or the Secretary of the HCC.