Labour to form coalition with Tories and independents in Aberdeen

The Labour group in Aberdeen will form a new administration with the Conservatives and the Independent Alliance Group.

Labour emerged as the largest party at the local authority after winning 17 seats at last week’s local elections but required 22 to form an administration.

They ended talks with the five-member Liberal Democrats because of opposing views on the controversial Third Don Crossing.

Labour will instead join forces with the three Conservatives councillors and the three Independent Alliance Group councillors - Marie Boulton, Andrew Finlayson and former Lord Provost John Reynolds.

Councillor Barney Crockett, Labour leader, said: “My new administration is determined to regain the respect for this great city, which has seemed threatened in recent years.

“We will work hard for the people of Aberdeen to repair any damage by showing leadership and competence to move the city forward again.

“The voters have spoken and so now is the time for a fresh start. A Labour Council will, with our coalition partners, listen to the people and work with local communities to restore pride and progress in Aberdeen.

“Our schools and our children’s future will be at the heart of all that we strive to achieve as an administration. We will also prioritise the vital services on which our most vulnerable people rely. We pledge to restore Aberdeen’s reputation for excellence in education, social care and housing.

“And we will ensure that Aberdeen’s pivotal position at the heart of the UK economy is preserved and secured for the future by working in partnership with business to get the best for the city and create jobs for our people.

“This new administration will be a strong and capable administration, which will put the needs of our citizens first. Together we will set an agenda for change – and we will make sure we deliver on it.”

The proposed new administration is expected to be ratified at the statutory council meeting next Wednesday.

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