Sharing a border with neighbouring East Lothian, Midlothian East has a large rural population and concerns about new housing developments in the countryside are never far from people's minds.
Provost Peter Smaill has represented the MIdlothian ward for the last five years and has been vocal about his planning concerns.
Last year he objected to an "aggressively modern" extension to a house in Pathhead which he warned could set a precedent for the village. And he has spoken out about new housing development at Roslin where he grew up.
READ MORE: Neighbours fume at Midlothian house extension that 'looks like Malibu beach house'
He lists among his priorities "working with community councils to ensure local interested are represented in the planning process" and ensuring road repairs are "efficient".
He added among his priorities "protecting our communities from overdevelopment and unsympathetic treatment of conservation areas."
Also aiming for re-election is a former Labour councillor who hopes to return to chambers after an absence of five years in Midlothian East ward elections next week.
Bryan Pottinger served for 14 years on Midlothian Council and has launched his return bid promising to tackle poverty as a priority of re elected.
Bryan said: "With tackling poverty as my main concern, I want to see a fair funding arrangement for all in Midlothian so we can move positively forward on a radical progressive programme with good services for all.
2017 election results
- Peter Smaill, Conservative 26.9% FPv (1,522 total)
- John Hackett, Labour 22.7% FPv (1,431.6 total)
- Kenneth Baird, SNP 15.4% FPv (1,485.8 total)
2022 candidates
SNP councillor Kenneth Baird resigned his seat in February last year sparking a by election which saw Stuart McKenzie , SNP, elected.
Mr McKenzie is restanding alongside Midlothian Provost Peter Smaill, Conservatives, as the two incumbent members looking to return to their roles.
Councillor John Hackett, Labour, is not restanding. and the Scottish Greens have fielded a candidate in the ward.
Full list of candidates standing for Midlothian East ward
Bill Kerr-Smith, Scottish Green party
Jenny Marr, Scottish Liberal Democrats
Stuart McKenzie, SNP
Ann Montague, SNP
Bryan Pottinger, Scottish Labour party
Peter Smaill, Scottish Conservative and Unionist party
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