Police are appealing for the assistance of the public in tracing 79-year-old Michael Connolly who is missing from Seton Sands Holiday Park. 

Michael, who is from Lochore was last seen at the park around 6pm on Wednesday, 26 June, 2024. 

He is described as around 5ft 8ins in height and of slim build with grey hair which is balding and stubble. When he was last seen he was wearing a blue jumper and blue t-shirt with black trousers and walking shoes. 

Inspector Kenny McKenzie said: “We are extremely concerned for Michael’s safety and wellbeing. 

“Searches and enquiries are ongoing to trace him as soon as possible to ensure that he is safe and well. 

“I would urge anyone who has seen him or has any information regarding his whereabouts to contact us as soon as possible on 101 quoting reference number 3275 of 26 June.” 

A wildlife charity has urged people in the Lothians to take part in the world’s largest annual butterfly survey next month.

The Big Butterfly Count helps to assess the health of the environment by recording the number and type of butterflies and some day-flying moths spotted around the UK.

The citizen science event, organised by the charity Butterfly Conservation, will run from 12 July to 4 August.

Members of the public will spend 15 minutes in an outdoor space counting the butterflies they see.

The results are used to help map how the insects are faring and where conservation efforts should be targeted in the future. Increases or declines calculated on the average number per count.

Dr Zoe Randle, senior surveys officer at Butterfly Conservation, said: “Butterflies and moths are fundamental to a thriving ecosystem.

“They are important pollinators, a critical part of the food web, and indicate the wider health of the environment. If butterflies and moths are doing well, so is the environment.

“By taking part in the Big Butterfly Count you can play a direct part in helping us monitor their wellbeing.”

Last summer, 3295 people across Scotland took part, conducting 5087 counts in gardens, parks, school grounds and the countryside, recording more than 28,000 butterflies and day-flying moths.

The Small White was the most spotted butterfly, followed by the Large White, Peacock, Small Tortoiseshell and Meadow Brown.

The Red Admiral, Green-veined White, Ringlet, Scotch Argus and Speckled Wood made up the top ten.

On average, people in Scotland spotted six individual butterflies per count.

Dr Randle added: “Our scientists have shown that data collected in the annual count really does reflect butterfly and moth population and distribution trends.

“It makes a huge contribution to our vital work to protect butterflies and moths.”

Several Fringe producers have collaborated on the new Love the Fringe subscription service which is hoped will be good for audiences and performers.

Subscribers will be able to double the value of their tickets by signing up and the proceeds will go directly to artists, producers and venues involved with the Fringe – as their strapline says “Making your Fringe pound go further”.

The scheme will raise awareness and also much needed finance for the event and those who put on shows or perform in them. It has been developed by EdFest (Assembly, C ARTS, Gilded Balloon, Just the Tonic, Pleasance, theSpaceUK, Underbelly and ZOO) and the 50 members of Fringe Alliance in a large consortium but is open to any organisation or artist working at the Fringe.

Anthony Alderson, Director of the Pleasance and representative of the Fringe Alliance stated: “Love the Fringe is more than just a subscription scheme; it’s a unifying initiative to align the interests of the diverse organisations and individuals that make the festival happen. The Edinburgh Festival Fringe remains the world’s most prominent festival, open to anyone with the determination to participate. With over 50,000 people contributing to the shows, we want to celebrate this extraordinary event and ensure access remains open to all that wish to take part.  We want to see Love for the Fringe across the whole city. “

Council Leader Cammy Day said: “Edinburgh’s festivals continue to command the world’s attention each and every year – but we can’t be complacent. That’s why I’m excited to see some of our best-known festival producers coming together to launch Love the Fringe.

“Any scheme that supports, encourages and enhances our fantastic festivals programme is to be welcomed, not least when the income it generates goes directly into the pockets of the artists, venues, and producers.

“I’d encourage all festival lovers – whether you’re a resident, visitor or business – to support and sign up to Love the Fringe.”

Love the Fringe subscriptions come in five tiers, each designed to enhance the festival experience. Benefits include free tickets to participating performances, discounts at bars and local businesses across the city. Love the Fringe also includes access to exclusive Fringe performance discounts and discounted access to the Scotsman online for the month of August. Detailed information on all the benefits and subscription tiers is available on the Love the Fringe website, www.lovethefringe.com

Shows which take part will commit 2% of their ticket allocation. Love the Fringe hopes to generate sales of around £500,000, which could mean as much as £400,000 going directly to performers and others.

Local businesses can take part by buying a corporate membership or by offering discounts through Love the Fringe.

Love the Fringe membership starts at £20 and is available to buy online at www.lovethefringe.com

Edinburgh Trams has confirmed it will continue to provide free fares for under 22-year-olds despite the Scottish Government refusing to stump up funding to cover the cost. 

The concessionary scheme started in 2022 at the same time free bus travel for youngsters was introduced Scotland-wide. 

Initially funded by the city council, it later said it could no longer afford the £300k-a-year bill and councillors cut support in 2023. 

Edinburgh Trams has continued to allow under-22s to ride free of charge on an interim basis while other options were explored, meeting the cost within its own budget. 

However in March the Scottish Government ruled-out subsidising fares on both Edinburgh Trams and the Glasgow subway as part of its  Fair Fares Review, which was set up to make Scotland’s public transport system more accessible, available, and affordable. 

It argued this was “not considered a good use of resources compared with other options” as the two cities already have “strong bus systems”. 

Now Edinburgh Trams have opted to continue funding the scheme rather than see it scrapped. 

The decision was made “on the basis that the board, mindful of their responsibilities as a publicly owned company, consider that there would be a detrimental impact on both Edinburgh Trams and Lothian Buses if they did not offer free travel on the same terms as Lothian Buses now offer it,” a report to the transport committee on Thursday, June 20 said. 

Board members also had concerns there could be a “risk to their front line staff to remove the benefit”. 

Transport convener Scott Arthur previously said the Scottish Government not treating concessionary travel on bus and tram on an equal basis “will only make it harder for Edinburgh to meet the Scottish Government’s own climate and traffic reduction targets”. 

He said in March Edinburgh Trams continuing to cover the cost was “neither sustainable nor acceptable”. 

Cllr Arthur was approached for comment following the latest development. 

By Donald Turvill Local Democracy Reporter 

The first image showing what a proposed new Craigshill primary school will look like has been released. 

An artist’s impression of the new school was revealed to councillors at this month’s meeting of the Education Executive.  

The planned £24m state of the art campus will replace two of the oldest school buildings in Livingston, dating back to the birth of the new town 60 years ago. 

Councillors approved the new name of Craigshill and the catchment area, taking in the current catchments of Riverside and Letham primaries – built in the 1960s. 

The new non-denominational school will be built on the site of Riverside Primary School, with pupils and staff from Riverside and Letham moving in for the start of the academic term in August 2027. 

Greg Welsh, the council’s Head of Education said: “The project will provide the opportunity to bring together two existing schools in a well-established community and act as a catalyst for regeneration of the Craigshill community, providing a central, focal point for children and families. 

“Secondly, the delivery of a state-of-the-art school will aim to support the educational priorities and inspire the young people who attend.” 

West Lothian Council is funding 50% of the project, with the Learning Estate Investment Programme (LEIP), a joint scheme between Scottish and local government, providing the remaining 50%. The project will also provide a focal point for families and young people in the area. 

A formal consultation is required for any proposal to establish a new school, the catchment area for a new school or closure of a school, and also gives the local community a chance to voice their opinions on the proposed development. 

The Education Executive was presented with the findings of the consultation,  described as extremely positive. The Executive also agreed the catchment area for the school. 

The proposed new school will have a capacity of 462, with 80 nursery places, to ensure there is sufficient capacity for the area. 

 Local Councillor Veronica Smith: “It was really good to see the community involvement . There was a lot of people attended. There were lots of good questions. It’s really good to see that and also going forward there’s a big interest in the town and in the village.”  

 Chair of the Executive, Councillor Andrew McGuire said: “It’s wonderful that we have come this far. It looked for a while that we perhaps would not get the funding that we wanted for Craigshill   thank goodness were here. 

“Craigshill is the oldest locale in Livingston, first built when the new town was created and the schools in particular were starting to show their age. Think it’s fantastic that we have got to this stage.  It’s really exciting for Craigshill, That came across how in excited the community were. Hopefully it will be smooth sailing from here on in.” 

The new school is subject to planning permission being obtained and final designs being agreed.  

A meeting of the Council Executive agreed a demolition contract for the summer ahead of the construction of the new school on the site of Riverside. The children were decanted to the former Beatlie Campus and the nursery to Letham Primary School in August 2023 after RAAC panels were identified as problematic on the building. 

By Stuart Sommerville, Local Democracy Reporter 

A 34-year-old man has been reported to the Procurator Fiscal following reports of photographs being taken of females within cubicles at Dalry Swimming Pool. 

The incidents are said to have taken place over the past month. 

Officers launched an investigation and earlier today confirmed the outcome. 

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Response Officers in Edinburgh investigated reports of a male taking photos of females within cubicles at Dalry Swimming Pool over the past month. 
 
“As a result of their inquiries the male was reported to the Procurator Fiscal this weekend.” 

Edinburgh-based legal firm Ralph Sayer has launched an expansion of its estate agency division with the appointment of Tzana Webster to head up property sales.

Formerly with Warners and VMH Solicitors in the capital, Ms Webster joins as Head of Estate Agency after three years in a similar role at Watermans.

Originally from Texas in the United States, she brings significant experience to the position having worked in the Edinburgh estate agency business for 15 years.

Her recruitment is a significant move for the firm which was set up in October 2022 and chief executive Ivan Ralph said: “We have always dealt with large numbers of conveyancing transactions but I have always been keen to grow the estate agency side of the business.

“Tzana has come in tasked with growing this area. She is very well known in the industry, knows the business inside out and has some excellent contacts.

“Given the volumes of transactions we have been dealing with, we have always been legal work heavy but bringing in Tzana is part of the drive to build up the estate agency to the next level.

“She will heighten our estate agency profile and I’m confident she will generate a lot of new business. She is the ideal person to take on this role and I look forward to seeing our estate agency division grow with Tzana leading from the front.

“Part of her role will be business development while ensuring we are providing as good a service to clients as we can.”

Commenting on her appointment, Tzana said: “There is a real family feel about the business and it’s clear they genuinely care not only about each other but the product and client’s experience and that is so refreshing.

“Ivan actually gave me my first job in property at McEwan Fraser Legal when I moved to Scotland from Texas in 2009 so I have known him for some years.

“He had spoken to me about expanding his estate agency and explained this role is much more than just being a valuer with a busy diary: he was looking for someone to help grow the team, look at the systems and processes and streamline everything the company was doing so it was a case of working smarter not harder.

“The business development angle really appealed and I’m looking forward to enhancing what we already do well. We have a good team, a good product and aim to elevate it to the next level.”

Hibs have announced the signing of central defender Warren O’Hora

The 25-year-old has put pen-to-paper on a three-year deal and joins the Hibees following the expiration of his contract at English League Two side MK Dons.

Making almost 200 career appearances to date, O’Hora made his professional debut aged 18 at Bohemians before making a switch to Brighton & Hove Albion in the Premier League.

He was named the Seagulls’ Young (Academy) Player of the Year in 2020 before gaining senior football with MK Dons. He became a regular with the Milton Keynes outfit, signed permanently and went on to make over 150 appearances for them, alongside captaining them on occasion.

Internationally, O’Hora has been capped by the Republic of Ireland’s Under-18s and Under-19s.

On the signing, Hibernian FC Head Coach David Gray said: “I’m delighted that we’ve been able to bring Warren to the Club. 

“As a defender, he’s a brave, aggressive organiser, with great leadership qualities. He’s very comfortable on the ball and confident playing out from the back. We look forward to working with him.”

Sporting Director Malky Mackay added: “It’s great to be able to welcome Warren to Hibernian FC. 

“When I came to the Club, it was clear that we needed to strengthen at centre-half and introduce more leaders into the First Team group.

“Warren is a strong modern-day defender, a top professional, and is another good person to add to the dressing room. We look forward to seeing him in action.”

Edinburgh residents are facing another £30 million in cuts as preparations for next year’s budget get underway.

The capital’s public services are set to be slashed further as council chiefs attempt to balance the books once again – with schools and leisure centres set to be hit.

The looming financial black hole, which was revealed in a “sobering” report to councillors this week, is forecast to grow to an eye-watering £109m by 2028.

Approval was given to officials to explore “savings and efficiency initiatives, strategic investment opportunities and service transformation” to achieve £29.9m of cuts to the city’s 2025-26 budget at the finance and resources committee on Tuesday, June 25. 

However trade union Unite said there was “no amount of jiggery-pokery that can be done with the finances” as the council had already been “cut to the ribbons”.

The report said councillors would have to take “difficult decisions, such as prioritising statutory essential services which provide the greatest outcomes for the most vulnerable in our community” and “reducing levels of service where there is a lower impact on the groups in greatest need”.

Neil Ross, Lib Dems, said it made for “sobering” reading.

He added: “And that hasn’t even given us all the detail that’s going to come forward in detailed proposals, so it’s going to be even more sobering in future.

“Clearly we’re facing a situation where over the next few years we have to realistically assess where we are and where we’re going.”

Finance chief Richard Lloyd-Bithell told councillors at the meeting doing nothing was “not an option”.

He said an increasing number of asylum seekers being placed in temporary accommodation due to UK-wide dispersal policy changes have resulted in additional pressure on homelessness services of over £6m. 

 “Demand has exponentially risen over the previous three years,” he said. 

“This is a real, significant financial risk for the council that we need to take corrective action and investment and other mitigating actions to make sure this doesn’t become out of control.”

The funding shortfall does not include cuts of £5.2m to the city’s cash-strapped schools and £4.2m to leisure centres which were pencilled in for 2025-26 at this year’s budget meeting in February.

Mr Lloyd-Bithell said: “I think the approach we are outlining in the recommended option is the right one; taking a targeted risk and outcomes-based approach to how we deliver our services, either looking at best value and immediate, tactical plans to maintain service delivery to the best possible and provide the best outcomes that we can in the short-term is absolutely right.”

However Unite’s City of Edinburgh Council Branch, which represents 1,500 local authority workers, said the actions proposed were “simply euphemisms for cuts”.

Branch convener Graeme Smith said: “There is no amount of jiggery-pokery that can be done with the finances, there’s no amount of redesign that can be done.

“We’re at the point where any cut is going to harm workers and communities and the only way around that is by Holyrood properly funding local government.”

He called on all councillors to “put as much pressure as they can on Holyrood for proper funding”.

He added: “The reality is there perhaps are several savings that can be made, to which we have called for a workers’ forum where we can take ideas from the shop floor to have these investigated.

“These include things like the council purchasing resources that aren’t even used, the council purchasing incorrect resources.

“So there are very minuscule savings that can be made and the only way they’re going to made properly is through hearing the voices from the shop floor.

“However they’re going to be a drop in the ocean compared to the amount of money that needs to be put into the council which has to come through Holyrood.”

By Donald Turvill Local Democracy Reporter

A rare Scottish oil painting by “matchstick” figure artist L.S. Lowry has fetched nearly £200,000 at auction.

The English artist famed for his matchstick figures in industrial and urban landscapes painted “Old Building, Edinburgh” in 1937 when he was holidaying in Scotland.

Lowry’s only known oil painting of Edinburgh is believed to show the Royal Mile with Arthur’s Seat in the background, and an imaginary tower in the centre of the scene.

The signed and dated picture, kept in a private collection for over 25 years, went under the hammer in Bonhams’ Modern British and Irish Art sale in London.

Exhibited in Edinburgh for the first time ever ahead of the sale, the painting attracted the attention of collectors around the world before fetching £190,900.

Ingram Reid, Bonhams’ Head of Sale for Modern British and Irish Art, said: “Lowry would have been on a visit to Edinburgh, quite possibly to see some of his own works hanging at the Royal Scottish Academy.

“He would observe with a sketchbook and these sketches would be worked up back in his studio in Manchester.

“Lowry had a fondness for Scotland. However, this is his only known Edinburgh painting.

“We are delighted that following the work being exhibited in both Bonhams Edinburgh and London to the delight of many admirers, the work sold to a private UK buyer.”

Lowry, who lived from 1887-1976, toured the British Isles extensively, and visited Scotland several times.

He painted “Old Building, Edinburgh” the same year he produced important pictures depicting Wick and Thurso in Caithness.

The figures in the picture include a mother and her children walking their dog and a man leaning on his cane, who appears frequently in the artist’s work.

On the left of the picture are two young females in green knee length skirts, which may be kilts.

Mr Reid: “In this picture, Lowry depicts Edinburgh in a fashion typical of the artist at a time when he had had early success and was really finding his stride.

“We believe it shows the bottom end of the Royal Mile, with Arthur’s Seat in the far background. But Lowry often leaned on a compositional device of a single upright building in the centre of his work and the main, central, building in this picture is probably plucked from his imagination.

“It is a scene witnessed in Edinburgh and then moulded to suit his whim.”

School bosses have vowed to review evacuation procedures after pupils were left out on a playing field for up to two hours in baking heat earlier this week.

Parents took to social media to vent their anger after a suspected chemical leak saw students sent out of Dunbar Grammar School on Monday.

Some said their children had been left exposed in soaring temperatures with no water or shelter as emergency services went into the building to investigate the danger.

East Lothian Council said that it would be looking for ‘learning points’ from the incident to ensure future evacuations are as effective as possible.

The incident occurred just before lunch time on Monday at the school with all students sent to the astro turf which is the assembly point for any evacuation.

As temperatures rose to 24 degrees on the sunny day, pupils who had been told to leave their bags in classrooms as is standard in an emergency evacuation,  remained on the pitch for around two hours.

Pictures of emergency service vehicles at the school began emerging on social media shortly after the alarm was raised sparking concern from parents unable to get in touch with their children.

And there was anger later when they discovered youngsters had been out in the sun for hours with one parent saying their son called them to say they had no water and had been told they could not leave the pitch.

Head teacher Claire Sowther said in a letter sent to parents and carers after the event that pupils were ‘exemplary’ as they followed the procedures in place for an emergency.

She said that as it became clear the incident was stretching into the afternoon senior students were sent home and a GroupCall made to parents and carers alerting them to the situation.

She said: “Water was sourced for S2/3 students and this coincided with us having limited access to a part of the building so we could take the S2/3 students back inside.”

Primary 7 pupils transitioning to the new S1 year at the school were not in attendance during the incident.

East Lothian Council said it was looking at what happened on Monday.

A spokesperson said: “We are keen to identify any learning points from the response to ensure evacuation procedures are as effective as possible.”

By Marie Sharp Local Democracy Reporter

Lochend Football Academy under 15s made sporting history on becoming the club’s first team to win a Scottish Cup.

They achieved the feat by beating Westdyke Community Club, from Aberdeen, 3-0 at Excelsior Stadium, Airdrie.

Coach Declan Fergus said: “I was absolutely delighted with the performance and result; the boys are a joy to work with and a credit to themselves.

“We’ve worked so hard to achieve this and finally it came to fruition.. I see first hand the effort, application and hard work that goes into every training session, every week and as I always say working hard is a talent and we are now champions of our country. 

“Lochend is one of the smallest clubs in Scotland with only about 150 players at our club. To bring back the Scottish Cup to the local community is rewarding.

“As a team we’ve won five trophies in the last two seasons –  a treble last season and a double this season. We’ve won our national cup and regional cup along the way.

“This is a result of high level coaching, extremely receptive and hard working players and a high performance environment.”

Squad –  Ioannis Tselios, Ru Hay, Max Pollacchi, Stephen Thomson, Declan MacDonald, Jamie Storey, JD Sinclair, Aaron Moncrieff, Massine Bekkout, McKenzie Falls, Ross Mathieson, Evan Whitely, Nathan Atkinson, Rob Gleeson, Jude Stanley, James McCallum, Connor Scott, Michael Fairweather.

Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Alex Cole-Hamilton has unveiled analysis by his party showing that The Scottish Government’s flagship fuel poverty scheme could take almost a hundred years to reach all eligible households.

Speaking at a campaign event at Edinburgh Zoo, he said that one in six species is in danger of becoming extinct due to global warming.

He also set out Scottish Liberal Democrat manifesto plans for a ten-year emergency upgrade programme to cut bills and emissions and warned that unless urgent action is taken our planet’s animals will suffer.

In response to a parliamentary question, the Scottish Government revealed that Warmer Homes Scotland, the Scottish Government’s fuel poverty scheme, has helped just 37,902 households since it launched nine years ago.

On average 4,566 households were helped in each year of the scheme (excluding partial year figures). That means if progress continues at the same rate, it will take around 95 years for the scheme to help the 433,000 households who are estimated to be eligible for support during phase 2.

The Scottish Government’s own estimates suggest that as of October 2022, 860,000 households were in fuel poverty.

Alex Cole-Hamilton said: “One in six British species are at risk of going extinct and a big part of that is down to our warming climate.

“Here in Scotland, housing is one of our biggest sources of emissions because it is cold, leaky and relies on fossil fuels.

“Improving home insulation and switching to green heating systems can be a win-win, cutting emissions and bringing down bills.

“However, the Scottish Government support scheme is a complete failure. A programme that will take almost 100 years to get the job done is failing the planet and everyone struggling with high energy bills. SNP ministers have missed climate targets year after year, but they seem content to plod along.

“Scottish Liberal Democrats have set out ambitious plans to turn things around. We want to give everyone a fair deal, cutting emissions and ending fuel poverty with an emergency programme of home insulation and heat pumps.”

A councillor reprimanded for eating on camera during a meeting has apologised claiming low blood sugar was behind the incident. 

Councillor Bryan Pottinger was taken to task at last month’s meeting of Midlothian Council by Provost Debbi McColl for apparently ‘licking out his bowl’ after being asked to turn off his camera while eating. 

A furious Councillor McColl told him his behaviour was ‘absolutely inexcusable’ as she demanded he switch off his computer camera after he attended the meeting remotely. 

Councillor Pottinger, who was last year cleared of a complaint about alleged inappropriate comments about a female councillor’s underwear by the Standards Commission, told a meeting of fellow elected members he did not mean to offend anyone during his appearance. 

Speaking at yesterday’s meeting Mr Pottinger, again attending remotely, said: “I would like to apologise for the error I made that I was seen eating while I was still on camera. 

“I felt it was necessary at that time to have some sustenance as my blood sugar levels were getting low and I did consume a scone along with a hot beverage. 

“When Councillor Virgo alerted me to the fact that my camera was on in his usual humorous manner I did not mean to upset anybody, or to offend anybody with my actions.  

“I did move to put my camera off but obviously I did not move fast enough with the small buttons we have here in front of me. 

“I had explained my actions to some others previously and apologised accordingly, and I am sorry that was done. 

“I now want to express my apologies to Councillor Virgo and the whole meeting. It was never done in any deliberate attempt to offend or upset anybody and I hope the meeting can accept my apologies.” 

Councillor Debbi McColl told the elected member: “Thank you Councillor Pottinger I think we are quite happy to accept your apologies and say no more about it.” 

The row broke out during a debate on a paper about the council’s Capital Prioritisation Plan, when Councillor Virgo was speaking to the meeting and was distracted by Councillor Pottinger eating on the remote screen saying “Bryan eating his cereal there…delightful.” 

Provost Councillor McColl then reacted angrily to his response telling him: “That was really inappropriate Councillor Pottinger. I just put a message in the group to say could you turn your camera off, we don’t want to see you eating and then you looked like you were licking out your bowl.  

“That is absolutely inexcusable. I do not expect behaviour like that from any councillor, please turn your camera off.” 

By Marie Sharp Local Democracy Reporter

Vital improvements to health facilities in East Calder should be funded by cash from housing developers, West Lothian’s Integration Joint Board have said. 

The Board, which oversees shared primary and social care provision with NHS Lothian in the county, has already written to government ministers regarding the poor state of repair at East Calder’s medical practice. 

And now they have agreed to lobby planners on West Lothian council to use funds set aside for infrastructure such as roads to improve health Care. 

At this month’s meeting of the IJB local councillor Damian Doran-Timson said:  “I’m tempted to use the word lobby, but I’ll use the word demand. Chair, could  the IJB demand to our colleagues in planning that any future Section 75 funding  goes towards the medical practice as opposed to other areas. 

“Can we look at asking developers to put funding into the medical practice at East Calder.   I think everyone knows how serious the  the situation is.” 

Chairing the meeting councillor Tom Conn said: “I’m not quite sure we can demand but we certainly make representations to them.” 

He said planners were looking at changes for the forthcoming local development plan. 

As highlighted last week by the Local Democracy Reporting Service planning officers on the council are currently working with NHS Lothian to look at ways of securing future funding for health care infrastructure development. 

A council spokesman told the LDRS: “The council continues to work with NHS Lothian to demonstrate a robust evidence base to secure developer funding for primary care infrastructure investment. Currently there is no mechanism to allow the council to seek developer contributions for health services.” 

Such contributions could come on top of the existing Section 75 contributions which pay for education facilities and roads infrastructure on the back of new housing development.  

Yvonne Lawton, Head of Service told the meeting that developers could not be expected to fully fund primary health care facilities. 

Councillor Doran-Timson agreed but added: “Any funding we could secure would be welcome. We are getting nowhere at the moment.” 

Board member John Innes said: “ I agree. I think we should be finding any way we can to got over this problem.” 

Chairing the meeting  Councillor Tom Conn said: “I’m happy to make representations to the planners if committee agrees to that.” 

Local campaigners have been battling for almost 20 years to get improvements to the 1970s health centre. 

The building was built i to support 5,000 patients. The current patient list is almost 15,000 and the forecast is that the numbers will grow by a further 5,000 by 2028.  

Earlier this year the campaigners thought they were on the cusp of seeing a business plan for improvements when the Scottish Government announced a two-year ban on capital projects for the NHS in Scotland. 

This rules out even basic design work on plans for a new build or improved primary care facilities in West Lothian 

At a recent meeting of the IJB cross party councillors and voting members backed a letter to the Scottish Government ministers calling for action. 

This month Neil Ferguson, General Manager for Primary Care and Community Services gave an update on the Primary Care Improvement Plan. 

 He told the Board that challenges revolve around service demand, recruitment and finances. 

 He did highlight successes in developing training and retention programmes for staff and the development of a Pharmacy Hub in Stoneyburn which has continued to develop its role supporting practices by diverting pharmacy work away from individual practices. 

Referring to East Calder Mr Ferguson’s report said: “The Scottish Government freeze on Capital Planning projects has halted the progress of the Business Case for the new East Calder Medical Practice. 

“Ongoing joint working with the practice and estates colleagues continues to maximise available capacity and progress relevant maintenance or repairs to improve the state of the existing accommodation. Longer term challenges will be seen by other practices in line for capital funding consideration.” 

By Stuart Sommerville, Local Democracy Reporter 

Lucy Ribchester’s new novel, MURDER BALLAD (Black & White Publishing, £16.99 hardback), will be officially launched tomorrow Thursday 27^th June 2024 at St Cecilia’s Hall in Edinburgh’s Old Town. 

 The launch will include musical performances of murder ballads, and classical music by the 18^th century female composer Maria Barthélemon, some of which has rarely or never been performed in over 200 years and was unearthed by Edinburgh-born Ribchester during her research for the novel. 

Singer Ailsa Dixon will perform the murder ballad The Twa Sisters (also known as Binnorie O), and journalist Marcello Mega will read from Robert Fergusson’s poem Auld Reikie.   

Ciaran Walker will also perform pieces on the harpsichord by Maria Barthélemon, and author Lucy Ribchester will be in conversation on stage with Caraigh McGregor, before signing copies afterwards.   

The launch event has been kindly sponsored by Port of Leith Distillery and The Fudge Kitchen. 

The launch venue of St Cecilia’s Hall – a key part of the city’s bustling arts scene in the late-1700s, and only a stone’s throw from the renowned modern-day arts hub that is the Royal Mile during festival time – was home to the prestigious Edinburgh Musical Society, and features in the opening scenes of Ribchester’s compelling, macabre tale of friendship and betrayal. 

With Isobel Duguid at its dark heart, MURDER BALLAD tells the story of a street ballad singer who has risen to be the toast of the Edinburgh Musical Society.  

However when the true events behind her most famous murder ballad are called into question, her tale unravels into a labyrinth of deceit as twisty as Edinburgh’s Old Town geography. 

It’s a novel rooted in meticulous research, musical knowledge and historical context, but brought to life through Ribchester’s compelling characters and edge-of-the-seat narrative.  

Construction work has started on an impressive new 157-bedroom hotel in the Haymarket area of Edinburgh. 

 Property development company S Harrison has appointed Ogilvie Construction as the principal contractor on the project.  

The development will see a 1970s office building, which is currently known as Osborne House, transformed into a new hotel, complete with a residents’ bar, restaurant and lounge area on the ground floor and an outdoor seating terrace.  

Following part demolition of the existing building, two new accommodation wings will be built to the rear, together with a new storey above the existing building. 

Late last year, S Harrison announced a deal with European hotel group MEININGER Hotels to operate the hotel, which is set to open in spring 2026.  

MEININGER Hotels, a key player in the hybrid hotel market, operates 36 hotels across 26 European cities.  

Each hotel features its own unique design, offering flexible and affordable modern accommodation. 

S Harrison acquired Osborne House in 2018 and worked with Edinburgh based architect, Comprehensive Design Architects on the transformational plans, incorporating impressive green credentials including the retention of the majority of the existing building structure. 

The building is located just west of Edinburgh city centre, a few minutes’ walk from Haymarket railway station and tram stop and easy walking distance from Princess Street. S Harrison will hold the completed investment, further strengthening the company’s property portfolio. 

Andrew Wharton, from S Harrison, said: “Appointing Ogilvie Construction to deliver another landmark project in Edinburgh and seeing work start is obviously a key milestone for this development and follows several years of diligent work to secure both planning permission and the right occupier for the scheme.  

“We’re now looking forward to seeing our plans progress on site over the coming months.” 

Grier Edmead, operations director at Ogilvie Construction, said: “We are proud to be working with S Harrison on this project which has energy-efficiency and strong sustainability credentials at the heart of its design.  

“Our team brings unrivalled specialist knowledge of the hotel and leisure sector, and we look forward to successfully delivering a first-class destination in the city, making both S Harrison’s and MEININGER Hotels’ vision for this building a reality.” 

S Harrison has made a substantial investment in Edinburgh in recent years and this latest hotel project follows the company delivering the landmark boutique hotel for Malmaison in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town.  

The work saw the Grade A listed Buchan House, on the north-west corner of St Andrew Square, converted into a stylish 72-bedroom hotel complete with Malmaison’s renowned Chez Mal Bar and Brasserie. 

The developer is also currently working on two PBSA schemes consisting of 64 studio apartments on East Newington Place, off Newington Road, and 76 studios within the historic surroundings of Canongate, just behind the Royal Mile. 

In addition, the planning committee recently confirmed they are minded to grant planning consent for a major new £80 million mixed-use development in a prime waterfront location in Leith.  

The development, known as Ocean Point 2, will comprise of residential and PBSA, along with commercial, co-working and amenity space. 

On Thursday evening the White Heather Club begins twirling at Bonnie & Wild in St James Quarter.

The entertainment begins at 8pm and everyone is welcome to come along for a dance, and maybe a spot of dinner and a drink too.

Dancers will be enjoying lively Scottish country music from Charlie Kirkpatrick and his band, who’ll be encouraging everyone to dance to Strip the Willow, Dashing White Sergeant, Gay Gordons, and the Canadian Barn Dance.

An 83-year-old male pedestrian was taken to The Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh for treatment after being struck by a car which was being driven on Princes Street around 5.35pm on Friday, 21 June 2024. 

Officers are now appealing for information and are asking anyone with dashcam footage of the area to come forward. 

Constable Chris Beddows said: “Our enquiries are ongoing and we are now appealing to anyone who witnessed the crash to contact us. 

“We also ask motorists with dashcam footage of the area at the time to come forward.” 

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 quoting incident 2965 of 21 June, 2024. 

Let them eat cake at Leith Victoria

To celebrate the 125th anniversary of Leith Victoria Swim Centre which is one of the capital’s five Victorian pools, Edinburgh Leisure’s Acive Communities section has put out a call for any keen bakers to submit cakes and tray bakes for a fundraising event this Friday.

The Bake-Off judging will take place at 11.20 – 11.30am following a busy Aqua and yoga class that takes place earlier in the building, when participants often congregate for a coffee and a blether after. Prizes will be awarded to the best bakes.

June Peebles, Edinburgh Leisure’s previous Chief Executive, who retired in March after 38 years’ service, will be Chief Judge, along with Jen Holland, their new CEO and one of Leith Victoria’s regular customers Christine, 71 years-old, who attends 19 classes a week at the pool.

If there are any keen bakers who would like to contribute a traybake, biscuits, cookies or cake for the event, the team at Leith Victoria would love to have your support.  Get in touch with susanmcintosh@edinburghleisure.co.uk or juliaadams@edinburghleisure.co.uk 

Hustings on Friday

The Edinburgh Climate Hustings, organised by Friends of the Earth for all Edinburgh consituencies, will be held on Friday at Augustine United Church on George IV Bridge at 6pm.

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The Meadows Croquet Club AGM

The Meadows Croquet Club are holding their AGM on Friday at the club on Melville Drive. Details below.

DOOH

Keep your eyes peeled in St James Quarter.

DOOH means Digital Out Of Home – and it refers to new portrait screens provided by Ocean Outdoor set up on Multrees Walk and in St James Quarter. These “pedestrianised full motion” screens will be used to broadcast a series of summer sporting fixtures for shoppers to watch, including the Paris 2024 Olympics. St James Quarter (SJQ) has attracted around 19 million people each year since it opened in 2021.

There will also be an official fan zone set up in SJQ during the Paris Olympics when sports fans can support Team GB.

Anne Ledgerwood, estate director, St James Quarter, said: “The addition of the large format screens not only supports Ocean Outdoor bringing captivating advertising creative to the Galleria, but also provides an opportunity to enhance internal enlivenment via the live streaming of our fashion and music events or brand gamification from pop-ups and activations. We are constantly looking at ways of bringing the unexpected to the Quarter and the addition of these screens will provide another channel to engage and excite our guests.”

Former Hibs boss Nick Montgomery and his number two Sergio Raimundo have joined Ange Postecoglou’s coaching team at Tottenham Hotspur. 

Montgomery was sacked by Hibs in May just eight months after replacing Lee Johnson as head coach.  

Despite failing to make the top six at Easter Road, Montgomery remains highly thought of in the game after his success with Central Coast Mariners, where he guided the club to the A-League title in 2023. 

The pair will begin work at the start of pre-season. Raimondo’s appointment is subject to a work permit. 

Head Coach Ange Postecoglou said: “It’s also great to have Nick and Sergio join the Club, and they will add to the talented coaches we already have on the staff here. 

“Both Nick and Sergio have a wealth of coaching experience over a number of years. They have already demonstrated a strong desire to both develop young talent and implement a football style that I believe will further strengthen the environment we have established. I’m looking forward to working with them.” 

Hibs have announced the pre-contract signing of Crystal Palace midfielder Kirsten Reilly on a two-year deal until 2026. 

Reilly re-joins the club for a second time, having previously played in green and white between 2018 and 2019. 

During her first stint with the club, she played under Grant Scott and was part of the side that won a cup double in 2017/18, lifting both the SWPL Cup and Scottish Cup.  

A year later she lifted the SWPL Cup once again to claim a trio of trophies! 

Reilly also helped her side to finish second in the SWPL in 2018/19, helping the Club to qualify for the Champions League in the process. 

After her time with Hibs came to an end, she joined Bristol City – before returning to Scotland to play for Rangers where she helped the Glasgow side to their first SWPL title in the 2021/22 season. 

She then made 35 appearances for Crystal Palace across two years, helping them promotion to the WSL for the first time in their history in 2024. 

She will once again wear the number 32 shirt for the Hibees.  

She said: “I’m so excited and so glad to be back, I’ve supported the Club all my life and playing for the badge again is going to feel great. 

“The last time I was here, we won a few trophies, and that feeling was really good. It’s our aim to start doing that again!” 

Grant Scott was also delighted to work with Reilly for a second time: “I’m thrilled to have Kirsten back with us here at Hibernian. Her talent, experience, and passion for the Club makes her an invaluable addition to our squad.  

“We look forward to seeing her make an impact over the next two years.” 

An estimated 200,000 Tartan Army supporters descended on Germany for Scotland’s first overseas major tournament since 1998 and left a positive impression on the locals in the process.

The Scottish faithful supporters followed the team around the host nation for Scotland’s three group games in Munich, Cologne and Stuttgart.

Despite the team’s poor performances and failure to get out of the group stage, again, it was off the park where the Scots did their country proud.

Scotland was voted as the country with the best fans at the tournament, winning with a landslide 52% of the vote in a poll conducted by German media outlet RTL.

The mayor of Cologne – where Scotland played out a 1-1 draw with Switzerland in their second game – Henriette Reker, said: “Dear Scots, these have been a wonderful couple of days with you. I could not have been a happier mayor. You are always welcome back to Cologne!”

In fact, many locals and officials from the city located on the Rhine River hoped that Scotland would return to the city for the knockout stages and were actively cheering for Steve Clarke’s men in the final group game, which – brutally – ended in disappointment.

A local bartender said: “The Scottish like to drink so much, but they are so kind and so peaceful. They are very well behaved, and spread good vibes”

And the travelling Tartan Army have been impressed with the welcome they have received from their German hosts. 

Stuart Turner, a travelling Scottish fan, said: “From the minute we landed, we have had a hero’s welcome. The locals did not need to give any consideration to us, but they have shown us great hospitality, exceeding our expectations. We have even had instances of locals approaching us to praise our behaviour and support for our country”

The Scots returned the favour too, a video of two fans assisting an older gentleman through the rain in Cologne by holding umbrellas over him went viral and has since been advertised on German public transport.

There has also been a petition launched by a German fan, requesting an annual friendly between the two countries following the Euros.

The petition currently has more than 25,000 signatures, and while there is clearly an appetite for a regular gathering between the two supports, the Tartan Army will hope the team on the pitch can match their own heroic effort off it by improving on the 5-1 defeat in the opening game.

An historic pub saved from closure by its local community has won the fight to create a beer garden on ‘open space’ behind it. 

The Tower Inn, in Tranent, which first opened in 1902, was described as ‘the hub’ of its local community by local councillors during a meeting of East Lothian Council’s planning committee. 

The committee heard from owner Dominic McNeill how he, as a regular of the pub, and others came together to save it when it was threatened with closure two years ago, eventually leading to him taking it on. 

Plans to extend an outside drinking area on decking at the back of the pub however came to a halt after council officers said it required planning permission. 

But at today’s planning meeting, councillors heard that while the land at the back of the pub was described as open space and used by the public it was privately owned – and the owner had given Mr McNeill permission to use it for the garden. 

Mr McNeill told the committee the aim of the outdoor drinking area was to allow all people to come to the pub. 

He said: “It is a community pub which was demonstrated by the campaign to stop it closing. The aim is to create a garden space for everyone to come.” 

Planning officers had recommended the application for the beer garden, along with a fence and gate, should be rejected as it is within Tranent Conservation Area . 

Recommending the committee refuse planning permission officers said: “The change of use of the area of open space to a beer garden and its enclosure with a 1.8m high timber fence and gates would separate that area of land from the larger area of open space of which it is currently a part. 

“This would harm the landscape setting of the area and undermine the contribution this area of open space makes to the visual amenity of the area.” 

However ward councillors said they had been approached by local residents who were concerned that the pub was facing refusal and wanted to see it thrive. 

Councillor Lee-Anne Menzies said describing the land as ‘open space’ was not accurate adding: “It is just somewhere people let their dogs off.” 

Councillor Menzies called in the application for the committee to decide along with fellow ward Councillor Colin McGinn, after officers recommended it for refusal. 

Councillor McGinn said: “We are losing good community pubs hand over fist across the county and this one would have shut without the intervention of Mr McNeill and another businessman and the community who supported them. 

“He has brought it back to life and it is a focal point. I am really pleased to support this business.” 

The committee unanimously agreed to reject their officers recommendation and grant planning permission for the new garden, fencing and gate. 

By Marie Sharp Local Democracy Reporter 

Candidates vying to be the next MP for Edinburgh North and Leith have clashed over Gaza, net zero and their stance on the two-child benefit cap. 

An election hustings hosted by the Brougton Spurtle community newspaper on Monday, June 24 saw a lively audience field questions to hopefuls standing in the constituency, which has been held by the SNP since 2015 but which polls indicate could be re-gained by Labour next week. 

The most heated point of the evening came when a member of the audience in the packed-out Brougton St Marys Parish Church asked what each party would do about the “ongoing genocide in Gaza”. 

Labour’s candidate Tracy Gilbert – who introduced herself as a lifelong resident of the area who would would work “tirelessly” if elected – said as a trade unionist she had campaigned for a two state solution for decades. 

She said: “We have called for an immediate ceasefire…clearly the atrocities we see unfold on our screens are just awful. What we must do is provide a lasting peace for both the Israeli people and the Palestinian people and I hope that happens.” 

Deidre Brock, the contituency’s MP for nearly a decade, said the only reason Labour had called for a ceasefire in Gaza was “simply because the SNP forced them to that position” 

She said: “I am really disappointed to think that if the whole of the parliament had united behind that first motion the strong message  the UK parliament could have sent to Israel was lost.” 

Reform UK’s candidate Alan Melville – who admitted he hadn’t read his own party’s manifesto despite it being released over a week ago – was met with heckles as he was handed the microphone and asked “what genocide?”. 

Responding to a heckler, he said: “I do not care, sir,” adding: “Israel  is attempting to wipe out an organisation that will never, ever compromise” which received some applause from the audience. 

Jo Mowat from the Scottish Conservatives, who is an Edinburgh City Centre councillor, said: “A ceasefire requires both sides to lay down their weapons and agree not to kill the other side. So until Hamas can make that commitment, we can’t expect there to be a ceasefire.” 

An audience member interjected asking if she thought Israel should make the same commitment, to which she replied: “Yes, both sides should make that commitment so we can deliver a two-state lasting peace.” 

While Liberal Democrat candidate Mike Andersen said: “We want those who have committed atrocities to be investigated and held responsible for their actions. 

“Furthermore we want the UK to stand on the right side of history on this and that’s why we also support an immediate ban on the sale of weapons to countries that do not uphold human rights.” 

Another hot topic during the two-hour hustings was net zero and how the country should make the transition to cleaner energy. 

“How will your party prioritise and fund practical measures to address this?” candidates were asked. 

Touting one of her party’s flagship manifesto promises, Ms Gilbert highlighted Labour’s commitment to delivering GB Energy “which will be a publicly-owned energy company that will invest £8.3 billion of public investment in that to partner with the private sector to deliver better green jobs”. 

She added under a new Labour government there would be no new oil and gas licenses, the use of onshore wind doubled and solar power tripled. 

Ms Brock said nuclear power was not a viable option currently. “There are about 80 examples of nuclear modular reactors in production at the moment but nothing actually working at this time. It will be 10 years before that comes on stream,” she said. 

“In the meantime, we could be investing in wind, solar, in tidal and also retrofitting insulation into our leaky houses. Actually reducing our reliance on energy is a really important way forward as well.” 

Earlier in the debate Mr Melville said he was “unique” among all candidates “because we don’t agree with things like net zero”. Responding to the question, he called it “nonsense”. 

He added: “I do not believe there is an issue with carbon dioxide levels, I think they are overstated as a factor of the changing climate. 

“Are we accelerating it? yes. Should we deal with environmental degradation? yes. But I am not certain I want to go down the net zero path which will lead to the job losses of all the tens of thousands of people in the North Sea, all the people working in power stations and all the industries we have simply offshored.” 

Mr Andersen – a self-described “accidental politician” who moved to Scotland from South Africa a few years ago – said: “A lot of people are doing their best and are trying what they can and we need to be there to support that move. 

“We need to move towards net zero which we have set a target of 2045, we also want to move towards zero emission by 2030 and put a lot more charging points around to make electric cars more affordable to people. 

“We want to help people in their homes with heat pumps and solar so we want to be there to help people to make the decisions and choices they can to help to the environment.” 

Ms Mowat said the Tories “have committed to net zero” and “how we get there without ruining the economy”. 

She added: “There’s no point in having no economy and net zero.” 

They were then questioned if they had led by example by changing their own gas boilers to a more energy efficient system such as a heat pump, however while some said they were exploring options none had yet taken that step. 

Hopefuls were then asked if their party would scrap the controversial policy introduced by the UK Government in 2017 that limits the amount of benefits families can receive if they have more than two children. The Institute for Fiscal Studies says this has helped drive up the number of children in large families who are in poverty from 35 per cent in 2014 to 46 per cent in 2022. 

Ms Gilbert said: “We oppose it, we are right to oppose it and will continue to oppose it.” 

However she added: “It’s not written into the manifesto… that alone will not be enough to lift hundreds of thousands of children out of poverty. 

“We have a commitment in this manifesto to look at Universal Credit and as part of that that will also lift children out of poverty along with the new deal for working people which will lift 200,000 families out of poverty.” 

Taking aim at Labour’s position Ms Brock said the party retaining the two-child benefits  cap, but removing the cap from bankers’ bonuses “sends quite a strong message to people about where Labour’s priorities are”. 

She said: “I think the Scottish Child Payment the Scottish Government has been brought in – and which has been lauded by organisations like Joseph Rowntree – is making a huge difference to child poverty statistics. 

“The two child benefit cap is likely to see many hundred thousand more children slide into poverty as a result of it, it has to be stopped.” 

Mr Andersen said: “A lot of people are one pay check away from poverty, we need to be there with a safety net for that, so the simple answer to the question is we would scrap the two child limit, we’d scrap the benefit cap and we would remove the bedroom tax.” 

Keeping things concise, Ms Mowat said: “No we don’t plan any changes to these policies” which was met with some cries of “shame” from the audience. 

And Mr Melville said Reform “have not made any commitment either way”. 

He added: “Is it wrong? It’s probably wrong but at the same time can the country afford to make the change? That has to be looked at because that’s what grown up politicians have to do.” 

All candidates standing in Edinburgh North and Leith are:  

• Scottish Liberal Democrats – ANDERSEN, Mike 
• Scottish National Party (SNP) – BROCK, Deidre 
• Scottish Family Party – Defending Traditional Values – DEEPNARAIN, Niel 
• Scottish Labour Party – GILBERT, Tracy 
• Socialist Labour Party – JACOBSEN, David Don 
• Reform UK – MELVILLE, Alan Gordon 
• Scottish Conservative and Unionist – MOWAT, Joanna 
• Scottish Greens – O’NEILL, Kayleigh Ferguson 
• Communist Party of Britain – SHILLCOCK, Richard Charles 
• Independent – WATERLOO, Caroline 

By Donald Turvill Local Democracy Reporter 

Sports brand, adidas, will open a new store at Fort Kinnaird on Friday.

The new 11,000 sq ft store, located near to TK Maxx, Hotel Chocolate and Pandora, is the brand’s first ‘The Pulse’ store in the UK, giving visitors the chance to shop a broad range of adidas’ most popular products.

This includes everything from trainers and gym wear to running gear and accessories. The new Pulse store reflects commercial demand and consumer need. From uplifting design treatments to digital content, Pulse sets a new benchmark across the adidas retail store landscape without compromising on the well sought after product our consumers love.

The grand opening of our new store promises to be a memorable experience, with a lively atmosphere featuring a DJ to entertain shoppers. Consumers can enjoy branded snacks and receive branded bags upon purchase while having the chance to win exciting prizes and gift vouchers.

Liam Smith, centre director at Fort Kinnaird, said: “It’s incredibly exciting that adidas has chosen Fort Kinnaird as the first location in the UK to open its new Pulse store. It’s no secret how popular the brand is and we have no doubt the store will prove to be successful with our shoppers – whether they’re looking for a pair of new trainers or getting some of the latest gym wear.

“It’s a really exciting time for us, with Mango also opening recently, our different options for fashion are really growing.”

adidas will join Next, Pandora, H&M and JD Sports already based at the centre.

www.fortkinnaird.com

The council runs the election count and has advice on how to vote on its website.

If you applied for a postal vote by 7 June, then it will have been posted out and should arrive soon if you have not already received it.

If you applied for a postal vote between 8-19 June it will be sent out by this weekend. Further information can be found on the council website.

Please fill your postal vote in as soon as possible once you receive it and post it back to the address on the envelope.

When filling out your postal vote if you have separated the statement from envelope the advice is that this is not an issue – just send everything back in the envelope – and while the advice is to use black ink, don’t worry about using blue ink.

If you need a proxy vote, where someone votes on your behalf, the deadline for new applications is tomorrow Wednesday 26 June at 5pm. Guidance on proxy votes is available on the council website.

If you are going to vote in person, this is the first UK General Election where voters must show a form of photo identification (ID) to cast their ballot. A list of approved forms of ID and information on how to obtain a free Voter Authority Certificate are also available on the website.

The deadline to apply for a Voter Authority Certificate to vote in the 2024 General Election is also tomorrow Wednesday 26 June at 5pm.

There is a full list of candidates standing in Edinburgh’s five parliamentary constituencies here.

Two teenagers aged 17 and 18 and a 54-year-old man have been arrested following a serious assault on Great Junction Street Edinburgh  which took place around 10.05pm on Monday. 

As a result of the incident two men, both aged 35, were taken to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary for treatment. 

Enquiries into the incident are ongoing and officers remain in the area.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Around 10.05pm on Monday, 24 June, 2024, we received a report of two men seriously injured in the Great Junction Street area of Edinburgh. 

“Emergency services attended and a 35-year-old man was taken to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh for treatment. 

“The second man, also 35, was traced a short time later at Bellevue Place and taken to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh. 

“A 17-year-old male youth and two men, aged 18 and 54, have been arrested in connection with the incident and drug offences. 

“Enquiries are ongoing. 

“Officers remain in the area and anyone with any information or concerns can approach these officers.” 

Hibs midfielder Dan MacKay has joined Partick Thistle on a free transfer. 

Since joining the Hibs in summer 2021, MacKay has gone on to make seven competitive appearances for the Club, scoring one goal. 

MacKay has spent the majority of his time out on loan.  

Initially he was with Kilmarnock FC before spending the 2022/23 season at Inverness Caledonian Thistle – where he scored five times in 40 appearances for the Championship side.  

Last season he turned out 29 times for Livingston in the Premiership, having five goal contributions. 

A Hibs spokesperson said: “Everyone at the Club wishes Dan the best of luck for the future.” 

The leader of the Scottish Conservatives has said his party will “absolutely” cut the number of homeless people in Edinburgh if it wins the election. 

Douglas Ross said homelessness was “one of the biggest issues” – despite not mentioning it in his speech unveiling the Scottish Tory manifesto in Edinburgh on Monday, June 24. 

Speaking to the Local Democracy Reporting Service after the launch he said it was a “blight” in the capital, where there are now a record 5,000 households registered as homeless, “and indeed many other parts of the country.”  

While the number of people in the city without a permanent residence has soared by more than 50 per cent under successive UK Conservative governments since 2010, the manifesto lays the blame firmly at the door of the party which has held power at Holyrood even longer. 

“Scotland is facing a housing emergency caused by the SNP,” it says, citing the Scottish Government’s rent cap “backfiring just like we warned it would”, and a failure to build enough affordable homes. 

So after almost a decade and a half in power what would the Tories do in the next parliament to end homelessness once and for all in Edinburgh? 

Mr Ross said the key was to strengthen links between the government and local councils “to make sure there are properties available for people to get into housing and to get out of homelessness”. 

He said: “One of the things we’ve seen is people who are continually becoming homeless don’t get the support they need from every local authority across Scotland.” 

In terms of concrete steps, the manifesto proposes setting up a “Scottish Housing Delivery Agency to increase builds of all types, especially affordable homes”. 

It includes a promise to “build more homes, while ensuring the Green Belt is protected”. 

However construction would only take place “where there is clear community consent” – a position which critics argue would prevent the level of housebuilding needed to be progressed. 

The party also wants to set up a “national Housing First programme” which it says could work to “end homelessness in Scotland”. 

Mr Ross said: “What we’ve got in the manifesto is a commitment to roll-out that scheme across all 32 local authorities to tackle homelessness because it’s not just the individuals themselves but it’s the families that are affected.” 

Asked if he could guarantee a vote for the Scottish Conservatives would bring homelessness down in Edinburgh, Mr Ross replied: “Yes, absolutely, we’ve got to focus on this issue. It’s a blight here in Edinburgh and indeed many other parts of the country.” 

By Donald Turvill Local Democracy Reporter