Ex-Aberdeen Council Co-Leader Departs SNP Group Citing Bus Gate Concerns

Alex Nicoll, the former co-leader of Aberdeen City Council, has resigned from the authority’s SNP group following a dispute over contentious transport measures. This action follows Mr. Nicoll’s abstention earlier in the current month during the council’s vote to establish a set of city centre provisions, specifically bus gates, as permanent fixtures. While these measures aim to enhance accessibility, they have drawn significant criticism from certain residents and local businesses. Mr. Nicoll stated his intention to serve as an independent councillor moving forward. The current council administration is a coalition formed by the SNP and Lib Dem parties. He conveyed his sentiments to BBC Scotland News, stating, “I am deeply concerned about the direction that the local council group is taking.” He further added, “I don’t think we are actually thinking through some of the consequences of these decisions.” Mr. Nicoll indicated that he considered his decision to be the “right and proper” course of action. Christian Allard, who currently serves as the SNP group and council co-leader, extended his best wishes to Mr. Nicoll. Mr. Allard commented, “I think it’s unfortunate that Councillor Nicoll has decided to take this course of action.” He also expressed, “I would like to thank him for his years as an SNP councillor and also as an SNP group leader.” It was in May of last year that Mr. Nicoll stepped down from his position as SNP group leader, with Mr. Allard subsequently elected as his successor. The trial bus priority routes were put into effect during the previous year. These bus gate restrictions were established with the aim of decreasing the volume of general traffic on Market Street, Guild Street, Union Street, and Bridge Street. The implementation of these restrictions last year occurred under an experimental order, during which period the local authority collected public feedback.