The DUP has won the Castlereagh council by-election caused by the resignation of Iris Robinson from all her elected positions last January.
Sharon Skillen, a community worker, was elected on the fourth count.
The DUP had hoped to have a replacement co-opted to the council, but there were objections from other parties and a by-election was called to coincide with the Westminster poll yesterday.
Ms Skillen told the BBC: "I am really delighted to have been chosen by the people of Castlereagh East to represent them in Castlereagh Borough Council. I am from this area and live in it. I want to see our area advance and will work to improve the lives of all of my constituents.
"The Alliance Party, in cahoots with others forced this by-election on the people of Castlereagh East. They have received their answer."