A Scottish Borders Council coalition has been formed after last week’s local elections.
The Scottish Conservatives will be joined by three independent councillors – Hawick Councillors Watson McAteer, Stuart Marshall and Selkirkshire Councillor Caroline Cochrane – as newly elected and returning members form the next SBC administration.
The Conservative group, led by Cllr Euan Jardine, already have 14 seats on the council. The coalition, with three independent members, will provide enough seats to form a new administration.
Cllr Jardine will lead the new administration, whilst Cllr McAteer will serve as the council’s new convener, replacing Cllr David Parker in this role.
The new administration has pledged to focus on improving Borders communities, prioritising local issues and listening to what people want from their council.
Borders politicians John Lamont MP and Rachael Hamilton MSP have welcomed the news that a new administration has been formed, adding that they look forward to working with them on the key issues facing the Borders.
John Lamont MP said:
It is great to hear that a new, Conservative led coalition has been formed at SBC. I am especially pleased that Cllr Jardine will be leading this administration as I know how hard he will work for us all here in the Borders.
The three independent councillors who have joined the coalition will bring a variety of perspectives to the administration.
Their popularity among voters is very clear, and I have no doubt that they will be a great asset to the administration.
I very much look forward to working with the new administration on various issues.
