Talks ahead of possible power struggle

High-level talks are under way as Aberdeen’s political leaders brace themselves for a possible power struggle ahead of a double by-election with the potential to shift power in the council.

Voters in Bridge of Don will go to the polls today to elect two new councillors following the death of the SNP’s Sandy Stuart and the resignation of Conservative Brett Hunt.

Incumbent councillors, independent John Reynolds and the SNP’s Alison Alphonse, will not be up for re-election.

The ruling Conservative, Aberdeen Labour and independent administration have just a single-member majority.

Should the electorate

“Some talks have been taking place in case balance of power shifts”

decide not to vote a Tory or Labour candidate in, it would put the situation in a flux with the potential of a new administration.

Senior town house sources have revealed some talks have taken place between senior members of different political groups in case the balance of power shifts. But there are also a number of other candidates with no representation currently in the town house who are also trying for election.

Sources have suggested transfers from Labour voters in the suburb could prove critical.

Conservative Sarah Cross, Liberal Democrat Michael Skoczyloda, the SNP’s Jessica Mennie, Max McKay from the Red Party of Scotland, Labour candidate Graeme Lawrence, independent Simon McLean, Green member Sylvia Hardie, and Ukip’s Philip Clarke are all up for election.