Conservatives keen to get down to new task

Conservative leader Meghan Gallacher says she aims to see her group form“working relationships”as they take their place in the council chamber.

Eight of the party’s 10 elected members – including their Airdrie trio – saw their votes prove decisive at the first meeting of the new council.

Councillor Gallacher said: “We found it very interesting. We knew we had a decision to make and pulled together as a team, so I’m really pleased.

“We’re finding our feet and beginning to take on casework, learning the best way to help people and will make a good contribution.”

She also refuted opponents’ accusations that her convenership of the audit and governance panel forms part of an informal coalition deal, saying:“It comes down to me being a fresh pair of eyes. If people will make their own assumptions, I can’t stop them from doing that.

“I can make a really good impact on audit and scrutiny and that’s what I’m planning to do; and I’m really excited about taking up the role and want to get on with the job.”