Home News Five things you need to know today

Five things you need to know today

June 17, 2014 6:17 am

Work on George Street – Scotmid School Run – Next week at EIFF – Soundhouse Fundraiser – Today at Edinburgh Festival of Cycling

We are told by the council that work would start yesterday on George Street, but truthfully we were there and did not notice anything!

The first phase of the project to improve George Street for pedestrians and cyclists will most likely get under way this week.

Work, which will last approximately four weeks, will make way for an increase in pedestrian space on each of the street’s four blocks.

Changes are set to come into full effect after the Festival, and will also see the introduction of a dedicated two-way cycle lane and a one-way system for general traffic and buses.

Preparations for the scheme will be phased along the length of the street from west to east, and will see the north side of the street closed from Charlotte Square to Frederick Street and the south side closed between Frederick Street and St Andrew Square.

The development of George Street follows on from the success of a similar trial held during the Festival in 2013, and aims to make the street more attractive to shoppers, residents and tourists.

Increased pedestrian space will allow for outdoor dining facilities, exhibitions and public art, supporting an emerging café culture and encouraging footfall to the city centre, while a two-way cycle route will connect the National Cycle network at the east and west end of the City Centre.

Councillor Lesley Hinds, Transport and Environment Convener, said: “Changes to George Street will result in a more relaxing, inviting atmosphere for residents, shoppers and visitors alike, opening one of our key thoroughfares for everyone to enjoy.

“As a major UK capital we want to display a vibrant and appealing city centre, showcasing what local businesses have on offer. But it’s also about creating an accessible space for pedestrians and cyclists and we will continue to work with stakeholders to ensure this works in practise.”

Proposals to develop George Street were first agreed as part of a wider city centre vision at October’s Transport and Environment Committee and final designs were drawn up after a six-week consultation held with stakeholders and the public.

Planners have ensured minimal changes to parking for residents and visitors, with spaces in the centre of the street, separated from new cycle lanes by rubber kerbs and decorative planters, and residents’ parking maintained in the design.

Work on George Street will take place as follows:

June 16-20, Charlotte Square to Castle Street (north side closed)

June 23-27, Castle Street to Frederick Street (north side closed)

June 30-July 4, Frederick Street to Hanover Street (south side closed)

July 7-11, Hanover Street to St Andrew Square (south side closed)

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Our photos of the Scotmid School Run are practically unique! We were there along with only a couple of other photographers to capture the start, so if you would like a photo of you and your family at the race then do get in touch! Email editor@theedinburghreporter.co.uk for details of what we can do for you.

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BAFTA Scotland and Screen Academy Scotland Presents: Vocation, Vocation, Vocation

Offering a unique insight into the film and television industry, BAFTA Scotland and Screen Academy Scotland are proud to host Vocation, Vocation, Vocation – an afternoon panel with 10 experts offering insider advice for aspiring media professionals.

Working within the Screen Industries in Scotland, the panel will give top tips on a range of disciplines, such as craft, broadcast and film in group or one-to-one sessions.

The inspiring meet-and-greet takes place on Monday 23 June 2014, in Edinburgh, and is free and open to the public, with tickets available from: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/bafta-scotland-screen-academy-scotland-present-vocation-vocation-vocation-tickets-11752384699

Location: Argyle House, Edinburgh Time: 1pm – 4pm

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The Edinburgh Reporter loves the idea of Soundhouse which is a new project undertaken by Douglas and Jane-Ann from the House @42. Here is what is happening this week!

Moishe’s Bagel at the Bongo Club

We are super-excited that the incomparable Moishe’s Bagel have agreed to play a very special benefit gig for us. They’ll be playing at The Bongo Club(Cowgate, Edinburgh) this Thursday at 7.30pm. All the proceeds from this concert will go towards funding The Soundhouse, our project to found a bespoke live music venue and musicians facility in Edinburgh. If you are unfamiliar with the band, here’s some info … Moishe’s Bagel is a five-piece firecracker of a band presenting thrillingly original cutting-edge klezmer and folk music. Featuring virtuoso performances from some of Scotland’s finest musicians, these guys play an intoxicating, life-affirming mix of Eastern European dance, jazz grooves, folk tunes, and Middle Eastern rhythms. Tickets for this very special gig are available online (£10 + £1 booking fee) and on the door (£12). Please note that we will only be able to accept cash on the door on the night. Hope to see you there.

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From 11.00 today you can have a go at the competition run by The Edinburgh Festival of Cycling to try and fold a Brompton as fast as you can….. Just one of the many events you can go and see or go and get involved in.

Remember the Bike Breakfast tomorrow too!