West Lothian Council is set to face its third by-election since August as a senior SNP councillor has announced her retirement. Diane Calder, who represents Broxburn, Uphall, Winchburgh, Dechmont, and Ecclesmachan, shared her decision to step down just before the council’s break for the Christmas holidays. Expressing gratitude for the support she has received, Calder mentioned the honour and privilege of serving these communities and the inspiring volunteers she has worked with over the years.
Calder’s departure marks the beginning of preparations for the upcoming by-election, with details such as candidate submission dates to be announced in the coming weeks. As a longstanding SNP member, Calder secured her position in the council through the single transferable voting system in the May 2022 election. Following her retirement, the SNP group leader, Councillor Janet Campbell, praised Calder’s dedication and service to the constituents, highlighting her commitment to addressing issues and seeking resolutions.
This upcoming by-election follows previous ones in Armadale and Whitburn due to unfortunate circumstances. The by-election in Armadale was held following the passing of Councillor Stuart Borrowman, while the Whitburn by-election was necessary after Councillor Kirsteen Sullivan was elected as MP for Bathgate and Linlithgow. The succession of by-elections reflects a period of change within West Lothian Council, as new representatives step in to continue the work of their predecessors.
In summary, Diane Calder’s decision to retire as an SNP councillor in West Lothian Council has set the stage for the council’s third by-election in recent months. As the council prepares for this transition, Calder’s contributions and service to the community are acknowledged and celebrated, while the upcoming by-election offers an opportunity for new leadership to emerge and continue the work of serving the residents of West Lothian.