Notice of Election Published as Scottish Parliament Vote Process Begins

An official Notice of Election was published today (16 March), marking the start of the formal process for the Scottish Parliament election, which will take place on 7 May.

The notice for Edinburgh and the regional constituencies explains how to stand as a candidate, who is eligible to vote and how to make sure you are registered.

Nominations open tomorrow (March 17) for candidates wanting to stand in this election. Nomination papers, which are available on the Council website, must be submitted by 4pm on Wednesday April 1.

People aged 16 and over can vote in this election. The deadline to register to vote is midnight on Monday 20 April, to apply for a postal vote it’s 5pm on Tuesday 21 April, and for a proxy vote it’s 5pm on Tuesday 28 April.

Polling stations will be open from 7am to 10pm on Thursday May 7. You can find your nearest polling place on our website. The count will take place on Friday May 8. 

The Edinburgh count will return 13 Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs). Six are constituency MSPs and seven are from the regional list for Edinburgh and Lothians East.  

Find out more about the Scottish Parliament election on our website and how to register to vote on the UK Government’s website.

Returning Officer for Edinburgh, Paul Lawrence said:

“I would urge everyone to make sure they are registered to vote in this election. If you’ll be on holiday, busy on polling day or would simply prefer to get it done in advance, you have until 21 April to apply for a postal vote. You could also appoint someone you trust – a proxy – to cast your vote for you.

“This election will chart the course of the country’s future and it’s vital that you make your voice heard.

“Here in Edinburgh our teams are working hard behind the scenes to ensure that everything runs smoothly.”