This was the second election to the district council following the local government reforms in 1974.

The election used the original 20 wards created by the Formation Electoral Arrangements in 1974.

[1] After a net loss of three seats, Labour lost their majority on the council but remained as the largest single party after winning half the seats.

The Scottish National Party (SNP) recorded their best result in a Hamilton District election after winning six seats – an increase of four and a result they wouldn't match in the area for 30 years.

The remaining seat was won by Independent Labour.