By-election success for SNP and Labour

Leith Walk will be represented by new SNP and Labour councillors following yesterday’s double by-election.

The councillors were elected using the Single Transferable Vote system – the first time this method has been used to elect two members.

SNP’s John Lewis Ritchie was elected at Stage One of the voting process, while Labour’s Marion Donaldson had to wait considerably longer to learn of her success … she was finally elected at Stage Ten.

The result strengthens the Labour – SNP Capital Coalition’s grip on power at the City Chambers.

The double by-election was brought about by the resignations of Deirdie Brock, who became an MP in May’s general election, and Green councillor Maggie Chapman, who is bidding to become an MSP in North East Scotland at next year’s Holyrood elections.

Returning Officer, Andrew Kerr, said: “I would like to welcome the two newest Councillors to the City of Edinburgh Council and look forward to working with them on matters affecting the Leith Walk Ward and the city as a whole.

“I also want to thank our elections team for all the work they have put into ensuring this by-election ran smoothly.”

The turnout was a disappointing 25.1%

For further details of the results and the Leith Walk By-Election, visit the Elections section of the Council website.