Glasgow's longest-serving council leader Susan Aitken to step down after George Square redevelopment

Glasgow’s longest-serving council leader has announced she is stepping down once the major redevelopment of George Square is complete.

At the SNP AGM on Monday, Susan Aitken confirmed that she will leave the post she has held for over nine years in September.

Cllr Aitken, who was first elected in 2021, will see out both the Commonwealth Games and the completion of the £20m revamp of George Square before stepping aside.

As part of the transition, current deputy leader Cllr Ricky Bell will become SNP group leader with immediate effect.

A further vote to elect the next council leader will take place once Aitken formally stands down at the Glasgow City Council meting on September 10.

Aitken has made the decision to relinquish the position she has held since 2017 following the “party’s successes at last week’s Scottish elections” and to allow her party to select the leadership team for next year’s local elections.

She said: “We’ve such an abundance of talent in the Glasgow SNP group, a team which combines youth and experience. After nine years in this incredible and demanding job, it’s time to start passing the reins.

“Once I’d decided that I wouldn’t stand for council again, it was just about choosing the ideal time for a change of leadership. Having consulted with my group colleagues, now is that time.

“Our party last week secured a record fifth electoral victory and we’ve got so much momentum taking us into 2027. Now, we’ll begin putting in place the leadership team that’ll continue delivering for this city and its people.”

During her time at the helm, Aitken has overseen Glasgow hosting world leaders at the UN Climate Summit COP26 and the investment of £140m into developments in the city centre.

Aitken added: “It has been the absolute privilege of my life to represent the best city in the world. As gruelling as the job of city leadership can be, it has been worth every minute.

“I’m looking forward to a momentous summer for Glasgow and to helping put in place the next chapter for the SNP in our city. Glasgow will be in capable hands.”

Cllr Ricky Bell said: “As agreed at today’s Glasgow SNP group meeting, I am delighted to be taking on the role of group leader of the SNP council group.

“As the first ever SNP councillor to lead our city, Susan has done an outstanding job since 2017 – including resolving the long-running equal pay dispute, setting ambitious targets for tackling climate change, and overseeing large regeneration and housing projects across the city.

“I know I have very big shoes to fill, but I am looking forward to taking on the role and working hard every day to deliver for everyone in our city.”