The split into two divisions reduced the number of top-division teams from 12 to 8. The change was made to increase competitiveness in the league.[1] SWPL 2 became the new level 2 Scottish women's league, displacing the First Division (SWFL 1) to level 3.
The restructuring had begun in 2015 by requiring four SWPL clubs to be effectively relegated. Lewis Melee quoted a manager critical of the SWF's consultation and lack of notice for the league's new clubs: "Rather than saying we need to finish 11th for our first year in the league they were having to finish 8th and they didn’t have a 6 to 12-month plan to prepare… they were probably the ones that suffered more than anyone".[2]
In the first season after the reduction to eight teams a new format is played. Teams will play each other three times, with the bottom placed team being relegated after the season. The split into a championship and relegation group is discontinued.[6]
Updated to match(es) played on 30 October 2016. Source: Soccerway Rules for classification: 1) Points; 2) Goal difference; 3) Number of goals scored (C) Champions; (Q) Qualified for the phase indicated; (R) Relegated
In the first season after the reduction to eight teams a new format is played. Teams will play each other three times, with the bottom placed team being relegated after the season. The split into a championship and relegation group is discontinued.[7]
Updated to match(es) played on 30 October 2016. Source: Soccerway Rules for classification: 1) Points; 2) Goal difference; 3) Number of goals scored (C) Champions; (P) Promoted; (R) Relegated Notes:
^Hutchison Vale were deducted three points for fielding an ineligible player in their win over Heart of Midlothian on 21 August 2016. The result was reversed and Hearts were awarded a 3-0 win.[8]
