A city councillor has announced he will not seek re-election at the upcoming council elections in May.
Former seafarer and teacher John Corall has represented the city’s Ashley, Hazlehead and Queen’s Cross ward since 2012 and previously served the Midstocket and Rosemount ward following his by-election victory in August 2007.
Mr Corall has held the vice-convener’s post of both the infrastructure and housing and environment committees on the council.
He is known for his strong views on conserving Aberdeen’s heritage. He has also notably claimed no expenses for the past two years and plans to continue his historical lectures on Aberdeen’s past, while continuing to raise the cause of Aberdeen’s heritage.
He said: “It has been an absolute privilege to have represented two of our city’s wards and to play a part in the running of our city, even if it was during difficult times.
“When the SNP were in administration, we were able to open new schools, move key infrastructure projects forward and show that our city was open for business – I’m pleased to have played my part in delivering that.
“I feel now is the right time to let the younger generation take on the job of driving this city forward and I am excited to see our great candidates being elected in May. While I might be standing down as an SNP councillor, I still have every intention of contributing to my local community.”
SNP Group Leader, Stephen Flynn, added: “John has been a stalwart of this SNP group for nearly a decade and his counsel and wisdom have been invaluable for myself and his other colleagues over the years.”
“The council will be a poorer place without John. His in-depth knowledge of our city’s history, his passion for clean energy and his wit are second to none in the chamber.”