Strict licensing rules are stifling investment in Edinburgh’s hospitality industry, councillors warned.

Edinburgh’s pubs and restaurants have called for greater flexibility over opening and closing times, as the council reviews its alcohol licensing policy.

Trade representatives were speaking at a meeting of the Edinburgh Licensing Board to gauge views on possible policy changes, at the City Chambers on Friday.

Currently on-sales premises can open between 9am and 1am, with later hours for casinos and venues offering entertainment.

Attendees at the session said giving business more freedom over terminal hours would be welcomed as they continue to recover from the pandemic and investors look to the Capital for opportunities.

Niall Hassard, licensing solicitor for TLT, said: “What a lot of clients require, and certainly what we’re being told, is flexibility.

“Terminal hours without any duty to trade mean people can choose when to stay open to within the permitted hours and we’re seeing increasingly, not just from the back end of Covid but also the cost of living and cost of energy, a real sea change in the hours that people are actually choosing to trade.

“Lots of premises aren’t trading right through to the maximum terminal hours on a regular basis – they need the flexibility to be able to do that, but frankly some of them can’t afford the staff, heat, provide energy throughout that period.”

Caroline Loudon, also from TLT, added: “When we explain the constraints of the Edinburgh policy and the Edinburgh hours that is a turn off for investment and certainly I’ve had many requests from restaurateurs predominantly to go until much later in the night to be able to service people who are still out beyond one o’clock in the morning.”

She said: “We’ve got investment coming to Scotland from down south and these people that are coming up have a very different idea as to what they should be able to operate to.”

Paul Togneri from the Scottish Beer and Pub Association said: “Businesses in Scotland just now are really struggling for that investment, it’s a bit of a hangover from the pandemic and the restriction that we had here which lasted longer than elsewhere in the UK.”

Director of Caledonian Heritable Graeme Arnott added:”The costs of staffing and of utilities, I think since Covid there’s been a sea change in people’s habits.

“Certainly going out later seems to be not the norm and outlets need the flexibility that when the trade is there they can basically accommodate it.”

The council’s public consultation on alcohol licensing rules, which are reviewed every five years, was completed in December. The new policy must be agreed and published by November.

by Donald Turvill Local Democracy Reporter

The Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) is a public service news agency. It is funded by the BBC, provided by the local news sector (in Edinburgh that is Reach plc (the publisher behind Edinburgh Live and The Daily Record) and used by many qualifying partners. Local Democracy Reporters cover news about top-tier local authorities and other public service organisations.

One of the UK’s most stylish racecourses is laying on a fun-filled Easter Saturday celebration – with families urged to snap up tickets as kids go free.

The event at Musselburgh Racecourse next weekend will have an abundance of activities and entertainment – with Judy Murray named as the official starter of the 1pm ‘Mini Queen’s Cup’, a race which will include children from Links Nursery donning their best jockey outfits and riding Happy Hopperz on the course.

When accompanied by an adult, children under 17 can attend the event and take part in all activities for free, including fairground rides, arts and crafts stations, an Easter Bunny and over 900 free creme eggs on offer throughout the day.

Amy Black, Manager at Links Nursery, said: “We feel honoured to have the privilege to take part in this amazing event. In previous years the feedback from the families has been extremely positive. It is a fun filled, well organised event for children and adults of all ages and we are looking forward to taking part again this year.”

As well as a day filled with prestigious racing, a venue-wide Easter hunt will also be on the cards, encouraging attendees to search high and low for special envelopes located around the racecourse. Individuals who find these gems will win tickets to future race days.

With a dedicated area for kids, the ‘Clip Clop Zone’, will feature the iconic ‘Nee Naw Pizzeria’ set up by two Edinburgh firefighters who converted an old fire engine into a fit-for-purpose kitchen, among other top street food vendors.

Aisling Johnston, Marketing Manager at Musselburgh Racecourse, said: “The team has been working hard to ensure Musselburgh Racecourse is the place to be this Easter.

“Whether you are looking for a family day out or to celebrate a special social occasion with friends or are a racing enthusiast – there is a host of activities, entertainment and food vendors to please all interests, making it the perfect destination for a fun bank holiday weekend.”

The racecourse’s Easter extravaganza will also see the highly-popular Corgi Derby back by popular demand, with 16 Pembroke Welsh Corgis set to take on the course.

A distant relative of the Queen Elizabeth II’s Corgis, Paddy, will be taking his position on the start line for his final Derby before retirement. The race commences at noon.

Claudia Breen, proud family member of Paddy, said: “What better way to announce Paddy’s retirement than to take part in a world famous Corgi Derby.

“Paddy is a friendly wee dog who loves to take part in fun events but it is time he started to take things easy. We have grown up together and will both celebrate our 10th birthday next month.

“The common denominator between Paddy and Queen Elizabeth II corgis was through her hope to introduce a new bloodline and contacted the world renowned breeder of Welsh Corgis Mrs Mary Davies. Paddy’s mother, father granddad and grandma were all Mary Davies corgis.”

Purchasing a ticket before midnight on the 7th April will result in a saving of £5 per person. On the

day gate admission will be £35. Children 17 years and under go free.

Gates open at 11:30am, with the first race at 13:50pm and the last race at 17:20pm.

Times are provisional and can be found here: https://www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk/fixtures

Book tickets here.

The coffee scene in Edinburgh is expanding all the time. Dot Coffee on Ferry Road is one of a plethora of good new places that have emerged.

Sitting directly opposite Leith Library and Leith Theatre, it’s part of a rapidly changing area. A number of interesting new businesses have recently taken over premises here.

Dot Coffee is part of Sierra Metro, a creative space and gallery. Dot Coffee therefore has a dual function; to caffeinate the creatives based at Sierra Metro, as well as those popping in.

For the general public, Dot Coffee is primarily focussed on takeaway customers, though some seating is available for those needing to shelter from any inclement weather. The place is airy and minimalist in character. As with the best places, the coffee is prepared with patience and care. Good baristas don’t rush. The co-owners rely on their ‘really great baristas’ (Domi, Jack and Sarah) to maintain high standards. On my three visits, I’ve been served really well made coffee with the character of the beans brought out well. 

Dot Coffee is run by the  husband and wife combo of Allan and Janine Mathieson. The roots of the business lie in Sierra Metro which began as an art gallery in the old lighthouse in Granton about 15 years ago. Allan explained that ‘we were only there for a few years but there was always a desire to return’ and ‘when we found this space which was perfect for us to create a place to gather, work and connect with exhibitions, coffee and workspaces.’ Basing themselves in this area was a bit of a no-brainer as ‘Leith is such a vibrant hub for creatives and was a key factor in our decision – we love the area with so many independent businesses close by’.

Though the pair don’t have a background in specialty coffee, Janine  had worked with Machina before in a previous workplace and they ‘both really love their coffee as well as being good guys to work with’. Machina is renowned as a top-flight roaster, and acts as a leading supplier of coffee equipment. They also offer barista training and support. Machina have themselves recently expanded, shifting from their original base on Brougham Street to a superb new café on Marchmont Road. Dot Coffee have received lots of positive feedback from customers about the Machina beans they use.

Given Dot Coffee’s size, they use just one of Machina’s roasts, the signature Clockwork. It’s a Brazilian/ Colombian blend which, when served as an espresso, has tasting notes of milk chocolate, honeycomb and malt biscuit. Clockwork offers great body and sweetness, but also has a good level of acidity. In addition to coffee, Dot serves hot chocolate from Kokoa Collection and a basic range of teas. Their brownies are from the ‘fab’ Jani Balasubramaniam (aka Brawnies), who makes them just round the corner.

After experimenting with a few options, they hope to expand their savoury options in the coming months. Dot Coffee is an excellent new addition. It’s a great ‘pit stop’ for those using the Water of Leith Walkway, just a short distance away, and for those working in this area. 

Dot Coffee at Sierra Metro is open Monday-Friday 8.30am-2 pm and Weekends 10am-2pm.

Dot Coffee at  Sierra Metro, 13-15 Ferry Road, Leith, EH6 4AD

There are lots of things to do from 1 April onwards at our National Museum on Chambers Street.

Exhibitions & displays 

Bernat Klein: Design in Colour 
Until 23 Apr 2023
Exhibition Gallery 2, Level 3
Free entry

Marking the centenary of his birth, Bernat Klein: Design in Colour celebrates the work of the influential émigré textile designer. Visitors will be able to explore Klein’s creative process and varied career, from providing couture fabrics for fashion designers to his influence on modernist architecture and interior design in the UK and Scandinavia

Find out more nms.ac.uk/Bernat-Klein-Design-in-Colour 

Doctor Who Worlds of Wonder 
Until 1 May 2023
Ticketed (concessions available)

Doctor Who Worlds of Wonder features eight zones filled with immersive, hands-on experiences. Travel through the Time Vortex Corridor, discover Sonic Screwdrivers, teleportation technology and much more in a TARDIS Tech room, and get up close with some of the series’ weird and wonderful creatures in the Monster Vault. 

Book now nms.ac.uk/Doctor-Who-Worlds-of-Wonder

The Declaration of Arbroath 
3 Jun – 2 Jul 2023 
Exhibition Gallery 2, Level 3
Free entry

The Declaration of Arbroath is a letter dated 6 April 1320 written by the barons and freeholders of the Kingdom of Scotland to Pope John XXII. The letter asked the pope to recognise Scotland’s independence and acknowledge Robert the Bruce as the country’s lawful king. Visitors will have the rare opportunity to see one of the most important documents in Scottish history – the Declaration of Arbroath.

Find out more nms.ac.uk/The-Declaration-of-Arbroath

Beyond the Little Black Dress  
1 Jul – 29 Oct 2023
Special Exhibition Gallery, Level 3 

Ticketed (concessions available)

From design classics to cutting-edge catwalk creations, this exhibition deconstructs the little black dress and examines the radical power of the colour black in fashion. The exhibition will chart a century of fashion in a series of themed, immersive displays. Iconic early pieces by Yves Saint Laurent, Dior and Jean Muir will be juxtaposed with recent looks by ground-breaking contemporary designers and brands like Gareth Pugh, Simone Rocha and Off-White. 

Find out more nms.ac.uk/Beyond-the-Little-Black-Dress

Japanese Contemporary Design
Until 30 Jul 2023
Exhibition Gallery 3, Level 1
Free entry

From striking statement jewellery to prints and porcelain vases, this new free display considers how Japanese contemporary makers have combined innovative and traditional art, craft and design elements over the past five decades. The star object is Hitomi Hosono’s A Large Pine Tree Pool, a sculptural porcelain bowl with complex hand-carving made and acquired in 2019. Further highlights include Junko Mori’s intricate New Pinecone Silver Organism, and colourful body adornments by jeweller Suō Emiko’s adapted from metalworking and engraving techniques traditionally used in the making of Japanese sword fittings.

Find out more nms.ac.uk/Japanese-Contemporary-Design

Events 

Edinburgh Science Festival 
1 – 16 Apr 2023

Two weeks of science-fuelled exploration at the National Museum of Scotland, from free interactive exhibits to family workshops and adult talks and events.

Find out more nms.ac.uk/Edinburgh-Science-Festival

Relaxed Access Evening – Doctor Who Worlds of Wonder 
18 Apr 2023 
17:30–19:30
Special Exhibition Gallery 1, Level 3
Standard exhibition entry prices apply

A relaxed after hours visit to Doctor Who Worlds of Wonder for anyone who would prefer a calmer visit to the exhibition. During this opening, numbers will be reduced and wherever possible, sounds will be lowered and light levels adjusted to provide a more relaxed experience. A quiet, breakout space will also be available. 

Book now nms.ac.uk/Relaxed-Access-Evening-Doctor-Who-Worlds-of-Wonder

Empire of the dead: Commonwealth War Graves Commission, Scotland 
19 Apr 2023 
18:00 – 20:00 (lecture begins at 18:30) 
Auditorium, Level 1 
Free (booking required)

In this public lecture, the Commonwealth War Graves Commission’s Official Historian, George Hay, will explore the Empire of the dead – the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, Scotland, and the birth of modern commemoration. The event is part of the Royal Society of Edinburgh-funded Second World War Studies Network (Scotland).

Book now nms.ac.uk/Empire-of-the-dead

Discovering Decorative Arts at the National Museum of Scotland 
20 Apr – 22 Jun 2023 
11:00-13:00 
In the museum galleries 
£155 for 10 sessions (concessions available)

National Museums Scotland are delighted to host a new term of University of Edinburgh Short Courses including this ten-week course that will introduce the magnificent arts collections within the National Museum of Scotland. Exploring the historical developments of decorative arts and how they have influenced modern methods and techniques used to create many beautiful objects on display in the museum.

Book now nms.ac.uk/Decorative-Arts

Edinburgh International Children’s Festival Family Encounters Day 
27 May 2023 
10:00 – 16:30 
Grand Gallery (and beyond) 
Free, some performances may require sign up on the day

The 2023 Edinburgh International Children’s Festival with Family Encounters returns with a day of free pop-up performances, artist interventions and activities for the whole family.

Find out more nms.ac.uk/Edinburgh-International-Children’s-Festival-Family-Encounters-Day

National Museum of Flight 
East Fortune Airfield, East Lothian, EH39 5LF 
Open daily 10:00 – 16:00

Conservation Hangar Tours 
8 Apr 2023 – 31 Mar 2024 
Free with museum admission 
Booking required

See behind the scenes of the work carried out in the museum’s Conservation hangar with a guided tour and find out more about objects from the collection that aren’t normally on display.

Book now nms.ac.uk/Conservation-Hangar-Tours

Operation Sabotage 
14 & 15 Apr 2023 
Age 14+ event
Ticketed

Operation Sabotage is an escape room experience for 4-8 people that lasts up to an hour. Working together as a team, visitors must race against the clock in two Second World War-themed rooms to decipher the identity of the saboteur before it’s too late.
 
Book now nms.ac.uk/Operation-Sabotage

Test Flight 
10 –14 Apr 2023 
11:00 –16:00

Nearly 120 years ago the Wright Brothers flew the first powered and controlled aeroplane. Visitors can follow the Wright brothers and design their own aeroplane, drawing inspiration from the collection at the National Museum of Flight. 

Find out more nms.ac.uk/Test-Flight

National Museum of Rural Life 
Philipshill Road, East Kilbride, G76 9HR
Open 10:00–17:00 daily

Spring Explorers 
3 – 6 Apr 2023 
10:30 – 15:30 
Free with museum admission and Annual Pass

Spring Explorer school holiday activities are back, and this time they’re all to do with Scotland’s folklore and wildlife.

Find out more nms.ac.uk/Spring-Explorers

Woolly Weekend 
20 & 21 May 2023 
11:00 – 16:00 
Free with museum admission and Annual Pass

Woolly Weekend returns to the National Museum of Rural Life. Visitors will have the opportunity to watch live demonstrations of wool-based crafts, see the Scottish Blackface flock get their summer sheering with YouTube sensation Cammy Wilson from The Sheep Game and meet alpacas as well as a variety of sheep breeds.

Find out more nms.ac.uk/Woolly-Weekend

The charity Edinburgh Leisure, who manage over 50 of the city’s sports and leisure venues, celebrates 25 years today,1st April 2023. So Happy Birthday to Edinburgh Leisure.

This body is dedicated to making a positive difference by creating opportunities for everyone to get active, stay active, and achieve more.

It has been in existence since 1 April 1998 whenTony Blair was Prime Minister, Bill Clinton was US President and Titanic was the top movie at the box office.

June Peebles, Edinburgh Leisure’s CEO said: “I’m proud of all that Edinburgh Leisure has achieved over the last 25 years and although a lot has changed in the physical activity sector and indeed within our organisation, ultimately, our vision and mission has always been about providing quality services to support the people of Edinburgh to be active and healthy.

“Depending on where people live in the city, they’re probably familiar with their local Edinburgh Leisure venue. But there’s more to us than meets the eye, with 1 world-class climbing centre; 6 golf courses; 12 superb swimming pools; 17 state-of-the-art gyms; 3 soft plays; 32 tennis courts; 141 sports pitches; and 750+ fitness classes per week.  We also manage community access to the sports facilities in the city’s 23 High Schools.

“And, while our venues are well-known, many people are less familiar with our Active Communities programme, which currently supports over 10,000 people each year affected by health conditions, disabilities, inequalities, and poverty to be and stay active. We currently deliver 22 projects across the city, helping people to lead healthier, happier, and more active lives.”

MEADOWBANK REOPENING

Over the years, there have been many highlights which include: the reopening of the new Meadowbank Sports Centre in July 2022; the refurbishment of the Royal Commonwealth Pool, reopening in 2012 in time to host the diving element of the 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games; and soon Warrender Swim Centre, will reopen once again following a refurbishment. 

Edinburgh Leisure’s employees are an important part of what makes Edinburgh Leisure special. When the charity formed in 1998, they ‘inherited’ 650 employees from the former Council’s Sport and Leisure Services department, and 58 of them still work for the charity today and have 25+ years’ service. They have many long-serving members of staff, with 59 staff having worked for Edinburgh Leisure for 15-20 years and 55 staff for 20-25 years. 

Vicki Mercer, Leisure Attendant (Schools) at Holyrood High School, Edinburgh Leisure (and previously Booking Officer and Receptionist at the old Meadowbank) who celebrated 30 years with Edinburgh Leisure on 29th March said: “I feel very lucky that I have managed to blend my role with Edinburgh Leisure and family life throughout the years as many of my former colleagues who started their families did. The flexibility of hours and roles have been fantastic. 

“Edinburgh Leisure has also played a big part in my family, whether it was coaching classes, birthday parties and the many memorable and fun outings to the old Meadowbank Sports Centre’s Fireworks Displays. Edinburgh Leisure has certainly grown over the years, just like my children.”

Commenting on why Edinburgh Leisure retains staff for such a long time, June Peebles commented: “We work in the physical activity sector which is lots of fun and our staff have a passion for physical activity and the positive impact it has on people’s lives.

“I always say it’s the people that make Edinburgh Leisure. Our company values – welcoming, caring, passionate and proud – shape the culture of Edinburgh Leisure and how we behave to each other and our customers. Edinburgh Leisure is a great place to work, and I think this contributes to why we have managed to retain so many staff with so many years of long service years between them.

“We’re operating in what continues to be uncertain and volatile times with challenging financial circumstances. Our vision remains the same as it always has been which is to provide quality services to support the people of Edinburgh to be active and healthy, and to improve the health of the city.   Wherever you’re at on the map or in life, we’ve got something to get you moving, keep you moving and feeling good.”

www.edinburghleisure.co.uk 

 
Twenty-five years of making a positive impact on the wellbeing of the city
June Peebles, CEO celebrates Edinburgh Leisure turning 25 with some long- serving members of staff and some relatively new staff members

– From L to R: Cat Wilson – Active Communities Project Officer – Ageing Well (17 years); Stephen Hughes – Volunteers Manager (14 years); Craig Ireland – Welcome Host (39 years); Perrotine Orr – Operations Director (19 years); CEO, June Peebles (38 years); Mikey Meechan – Gym Supervisor (10 years) ; Mandy McBain – Payroll Manager (43 years); Argy Ross – Health Instructor – Get Fit for Surgery (2 years) ; Ross Collins – Gym Development Manager (21 years); Sharron Ridd – Welcome Host (6 months)

Opposition parties have called for concrete plans and a better vision for Scotland’s rail services, on the first anniversary of Scotrail being brought back into public hands.

From April 1 last year, in what former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon called “a historic moment”, the Scottish Government took back the franchise from Dutch State company Abellio after it was much criticised for poor performance. A government owned company, Scotrail Trains Limited, now operates the services, overseen by a new public body, Scottish Rail Holdings Ltd.

At the time of renationalisation last year, the SNP promised to engage a wide ranging group of people in a “National Conversation” later in the spring, to decide what the new, publicly owned service would look like and develop a railway that was “affordable, sustainable and customer focussed”. Details of this delayed consultation exercise are expected to be announced this April to coincide with the anniversary of Scotrail coming into public ownership.

The first year since nationalisaton has certainly not been incident free, with nearly 80 days of disrupted rail services and an emergency timetable operating for 2 months, although similar or worse issues have affected rail services right across the UK and Scotrail disputes were resolved with an improved offer agreed, while fresh strikes continued elsewhere.

Opposition spokespeople for both Conservatives and Labour have criticised the Scottish Government for still not producing a clear plan to take things forward.

Scottish Conservative Transport Minister Graham Simpson MSP said:-

“The SNP seemed to think that nationalisation would be a magic wand that would improve rail services, but they never took the trouble actually to come up with concrete plans. As a result, rail users are still stuck with a substandard service subject to constant disruption, and taxpayers are on the hook for the bill.

“Unless Kevin Stewart plans to fail as comprehensively as Humza Yousaf did when he was in the transport minister’s job, there needs finally to be some vision for a rail service that will actually deliver for Scotland.”

Labour backed the nationalisation, but claim the SNP have “no vision, no ambition and no plan” for rail.

They point to latest figures which show the number of trains being run is still more than 10 per cent lower than pre-pandemic levels – a cut of on average 250 trains every day.

A final decision is also still to be made on results of a ScotRail Ticket Office consultation which initially proposed cutting opening times at 117 ticket offices and three ticket offices shut down altogether. The Scottish Government said the results would be announced “in due course” but have confirmed “there are no proposals for ticket office closures”.

Scottish Labour Transport spokesperson Neil Bibby said “It’s been one year since ScotRail was nationalised, but so far the SNP’s woeful lack of ambition has left our railways to decline. 

“After dragging their feet for years on nationalisation, they are now squandering the opportunity we have to deliver a railway that truly works for Scotland. 

“The SNP has no vision, no ambition and no plan for our railways – and while Ministers kick decisions into the long grass, passengers are paying the price. 

“We need a reliable and affordable rail network to drive down emissions, link up communities and revive our struggling economy.”

The SNP were approached for comment.

Twelve Scottish Government benefits including those for carers, disabled people, and low income households will increase by 10.1% from today.

As part of the government’s mission to tackle child poverty, the Scottish Child Payment was increased in November. It is now worth £25 per eligible child per week – a 150% increase in eight months.

A total of 13 Scottish Government benefits are now being delivered through Social Security Scotland, seven of which are only available in Scotland.

Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville said: “Tackling child poverty is my top priority and social security support is at the heart of that national mission.

“Scottish Government benefits including our new Winter Heating Payment, Carers Allowance Supplement and the Scottish Child Payment are making a real difference to household budgets. Our package of five family payments which could be worth around £10,000 by the time an eligible child is six is significantly more than the benefits available in the rest of the UK and vital financial support.

“The benefits we’re increasing today will help low-income families with their living costs at a crucial time, support people to heat their homes in winter, and enable disabled people to live full and independent lives.”

The Scottish Women’s Premier League (SWPL) have confirmed a partnership with Park’s Motor Group who will become an official partner of the SWPL and the deal will run until the end of the 2025/26 season. 

Park’s Motor Group will also become the title sponsor of the SWPL and SWPL 2 for the remainder of the 2022/23 season.

SWPL Managing Director, Fiona McIntyre (pictured by Malcolm Mackenzie), said: “Park’s Motor Group are huge supporters of the Scottish game, with significant history of investing in Scottish football, and, in particular, the women’s game. 

“This is another significant milestone for the women’s game in Scotland and is the first time in the history of the game that the leagues and the cup have both had title sponsorship.

“This illustrates the continued growth and progress of the game and the desire for companies to align themselves in the long-term with the girls’ and women’s game.”

In April the following notable events occurred in Edinburgh’s history.

This list is compiled for us by Jerry Ozaniec, Membership Secretary of the Old Edinburgh Club, membership@oldedinburghclub.org.uk 

After 21 years and 224 days Hal’s back to being single. But it’s all going to be fine.

Instead of getting the therapy he clearly needs, he’s made a cracking show about it. He’s lost enough weight to almost get his wedding ring off and, while he may be flying solo, he’s far from alone. He’s got his grown-up daughters, his dogs and his divorce lawyer. The fickle finger of fate has turned Hal’s life upside down but he’s sticking a finger right back at it.

The former Perrier awards nominee is one of the top touring stand-up comedians working in the UK and Ireland today, as well as being a highly accomplished writer, presenter and actor.

He’s hosted The Rugby’s On on BT Sport with Ugo Monye. He has also made several appearances on ‘Live at the Apollo’ (BBC1 & 2), ‘Have I Got News For You’ (BBC1), ‘The Royal Variety Performance’ (ITV1), ‘Would I Lie To You’ (BBC1) ‘The One Show’ (BBC1), ‘The Great British Bake Off: An Extra Slice’ (BBC2 & Channel 4) and ‘The Apprentice: You’re Fired’ (BBC2).

Hal Cruttenden will be at The Stand on 17 April 2023.

Book tickets here.

First Minister, Humza Yousaf, has reaffirmed The Scottish Government’s commitment to resetting the relationship with local authorities in a meeting with COSLA President Shona Morrison.

A New Deal for local government has been embodied in the appointment of a dedicated Minister for Local Government Empowerment and Planning, Joe FitzPatrick, who joined the meeting alongside Deputy First Minister, Shona Robison. The photos below show the meeting in progress.

The New Deal will be jointly agreed with COSLA and will provide greater flexibility over local funding and clear accountability for delivering shared priorities.

The First Minister said:“These early discussions in my first week as First Minister have been an important opportunity for me to reaffirm the Scottish Government’s commitment to working collaboratively with local government.

“Together, local and national governments work hand-in-hand to deliver on our shared priorities for the people of Scotland and the vital public services in our communities whilst recognising the considerable financial pressures across the public sector.

“Work is already underway on developing a New Deal for Local Government. We will work together, through regular and meaningful engagement, to progress this, explore a new fiscal framework for councils and reform our public services.”

COSLA President Shona Morrison said:

“I was very pleased to get a meeting with the new First Minister in his first week in office. It was both a productive and positive meeting with a range of issues discussed.

“I certainly hope we can build a strong working relationship as we jointly go about delivering for the people of Scotland.”

The report which is reproduced for you below is prepared by the council’s EdinTravel team to advise of any traffic hotspots in the city in the coming week.

If you see anything on the roads which is not on the list then let the travel team know on Twitter @EdinTravel

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

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Pupils at Gracemount High School are attending extra sessions after their normal school day in the run up to their exams thanks to an innovative partnership project at the school.

The programme run by Saturday School includes extra maths and biology tuition and has been running throughout March. Around 70 pupils receive additional tuition in these subjects in preparation for their National 5 and Higher exams.

Pupils have been attending the sessions this month receiving tuition from Glasgow-based tutor company Saturday School. Two additional Grade Booster days are planned during the Easter break and the project has been made possible through a private donation.

Head Teacher Ross Hunter explained:“Essentially what we are doing is targeting two subject areas, Maths and Biology. We’ve identified young people who would benefit from the additional support and might have barriers for studying at home.

“Our aim has been to create a supportive environment and a structured programme in school which they may not have at home. They’re able to study with their peers and get direct access to a subject expert to help prepare them for their exams.

“It’s all about further developing their knowledge, raising attainment and giving them every chance to succeed in their National 5s and Highers. The cost of private tutoring can be a barrier to many of our families so we’re doing what we can to give them that extra support to succeed.

“These additional sessions are delivered by teachers who know their subjects thoroughly and fully understand the course content so it’s a really structured revision programme which gives our young people a boost. The feedback from pupils so far has been overwhelmingly positive. They are enjoying the opportunity to return to school and appreciate the extra study opportunities made available to them. Feedback has included ‘I signed up because I’m determined to do well in my exam and wanted to take every opportunity I could get to boost my grades’ and ‘I want to improve my revision methods and make sure I keep on top of my revision load’.”

Nathaniel Nwaokoro and Aya Boudjenah, are both S5 pupils studying Higher Maths. Nathaniel said: “It’s really useful as we can take notes that we can use at home and you’re being taught how to answer the SQA questions – it’s giving me a lot more confidence for my exams.” Aya said: “It’s good revision for your exams as you’re studying regularly and having the extra classes increases your confidence and knowledge of the course.”

Photographed in Higher Maths left to right: Murron Shaw S5, Aya Boudjenah S5 and Robike Basnet S6

Pupils at Gracemount chatting with Education Convener Cllr Joan Griffiths

St James Quarter’s Edinburgh Seafood Festival has officially begun today and it will run until Sunday 2 April.

Seafood lovers came to the market this morning and were some of the first to enjoy the culinary seafood delights which will be available all weekend. Vendors include Spanish Moskito Bites, Mana Poke, SanCiro pizza and Lemon Squeezy.

There is also a pop-up from Isle of Harris Distillery and a Prosecco and Sangria Bar, and the chance to pick up Scottish fish and shellfish from  Catch of the Day fishmongers.

As well as enjoying the freshest produce from top quality vendors, guests looking to brush up on their culinary skills can enjoy a range of workshops and demonstrations, hosted by the experts on the Seafood Stage, located on Level 1, on Saturday and Sunday.

As the next part of the City Centre West to East Link (CCWEL) progresses, Haymarket Terrace will be closed to eastbound traffic from Monday until November 2023.

Haymarket Terrace between Mandala Cresent to the east of Rosebery Crescent will be closed to traffic. Westbound traffic can turn right into Coates Gardens.

The road closure is necessary as a new gas main is being put in by SGN between Coates Gardens and Rosebery Crescent. This part will only take 12 weeks but SGN has coordinated with the council to do the work now while the road is being upgraded at the same time.

Until around January 2024 there will be public realm works to complete with resurfacing of pavements and the construction of a segregated cycleway. Businesses on Haymarket Terrace have been contacted by representatives from Balfour Beatty and SGN to ensure they have access when they need it during the construction period.

TRAFFIC DIVERSION ROUTE

A diversion route for eastbound traffic will be by way of Magdala Crescent, Eglinton Crescent, Palmerston Place, Lansdowne Crescent, and Grosvenor Street.

Bus stops and taxi ranks, will be repositioned which has been agreed with Lothian Buses and taxi organisations.

• Westbound bus stops will remain in place at Haymarket Station area.
• Eastbound bus stops will be relocated to Magdala Crescent (northbound) and Grosvenor Street (southbound)
• Taxi rank relocates to Dalry Road and Morrison Street
• Loading bays will be retained on Haymarket Terrace for businesses there, or alternatively on Coates Gardens and Rosebery Crescent.

A two-way segregated cycle route along the northern side of the A8 from Murrayfield Gardens to Haymarket is phase 2 of CCWEL now that construction at Roseburn is almost complete.

The scheme includes works on all side road junctions and a number of nearby streets including

• Murrayfield Place
• Roseburn Place
• Roseburn Crescent
• Roseburn Gardens
• Roseburn Street 
• Russell Road.
• Haymarket Terrace

Improvements will include:

• raised table entrances at side roads
• toucan crossings
• realignment of Russell Road at Roseburn Street
• segregated footway / cycleway
• advanced cycle stops lines
• parallel zebra crossings
• on-road cycle lanes
• building out into the road to reduce carriageway width
• contra-flow cycle provision on side roads
• public realm improvements at Murrayfield Place/Old Coltbridge and Haymarket Terrace at the Apex Hotel.

The CCWEL is a multi-million pound project to connect Roseburn with Leith Walk through the city centre with a direct cycle route which will give more room to anyone walking, wheeling or cycling. This route will also link with the off-road cycle network and transport interchanges. You can see all the general drawings by clicking here.

Following many sell-out performances in London’s West End, Dame Judi Dench is bringing her show ‘I Remember It Well’ to Edinburgh in August.

It will provide a rare opportunity to see one of the world’s best-loved actresses back on stage and will allow Dame Judi to look back at a career spanning almost six decades.

She will share previously unheard stories from her phenomenal life with author and broadcaster Gyles Brandreth.

When asked about the name of the show, Dame Judi replied: “Because sometimes I don’t remember it at all…”

Gyles Brandreth said: “Judi Dench is incredible. She loves doing new things – especially things she’s never done before.  When she heard I was going to be in Edinburgh in August, she said, “That sounds rather fun, can I come, too?” As an Edinburgh Festival veteran, there’s no friendlier or more fun audience in the world.  It’s going to be awesome. These days, Judi appears on screen all the time, but we very rarely see her on stage. This is going to be something unique and very special. She’s determined to give Edinburgh a show to remember. She won’t just be telling fun stories. She is promising us some Shakespeare and some singing as well. Don’t miss it.”

This one-off special live show comes to the Edinburgh Playhouse on 8 August 2023.

Tickets here.

Gyles Brandreth and Dame Judi Dench

The Isle of May, a National Nature Reserve, opens to the public on Saturday.

Under the management of NatureScot the island has been closed to help protect seabirds from avian flu. The Scottish Avian Influenza Taskforce led by NatureScot has worked during the last twelve months to understand and learn more about the virus.

As a result of this there will be security measures in place to keep disruption to the birds on the Isle of May to a minimum. This will include disinfecting footwear and restricting access to certain areas. Visitors will be asked to stay on designated paths during their time on the island.

In the spring there are more than 80,000 pairs of birds nesting on the Isle of May including more than 40,000 puffins. The high west cliffs are home to guillemots, razorbills, shags and kittiwakes, while more than 1,200 female eider ducks nest across the reserve.

NatureScot reserve manager David Steel said: “We’re really looking forward to welcoming people back to enjoy the Isle of May, which is a really magical place in spring as thousands of seabirds return to this important wildlife reserve.

“It was heart-breaking to see the impact that avian flu had on colonies around our coasts last year and while a difficult decision, closing the island was the right thing to do to protect our seabirds.

“While we don’t yet know what impact the virus has had on the birds that nest here, we hope that this will be a better year for them. We ask that visitors help us to help them by following the biosecurity measures that will be in place, and would like to thank boat operators for their support in implementing this.”

There are boats which travel to the Isle from both the southern and northern coasts of the Firth of Forth:

May Princess (sails from Anstruther)

Osprey Anstruther (rib) (sails from Anstruther)

Scottish Seabird Centre (rib) (sails from North Berwick)

Bluewild (sails from Dunbar)

The parish minister at St David’s Broomhouse Parish Church in Edinburgh led the funeral service this afternoon for Andrew McKinnon who died this month while playing football at school.

Reverend Michael Mair described the teenager as fun loving, fiercely loyal to his friends and deeply loved by his family.

He said the 15-year-old’s death on the pitch at nearby Forrester High School on 14 March left the close-knit local community deeply shocked.

He said people immediately rallied round his devastated family who say they have been overwhelmed by the amount of love, generosity and kindness shown.

Scores of people of all ages gathered at the church for the funeral service which was followed by service of thanksgiving for Andrew’s life at Warriston Crematorium.

Mr Mair said: “When the news broke that Andrew had collapsed and died while playing football at school with close friends, there was a deep sense of shock, sadness and disbelief that something like this could happen to someone so young.

“We opened the doors of our church that night because we wanted to provide a place for people to gather, light a candle and reflect on this terrible tragedy and we were overwhelmed by the outpouring of grief from his friends and family.”

Mr Mair described Andrew as a “lovable rogue” who was loving and affectionate and unafraid of showing and telling people how he felt about them.

“To his friends he was fiercely loyal and hated injustice,” he added.

“He was always willing to back them up and stand with them in whatever challenge lay before them.

“When Andrew collapsed, he had just finished playing a game of football with some close friends and it is testament to their friendship that they refused to leave his side.

“To the community at large, he was a lad with a cheeky smile, always with a football under his arm or by his feet and up to some kind of mischief which was never with malice.”

Andrew, who was a member of Salvesen Community Football Club for 10 years, is survived by his sisters Aimee and Rachel, mother, Janine Dow, father Andrew MacKinnon, and stepfather Gary Weir.

Mr Mair said the schoolboy played as a defender and was a passionate Heart of Midlothian Football Club fan and there was not a chant that he did not know and which he would sing with his “heart and soul”.

“He was proud to be a season ticket holder and his family say that his only regret would have been not seeing them when they won a major championship,” he added.

“It is a time of great sadness for all those who love him as they try to come to terms with his loss.

“Family, football, friends and his girlfriend were the most important things in Andrew’s life, according to his mates.

“He enjoyed singing and dancing, he was precious and irreplaceable.

“Our hearts are broken this day.

“The family have been overwhelmed by the great show of love and affection that the community of Broomhouse has shown for Andrew.

“His death has left a large hole and people have responded by really making an effort to show just how much he was valued and appreciated.”

Mr Mair said a GoFundMe online fundraising campaign for the family has raised more than £30,000 so far.

“Last weekend, some of Andrew’s friends arranged a car wash, raising £1,000 so that they could contribute towards a memorial for him,” he added.

“The family have been strengthened and comforted by the small acts of kindness that people have shown from all walks of life and they are deeply grateful to everyone

“As we say farewell to Andrew, we will reflect on all that he has meant to us, all he means to God and all of the ways that he has impacted our lives.

“We pray for comfort and for peace in our hearts.”

A book of remembrance has been opened to enable people to record their memories of Andrew and send messages of condolence to his family.

Andrew with his two sisters PHOTO © Janine Dow

Responding after hosting a roundtable in the Scottish Parliament on Education Reform, Lothian MSP, Foysol Choudhury said:

Housebuilding firm Stewart Milne Homes which is building houses at Shawfair, has donated £1,000 to Danderhall and District Guerrilla Gardeners who are just beginning to create a new community garden close to the local Coop.

The new hedgerow being planted there will create private space. There will also be some seasonal planting.

The local gardening club has existed since 2020 and has already created several attractive spaces, but they are now enlisting the help of local pupils at Danderhall Primary School. The pupils help out one hour a week and learn about nature and practical gardening skills.

Stewart Milne also donated starter gardening packs last year for the pupils to use. The funding also covered the cost of wildlife habitats including hedgehog homes and bird boxes as well as high viz jackets for the youngsters to wear when out and about.

The gardening group has also been assisted by the Royal Caledonian Horticultural Society who send an education officer twice a month advising the club on its plans and keeping the pupils entertained if the weather does not allow outdoor activity.

Helen Dougan, member of Danderhall & District Guerrilla Gardeners, said: “We are very proud to have fostered a strong relationship with the local primary school and we are grateful to the staff who encourage pupils to get outdoors alongside us to help make meaningful impact within the community.

“It makes it all worthwhile when we see the eagerness from the kids to get outdoors, enjoy the fresh air and learn new skills that we hope they will use throughout their lifetime. The funding from Stewart Milne Homes is a great help to accelerate our new community garden that will be a welcome addition to local residents, providing a new space for people to get outdoors, relax and take time for themselves.”

Laura Tough, marketing manager for Stewart Milne Homes, said: “It was fantastic to visit Danderhall to meet with the group and pupils who are helping to enhance the already vibrant village. Helping to support an initiative that puts wellbeing and skills development at its heart is incredibly rewarding and I am proud to see how our contribution is helping the group continue its mission. 

“At Stewart Milne Homes, our ethos is rooted in creating people shaped places that uphold the very best of flexible and modern-day living. Our nearby development, Shawfair, has been designed with a people-first approach with plentiful pockets of green space and active travel links woven into the design, complementing the efforts of the Danderhall & District Guerrilla Gardeners to create an attractive place to call home.”

Danderhall Primary School pupils helping to create the new community garden

Indi (9), Struan (9) Laura Tough and Mariam (9) above

Struan (9), Laura Tough of Stewart Milne Homes and Mariam (9) helping to create the new community garden

Edinburgh Whisky hosted a gathering at Bonnie & Wild in St James Quarter with guests who came to celebrate their launch. 

This was an experiential event, surrounded by the scents, sounds and tastes of Scotland with thanks to The Drinks Bakery and Neom Organics for their contributions – an evening of discovery with tales, tastings and canapés.

Drinks aficionados from Edinburgh gathered to sample drams from Edinburgh Whisky’s launch ‘Discovery’ Collection which includes quality Single Malts from Speyside, Islay and the Highlands. Ending with a drop in to the White Heather Ceilidh Club, guests joined 250 others in St James Quarter for a fling, dance and another dram to conclude the evening. 

Edinburgh Whisky is a family run business which matures and bottles “only the most distinguished of dram”.

Guest, Gareth Croll from the National Whisky Festival, said: “The event was fantastic, we enjoyed all the different experiences. The choice of venue really shows off Scotland’s culinary values and expertise. As someone who runs national whisky events and knows that small independent bottlers are the future, I can see this brand is going to do exceptionally well.”

A spokesperson for Edinburgh Whisky said: “it was brilliant to bring everyone together and see them enjoying the products we’ve been working so hard on.”  

Retailing from £49.95, Edinburgh Whisky is available to shop online now at www.edinburghwhisky.com as well as from select retailers all over Scotland.

The Royal Blind School in Edinburgh has been working with European vision impairment education experts to create a catalogue of objects which can be 3D printed.

The experts from Germany, Spain and Holland visited the school this week to take the project one step further. The research began in 2020 to design objects especially for those with visual impairment, and the database of designs will be shared on a website for all professionals to use in June 2023.

Lauren Lockhart, the Royal Blind School’s Depute Head Teacher, explains: “We’ve come up with 25 objects that are specially designed for learners with vision impairment. Being able to touch and feel a 3D model helps a learner with vision impairment to understand an object and fill in those conceptual gaps. This is part of the future of vision impairment education, we are at the forefront of this, which is very exciting.

“We’ve focused on objects that someone who has been blind from birth might never be able to touch; objects that are too large, too small, too dangerous or too fragile for someone to handle. For example, a monument like the Arc De Triomph is too large. A microorganism or a human cell is too small, a porcupine or a snake is too dangerous, and an object like a human body organ – a heart or a lung air sac – is too fragile to handle. 

“The idea is any vision impairment professional can go to the website and use a 3D printer to print the object directly from there. They don’t have to do any designing because we’ve already done that work. All the designs are being tested with learners with vision impairment.

“We’ve done lots of EU-funded projects in the past and have been part of a huge network of vision impairment professionals. This project has been hugely beneficial for everyone because although we’re working in such a specialist area, we can draw on the expertise of other organisations. 

“The website will also have advice on how to 3D print, and how to present a 3D-printed object to a learner with vision impairment. For example, one hand should be at the base of the object as a reference point, while the other hand explores the object. That gives the learner dual feedback because they’re using both hands.”

New bus and tram fares from 2 April

From Sunday there will be new higher fares on buses and trams. This is the first time that fares have risen in three years. Adult single fares increase by 20p, while adult DAYtickets will increase by 50p.

Lothian’s season ticket, the Ridacard will also rise. For an adult 1-week advance purchase ticket then the price rises from £20 to £22, and for 4 weeks it rises by 10% from £60 to £66.

The Airlink single fare rises from £4.50 to £5.50.

These are some of the changes to adult fares.

More information about bus fares can be found here.

Tram fares also rise on Sunday, with the single fare increasing by 20p to £2. An adult return will cost £3.80. Other fare changes include this list:

Edinburgh Science taking over the capital

From Saturday Edinburgh Science Festival begins on Saturday.

Edinburgh Science Festival is setting down its roots in the city, as the 2023 edition of the Festival begins. This year’s theme – Let’s Experiment – means Edinburgh will be transformed into a living laboratory, with a jam-packed programme of hands-on science for people of all ages at 31 venues across the city.

The image above features Professor of Industrial Chemistry, Peter Tasker  interacting with Trees of Life exhibit. 

Created by Edinburgh-based We Throw Switches in collaboration with Berlin based artist Robin Baumgarten and award-winning composer and interactive sound artist Luci Holland, this specially commissioned, playable, interactive installation explores Charles Darwin’s revolutionary theory of evolution through natural selection.

It will be available to public from 1 April in the Grand Gallery of the National Museum of Scotland.

https://www.sciencefestival.co.uk/event-details/trees-of-life

New parking charges from Monday

At a special meeting of the Finance & Resources Committee on Thursday councillors agreed to raise parking charges in the city by 20%. This will mean that the council will receive an additional £800,000 in income and will allow the council to freeze other charges and waive fines for overdue library books.

Council tax rises by 4.75% as agreed by councillors in February. Other council charges will rise broadly by 11.1% in line with inflation.

Read more here.

Inchcolm Seal repaired

It is heartening to see that a big company working locally has helped out by funding a repair to a much loved sculpture in South Queensferry.

How to subscribe to our newspaper edition

The next issue of our newspaper will be on the streets on Saturday 1 April. The paper went to press this week and will be available from all the usual stockists.

Today we invite you to support The Edinburgh Reporter by buying a subscription and you will be sent the new paper as soon as it rolls off the press.

Our goal is to recruit 500 new subscribers this year. If you can will you please help us to achieve that?

Among others all branches of Farmer Autocare stock our newspapers as well as Birthlink on Lower Gilmore Place, and both Leith and Central Libraries.  And if you have a business where you would like to stock our papers then please get in touch.

If you are able to subscribe, then it helps us to keep our online coverage free to access, and also ensure the future of our newspaper for this coming year. And if you do, then thank you very much indeed.

The 2023 edition of the Edinburgh Science Festival begins on Saturday, 1 April.

This year’s theme is Let’s Experiment and Edinburgh will be transformed into a living laboratory, with a jam-packed programme of hands-on science for people of all ages at 31 venues across the city. 

One of the Festival’s flagship venues, the National Museum of Scotland, will house Trees of Life in its Grand Gallery from Saturday. This is presented as part of the Experimental Life interactive activity, and was created by Edinburgh-based We Throw Switches in collaboration with Berlin-based artist Robin Baumgarten and award-winning composer and artist Luci Holland.

Trees of Life is a specially commissioned, playable, interactive installation which explores Charles Darwin’s revolutionary theory of evolution through natural selection. It is supported by Lumo and developed with support from Creative Scotland through The Scottish Government’s Festivals Expo Fund.  

The National Museum of Scotland also hosts two themed weekends of fun for families at either end of the Festival. 

FutureFest(1-2 April) celebrates technology, robotics, artificial intelligence, coding, computers and space, offering children and families the chance to take a moment to wonder at the stars in a pop-up planetarium and create their vision for the future with LEGO® Build the Change.  

From prehistoric creatures to the cutting-edge of climate science, EarthFest (15-16 April) is a celebration of the world around us that offers the chance to learn more about our planet, the animals that live here and how we can take care of it. Learn about animal intelligence in the interactive Amazing Animals show and build your own dinosaur skeleton with giant bones. 

Humza Yousaf wore a traditional Pakistani coat, a shalwar kameez, as he took his oath of office as First Minister of Scotland. 

He is the first Asian and the first Muslim to lead our country, where 96 per cent of the population class themselves as “white”.  And at 37, he is also the youngest person to hold the job.

That in itself is not a surprise.  Mr Yousaf has been a government minister for more than 10 years, most recently as health secretary.

But the whole process of his election as first minister has been full of surprises. He won the SNP leadership race by a surprisingly small margin, 52% to Kate Forbes’ 48%, exposing divisions in the party which we outsiders were not aware of under the glittering leadership of Nicola Sturgeon.

And the shocking news that Kate Forbes is not to serve in the Yousaf government, is evidence that the divisions may run deep.  Ms Forbes was offered the job of minister for rural affairs but she turned it down. You would think if she was interested in pulling the party together, she would humbly accept any post she was offered. The third candidate in the race Ash Regan was not offered a job at all. And supporters of Kate Forbes are noticeably absent from the new cabinet.

So Humza Yousaf is striking out on his own, ignoring party divisions and sticking to his own agenda. This includes the novel concept of “welfare economics” – not yet defined but it appears to be supporting the poor by taxing the rich, or at least taxing them a little more. 

He is also keen to have ministers with politically fashionable titles: Secretary for net-zero and just transition, Minister for local government empowerment, Minister for children and keeping the promise,  Minister for victims and community safety, Minister for green skills, circular economy and biodiversity,  Minister for zero-carbon buildings and active travel and, of course, a Minister for “independence.”(Jamie Hepburn).

This led to some jolly knock-about at First Minister’s Question time. The Conservative leader Douglas Ross didn’t much care for a minister dedicated to independence while there was no discernible minister for social security or tourism. And where was the secretary for ferries and decent transport?  Humza Yousaf was a “nationalist” not a “national” leader, said Mr Ross, and his large government (28 members) were simply his lackeys.

Mr Yousaf hit back saying Mr Ross was “a third rate leader of a third rate party”.  And he made no apology for appointing a Minister for independence, “because we need it more than ever”. It was a combative performance. And that wasn’t the only surprise. Question time had to be halted five times as protestors from the public gallery shouted something about climate change.

So who is Humza Yousaf ? He was born in Glasgow, the son of Pakistani immigrants who settled in the city in the 1960s, his father eventually becoming an accountant.  He was educated at one of the city’s top private schools (Hutcheson’s Grammar – same as Scottish Labour Leader, Anas Sarwar) and went on to Glasgow University. He entered politics almost straight away as a parliamentary assistant and was elected an MSP in 2011.  He represents the Glasgow constituency of Pollok, but lives in Dundee where his wife Nadia is an SNP councillor. They have a young daughter.   

Humza Yousaf appears to be an earnest fellow. He doesn’t do campaign stunts. We know nothing about his private interests or hobbies, except that he once injured a foot playing badminton and famously fell off the scooter he was using to get around The Scottish Parliament building.  It’s been surprising how he has grown into the First Minister’s role, even in this first week.

His first electoral test, outside the party, will be the likely Westminster by-election in Rutherglen later this year. Pressure is growing on the sitting MP, Margaret Ferrier, to resign after pleading guilty to travelling on a train while knowing she had Covid at the height of the pandemic in 2020. This week, the House of Commons standards committee recommended she be suspended for 30 days, a move which could trigger a by-election.  She had a majority of just over 5,000 at the last general election when she was the SNP candidate.

As I may have mentioned, it’s been a week of surprises.

Another was Scotland’s 2-0 win over Spain in the men’s European football championships. If the Hampden roar was heard in the First Minister’s new home in Bute House, he could take it as an omen of great things to come for Scotland under his  leadership.    Unless….the goddess Fate has other plans.

The name Noah has overtaken Jack at the top of the baby name chart, according to new figures from National Records of Scotland.

Jack was the most popular boy’s name for 14 consecutive years, but instead a religious name has sailed into the top spot with 373 baby boys given the name in 2022.

For girls, the top name is Olivia, for the second year in a row. The name has been a long-term favourite holding the top spot in six of the previous seven years.

NRS Statistician Daniel Burns said: “NRS is happy to welcome all the new babies of 2022.

“A relative flood of Noahs in the last four years has saw the name leap from 8^th place to 1^st.

“There are now so many more names in use, as parents aim for something more unusual, that it takes far fewer babies to share a name for it to be high up in the charts.

“Back in the 70s when David was the most popular name there were upwards of 1,700 babies a year with the top boys name. Since then fertility has declined, meaning there are fewer births, but with more names in use Noah can claim the top spot with 373 baby boys given the name in 2022.” 

Popular culture is having an impact on the names chosen for babies.

Daniel explained: “Luca has climbed 20 places to land in 5^th place for boys, moving into the top 10 for the first time, possibly given a boost by Luca Bish appearing on Love Island.

“The name Maeve has been used in a couple of different TV shows and has grown in popularity over the past few years. Names seen on Love Island, such as Luca, Millie, Arabella and Kai have all increased since appearing on screen. Other names apparently influenced by celebrities include Lando, Tilly, Matilda and Dua.”

Daniel added :  “The latest figures also reveal  a  rise in names relating to nature , with Violet, Daisy, Ivy, Wren, Dahlia, Primrose, Oakley and River all rising. Oakley and River rose for both boys and girls.”

Finlay McFarlane is one of the City Centre ward councillors, and his newest constituent is the First Minister, Humza Yousaf, who has just moved into Bute House.

The two politicians are members of the same party, the SNP, but Cllr McFarlane has had very different life experiences to Mr Yousaf, and wanted to make him aware of this and his call to action.

So today Cllr McFarlane along with Sandy Brindley, CEO of Rape Crisis Scotland, Gary Williams CEO of Survivors UK, Ally Fogg, Chair of Men and Boys Coalition, Matthew Withey, Chair of Abused Men in Scotland, Dr Steven Maxwell Researcher in Health Sector Leadership and Tanaka Mhishi, author, campaigner and Associate Fellow at the Sexual Harms and Medical Experiences Project at University of London, have sent an open letter to the First Minister (which you can read in full below).

Cllr McFarlane has written to Mr Yousaf about sexual violence against males, which he says data proves to be as high as 47% in gay and bisexual men in the UK. But for many male survivors of child sexual abuse it can take decades for them to open up about their experiences and seek help.

Finlay refers to the 2021 SNP manifesto commitment to establish a national strategy on ending intimate and sexual violence against men and boys”, and urges the First Minister to work to establish the strategy now.

He himself is a survivor of sexual abuse when he was 18. He became determined to change things after being turned away from advisory services as they did not at that time cater for men and boys. He ended up telling his story to BBC Scotland and has received national awards for his work in this area.

Cllr McFarlane said: “Currently in the UK male survivors of intimate or sexual crimes are catered for by Violence Against Women and Girls strategies. I, and others from across the sector think this is wrong (for reasons outlined in the letter) and began to campaign for the government to establish a parallel strategy, to return VAWG strategies to their intended purpose and emulate the success of VAWG with a gendered response tailored, and understanding of, the needs of male survivors of rape, sexual assault, domestic abuse, so-called honour based violence.

“I am looking forward to working with the new First Minister to deliver this strategy that will make a huge difference for male survivors in Scotland.

“The Scottish Government has previously taken huge strides to protecting and improving outcomes for survivors. A gendered approach for men and boys, to compliment violence against women and girls’ strategies will ensure that every survivor will truly be “Equally Safe” and supported when they come forward.”

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Edinburgh Council has backed a 20 per cent hike for on-street parking charges.

Money raised by the additional income will be used to freeze some costs to residents, including those for adult burial charges and day care for the elderly and disabled.

SNP and Green councillors – who proposed the higher increase, against a 16% rise tabled by the Labour administration – said it would help to ‘alleviate the impact of poverty and reflect the true cost of driving in our city’.

However the city’s transport leader warned that the rise may not actually raise as much income as predicted – as it could deter people from parking in the city – and admitted Edinburgh was “hooked” on parking income.

Changes to parking charges will take effect from April 3.

The cost of parking in the city centre (George St, St Andrew Square, Charlotte Square, Queen St, Market St, Cockburn St) will be lifted from £5.60 per hour to £6.70.

In Stafford St and Melville St area, Morrison St to Shandwick Place and the Old Town including East Market St, the rate will increase from £4.90 to £5.90.

The West End (Palmerston Place area), Moray Place, South Side/Nicolson St, Tollcross/Fountainbridge and Heriot Row will see hourly parking fees rise from £4.10 to £4.90.

In the New Town – Northumberland St to St Stephen St and Royal Crescent – motorists will have to pay a new rate of £4.40 an hour, up from £3.70.

South Queensferry will also have charges hiked by 20% – jumping from £0.90 to £1.10.

Meanwhile in Bruntsfield, Sciennes, St Leonard’s, Dumbiedykes, Stockbridge and Dean, on-street parking charges will go up from £3.10 to £3.40 – a lower increase of 9.68%.

And the cost of parking permits for residents will increase by between 11 and 15 per cent.

The move is expected to generate £800,000 on top of the estimated £1.19m going to the council’s coffers from revised fees and charges.

The additional cash will be used to freeze rates for services including adult burials, garden aid and day care for the elderly and adults with learning or physical disabilities.

Extra income generated from parking will also halt price increases for audio and film rentals and photocopying in libraries, as well as the community alarms and telecare service which gives vulnerable residents quick access to social care support.

In addition a library fine “amnesty period” will be created with £71k to “dismantle potential barriers to continued access for adults and children” and £100k will go towards a fund for “community-led cultural projects”.

Transport and environment convener Cllr Scott Arthur took to twitter after the decision, and said: “ Any rise in parking charges will reduce the level of use (not always a bad thing). The SNP/Greens are hoping that whilst demand will fall, total income will rise.

“I think they got this wrong. Labour estimated the limit was 16%, and beyond that income would start to fall… and Edinburgh is hooked on parking income.”

by Donald Turvill Local Democracy Reporter

The Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) is a public service news agency. It is funded by the BBC, provided by the local news sector (in Edinburgh that is Reach plc (the publisher behind Edinburgh Live and The Daily Record) and used by many qualifying partners. Local Democracy Reporters cover news about top-tier local authorities and other public service organisations.

Amorist Bistro Bar in Dunfermline has created two new cocktails to celebrate Dunfermline’s proud symbol in addition to its new look with a feature wall of peacocks above its bar.

The Peacock cocktail, a delicious (naturally peacock green) blend of coconut rum, absolut vodka, pineapple juice, and Blue Curacoa, topped up with soda water, has been on Amorist’s wide-ranging cocktail menu for the past few weeks and is already proving very popular. 

Also on the menu, The Glen is named after the local name for the city’s Pittencrieff Park where the peacocks roam freely and have their own special aviary. It is a mix of Edinburgh apple and spice gin, Chambord, Lime juice, Angostura bitters and sparkling apple juice.

Owner Nihat Oymak said: “We like to offer something a bit different at Amorist, and are becoming known for our imaginative drinks, especially our cocktails, which our talented bar staff take great pride in creating.

“It’s been our pleasure to create these two new cocktails in honour of the peacocks which are synonymous with Dunfermline. We have referenced them in the bistro with our new mural which has been much admired. It’s part of a new look which also sees attractive foliage clad walls, new lighting and decoration. We want to make Amorist as Instagrammable as possible, and we hope that everyone will enjoy these new cocktails.”

www.amorist.co.uk

A centrally situated and well-equipped business centre offers many advantages to sole traders and small businesses looking to make the move from home working or expand their business operations. This one is in Fife within easy commuting from Edinburgh, offering an alternative view to working from home.

Fife Council’s Economic Development Team has announced that four new tenants have moved into the Business Incubator Kirkcaldy, situated at Mitchelston Industrial Estate, leaving a few high-quality, modern offices available to let.

Ideally aimed at office-based businesses, the units remaining are available in various sizes, from 165sq ft to 436 sq ft. These units benefit from a stepped discounted rental for the first year, with utilities included to help and support new businesses to grow. Companies need only to provide their own phone, internet and IT packages and they will be ready to trade from the centre.

The Business Incubator is situated on the outskirts of Kirkcaldy’s, in Mitchelston Industrial Estate. It has a dedicated parking area, a staffed reception, a small communal kitchen area, and offers tenants free use of its meeting rooms.

The units which are currently available are all in excellent decorative order, with the entire centre bearing a fresh and welcoming look and feel. The centre also has easy access to the A92, linking Kirkcaldy with Dundee, Edinburgh and the City of Dunfermline.

Kip McGrath Children’s Tuition, MTEC Drafting, Thistle Care Services, Pass Drive Driving Academy and Kenylink Services Ltd have all currently made the Incubator their base.

Saltire Security Products has based themselves at the Business Incubator Hub for the past fifteen years, initially starting in one of the smaller units before expanding the business and moving to a larger one.

Fiona Graham from Saltire Security Products said: “We are extremely happy here. The Incubator has offered us everything we have needed over the past fifteen years regarding modern office accommodation; hence we are still here, taking advantage of a larger office space as the business has grown. It’s a good central location here with plenty of parking. We have found the Centre to be very well run, with the very few maintenance aspects dealt with quickly and efficiently by the professional team at Fife Council.”

“We’d say to any small business thinking about moving to the Business Incubator, to go for it! You are part of a business community here and we have benefitted from word-of-mouth trade, and made other important business connections.”

Other satisfied tenants at the Business Incubator are Gerald and Janis Casserly who run their Kip McGrath Children’s Tuition business from one of the offices.

They commented: “Being situated in Business Incubator suits us perfectly for several reasons -there’s plenty of free parking right outside, which makes it easy for parents to drop off their children, plus our unit is open and bright with plenty of natural light which creates a great learning environment for our pupils. Overall, the centre is well run and very quiet, so we’d happily recommend it to other small businesses.”

Andrew Goulder from Fife Council’s Economic Development Teamcommented: “The Business Incubator is a much valued part of our business property portfolio. It’s very good news to have recently welcomed four new tenants to the local Kirkcaldy area, and we certainly are confident of attracting more in the coming months. Businesses working from home may well want to take that next step to the Business Incubator Kirkcaldy. We have the flexible package options to make that happen for them. It could take their business in a whole new direction this year.”

For information email: fifemeansbusiness@fife.gov.uk