Aberdeen South by-election: Voters voice hopes for change

The granite city’s southern constituency prepares to choose a new representative this week, with Aberdeen South voters weighing hopes for economic revival against mounting concerns over housing and public services. Seven candidates are standing in the 18 June by-election, each promising solutions to problems that have festered for years.

But on Union Street and in the cafés along Great Western Road, residents aren’t talking manifestos. They’re talking rent, potholes, and whether their children will ever afford homes here.

Oil industry jitters fuel uncertainty

Aberdeen’s economy has long run on North Sea oil, yet the energy transition has left many wondering what comes next. Unemployment in the constituency stands at 3.2%, slightly above the Scottish average, whilst average house prices hit £198,000 last year—a figure that feels impossible for young professionals in the hospitality and service sectors that increasingly dominate the job market.

John MacLeod, who’s worked in logistics for three decades, says the choice matters more than usual. „We’ve watched this city change, and not always for the better,” he said outside a polling station during early voting. „Whoever wins needs to understand we can’t just rely on oil anymore. That’s yesterday’s battle.”

Housing crisis tops voter concerns

Rental costs have surged 18% in Aberdeen South over the past two years, pushing families further from the city centre. Young couples describe bidding wars for flats in Cults and Bieldside, whilst pensioners worry about council tax rises that outpace their income.

Sarah Chen, a nurse at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, won’t say which candidate gets her vote. But she’s clear about priorities. „I work full-time and can barely afford a one-bedroom flat. Something’s broken when key workers can’t live where they work.”

Transport and infrastructure lag behind

The condition of local roads has become an unexpected flashpoint. Residents point to crumbling pavements in Torry and delayed bus services that leave shift workers stranded. The promised upgrade to the A90 remains years away, whilst cycle lanes installed during the pandemic have divided opinion sharply.

So the seven candidates face a electorate that’s weary, sceptical, and demanding concrete action rather than promises. Turnout in the last election reached 68%, but whether disillusionment or determination drives more people to the polls remains uncertain.

The ballot boxes close at 10pm on Thursday. And come Friday morning, someone will inherit not just a seat but a constituency that’s made its expectations brutally clear: deliver change, or step aside for someone who will.