The Scottish National Party has emerged as the largest party in Scotland's local elections, despite significant gains by the Conservatives. The SNP won 431 seats across the 32 councils, while the Tories increased their tally by over 160 to reach 276, replacing Labour as the second largest party. Labour fell to 262 seats, with independents taking 172, Liberal Democrats 67, and Scottish Greens 19.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon described the result as 'a clear and emphatic victory,' noting that the SNP is now the largest party in 16 council areas, up from 10 in 2012, and joint largest in three more. The party also ousted Labour from control of Glasgow for the first time in decades, winning 39 seats—four short of a majority—while Labour dropped to 31. The SNP became the largest party in Edinburgh, Aberdeen, North Lanarkshire, West Dunbartonshire, and Renfrewshire.
However, the SNP lost overall control of Dundee and Angus councils, the only two areas where it had secured majorities in 2012. No party won a majority in any council, meaning all will be run by coalitions or minority administrations. The Conservatives made inroads in traditionally Labour areas, including Shettleston in Glasgow and Ferguslie Park in Renfrewshire.
Scottish Conservative leader Ruth Davidson said the results showed 'a Scottish fightback against the SNP' and pledged to focus on schools and the economy. Labour leader Kezia Dugdale called the results 'disappointing' but attributed them to a split on constitutional lines, with unionists backing the Tories. The SNP's Sturgeon hailed the outcome as a strong launchpad for the upcoming general election.
