The SNP and the Greens have started negotiations about a coalition to run Edinburgh.
Both parties are said to have had “constructions discussions” over a deal that would give them a minority on the local authority.
Labour and the SNP have run the Capital for nearly a decade, but another tie-up is impossible after Anas Sarwar backed a ban on council coalitions with the Nationalists.
With no party coming close to a majority on Edinburgh council after May’s elections, the SNP and the Greens are now discussing an official partnership.
Today also saw the Greens entering into a working arrangement with the SNP to run Glasgow council.
Nicola Sturgeon’s party also has a formal partnership with the Greens at a Scottish Government.
Adam McVey, Leader of the Edinburgh SNP group, said:
“I am happy to say the SNP Group has begun formal negotiations with Green colleagues with the aim to form a coalition.
“The election saw the SNP returned as by far the biggest party and there is broad support for the progressive ideas we have to take Edinburgh forward.
“The SNP and Green groups are having constructive discussions about how we can work together to implement the policies that we campaigned for and that our residents voted for. These meetings have been positive and focused on the further progress we can deliver for Edinburgh.
“We believe this coalition gives Edinburgh the best way forward to tackle climate, fight poverty and improve the core services we all depend on.
“The City deserves clear and strong Leadership and I am confident we can provide that. We look forward to continuing discussions with Green Councillors to explore how we can make sure the Capital has a fair and successful future.”
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