A Highland Perthshire councillor who said he was standing down due to his disillusionment with politics has formally tendered his resignation.
Long-serving SNP councillor Ken Lyall’s decision to seek a new life with his family in Australia means that there will be a by-election.
Confirming that his decision was now official, a council spokesman said, “Councillor Ken Lyall today tendered his resignation as a member of Perth and Kinross Council, with effect from August 1.
“Councillor Lyall’s resignation means that a by-election will now be required for Ward 4, Highland. Arrangements for the by-election will be announced in due course.”
Mr Lyall has served on Perth and Kinross Council for 12 years and was chairman of Tayside Fire and Rescue Board and vice-chairman of the council’s development control committee.
The 46-year-old councillor recently decided to seek a new life in Tasmania along with wife Kath and children Caitlin (12) and Megan (10). As we reported, Mr Lyall said he had found it increasingly difficult to “toe the line” demanded by party politics.
Mr Lyall fell foul of the party hierarchy when he supported Chief Fire Officer Stephen Hunter in his quest to close Balmossie fire station, at a time when it was felt it could have an impact on the SNP’s electoral hopes.
He praised local supporters in the Aberfeldy area, saying, “It has been a real privilege to be a councillor. The community has been brilliant they have been wonderful.”