Steve Cardownie to become Deputy Lord Provost

Steve Cardownie. Picture: Ian Rutherford

Councillor Cardownie will assume the role once he is formally ratified during a meeting of the full council tomorrow.

The development comes after he resigned as SNP group leader in March and was replaced by Cllr Sandy Howat.

At the time, Cllr Cardownie said he wanted to play a more low-key role and would spend more time with his family.

Cllr Cardownie said: “I am delighted I have the support of my colleagues.” Councillor Cardownie’s success marks a rapid return to the SNP’s front ranks after he revealed he would stand down as leader in March.

He will receive an annual payment of just over £25,000 once he formally assumes the role, which will see him covering the duties of Lord Provost Donald Wilson in his absence.

Speaking to the Evening News after last night’s SNP group vote, in which he defeated Councillor Norman Work 7-6, he said: “I look forward to working [as Deputy Lord Provost] for the duration of the administration.

“And I would comment the person who challenged me – it was a close thing. I’m delighted to be able to represent the city and the council in any capacity.”

When Cllr Cardownie announced his resignation as leader, it was expected he would be succeeded by Cllr Gavin Barrie in a “job swap” which would see him become convener of the council’s regulatory committee.

But Cllr Howat also threw his hat in the ring, and after the two men had each made presentations, the job was handed to Cllr Howat.

Cllr Cardownie said he would continue as councillor but would also be seeking part-time employment elsewhere.