This is the most up to date list of roadworks and events leading to road closures or diversions for traffic in Edinburgh for the next week or so.

If you see anything on the roads which is not on the list then let the travel team know on Twitter @EdinTravel or otherwise you can check on the Scottish Roadworks register which is a comprehensive list of places to avoid.

Updated versions of the listings are posted to the website most weekday afternoons, these can be found by going to https://www.edinburgh.gov.uk/edintravel

Any new works or events are marked in blue. Read the full list below – which is arranged according to Council Ward.

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In Edinburgh’s ever-evolving culinary landscape, it seems that when one door closes, another opens.

This time, CABO has stepped in to fill the space left by Superico on Hanover Street, offering the city’s first foray into Pacific-fusion dining. After just a few weeks of operation, it’s clear the restaurant has promise, but is still finding its rhythm—a common challenge in a city filled with competitive new openings.

Upon arrival, the restaurant’s large, dark interior may feel a little underwhelming, particularly if you’re dining during daylight hours. While greeted warmly by the cheerful general manager Han, we opted for a table by the window, preferring some natural light to soften the somewhat empty atmosphere. A Sunday lunch with just two other occupied tables felt quiet, but that’s likely more of a timing issue than anything else.

CABO’s menu is ambitious, blending Latin American and Mexican influences with a flair for bold spices, chillis, and peppers. With the option of either a reasonably priced set menu (two courses for £16 or three for £19) or a more expansive à la carte selection, there’s a variety of intriguing dishes to explore. However, despite the accessibility of the set menu, it was the à la carte offerings that piqued our interest.

We started with some well-presented Bloody Marys—my companion opting for extra spicy. In fact, the green chilli garnish in my companion’s drink added a fiery kick, aptly described as “hotter than the hinges of hell”. Our subsequent bottle of rosé, though pleasant, was priced at £32, which seems steep for one of the cheaper wines on the list.

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To begin, we shared a selection of CABO’s smaller plates. The Beef Short Rib Croquettes, though flavourful, were on the dry side, and could have benefited from a more generous helping of aioli. The Aji Amorillo Glazed Corn Ribs, on the other hand, were delightfully moreish, though slightly cumbersome to eat without making a mess. The Chicken El Pastor soft-shell tacos, bursting with mango and chipotle, were a highlight, though predictably messy, especially if eaten with one’s fingers.

Moving on to the main courses, there were some hits and misses. My Aji Panca Marinated Lamb Rump was succulent and cooked perfectly to my preference, paired beautifully with sweet potato fondant and golden raisins. It was, however, disappointing that the sauce had split, and the dish—like my companion’s scallops—was served tepid, with cold plates to boot.

My dining companion, who had initially planned to order the seabass, was instead offered scallops due to what we suspect was a minor white lie about that day’s fish delivery not being to his liking. While the scallops were generous, the Rocoto beurre blanc had also split, and the huge portion of chopped chorizo overpowered the delicate flavour of the scallops. Still, the underlying quality of the ingredients was clear, even if the execution was inconsistent.

Dessert offered a sweet end to the meal, with the Pineapple Ceviche stealing the show. Thinly sliced pineapple with chilli and coconut ice cream was a refreshing and imaginative palate cleanser. My Matcha Alfajore, though well-intentioned, was a bit dry and could have used an extra scoop of gelato to balance it out.

Despite these early teething problems—split sauces, cold plates, and a few overly ambitious flavour combinations—CABO shows real potential. The service was warm, attentive, and eager to please, and the menu is adventurous with a clear commitment to high-quality ingredients. In a city teeming with new restaurants, it’s clear that CABO is still finding its feet, but with a few tweaks, it could become a strong contender in Edinburgh’s dynamic dining scene.

With a bit more refinement and attention to the finer details, CABO could carve out a loyal following. We’ll be keeping an eye on how it evolves over the coming months.

Cabo, 99 Hanover Street, Edinburgh

Two supermarket service stations have been granted provisional premises licences by West Lothian’s Licensing Board. 

The licences cover the retail element at service stations attached to Morrisons’ supermarkets in Bathgate and at Dedridge, Livingston. 

The board heard there were no objections or adverse comments. 

 Police Scotland apologised for not attending the meeting but added the force had no objections or adverse comment about either the application.  

Licensing Solicitor Gary McMullen told the Board: “The two applications are related in the sense that it is the same applicant- Motor Fuel Limited- for two different premises. They are the Bathgate service station and the service station at Dedridge.” 

Mr McMullen told councillors that while garages would not be normally considered as licensed case law has been established surrounding retail elements at garages. 

 He told the Board “The legal test established is that there are a recognisable number of persons in the locality who see and treat the shop as the principal source either of groceries or fuel and   who would consider themselves disadvantaged or inconvenienced were that shop not to provide those retail facilities. 

“The test is about retail facilities, the sale of food and fuel, it’s not about alcohol sales.” 

 He added: “If the board considers that the tests are satisfied the premises are not excluded from licensing and the application must then be considered like the board would consider any other application.” 

Councillors had no objections and supported a motion from Councillor Tony Pearson, chairing the Board, to grant provisional premises licences. 

By Stuart Sommerville, Local Democracy Reporter 

It’s not often you find a culinary surprise on your doorstep. Take a pace forward, Dhaba. Neighbours said it was quality and the reviews were good but, for some reason, we did not get round to giving it a try.

The restaurant, created from the former village Post Office, is tastefully decorated and comfortable and the menu online promised much. Among the phrases used in the about us section we noted: “Indulge in exquisite flavours, a tapestry of authentic Indian delights”, “where tradition meets innovation” and, finally, “every meal is a celebration of culinary excellence”.

Eventually, we got round to booking a table. Our loss. A comfortable five-minute walk from home to restaurant, we were warmly welcomed and then presented with the menu.

Having not been there before, we asked questions, several. Explanations were given and so we got down to selecting.

We by-passed the 12 starters listed on the night, including achari tandoori prawn marinated with ground spices and pickles, and the mouth-watering chilli paneer, cottage cheese cooked with mixed pepper, ginger, garlic, spring onion with green chilli.

Our concentration was the main course. I was tempted by the Goan king prawn, coconut cream, curry leaves with whole red chilli and mustard seeds, and the paneer makhani, Indian cottage cheese with tomato base butter and cream was also considered.

Instead, we picked a chicken biryani and a lamb Dhaba36, which was highly-recommended, and the dish of diced lamb cooked with ground spice and jaggary lived up to its hype. A garlic nan was suggested and accepted.

Before the attentive waiter left the table he asked if we liked our dish hot or medium, just to check, and we provided the feedback.

Drinks were ordered from the extensive bar and a few minutes later the superbly-presented dishes arrived. They looked great and we wondered if this restaurant could live up to the blurb.

Well, it did. I’d have no hesitation in recommending Dhaba36 situated in the heart of Balerno’s Main Street and only a short walk from a No 44 Lothian bus stop.

Dhaba36 uses, where possible, locally-sourced ingredients and serves vegan dishes, caters for allergies, and you can order online and pick up. It also has a kids menu.

Dhaba 36, 36 Main Street, Balerno, Edinburgh Eh14 7EH: tel: 0131 259 5760 or info@dhaba36.co.uk

Vandals who target bus lane cameras cost Edinburgh Council around £300,000 last year, new figures show.

It comes following a string of incidents which saw traffic enforcement cameras cut down or otherwise damaged.

Council officials said it was an “ongoing problem” which they are working with the police to try and resolve.

The local authority expected bus lane fines to generate around £600k in the 2023-24 financial year, however only half that was actually collected.

A new finance report blamed “camera vandalism,” while problems with energy networks also led to there being periods of non-enforcement and fewer notices being issued.

The camera monitoring the controversial ‘bus gate’ in Corstorphine’s low traffic neighbourhood has been targeted three times. Since being installed last year to reduce the volume of general traffic on Manse Road vandals have cut down the pole it’s mounted on twice, and last September the camera’s wires were snipped.

Furthermore two bus lane cameras were targeted in one night in February, as similar incidents saw poles sawed down at Murrayfield Gardens and South Gyle Broadway.

Following this the council reached out to the Metropolitan Police in London, where there have been around 1,000 attacks on cameras used to enforce the controversial Ultra Low Emission Zone, for advice on “how to deal with this kind of situation,” former transport convener Scott Arthur said.

One way the council responded was to cover the Manse Road camera pole with anti-climb paint – a thick, greasy substance also known anti-vandal paint – and it set up CCTV will to monitor the spot.

As the issue was discussed at Thursday’s transport committee, SNP councillor Danny Aston asked: “On the bus lane cameras, can I just ask, for that to result in £300,000 less revenue than was expected, how many instances of vandalism to bus lane cameras have we had?”

Council officer Gavin Graham replied: “It’s an ongoing problem, we’re looking for trends etcetera and have alerted the police but I’m afraid we don’t have any figures at the moment to identify how many cameras are actually down.”

The council has been asked to provide data on the number of times traffic enforcement cameras vandalised in recent years and how many are not currently operational as a result.

By Donald Turvill Local Democracy Reporter

Nearly a decade after its iconic chimneys came crashing to the ground a new image of the former Cockenzie Power Station site has been released.

East Lothian Council bought the giant 230 acre site from ScottishPower in 2018 with a vision of creating employment and an economic centre from it.

And as work begins to move tonnes of bund material from the nearby coal store onto the site to upfill the area for future development, the aerial view of the flattened site reveals its scale and potential.

Cockenzie Power Station was decommissioned in 2013 and two years later thousands of people gathered on land and sea to witness the demolition of its twin chimneys which had become a coastal landmark for locals.

Public consultations and masterplans followed as the local authority looked for investors for the site with interest to date coming from green energy firms.

In the image released today the first of a number of projects in the pipeline can be seen progressing at the top of the site where Inch Cape Offshore Limited (ICOL) are building their storage facilities which will bring energy from an offshore windfarm onto land and into the National Grid.

On the right of the site white buildings and a car park have been constructed which the council says relates to the ICOL project and will return to council once that project is complete.

East Lothian Council says work to date on the majority of the site has been around creating the infrastructure  to allow bund material from the coal store to the site, including putting up security fencing and reinforcing the Edinburgh Road which lies between the two sites so trucks can cross.

The first trucks are due to start rolling into the former power station site next week and continue bringing materials onto the site into next spring.

By Marie Sharp Local Democracy Reporter

Detectives investigating the serious assault of a woman in Dalkeith have launched an online portal for members of the public to contact officers directly, one week on from the attack.

Between 5.30pm and 6pm on Friday, 4 October, 2024, a 26-year-old woman was attacked on a path in a wooded area near the golf club on Abbey Road.

Emergency services attended and the woman was taken to hospital with serious injuries.

An extensive investigation remains ongoing, with a significant police presence remaining in the area. The online portal that gives people access to a form to send information, pictures or videos directly to the team can be accessed by following the link: https://orlo.uk/5Rrem

Detective Chief Inspector Nicky McGovern said: “We’d like to thank the local community for their continued assistance with our investigation, as we continue to appeal for information as part of our extensive enquiries into this attack.

“We are continuing to assess a significant amount of information and have a dedicated team of officers carrying out local and CCTV enquiries at this time.

“Anyone who has yet to speak to police, and has information which may assist our investigation, is asked to contact us.”

Inspector David Rourke, Deputy Local Area Commander, said: “I’d like to reassure the public that we have increased high visibility patrols in the area and these will continue over the coming days as enquiries progress.

“Anyone with information or concerns can speak to these officers.”

If you believe you have information which could assist officers, please use the online portal link above, or contact Police Scotland on 101 quoting reference number 3107 of 4 October, 2024. Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

The owner of Selmmuir Carp has confirmed he is closing the fishery near Livingston permanently.

Lee Brodie informed anglers in a post on the fishery Facebook page at lunchtime on October 11.

He said: “The site is now residential only and will remain as my home. I will honour all bookings for credits that are left until credits are used up as there’s not many left. Any bookings currently in place for October will also be honoured.”

Brodie added: “I know this is sad news for some, but I have served my time in the fishing sector and now moving on with new life prospects.”

The social media page will close soon, he added, and the post indicated that there is no bait left on the premises and no toilets available on site as they have been removed.

Former Hibs and Liverpool legend Peter Cormack has sadly died at the age of 78. 

The Scotland international who won nine caps for Scotland, previously revealed he was battling dementia. 

The Edinburgh-born midfielder earned the first of his nine international caps in a 1-1 draw against World Champions Brazil when he was 20 years old in 1966 and was included in the Scotland 1974 World Cup squad.

He joined Hibs in 1962, and played 182 times scoring 75 goals before moving to Nottingham Forest for a reported £80,000. 

He then joined Liverpool and at Anfield won two league titles, the UEFA Cup and FA Cup during four years between 1972 and 1976 working under manager Bill Shankly who once described him as one of the club’s best ever signings. 

He then moved to Bristol City before returning to Hibs before going on to manage  Gala Fairydean, Partick Thistle, Cowdenbeath and Greenock Morton with a short spell as an international manager for Botswana. 

He also enjoyed a spell as number 2 under Alex Miller at Easter Road. 

In a statement released on social media on Friday, Hibernian said: “Everyone at Hibernian FC is deeply saddened by the passing of former Hibee Peter Cormack at the age of 78. Rest in peace, Peter.” 

A statement from Liverpool said: “Liverpool FC is deeply saddened by the passing of former midfielder Peter Cormack, aged 78. 

“The thoughts of everyone at Liverpool FC are with Peter’s family and friends at this very sad and difficult time.” 

Sex shops will be banned from opening in East Lothian after councillors set the number they will allow to set up at zero.

Licensing chiefs had recommended elected members bring sex shops under licensing control to ensure any future venues could be regulated.

The move meant any shop which was deemed to sell a ‘significant number’ of sex aids and similar items would need to apply for a licence and required them to set the number they were willing to approve in the county.

It comes nearly three years after councillors agreed similar legislation for sex entertainment venues which also had a zero limit placed on them, effectively banning them from operating.

A meeting of the local authority’s licensing sub committee this week heard from its legal advisers Ian Forrest that while, as far as he was aware, there were no sex shops operating in East Lothian and he was not expecting a ‘sudden influx’ of them, leaving them unlicensed meant they were able to open anywhere.

He told the committee: “As things stand if one was to open up we would have no control over them as it is not currently a licensed activity.

“This would in effect close a loophole and give us control should a sex shop want to open up in the future.”

The committee was asked to pass a resolution making sex shops a licensable activity which would then require them to decide how many shops they would allow.

Mr Forrest said a public consultation was held in August through the council’s consultation hub but only received one response which came from Councillor Cher Cassini.

Councillor Cassini, who sits on the committee, did not take part in the debate or decision after making her views clear in her response.

She told the consultation: “I would never grant a licence for any sex shop as these places detract from any area they are sited. They pose a particular risk to women and children. They bring down the tone of their surroundings.

“ As I have already committed to the specific protection of women and girls, I feel any outlet which sells material that demeans the value of women in particular is completely against equality and decency East Lothian Council has pledged to uphold.”

During the meeting committee member Councillor Jeremy Findlay questioned what would happen if someone set up a lingerie shop, referencing Ann Summers stores, which sells a small amount of sex items.

He asked: “Is that a sex shop, to what degree is a significant number of items, is it 20%, 50%?”

However the legal adviser said there was no specification in the legislation about it adding it would be down to ‘common sense’.

He said: “If it happened to be a lingerie shop with a shelf which sold ‘other items’ shall we say that might not be considered a sex shop.”

Councillor John McMillan moved the committee agree the resolution to licence sex shops, which could be in place by December.

He said: “I think Councillor Cassini’s response is a fairly widely held view. I am mindful other people have different views on this, there is a view that regulating it is a benefit if someone wants to apply.

“I think this is something beneficial, it allows the licensing regime to come in and hear an application and allows us to enforce, it is a preventative measure and I will support it.”

The committee unanimously agreed to the resolution before unanimously agreeing the accepted number of shops to be licensed will be zero.

By Marie Sharp Local Democracy Reporter

INEOS Britannia qualified for the final of the America’s Cup, the first time in 60 years that a British yacht has done so, and they are set to square-up to Emirates Team New Zealand in a series of races starting this weekend.

The British crew are fresh from victory in the Louis Vuitton Cup and Sir Ben Ainslie’s British team are race-hardened after an intense seven weeks of competition against four other teams.

The series ended with a 7-4 victory over Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli and confidence is naturally high for the series. The first team to win seven races takes the Auld Mug and, if Britain win, it will end 173 years of America’s Cup hurt as it is the one sporting trophy that Britain has never won despite 22 challenges.

The Kiwis defend the world’s oldest sporting trophy, with a history dating back to 1851 when the New York Yacht Club won a race around the Isle of Wight after an invitation from the Royal Yacht Squadron to take on their fleet.

Wheatley says the book title comes from a phrase first coined in 1851 as the yacht America sailed down the Solent after racing, and beating, leading yachts in the British fleet around the Isle of Wight.

Ainslie acknowledges that his men are underdogs, but the Olympic gold medal winner said: “Emirates Team New Zealand are the All Blacks of sailing, but we are ready for the challenge.”

Magnus Wheatley has covered the event for several decades and his in-depth knowledge has been brought together in a book just launched and entitled, There is No Second, which is now available from Seahorse Publishers.

It is wonderfully-well researched and takes the reader back to the early years of the America’s Cup. The blurb says it is “essential reading” for those seeking to drill down and really understand how the race came to represent the pinnacle of international yacht racing.

The Louis Vuitton 37^th America’s Cup match starts on Saturday, October 12 at 13.00 (BST) and British viewers can follow the action live on the Sail-World.com and YachtsandYachting.com homepages.

COVER STORY: The book by Magnus Wheatley which is now available from Seahorse Publishers

An interesting aside. Muc-Off, the world leader in bicycle care and performance, has a partnership with the Ineos Britannia sailing team.

Muc-Off has now extended its high-performance drivetrain optimisation expertise to the high seas.

The collaboration aims to leverage Muc-Off’s pioneering technologies, including their chain optimisation process, originally developed for road racing, to enhance the performance of the Britannia team’s Cyclors, the athletes who pedal stationary bikes to generate hydraulic power for the boat’s hydrofoils and sails.

Police Scotland has issued advice to the public in relation to gift card fraud.

Officers say that if you are buying a gift card for anyone other than a person you know, it could be a scam.

Typically, victims receive a call, text or email demanding an urgent payment by purchasing gift cards. Fraudsters may claim to represent organisations or even employers.

Following the purchase, the victim is asked to provide the gift card code to the fraudster who does not require to have physical control over the card/voucher.

Employees may also receive urgent emails purporting to be from management asking them to purchase gift cards on their behalf. A legitimate employer will not ask you to handle company business through gift card purchases.

• No reputable organisation would ask for payment using vouchers or gift cards.

• Do not reveal the vouchers codes to anyone.

• If an offer sounds too good to be true – it probably is! Even if it’s from an organisation you know and trust.

• Don’t follow links in text messages or phone any numbers provided within the message.

• No bank, utility company or government agency; such as the Police, NHS or HMRC will ever ask you to purchase gift cards or make immediate payment over the phone or electronically;

STOP AND THINK BEFORE PARTING WITH YOUR MONEY, IT’S OK TO REJECT, REFUSE OR IGNORE ANY REQUESTS.

ONLY CRIMINALS WILL TRY TO RUSH OR PANIC YOU!

Sign up to the Trading Standards Scotland Scam Share Bulletin to keep up to date with the latest phone, email, doorstep and online scams affecting Scottish consumers –

For more information on scams and frauds, please visit the Police Scotland website.

One of our readers sent in this photo of the Northern Lights on Thursday evening.

“A pic of my friend’s dog Douglas with the northern lights, first time I’ve ever seen them after being in Scotland for nearly 30 years.“

If you have any photos please do share them with us

Douglas the dog Photo Vroni Holzmann

The aerospace business, Leonardo, has been the target of damage caused by pro-Palestinian protesters in recent years.

The company has now taken steps to increase security by installing razor wire on top of the fences which surround the compound on Ferry Road.

Grange have won all four of their men’s Premiership matches so far this term, scoring 16 goals and conceding four, and they entertain bottom club Inverleith at Fettes on Saturday (noon).

The visitors are pointless having lost all four of their games, scoring three goals and letting in 24 and third-placed Grange are in no mood to slip up here.

They are bracketed behind pace-setting Western and Watsonias, who are second, on a maximum 12 points, but the Auchenhowie men top the table on a goal difference of 19 against Watsonians 14. Grange have a goal difference of 12.

Second-placed Watsonians entertain Uddingston (16.00) while Western, fresh from playing in the EuroHockey League in London, host Glasgow rivals Hillhead who are seventh with four points from one wins and a draw from their four games.

The University of Edinburgh are fourth on ten points from three wins and a draw, scoring 14 goals and letting in four, and they host FSEG Clydesdale who are four places and six points adrift having won only one of their four outings.

Mid-table Erskine Stewarty’s Melville (ESM) with six points entertain second bottom Dundee Wanderers who are one of three teams without a point so far and a goal difference of minus 20, one better than Inverleith.

Watsonians women have won all their games, scoring 44 goals and conceding one, as they defend the Premiership, and they go in against struggling The University of St Andrews.

The students have one point from their four games having scored four goals and shipped 16.

Eighth-placed Inverleith host bottom club Fjordhus Reivers at The Mary Erskine School and they home side are two points better off with three against one.

The University of Edinburgh, who are fifth, host city rivals, Grange Edinburgh Ladies who are one place below them in the table. The students have lost one of their three games while Grange have drawn all four of their games so far.

Men’s Premiership: Erskine Stewart’s Melville (ESM) v Dundee Wanderers (no time given); Grange v Inverleith (noon, Fettes); Grove Menziehill v Dunfermline Carnegie (12.20, Dawson Park); The University of Edinburgh v FSEG Clydesdae (13.20, Peffermill); Western Wildcats v Hillhead (13.30, Auchenhowie); Watsonians v Uddingston (16.00, Peffermill).

Women’s Premiership: Clydesdale Western v GHK (no time or venue given); The University of Edinburgh v Grange Edinburgh Ladies (no time of venue given); Watsonians v The University of St Andrews (no time or venue given); Inverleith v Fjordhus Reivers (13.00, The Mary Erskine School); Hillhead v Glasgow University (15.45, Upper Windyedge).

FLASHBACK: Grange v Western Wildcats at Tipperlin last season. Picture by Alex Rose

A 25-year-old man has been arrested this morning in connection with the death of Gary Nicol in Livingston. 

Mr Nicol 50 was found with serious injuries on Bankton Lane around 2am on Thursday, 26 September, 2024. 

Officers say that their enquiries are ongoing. 

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “A 25-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the death of Gary Nicol in Livingston. 

“The 50-year-old died after being found with serious injuries on Bankton Lane around 2am on Thursday, 26 September, 2024. 

“The 25-year-old was arrested on Friday, 11 October and enquiries are ongoing. 

For the 50,000 people who live on Scotland’s western islands, the words “Cal-Mac” provoke either rage or a shrug of the shoulders. Yet the state-owned ferry company Caledonian MacBrayne is a “lifeline” to the islands, providing them with all their heavy supplies and a means of getting cars to and from the mainland. And, of course, bringing a stream of tourists to boost the local economy. 

But Cal-Mac has been sailing through a sea of troubles in recent years, largely due to under-investment in its fleet of 33 vessels and partly due to poor management and political bungling. On Monday, the totem vessel in all this, the Glen Sannox, is due to be handed over to Cal-Mac by Ferguson’s shipyard. It’s six years late and four times over budget.

It won’t actually go into service on the Arran route until December, just as the manager of Cal-Mac, Duncan Mackison, says he’s facing “a perfect storm” of delays, just as the winter maintenance programme begins.  Another vessel on the Arran route, the 31 year old Caledonian Isles, has been in dry dock for 11 months for £6.5m of repairs and won’t be back sailing until next month, at best. Meanwhile, four new ferries being built in Turkey will not start coming on stream till the spring. The first of those has been delayed by four months because of a shortage of skilled workers over there.    

The whole shambles goes back to 2006 when Cal-Mac was forced to hive off its procurement arm to a separate agency CMAL to comply with European competition rules.  It looked as if all Scottish shipyards would be out-bid by yards in Poland and Turkey and indeed they were, except for Ferguson’s on the Clyde which won a contract worth £97m to build two proto-type ferries which could run on liquefied natural gas as well as traditional diesel. 

The SNP government was so proud of this achievement that it bore with the delays and cost over-runs as the project proved more difficult than at first thought. It even nationalised Ferguson’s shipyard when it went bust. The total bill for the two ferries has now reached £400m.

The opposition parties, of course, have used the debacle to brand the SNP as incompetent wishful-thinkers who have their minds on higher things like independence.  And they have succeeded. You only have to utter the word “ferries” and everyone thinks of SNP incompetence. It doesn’t help that the Cal-Mac board has tried to distance itself from the troubles. The chairman is Erik Ostergaard, who lives in Denmark. He is said to have made just one visit to see his ferries in action and two other members of the board have never been known to visit any of Cal-Mac’s 50 ports of call.  The 1,700 people who work for Cal-Mac must feel slightly abandoned, not to mention the 50,000 islanders.

The basic trouble is that no one wants to take responsibility for the lack of investment in the Cal-Mac fleet for the last 20 years. And politicians lack the courage to increase charges or taxes to pay for it.

Ferries are just one example of such austerity. It’s a disease which has hollowed our public services and left 40 per cent of all families in Scotland in deep poverty, according to a report out this week from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation. It lays part of the blame on the social security system and has called on both governments in London and Edinburgh to increase child benefits.

Poverty breeds addiction and crime and this week we learned that our prisons are so full (around 300 over the 8,000 capacity) that short-term prisoners are to be freed after serving just 40 per cent of their sentence, rather than the current 50 per cent.  There will be some exceptions, of course, but if we had invested in a proper community service alternative, most of these prisoners would not be in prison at all but learning to correct their ways out in the community.    

An even bigger example is climate change. This week over 60 environmental and trade union groups have called on the Chancellor to invest £1.9bn each year in a transition fund, to move Britain out of oil and gas production and into renewables.  Greenpeace, Friends of the Earth, and Extinction Rebellion don’t often sign petitions alongside Unite, the RMT and the Scottish Trade Union Congress but they have come together to make sure jobs in the oil and gas industry in Aberdeenshire and elsewhere in Scotland are “transitioned” into the off-shore wind industry. 

One man who has gone further than most to highlight the progress of climate change is the Scottish arctic explorer Pen Haddow.  He has just paid a visit to the most northerly point of the British Isles, a rock known as the “Out Stack” off Shetland, to highlight the fact that the ice at the North Pole is melting fast and we are not far away from arctic disaster. 

But if we can’t even fix our ferries, we will need to try harder to fix the planet.

Paddington Bear

Edinburgh is one of 23 locations taking part in Paddington Visits, a trail which will see the special statues appearing in cities, towns, and beauty spots all over the UK and Ireland.
People have gathered in St Andrew Square Garden to meet the newest resident: a meticulously crafted and painted statue sporting the wise bear’s signature red hat, blue duffle coat, and, naturally, a marmalade sandwich in paw.

The film Paddington in Peru opens on 8 November.

Emily Campbell Johnston, Senior Manager Marketing & Communications for Essential
Edinburgh said: “We are delighted that Edinburgh is part of Paddington Visits and encourage
fans of all ages to head into the city centre and visit their favourite bear, share his bench for a little while and grab a special selfie in the beautiful surroundings of St Andrew Square Garden –
marmalade sandwiches are optional!”

Solar Ceilidh

Porty Energy are behind the Solar Ceilidh which is taking place on 12 October at Bellfield.
Tickets are still available.

Edinburgh Spanish Film Festival

The Edinburgh Spanish Film Festival (ESFF) welcomes film fans from all over Scotland to its 11^th edition. The festival offers a packed programme of cinema screenings, guest appearances and cultural events, featuring a total of 15 films, including seven debut features from Spain and Latin America and offering a snapshot of the best brand-new Spanish-language cinema for 2024. All the new features are Scottish premieres, with most having their only screening in the UK during the festival.

The festival runs until 26 October and the full programme is here or click on the image below.

Summerhall

The future of the Edinburgh Short Film Festival has been thrown into doubt by the goings on with HMRC at Summerhall. The organisers are waiting to hear the outcome of Robert McDowell’s negotiations with HMRC over alleged unpaid corporation tax. A spokeseperson for Summerhall Management Limited, the company at the centre of the tax row, said: “Some events will be cancelled, and the team are working on a case by case basis with those affected behind the scenes. Our website will be kept as up to date as possible to keep customers informed and we thank everyone for bearing with us as we work under these prescribed conditions.“

The poetry festival Push The Boat Out is also conducting a watching brief on what happens at the arts venue – which was marketed for sale with a closing date for offers in September, but there has been no news of a successful bidder. The festival is supposed to take place next month, but PTBO say they are unable to sell tickets through Summerhall – leading to speculation that the venue’s bank accounts have been seized in connection with the alleged debt.

The People’s Story

The council voted last week to close the museum, but the Culture Secretary, Angus Robertson – who is the constituency MSP for the Royal Mile where the museum is situated – has criticised the move by the council.

The museum was closed prior to the meeting of the council. Activist, Jim Slaven, who delivered a stinging deputation at the Culture and Communities meeting is keeping his Twitter timeline up to date with those who support his calls for the museum to be reopened.

Civil Service Strollers take a break from Lowland League action on Saturday 12 October to visit West of Scotland League Division Three side, Dalry Thistle, in a third round South of Scotland Challenge Cup tie.

It is a competition Strollers won in 2017-18 and they should continue to be boosted by the fine form of central defender Matty Shaw following his inclusion in the “team of the round” selected after a Scottish Gas Scottish Cup first round win over Cumbernauld Colts.

On the downside Josh Laing continues to be absent with a broken collar bone.

Strollers will return to Ayrshire later this month to face Irvine Meadow in the Scottish Cup – one of four successive away fixtures before returning home to face Gretna and Albion Rovers in successive outings.

Last time out Strollers overcame Gala Fairydean Rovers 4-2.

An Edinburgh church has sparked a row over plans to tarmac over grass to build a new car park.

Colinton Parish Church wants to transform a small parcel of land at the rear of the grounds to ease parking pressure when its congregation visits.

An application seeking approval to proceed with the works, which would create around 10 new spaces, is being considered by planners.

But it’s been met with opposition over the ‘impact on nature and biodiversity and locals’ access to green space’.

Documents submitted to the council show one tree would also be cut down under the proposal “because of poor condition and a lack of future potential”.

The church was contacted for comment.

Lorna Slater, Green MSP for the Lothian region, said constituents “raised this with me” and she had worked with them to lodge an objection.

“We are in a climate and nature crisis and every seemingly small application can build to have a large impact on the community’s local biodiversity and access to green space,” she said.

“We should be reducing car spaces and dependency on car use, not allowing planners to approve more parking.”

Backing the Parish’s bid, the Conservatives’ councillor for Colinton said parking in the area “has been a significant issue”.

Cllr Jason Rust said: “I have discussed with the church and I am fully supportive of the plans and have only received one objection.

“If approved this will be a positive step for not only the congregation, but local residents.

“Very limited space is being lost, but the wider benefit is significant.”

While Daniel Milligan, who is standing for the Greens in next month’s Colinton-Fairmilehead council by-election, argued green spaces “should not be tarmacced over” regardless of their size.

He said: “Wherever possible we need to retain and protect our pockets of nature – it is vital given we live in a densely populated city that everyone has access to green space. This planning proposal sets a bad example for what we need to do for our city and residents.”

A decision is expected to be issued by Monday, November 11.

Plans state: “Works will proceed with care and consideration to prevent accidental damage from plant and vehicles.

“If major roots are uncovered, works will cease, the roots will be loosely covered with damp hessian, and arboricultural advice will be sought.”

An arboricultural method statement would be produced before any works commenced “to prevent harm to retained trees”.

Candidates currently declared for Colinton/Fairmilehead by-election on November 14:

• Scottish Labour – Sheila Gilmore
• Scottish Conservative and Unionist – Neil Cuthbert
• Independent – David Henry
• Scottish Liberal Democrats – Louise Spence
• Scottish Greens – Daniel Milligan
• Scottish National Party – Marianna Clyde

By Donald Turvill Local Democracy Reporter

Double yellow lines put down in a car park next to East Lothian’s biggest primary school three years ago have never been enforceable by law, it has been revealed.

The restrictions at Hallhill car park were painted by the local authority – but were not included in any Traffic Regulation Order banning drivers from parking in the area.

Earlier this week there was anger as parents accused the council of targeting them after parking attendants issued fines at the car park as they dropped children off for a camping trip.

Within hours the council had cancelled seven tickets issued on the day after admitting they were not lawful.

Now it has been revealed the yellow lines in the car park have never been enforceable and a further seven tickets, issued in the last three years, are also expected to be cancelled.

The car park, on Kellie Road, belongs to Hallhill Ltd which operates the adjacent sports centre and includes council leader Norman Hampshire as one of its directors.

A council spokesperson said talks were held with the land owners before installing the yellow lines which are along one side of the site and include a bus stopping area. It is understood they were put in place in 2021 as part of the council’s Safer Places projects to create more space in the wake of Covid.

The council spokesperson said: “Seven penalty charge notices that were issued on Monday on a section of the car park next to Kellie Road have been cancelled. They were were issued to drivers parked on double yellow lines near to Dunbar Primary School. These road safety measures were introduced through consultation with Hallhill Ltd, who are responsible for this car park.

“However, it has emerged that this section of road within the car park does not have a Traffic Regulation Order in place and the notices are not enforceable. We apologise to the drivers concerned for this confusion.

 “It remains the case that high volumes of traffic around schools pose an increased safety risk to children and parents which is why these measures are necessary.

“East Lothian Council will be liaising with Hallhill Ltd who are responsible for this car park and support them to  addressing road safety at this location.”

By Marie Sharp Local Democracy Reporter

Edinburgh residents who fear the arrival of bin hubs outside their homes could fuel tensions and turn their neighbourhood into a “vermin-infested litter dump” have successfully campaigned to have the project halted.

Officials said the switch from individual to communal on-street waste and recycling bins had been cancelled in the Forrester Park estate in response to the concerns and apologised for any “undue worry” the proposals caused.

The council has introduced bin hubs outside flats in a bid to speed-up collections and boost recycling rates. However the changes have been controversial in some areas as they can involve loss of car parking spaces, and bring noise and bad smells.

Locals living on the estate in the west of the city, which unusually has no pavements but instead a series of footpaths, warned arguments over parking spaces could arise if residents were forced to park outside someone else’s property or cross over private gardens to access the new bins. 

Lesley Lalmas, who was due to get a bin hub outside her block, said the current system “works” and added: “The layout of Forrester Park is not really adequate for the installation of communal bins.

“This is going to lead to the loss of parking spaces, is going to lead to one particular block bearing the brunt of these communal bins.

“We feel that it would lead to a lot of disagreements between neighbours, a lot of inconvenience to traffic, which is bad enough already getting in and out – it’s a dead-end estate.

“With people walking over the grass constantly, with people parking their cars not outside their own block – that leads to disputes.

“I don’t want it to come to my area.”

Another resident, Robert Stokes,said: “The lack of space will mean cars will park on verges.”

The pair’s deputation was heard at the council’s transport committee on Thursday, October 10, where a petition from the Forrester Park Residents Association objecting to the installation of communal bins was considered.

The petition, which gathered 94 signatures, stated: “Unless bins open street side, the council is condoning trespass on private property – our gardens.

“There are many elderly people, people with health issues, who will struggle to reaching, accessing these, and to open lids. Not everyone recycles, and everything will go into landfill.”

It said the scheme would be a “godsend to commercial fly tippers” and risked “turning our pleasant, child-friendly with plenty green spaces to enjoy into a vermin-infested litter dump”.

Responding, council officer Liam Glass said the purpose of the project was “solely for efficiencies to the local rounds in the area due to high levels of new builds and to help increase recycling output”.

He said: “We got quite strong resistance from the residents at Forresters.

“We have had the chance to look at that and look at others areas in the west of Edinburgh where further efficiencies could be made and there are no plans to change the current waste management system in the Forresters from individuals to communals in either the short or medium term going forward.

“I would like to apologise for any misunderstanding or undue worry that we have caused residents.”

Mr Glass admitted the consultation with Forrester Park residents had been “inadequate” and this had partly influenced the decision to cancel the roll-out in the “short or medium term going forward”.

He added if the council sought to re-consider it in future there would be a “full and robust consultation”.

Deputy council leader Mandy Watt said it was a “shame” the area was not suited to bin hubs.

“They are very efficient and residents very much like them once they’re in and if they are in the right place,” she said. “They can put their different types of waste out whenever suits them and some people find that hugely beneficial.”

By Donald Turvill Local Democracy Reporter

The sun split the clear blue sky and there was a light breeze, chilly, yes, but ideal for cycling, running, walking the dog of pushing a pram around an open space. It was a wonderful October day for most of the visitors to Strathclyde Park and there were a lot.

The only unhappy people, until lunchtime, were anglers. The overnight cold snap and a clear sky is normally bad news for the angling fraternity, and it was, despite copious amounts of groundbait and thousands of maggots, many of them red, being thrown into the water on the end of hooks.

This was Day One of two in practice for the Celtic Cup coarse fishing event at the popular park. Ireland are the holders and Wales are as determined as Scotland to claim the silverware in this development competition.

The idea is to give those who have never fished for their country an opportunity to experience the pressure difference between pleasure angling and top end competition. Gus Brindle is Scotland’s manager assisted by Dave Corcoran from Edinburgh. Both are seasoned campaigners.

They patrolled the bank providing hints and tips to Scotland’s squad which fished a mixture of waggler and pole techniques in practice and it has been split into two teams for the event. The intention had been to field an all-ladies team, but Scotland were one short of achieving that. For the future, perhaps.

However, on this occasion the Tartan Team will be mixed captained by James Dornom from Currie, Midlothian and Josh Trueman who used to live in Edinburgh but has recently relocated to Dumfries and Galloway.

Two members of the Edinburgh and Lothians Coarse Angling Club feature, Heather Lauriston and Rosalind Cassidy, and the other members are Emily Mather, a student teacher who lives in Manchester, international angler and busy blogger, Derek Brady, Peter Dick, Scott Laird, Mark Lyons, Ewan Weed and Barry Young.

Brindle said: “We had a heavy frost overnight, the first one of the year probably, and bright sunshine and the frost has knocked the colour out of the water and it will take a little time for the fish to come back again.

“Fish will be caught but it a challenge for the teams to work out how to do it.”

Dunfermline-based Brindle confirmed that pressure also has an impact on the fish and he said: “The forecast said pressure is going to be all over the place this weekend and the wind swings round 360 degrees when we are fishing practice and the match but these are challenging conditions. However, it is the same for everybody and that is the challenge of international fishing.”

The manager has been encouraged by the interest shown by the general public in the match. One commented to me that the guys on the bank looked “really professional” and Brindle added: “In the last four or five months, when we have seen more people fishing on the banks here, we have got a lot more people coming over and asking us what we are doing. Many have said that they either used to fish or their parents used to fish and they fancied having a go.”

That is why the Scottish Federation for Coarse Angling are hosting a Lets Fish! Initiative at Car Park 2 at Strathclyde – just past the watersports centre on the right hand side – when youngsters and adults can have a go on Saturday and Sunday. They may even catch a fish.

The event is free and managed by experienced coaches who have all equipment and bait on hand. Parents can sit with their children during instruction, if they wish. People can book online for places but walk-ups are welcome.

Brindle said: “We are obviously looking for the next generation of anglers, and that is where kids come in, but if you are a person who wants to have a try at fishing or are a fisherman coming back to the sport, or even somebody seeking some hints or guidance then come and see us.”

Moving back to the match, Brindle underlined that this is a development event, and added: “For most of the Scottish anglers this will probably be the first time they have fished for Scotland and what we are trying to do is to give more people the opportunity to step-up to this level.

“It is float only and, yes we would love to win it on home soil, but it is also giving me an opportunity to watch the guys and see how they perform and give them the best chance of getting into the senior squad for world and European championships.

Fishing for your country, he agreed, is a totally different ball game from fishing for recreation. Even if you are fishing domestic competitions you are fishing with your mates.

When you step-up you really feel the pressure and it is easy, said Brindle, for that pressure to get into your head and he added: “Club competition, national competition, is completely different when you put a Scotland hat or bib on to represent your country.”  

The competition starts on Saturday with pre-baiting at 10.50am with all in at 11am until 3pm. The times also operate on Sunday and the pegs are on the same side of the lake as the watersport centre, parallel with the motorway.

PICTURE: Rosalind Cassidy preparing her groundbait in the Strathclyde Park sunshine on Thursday morning. Picture Nigel Duncan

WAITING GAME: Peter Dick focused on Day 1 of practice. Picture Nigel Duncan

BAITING UP: Ewan Weed prepares for action. Picture Nigel Duncan

POLE PREPARATION: Emily Mather deep in thought as she prepares to cast into the water at Strathclyde Park. Pictue Nigel Duncan

BUSY: Scottish international Derek Brady ready to load his bait box at Strathclyde Park. Picture Nigel Duncan

IRELAND: their team working out tactics at Strathclyde Park. Picture Nigel Duncan

WALES: members preparing equipment ahead of the practice session. Picture Nigel Duncan

A gamekeeper is fighting to build a family home in the countryside because his unsociable hours and ‘unusual’ vehicles are not suited to modern residential estates.

Gary MacPherson was refused planning permission for a new home at Newmains, Whitekirk, by East Lothian planners who said it was against their policy on new builds in the countryside, which have to have a link to a rural business.

However in an  appeal lodged on behalf of Mr MacPherson it is argued that as a local gamekeeper he is an essential rural worker and  coming and going on quad bikes or other farm vehicles would disturb neighbours.

They said Mr MacPherson and his partner, currently live in a cottage across from the farm land they want to build on to create a family home and had looked at buying but found properties were either too expensive or in the wrong location.

In an appeal statement they said: “This is a very specific project for the applicants who would occupy the new home. Mr MacPherson was born and brought up in the area, attended the local schools and works locally as an estate gamekeeper. He very  much wants to raise his family in the
area.

“His elderly parents live close-by and are increasingly dependent on his ongoing daily support.

“Their search has looked at some of the many new build properties across East Lothian as well as ad hoc established properties that have become available nearby. The latter tend to be very expensive whilst the former are not compatible with Gary’s occupation.”

And challenging the planners ruling that the house was not required to house rural workers connected to a business, they said: “This is true but not entirely. Part of the reason why the applicants have failed in securing a suitable home for their growing family has been that Mr MacPherson works as a farm gamekeeper and as such works unusual and anti-social hours often coming home in farm vehicles, not suitable or appropriate for modern housing
developments.

“So on this respect and with this context in mind, the development does relate directly to rural and farming businesses in that it is providing accommodation for a farm worker who is otherwise finding it very difficult to find a home in the area.”

The appeal will be heard by the council’s Local Review Body later this month.

By Marie Sharp Local Democracy Reporter

Police officers searching for a missing man from East Calder have found a body. 

An appeal for the public’s help to trace William Johnstone was released earlier today. 

The body was discovered in a car on Lasswade Bank in Edinburgh around 7,15am this morning. 

Formal identification has still to take place but Mr Johnstone’s family have been notofied. 

The death is not being treated as suspicious and officers said that a report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal. 

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Around 7.15am on Thursday, 10 October, the body of a man was found within a car on Lasswade Bank, Edinburgh. 

“Formal identification has still to take place, however we believe it to be 47-year-old William Johnstone who was missing from East Calder. 

“His family is aware. 

“The death is not being treated as suspicious. A report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.” 

With one of the most upbeat opening numbers in musical theatre, Hairspray never fails to lift the spirits from the very start.

This fresh new production, directed by Paul Kerryson and Hairspray ‘royalty’ Brenda Edwards, best loved for her portrayal of Motormouth Maybelle in previous productions, is no different – a timely high energy, all singing, all dancing celebration of integration and acceptance.

At Edinburgh Playhouse.

Continue reading here…

Join St Andrews Children’s Society for their Edinburgh Adoption and Fostering Information Event on Tuesday, 29 October 2024 from 6pm to 7.30pm.

The society staff will be joined by one of their adopters, who will tell the story of their experiences of adopting and answer any questions.

At the Edinburgh Adoption and Fostering Information Event social workers will explain:

• What it’s like to adopt or foster a child
• The different stages of the adoption and fostering processes

 A spokesperson said : “We’ll also be happy to answer any questions you have about adopting or fostering a child.

“Whatever stage you are at in your adoption or fostering journey, be it just starting to think about adopting or fostering or really sure that you want to adopt or foster, join us for our Edinburgh Adoption and Fostering Event.

“Here’s what some of our adopters have said about adopting through us

“St Andrew’s Children’s Society make miracles happen every day, for the kids that need families, and the grown-ups that want to become parents.”

“The prep groups were very informative and gave a realistic view of adoption and the challenges which may be faced. During our home study our social worker also prepared us for what to expect. We felt fully supported and no question we asked felt stupid.”

“St Andrew’s Children’s Society armed us with training, assessed us as capable parents to an adopted child, then journeyed with us during the matching process. They were on hand following placement with many incredibly useful hints and tips on how to handle an array of situations.”

“We welcome enquiries from all members of the community including single people, members of the LGBTQ+ community, people who follow a faith and those who don’t.”

How to reserve your spot

This is an in person event and will take place in St Andrew’s Children’s Society adoption and fostering office in Leith, in Edinburgh. Please sign up for the event on Eventbrite so that they can contact you if the event needs to be rescheduled.

Edinburgh Adoption and Fostering Information Event Tickets, Tue 29 Oct 2024 at 18:00 | Eventbrite

How to find out more

If you would like to speak to someone about adopting or fostering before the event, call 0131 454 3370. You can also send an email to info@standrews-children.org.uk.

Who can adopt or foster through St Andrew’s?

The society has an office in Edinburgh and another in Aberdeen. They help people to adopt and foster who live within a 60 mile radius of Edinburgh, Aberdeen and Elgin.

Contact details for Edinburgh office

St Andrew’s Children’s Society

7 John’s Place

Leith

Edinburgh

EH6 7EL

0131 454 3370

Simpsons Special Care Babies, a charity that supports the fundraising for the Simpson Neonatal Unit in Edinburgh, were delighted to receive a donation of £10,000 from the Morrisons Foundation.  

The funding from the charitable arm of the supermarket has covered the costs of improving the facilities of the overnight rooms used by parents whose babies are receiving care at the hospital.  New items bought to renovate the rooms include double beds, chairs, TVs, tea and coffee machine, fridges and lamps.  

Having a baby in the neonatal unit can be the worst and most frightening time for any family and the stay can be a lengthy one. For a mother, father, parent to be able to be close to their baby who is staying within the unit is invaluable and the items bought with the funding from Morrisons Foundation will go a long way to make their stay that bit more comfortable.

Emma Coffey, Simpsons Special Care Babies Trustee said: “Simpsons Special Care Babies is a small, volunteer run charity. We hugely benefit from generous donations from foundations such as Morrisons so we can continue to complement and enhance what is already provided by the NHS.

“The right equipment and medical minds can provide the most vulnerable babies with the best possible care and expertise. The staff and trustees look forward to using this exciting donation to upgrade our Parent Rooms. Our hope is that our families have access to a safe and comfortable environment so they can be near their baby throughout the neonatal journey.”

Jamie Alexander, Jade Cheverton and their daughter Chloe Alexander attended a presentation of the donation with Tess Askew, Community Champion at the Morrisons store in Gyle.  The family received vital care from Simpson Special Care Babies when Chloe was in the neonatal unit for 89 days after being born prematurely at 26 weeks and 3 days in August of 2020.

Tess Askew said: “It’s an absolute honour to provide this grant to such a worthy cause in our community.  Having a baby receiving care the the neonatal unit can be a very trying time for new parents, I’m over the moon that we have been able to provide this support to help improve the comfort for families, which will make a difference for many years to come”

The Morrisons Foundation was set up by Morrisons supermarket in 2015 and awards grants for charity projects which help improve people’s lives.  Since launching, over £41 million has been donated to hundreds of charities across England, Scotland and Wales.

PHOTO CAPTION: L-R: Jennifer Kirk (Simpsons Special Care Babies volunteer), Liz Bernard (People Manager for Morrisons), Emma Coffey (Simpsons Special Care Babies trustee), Tess Askew (Community Champion, Morrisons Gyle), Jamie Alexander, Jade Cheverton and their daughter Chloe Alexander

The body which oversees social care in West Lothian has added its name to the growing list of objectors to plans for a National Care Service. 

While welcoming some elements in proposed national standards the Integration Joint Board has opposed management by ministers and a centrally appointed board. 

Members reinforced their belief in the need for local accountability and local solutions to local problems. 

At the recent meeting the IJB, which has four West Lothian councillors among its voting members, the Board approved its response to the Holyrood consultation on the second stage of the National Care Service Bill. 

The Bill was introduced in the Scottish Parliament in 2022 has faced frequent delays. Last week it was revealed the total cost of the plans so far had exceeded £28m. 

The consultation response had been considered by a sub committee of the IJB but was agreed, with no additional comment at the meeting of the full board. 

As with West Lothian’s council response there are some elements which the Bill proposals are supported. These include general principles and national agreement on commissioning of services. 

However, in response to proposals to reform the current Integration Board system which has only been in place for a decade the Board responded: “reforming current integration authorities, which would be accountable to the National Board, would have implications for local democratic accountability.” 

The IJB response called for further clarity of local; involvement in new bodies and also clarity  on future funding models. 

The Board added: “While the IJB recognises that there is a role for a national approach and consistency in relation to national improvement, standards and oversight it is not clear that this is best progressed through the development of a National Care Service Board.  

“The provisions for the National Care Service Board to remove members of a National Care Service Local Board, including locally elected members, this proposal has serious implications for local democratic accountability.” 

The Board has also rejected proposals to bring Children’s Services and Justice Social Work into the remit of a national service. 

On Children’s services the Board said: “The transfer of these services risks creating disconnects with early years provision, education and housing and homelessness services etc. It therefore continues to be the IJB’s view that the inclusion of children’s services should be a decision that is taken at a local level.” 

The Board added that justice services have already undergone significant reform and changes in recent years and “, the evidence is clear that better access to welfare, housing, and employability assistance, as well as health care, have an important role in reducing or even preventing offending.  

“Similarly, the shift away from short prison sentences needs effective, evidence-based community interventions. It continues to be the IJB’s view that the inclusion of social work justice services should be a decision that is taken at a local level.”   

The plan has been rejected by many councils individually, CoSLA the umbrella body for Scotland’s local authorities and major health unions. 

By Stuart Sommerville, Local Democracy Reporter 

The new exhibition at Fruitmarket will celebrate all the women artists who have contributed to the history of the gallery during the last half century.

Holly Davey was invited in 2022 to look through the gallery’s archives in what is described as a “controlled rummage” before making new work for the big birthday.

She was captivated by Scottish Sculpture ’75 an exhibition of eleven men, ten of whom were students at Edinburgh College of Art. Rather than dwelling on the men, Davey wondered who their female contemporaries were who had been missed out. Her research led her to sculptor, Ann Henderson, a 1945 graduate, who taught at ECA until 1976 when she died.

Henderson also features in The Unforgetting which is a way of Davey paying tribute to the 354 women who have shown their work at Fruitmarket since it opened in 1974. The work will see and hear about women whose stories could (and in her view should) be part of what we know today. Davey has crafted small terracotta figurines modelled on Henderson’s Little Bather to stand in for the women. She names them in an audio work which runs on a continuous loop with a printed script. This chorus of women will inhabit the gallery in this way inviting the audience to move around and through it.

There will be one live performance of the audio work featuring Jill Smith (formerly Bruce). She was the first woman to exhibit in The Manifestations of the Obsessions and Fantasties of Bruce Lacey and Jill Bruce at Fruitmarket in 1975. She is also a performance artist and will perform the script live beginning with her own name and ending with Holly Davey’s name.

Artist Holly Davey said: “It has been a privilege to be able to explore Fruitmarket’s rich history, looking at all aspects of the archive: meeting agendas; exhibition slides and photographs; letters from artists; shipping documents; publications; as well as the gallery’s dynamic exhibition history. It was an incredible experience to pull all these women’s names together in a process of unforgetting. I see it as a celebration rather than commemoration of women artists, past, present and in the future. I am only able to make this work because of all the amazing women that came before me. Their work made this possible.”

Fiona Bradley, Fruitmarket’s Director said: “This year Fruitmarket turns 50 and we are celebrating all year with a programme that brings the very best of Scottish, British, and international visual art and culture to Edinburgh. We have been looking back to look forward, working with artists to breathe life into our archive and we are excited to welcome Davey to share her discoveries and celebrate the many women in our programme over the last 50 years.”

Exhibition Preview
18 October 2024 5.30–7.30pm. Free. All welcome

Artist’s Talk and Performance
25 October 2024 6–8pm. Free. All welcome.
Davey will be in conversation with Ruth Bretherick and Fiona Bradley as part of an event featuring a performance by Jill Smith of the audio work which is at the heart of The Unforgetting.

Holly Davey The Unforgetting
19 October to 17 November
Fruitmarket Warehouse.

Open daily 11am–6pm. Free.

fruitmarket.co.uk

List of women who exhibited at Fruitmarket since 1974