Democracy in Scotland operates across several levels, from the local volunteers in your community to the representatives making laws in Edinburgh and London. For residents of Newbridge and Ratho Station, understanding who represents you – and how to reach them – is the first step in ensuring your voice is heard on issues like planning, transport, and public services.
With the Scottish Parliament election approaching on May 7, 2026, there has never been a more important time to check your registration and engage with your representatives.
Your Representatives in Government
Newbridge and Ratho Station are represented by two primary legislators: one at the UK Parliament (Westminster) and one at the Scottish Parliament (Holyrood).
Member of Parliament (MP): Christine Jardine
As the MP for the Edinburgh West constituency, Christine Jardine represents the area in the UK Parliament on “reserved” matters such as the economy, defense, and international relations.
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Party: Liberal Democrats
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Website: christinejardine.com
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Official Profile & Contact: Christine Jardine MP – UK Parliament
Member of the Scottish Parliament (MSP): Alex Cole-Hamilton
As the MSP for Edinburgh Western, Alex Cole-Hamilton represents the area in the Scottish Parliament on “devolved” matters, including health, education, transport, and the environment.
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Party: Liberal Democrats (Leader of the Scottish Liberal Democrats)
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Website: edinburghlibdems.org
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Official Profile & Contact: Alex Cole-Hamilton MSP – Scottish Parliament
Local Government: City of Edinburgh Council
At the local level, Newbridge and Ratho Station sit within Ward 1 (Almond) of the City of Edinburgh Council. This ward is served by four councillors who handle local issues such as bin collections, potholes, and school placements.
Your Almond Ward Councillors:
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Cllr Kevin Lang (Liberal Democrat)
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Cllr Louise Young (Liberal Democrat)
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Cllr Lewis Younie (Liberal Democrat)
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Cllr Norman Work (SNP)
You can find their contact details and surgery times on the City of Edinburgh Council website.
Grassroots Democracy: Community Councils
The most local tier of democracy is the Ratho & District Community Council (RADCC). Unlike the City Council, community councillors are volunteers who live in the area and act as a statutory link between the residents and the local authority. They are frequently consulted on local planning applications and transport developments.
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Area Covered: Ratho, Ratho Station, and Newbridge.
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Website: radcc.org
NARSCA works closely with RADCC on local matters.
Take Action: Register to Vote
To have your say in the upcoming May election, you must be on the electoral roll. In Scotland, you can register to vote if you are 14 or older (though you can only vote once you turn 16).
Important: The deadline to register for the Scottish Parliament election on May 7, 2026, is Monday, April 20, 2026.
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Register Online: gov.uk/register-to-vote
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Check Your Status: If you are unsure if you are registered, contact the Lothian Valuation Joint Board at 0131 344 2500 or visit lothian-vjb.gov.uk.