Harbouring Ambition: Voters’ Hopes Ahead of Aberdeen South By-election

Harbouring ambition – The upcoming by-election in Aberdeen South has taken on new significance as residents look beyond the city’s maritime connections to address pressing concerns on land. This constituency, a vital part of Scotland’s energy landscape, has seen its fortunes tied to the offshore oil and gas industry for decades. Yet, the electorate is now demanding a more balanced focus, one that encompasses both the region’s economic challenges and its growing community needs. With the polls set to open on Thursday, 18 June, voters are casting their ballots not only for a new representative but also for a vision of the future that transcends traditional industry reliance.

A Confluence of Industries and Challenges

Aberdeen South’s boundaries stretch across a mix of urban and suburban areas, including key commuter zones like Peterculter, Milltimber, and Bieldside. These neighborhoods, along with the bustling Torry district near the harbour, form the heart of the constituency. While the city’s reputation as a hub for offshore energy projects remains strong, residents are grappling with the consequences of a construction crisis that has exposed vulnerabilities in their living environments. The revelation that homes in the area were built using potentially hazardous reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (Raac) has sparked widespread concern, leaving many to question the long-term stability of their communities.

Meanwhile, the South Harbour development in the Port of Aberdeen has seen £420 million in investment over recent years. This ambitious project has enabled larger cruise ships to berth in the Granite City, yet its success is tempered by the broader economic shifts in the energy sector. As oil and gas activity continues to decline, the port faces the challenge of adapting to a changing landscape. Bob Sanguinetti, chief executive of the Port of Aberdeen, emphasizes the need for a comprehensive energy strategy that bridges the gap between traditional and renewable industries. “We have the potential to create 9,000 additional jobs in the region,” he explains, “but it hinges on an integrated approach that supports both the current energy sector and emerging green technologies.” His remarks highlight the delicate balance required to sustain Aberdeen’s economy while transitioning toward a more sustainable future.

A Political Crossroads in the Granite City

The by-election, one of three UK contests on 18 June, carries weight beyond local politics. In nearby Arbroath and Broughty Ferry, similar debates are unfolding, but the Makerfield seat in Greater Manchester stands out for its national implications. That race could determine whether Labour’s Andy Burnham gains a foothold in Westminster, potentially challenging the party’s leadership. Despite this high-stakes backdrop, Aberdeen South remains a crucial battleground, with its seat held by SNP’s Stephen Flynn since 2019. Flynn’s 32.8% victory in the 2024 General Election underscored his appeal, but his recent move to the Scottish Parliament has left the constituency in limbo, creating an opportunity for new voices to emerge.

As the political landscape shifts, voters are keenly aware of the responsibilities that come with electing a new MP. The stakes are particularly high for those representing Aberdeen South, where the energy transition is both an opportunity and a challenge. Sanguinetti’s call for a “robust and holistic energy strategy” reflects the urgency of this moment, as the region navigates the decline of fossil fuel dominance. “The energy sector is the lifeblood of our economy,” he notes, “but we need a strategy that ensures long-term resilience.” His vision includes collaboration between local leaders and the UK government to create policies that support both existing and future industries.

Community Resilience in the Face of Uncertainty

Amid these economic concerns, the residents of Torry are also rallying around their local identity. The area, once a symbol of Aberdeen’s industrial might, has transformed in recent years. St Fittick’s Park, a short distance from the bustling harbour, now serves as a focal point for community activism. Hundreds of Torry residents have relocated from the Balnagask area after discovering their homes were built with Raac, a material linked to structural risks. This upheaval has prompted a reevaluation of what it means to preserve the heritage of a close-knit neighborhood.

Ishbel Shand, a Torry resident and campaigner against further industrialization, argues that the by-election is a chance to redefine the region’s priorities. “We need a genuine just transition that ensures a sustainable future for everyone in Aberdeen,” she says. Her emphasis on education and training highlights a broader concern: the need to equip the local workforce for the challenges ahead. “Investing in apprenticeships and vocational training will prepare the next generation for a diversified economy,” she adds. For Shand, the issue extends beyond job creation, encompassing a commitment to community values and long-term planning.

Local resident Ian Baird echoes this sentiment, stressing the importance of addressing the constituency’s multifaceted challenges. “Aberdeen South is more than just a hub for offshore jobs,” he says. “It’s a place where people have built their lives, their families, and their traditions. We can’t reduce this to a single issue.” His words reflect the frustration of many who feel that the focus on energy has overshadowed other critical needs, such as housing, healthcare, and local infrastructure. “The future of our community depends on what happens on land,” Baird asserts, “not just what happens at sea.”

A Blueprint for Change

Norman Esslemont, owner of a clothing shop in the city centre, represents a broader perspective on the by-election’s potential impact. For him, the election is an opportunity to secure policies that benefit local businesses and everyday residents. “Whatever the outcome, the new MP needs to champion the interests of Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire,” Esslemont says. His emphasis on tangible, community-driven solutions underscores the electorate’s desire for leaders who can navigate both economic and social complexities.

The energy transition in Aberdeen South is a microcosm of the broader challenges facing Scotland and the UK. While the North Sea’s oil and gas production has declined steadily since peaking in 1999, the shift toward renewable energy offers hope. However, this transition has not been without its difficulties. The 15-20% drop in oil and gas activity last year has led to significant job losses, prompting calls for immediate action. The introduction of an energy profits levy in 2022 has also been cited as a contributing factor, with industry leaders warning of its impact on employment and investment.

As the by-election approaches, the importance of a unified strategy becomes increasingly evident. Sanguinetti’s advocacy for a more integrated approach aligns with the aspirations of Torry’s residents, who are eager to see their community’s needs addressed. The successful candidate will face the dual challenge of supporting the energy sector while fostering a more sustainable and diverse economy. With the Granite City’s future hanging in the balance, voters are determined to elect a representative who can navigate these complexities and deliver on their promises.

The by-election in Aberdeen South is more than a political contest; it is a test of leadership and vision. As the electorate casts their votes, they are not just choosing an MP but also shaping the trajectory of their region. The outcome could signal a shift in priorities, with a focus on balancing the legacy of the oil and gas industry with the promise of renewable energy. For the residents of Torry, this means safeguarding their heritage while embracing innovation. For the Port of Aberdeen, it represents the hope of revitalizing its economic potential through strategic investment. As the nation watches, the Granite City stands at a crossroads, ready to chart a course that reflects the aspirations of its people.