Independents form new Highland Council administration

Independent councillors at Highland Council have formally set up a new ruling administration.

Last month, the Liberal Democrats walked out of the SNP-led coalition that had run the local authority since 2012.

Following days of talks, the council's Independent group took steps to form a new administration.

Margaret Davidson has been appointed the local authority's new leader and Isobel McCallum is the new convener.

The new administration said its priorities include increased spending on fixing potholes in roads and a return to local democracy.

Ms Davidson said: "We are on the brink of an exciting time for the Highlands.

"Without being bound by party politics, we intend to take a fresh look at community planning with a renewed emphasis on empowerment.

"We want to work in partnership with our communities and provide them with real local decision making powers."