Speedway roars back this Spring at Armadale Stadium and Edinburgh Monarchs’ fixtures are included in the 2023 Championship listings released today (Thursday, January 12) with the new BSN Series taking centre-stage in the first month of racing.

All nine clubs will be involved in the qualifying stages of the new competition throughout April with two home and two away matches in their respective groups as they bid to qualify for the semi-finals.

The official campaign at Championship level begins with the first round Knockout Cup tie between Redcar and Berwick, with the sides meeting at the Ecco Arena on Friday, March 31, and the return at Shielfield Park the following evening (April 1). The winners face Glasgow in the quarter-finals, with that stage of the competition also getting underway in April.

The race for the Championship play-offs starts on Friday, April 14 with Scunthorpe hosting the first league fixture of the season as they take on Oxford at the Eddie Wright Raceway.

Scorpions travel to Plymouth on Tuesday, May 2 and there are also early-May league fixtures for Oxford, Redcar, Glasgow and Berwick as the clubs look to secure a top-six finish which guarantees a play-off spot.

Defending champions Poole have a later start to league competition as they race their opening Championship match on Wednesday, May 24 when they face Scunthorpe.

As with the Premiership, the cut-off date for league fixtures has been set for the end of August with play-off action scheduled to begin in early September.

Of course, Monarchs include Craig Cook (pictured by Nigel Duncan) in their line-up and Edinburgh start on Friday, April 7 with a home joust against Glasgow Tigers in the BSN Series.

Monarchs then visit Glasgow on either Saturday, April 8 or Sunday, April 9 and the date will be confirmed after fixtures in Poland featuring competing riders have been finalised.

The club’s BSN Series finishes with a double-header against Berwick Bandits at Armadale on Friday, April 21 and in the Borders on Saturday, April 22.

Then the Knockout Cup starts with a quarter-final against Oxford Cheetahs away on Wednesday, April 26 and then at home on Friday, April 28. Sam Masters, last year’s Monarchs captain, is expected to be in Cheetahs line-up. League action for Monarchs starts on May 12 v Redcar.

A full list of fixtures for the 2023 season can be found on https://britishspeedway.co.uk/calendar/2023-fixtures-results/

James Hill strolled into a room at The Oriam packed with the Scottish football press anxious to hear more and the Bristol-born defender dealt with the media challenge with a calm assurance.

Hearts bosses now hope the talented, England under-21 defender can transfer that confidence onto the pitch when he makes his debut for the Jambos in the cinch Scottish Premiership.

That, of course, could come on Friday when Hearts entertain St Mirren (kick-off 19.45) and Hill, who has been training with Premiership Bournemouth’s first team for over several months, believes he is ready for the challenge of top flight Scottish football.

His family is steeped in football. His father Matt is a former professional and his brother also plays, but coming north is a new challenge for the defender who celebrated his 21st-birthday on Tuesday in the gym and in his hotel room after making the long trip from the South Coast to join the Men in Maroon.

The muted celebrations were possibly not what he had originally anticipated, but things changed dramatically when the loan deal became apparent and the former Fleetwood Town player said: “The diversity of the league is what attracted me to Hearts.”

It’s been a whirlwind week for the player who made his debut as a 16-year-old for Fleetwood Town and created history as being the club’s youngest ever player. He had admitted had been a short turn-around once he was informed about the interest from the Capital club. 

Hill (picture courtesy of Heart of Midlothian plc) said: “I had two days to get stuff out of my apartment and it is a two day journey down here. My first impressions are that this is an incredible club. I have settled in really nicely and they (players and staff) have been really welcoming and I feel like I am ready to start.”

He enjoyed his first training session with his new team-mates on Wednesday at Riccarton and confirmed he has been looking after his body even though he has not been playing regularly. His last game for Bournemouth was on December 20 at Newcastle United in the EFL Cup. Bournemouth lost 1-0.

Hill, who made his debut for Fleetwood in an EFL Cup tie against Leicester City in August 2018, aged 16, stressed: “Any opportunity I get I will take.”

It was The Cherries former manager, Scott Parker, who took the player to Bournemouth, then a Championship club, in January 2022 in a four-year-plus deal reported to be a club record £1m, and the player, was asked by the media if his career had stalled.

He replied: “In my opinion it was time to learn and develop. I made 43 appearances for Fleetwood and going to Bournemouth was a break for me, different skills and footballers there had learned things before I did and the question was: ‘Did I have the technical side?’. I think I have learned and I am ready now to implement that into the team and to see what I am capable of.”

Hill said he has been desperate to be involved first-team action in recent months and he said: “Every day is an opportunity to learn and, even though there was no place for me at Bournemouth for me to play football now, I have to be ready to take the opportunity when it comes.”

Hill was also attracted to come north after learning of the international quality players currently on Hearts’ playing staff and he said: “There are some incredible players here and there is so much I can learn from this team. I also think I can help this team and this could be a big step forward for me, taking me in the right direction.”

Hill described himself as a “very aggressive player” and he added: “I love to win and I will give it everything. I am coming in here to try and improve the team and I think this club is capable of the top three spot with the group of boys that are here. I am really looking forward to the challenge.” 

Hearts fans are looking forward to seeing this well-spoken player in action on the park and many are curious about his speciality, a long throw. He made his league debut for Fleetwood n April 2019 against Peterborough United and his long throw lead to a 95th-minute leveller. Another weapon for the Jambos, perhaps.

Following a sold-out run at Edinburgh Festival Fringe, and commissions from Hidden Door Festival and Celtic Connections last year, one of Scotland’s most sought-after harpists Esther Swift is to tour solo across Scotland this March with new original material.

A prolific, boldly innovative harpist, composer and singer, Esther works across genres as diverse as classical chamber music, traditional Scottish folk music and free improvisation.

Having studied at Edinburgh’s St Mary’s Music School, the Royal Northern College of Music, and with harp pioneer Catriona MacKay, Esther has received numerous prestigious commissions and featured in many international collaborations.

As a composer, Esther explores ritual, connection, isolation, and the natural world. She has been likened to Kate Bush, Anna Meredith and Björk, her style drawing on her folk roots and taking influence from her love of jazz, minimalism and dance music.

In recent commissions her work has centred around poetry, composing instrumental settings for work from poets such as Carol Ann Duffy, William Butler Yeats, Rachel McCrum, and Edwin Morgan.

From 11th-27th March Esther’s solo tour will see her perform across the length and breadth of Scotland, from the culture hotspot in Edinburgh to rural gems in Caithness, Letham, Skye, Uig, North Uist, Lochgilphead, and Mull. A number of the gigs are supported by Scotland on Tour, and The Touring Network’s Supported Programme, of which Esther is a supported artist.

In intimate spaces Esther will perform a programme of original and traditional compositions, with a mixture of instrumental and poetry settings for pedal harp and voice. Tickets are on sale now and can be found at www.estherswift.co.uk/gigs

Performance Dates

11 March – Assembly Roxy, Edinburgh
17 March – Lyth Arts Centre, Caithness
18 March – Letham Nights, Letham
22 March – Seall, Skye
23 March – Uig Community Centre, Uig
24 March – Taigh Chearsabhagh, North Uist
25 March – Craignish Village Hall, Lochgilphead
27 March – An Tobar, Mull

Road policing officers are appealing for information following a serious crash in Nicolson Street in Edinburgh involving a pedestrian and the driver of a bus.

The incident happened around 8pm on Wednesday, 11 January, 2023.

Emergency services were called and the pedestrian, a 51-year-old man, was taken to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh where his condition is described as critical. No one else was injured.

The road was closed for crash investigation work to be carried out and re-opened around 4am this morning.

Sergeant Jill Kirkpatrick said: “Enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances of what happened and we are asking anyone who can assist to get in touch.

“If you were in the area at the time and saw what happened or were driving and have dash-cam footage that could help with our enquiries then please make contact.”

Anyone who can help is asked to call Police Scotland via 101, quoting incident number 3101 of Wednesday, 11 January, 2023.

The Pantomime Adventures of Peter Pan, produced by the world’s biggest pantomime producer Crossroads Pantomimes, will take centre stage at The Festival Theatre from Saturday, 25 November 2023 to Sunday, 31 December 2023, and will star Allan Stewart, Grant Stott and Jordan Young.

Allan will play ‘Mrs Smee’, Grant will play ‘Captain Hook’ and Jordan will play ‘Smee’ and the trio delighted audiences this Christmas in Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.

Fiona Gibson, Chief Executive of Capital Theatres said: “This year’s panto, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, has been a huge treat on the bigger Festival Theatre stage so we can’t wait to see it transformed into Neverland this coming Christmas for The Pantomime Adventures of Peter Pan. As ever we’re delighted to welcome back Allan, Grant and Jordan – linchpins of our Capital Theatres family and beloved audience favourites who are sure to delight as dame extraordinaire Mrs Smee, the dastardly Captain Hook and Smee.”

Chief Executive of Crossroads Pantomimes, Michael Harrison said: “Allan, Grant and Jordan are an essential part of so many families’ festive celebrations in Edinburgh and we’re delighted to be announcing their return for Christmas 2023 in our brand-new production of The Pantomime Adventures of Peter Pan.

“Planning is already underway for this swashbuckling adventure and we’ll be announcing more cast for the 2023 production later in the spring.”

Allan Stewart, has enjoyed an extensive career in stand-up, music and musical theatre for a number of decades. On stage Allan has appeared in numerous Royal Variety Performances and performed to critical acclaim in the Olivier Award-winning musical Jolson the Musical. A mainstay of pantomime, Allan has appeared at the King’s Theatre in Edinburgh almost every year since 1998 and holds the venue’s record for playing Dame more times than any other actor. Last month he joined his panto co-stars in a standout cameo on BBC’s River City.

Grant Stott (pictured) is aBBC Radio Scotlandpresenter and panto veteran and this will mark his 29^th pantomime, and the 23^rd consecutive season for Capital Theatres. Grant can be heard on Grant Stott’s Vinyl Collective (BBC Radio Scotland) and plays Sam Spiller in BBC’s River City.

Jordan Young is best-known for playing bad boy Alex Murdoch in River City, a role for which he won a Best Scottish Actor award. He’s also known as PC Jack McLaren in BBC Scotland’s BAFTA-winning improvised comedy series Scot Squad.

Three private organisations, including The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland, are among groups understood to have expressed an interest in taking over Gorgie City Farm.

The operators of the farm – one of the last left in Scotland – announced recently they would have to close due to rocketing operational costs, and a lack of funding.

LOVE Learning have run the three-acre council-owned site since 2019 when the farm was also in financial difficulties. They will now walk away, with the farm closing to the public on Monday.

However, there is hope for the valued community space which holds pigs, ducks, sheep and a range of other animals, as the council confirmed that “a number of organisations” have come forward to express an interest in its future running.

It is understood these include Edinburgh Zoo, Five Sisters Zoo and East Links Family Park.

The Save Gorgie Farm Campaign was to hold a meeting on Wednesday night to discuss the way forward.

And Council leader Cllr Cammy Day said he would meet with interested parties in the coming days to “hear exactly what they have to say and their ideas for the site”.

Cllr Day added the local authority would also “look to see if there is any way of keeping the animals on site until a decision is made on its future”.

But the level of funding required to save the farm from closing for good is unlikely to be met by the council.

“The council is weeks away from setting a budget that’s being cut by £70 million by the SNP-Green government,” Cllr Day continued.

“So all the directors are struggling to fund their current priorities.

“We’re not saying the council might not put something in – of course we’ll play our part. What we couldn’t commit to is providing hundreds of thousands of pounds to any project in the city because of the dire financial situation the council finds itself in as the lowest funded council in Scotland.”

He added there were some “interested donors” who could help, alongside plans to set-up a crowd funder.

Gorgie councillor Ross McKenzie said “only the council” could rescue the farm in the short-term and added any proposals to run it as a “commercial endeavour” would “not be acceptable to the ward councillors or the community”.

“We will not be forgiven if we allow it to slip away,” he said.

“It’s vital that any new operator is committed to the values that Gorgie Farm has operated under for the past 40 years – it is a community space, an educational space, and a place where people can come to breathe and take break from urban life.

“It will be challenging to make the farm sustainable on this model, but that’s a challenge that the council has to rise to.

“The public response to the news that LOVE intend to close the farm has been overwhelming. If any of Edinburgh’s elected representatives had any doubt about the social value of Gorgie Farm then the correspondence they have received over the past week will have put them right.”

EDITOR’S NOTE – A change.org petition has attracted almost 5,500 signatures with the petitioner, Joe Jenkinson saying that the council has refused a new lease and is removing funding. Whether or not that is true is debatable and not yet checked but the farm does have an important place in the community in Edinburgh.

by Donald Turvill

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.

A by-election will be held on 9 March 2022 to elect a replacement for the former Rt Hon Lord Provost and councillor for the Corstorphine/Murrayfield ward, Frank Ross, who resigned from the council after the December council meeting.

In his last appearance, Cllr Ross made a speech in support of a financial package to be offered to the traders in Roseburn affected by the City Centre West to East Link (CCWEL) roadworks, and proposed an SNP group addendum to make such payments possible. The SNP could not accommodate any other other group’s positions at the meeting, and the outcome is that there is no discretionary support scheme set up for the businesses in Roseburn or at the site of any future roadworks projects.

This is one of the most divisive political spats in the City Chambers since the elections last May when a minority Labour administration took over running the city.

CCWEL has been divisive from its beginnings under the 2012 to 2017 administration when the Roseburn traders opposed it at every turn, saying it would lead to a reduction in business on Roseburn Terrace where the works began earlier this year. Notwithstanding claims of lost business and businesses in danger of closing, a new café has opened just recently in the space where the Conservatives had a constituency office. In addition Dine, which is situated just behind the main road, is closed at present – for a complete redecoration.

The Returning Officer, Chief Executive of the City of Edinburgh Council, Andrew Kerr, OBE, said: “Frank Ross made an important contribution to the political and civic life of the capital through his service on the Council and as Lord Provost and I wish him well in the future.”

Voters in the Corstorphine/Murrayfield ward now have a chance to make their voices heard again to elect a councillor to take his place to represent them on the Council of the city.

Candidates will be confirmed when nominations close at 4pm on 6 February.

Polling stations will be open from 7am to 10pm on Thursday 9 March

The Corstorphine/Murrayfield ward covers Balgreen, Broomhall, Carrick Knowe, Ravelston, and Roseburn and has an electorate of 19,287.

A matter for resignation

Frank Ross was fervent in his support for the businesses in his ward, but the leader of the SNP group, Adam McVey ordered that the group should abstain in the latter stages of the voting process in December, meaning that there was no hope of recompense for the traders in Roseburn – even though a source of funding had been identified.

Outlining the SNP’s counter proposal to the administration Cllr Ross said: “I think it’s clear from the addenda that we have in front of us that there is a clear majority in the chamber who want to offer support to the small traders of the town centre of Roseburn. I am a bit disappointed to hear Cllr Arthur’s words when he does talk about the two areas of Roseburn and North Bridge, because it was the Labour Party who campaigned in May to offer compensation to the traders in Roseburn, but decided not to campaign for a similar project on North Bridge. I find it difficult that they are now bringing these together.

“But I am delighted that the report has managed to find a source of funding which will not negatively impact other projects – as this was a key element of the decision taken earlier by this council.

“In the report itself it consistently refers to Roseburn Terrace which as we all know is the main thoroughfare entering the city centre. But it completely ignores the impact on the small businesses on Murrayfield Place. The SNP addendum addresses that omission by ensuring that they are included.

“Much over the whole term that this has been running – it’s probably been running for a year as a debate in this chamber – much has been made of the support to the traders in Leith through the tram project. I am delighted that the SNP addendum promotes the criteria of a proven system and extends that rather than a brand new system. Indeed the addendum directly addresses paragraph 4.18.5 of the report in that there is no need for a new team to deal with any applications for compensation because that expertise already exists within the tram mechanism.

“Additionally the addendum also identifies very clear principles for future infrastructure projects. Elected members and council officers need to be more aware of the impact in the real world of their decisions on the very much-needed infrastructure improvements, and be willing to support local communities impacted by them wherever they are in the city.

“As we all know Roseburn is one of Edinburgh’s key town centres and one which has a very clear sense of community. The fact that the Murrayfield Community Council has consistently supported the small businesses is evidence of that. However over the last year – and we heard again this morning from the deputations that the environment in the Roseburn area – as a direct result from the infrastructure works has been made incredibly hostile for people. It’s no wonder that footfall has reduced so dramatically.

“It’s with some concern Lord Provost that I read in the report the extrapolation of costs going forward ending up in multi-million pounds of potential liabilities over the remainder of this project. It infers very clearly that no lessons are learned from the way that the project has been implemented over the last twelve months. I’m confident after discussion with those officers and contractors on the ground who have delivered that very significant lessons have been learned, and that the project for the remainder of CCWEL will go exceptionally quickly.

“I cannot imagine for instance the whole Haymarket intersection being totally closed for a year.

“The SNP addendum directly addresses the two main issues of supporting those businesses significantly impacted by the CCWEL project and lays out the principles of how we as a council should plan for the impact of future projects.

“I am aware that there is a composite from the Conservatives and the Liberal Democrats. I am also aware that the main element of that is asking for a report – pushing a decision further down the line in certain areas for up to six months and potentially beyond.

“I don’t think that is what the small businesses, the local businesses actually want. They want action.”

POLITICAL SUPPORT

Cllr Euan Hyslop seconded the SNP addendum and commended Cllr Ross for the campaign that he had run locally to get support for these traders – “whether through making presentations at the Finance & Resources Committee, or in the community speaking to these businesses at the community centre, Cllr Ross has been championing the cause of support for these traders”.

He continued: “The SNP Group will always stand up for small businesses and fight for thriving local high streets but that goes along with our commitment to improving cycling and walking infrastructure throughout the city which increases footfall along these routes enabling long term sustainability for the businesses.

“Our amendment seeks not only to support the traders but also to set out a robust framework for settlement of future support for businesses impacted by certain works. I think that is what sets ours apart and why I encourage everybody to support our amendment.”

LIBERAL DEMOCRATS

Cllr Euan Davidson moved the Liberal Democrat amendment supporting some kind of recompense. He said: “Here we are again. This is the fourth time this issue has been debated this year in council – a year during which the traders and the wider community have been hammered by constant works. Access for residents, customers and traders has been hugely impacted. We heard again firsthand the hardship that this has caused – one trader losing over 90% of his business compared to the hugely difficult lockdown period. This is a policy choice that the previous council made. But whether we support the scheme or not, surely a recognition of the impact that the choices we make on existing communities has to be front and centre. That’s clearly not been the case here.

“I was delighted when the council passed my motion earlier this year as a new councillor. I felt that the council had actually listened to our community for once. It turns out that was a little premature.

“I want to thank Conservative colleagues for their support in these proposals, and while I might disagree with them I recognise that the Green position has at least been consistent. That can’t be said for the other parties in the chamber.

“During the election we saw Labour candidates walk around the community touting the petition and promising their support. Today the administration will break that promise to our traders and residents.

“Finally I want to thank the SNP for finally seeing sense. If the previous administration hadn’t blocked this proposal earlier this year we would be much further down the line. I think it is fairly clear the way the first round of voting is going to go on this. So my plea to them is – if you actually support our community, if you actually support our small businesses vote for funding on both rounds.”

Cllr Alan Beal (LibDem) seconded that motion saying: “I think no-one can doubt having heard what the Roseburn traders have said – the hardship and distress that they’ve suffered over the last eight months. I and Cllr Davidson have been down many times to speak to the traders and find out what’s happening.

“There have been mistakes and things have been ignored in what the traders in the community are asking for. I think just to address the issue through precedent, again this is what our motion covers, is the Edinburgh Discretionary Business support fund to be used for businesses in the aftermath of Covid. The fund was for Covid recovery which is exactly what these traders were suffering from – the aftermath of Covid combined with the CCWEL works.

“It is this combined nature that our motion reflects by addressing funding from that particular fund. It is a one-off scheme. I don’t think there is necessarily any precedent being set from this.”

Cllr Ben Parker moved a Green addendum, saying that he urged colleagues to think about the longer term impact of the decision being made “not just on the city’s finances, but also on how this will affect other spends, our ability to develop and implement other vital active travel projects in the future.”

He continued: “Whilst we are sympathetic to issues that may have arisen during the CCWEL works we believe that the report is clear on the financial and legal implications that would follow from introducing a discretionary support scheme for traders in Roseburn, or as standard for future transport infrastructure projects.

“We believe that it would be unwise to introduce such a scheme and that the most helpful way forward for all parties – residents, visitors, businesses, offices, councillors is to make a definitive decision on this issue today based on the report.

“We note there is a wealth of evidence on the pedestrian pound which shows that creating spaces that benefit people walking, wheeling and cycling, as this scheme does, can also significantly increase income of businesses over the medium to longer term. We believe that increased investment in such schemes is the best way to support businesses whilst also tackling air pollution, congestion and the climate crisis.”

CONSERVATIVES

Conservative councillor Mairi Clair Munro said the work had been due to take seven months but had already taken ten. “Traders have told us of the delays to work, including finding asbestos – all while parking and loading bays were blocked off by roadworks.” She mentioned that there was no signposting for visitors to show them where to park. She urged that the council should look at this as a one-off payment as this local high street is one of the key areas in the city.

Cllr Phil Doggart (Cons) said: “It is good to know there are three parties who are consistent in their approach. The Greens and the LibDems have been consistent. The Labour candidate’s proposal during the May election was overturned, but then there is the SNP who say we are against it, against it – no we’re for it. How did that happen just like that? Is it anything to do with being in opposition and trying to court popularity to shore up the falling vote of a certain councillor in the city? I am far too cynical to suggest that.”

Cllr Doggart agreed that a blanket compensation scheme for infrastructure projects would be a dangerous route but did suggest a further report is made to Finance and Resources to confirm any future action.

He also pointed out that three infrastructure projects – North Bridge, CCWEL and (as he referred to it) “the completion” of the first phase of the tram line – are all behind schedule and over budget, but without citing any supporting evidence.

Cllr Doggart also pointed out that there is more to CCWEL than just Roseburn and that other traders could also be affected and make claims to the council. But he wanted to support jobs in the city and wanted some form of compensation.

Adam McVey, the SNP Group leader, said he wanted to address some “strange quirks in this debate because the SNP has put forward a plan based on funding identified by officers. The reason that we didn’t put it in our manifesto and go out and try and win votes on that basis is that we didn’t think there was a source of funding that could be used in this way. That has emerged in the report and has driven our position. Parties are quite right to call out the hypocrisy of Labour on this, trying to maximise their vote at the ballot box and then turning their back as soon as the election is over.

“But the SNP has taken a decision based on what is here and I have to say being attacked by people who are then asking us to support their nonsensical plans, their exclusionary plans. I would say to the LibDems and the Tories that if you want to do this then stop playing politics, withdraw your version that you know we do not support and back the SNP plan.”

Cllr Kevin Lang the leader of the Liberal Democrat Group rose to say “that “Since we are starting to look back at history I have the motion which Cllr Scott Douglas brought forward.” He explained this was a suggestion that the council might “look into” the possibility of setting up a compensation scheme for those businesses affected by the works from a previous Conservative councillor.

Lang continued: “The LibDems supported that but the SNP voted against it. I hope that we have now got to a place where we are going to right a wrong about what happened in March. The reality is that wrong should never have happened in March in the first place.”

Cllr Jo Mowat also looked back as to why the Roseburn traders have approached the council for compensation. She said it was a scheme which has been poorly handled, and narrated that the traders informed the council that they were told work would begin in one month only to find the road closed two days later. Traders had bought stock for the next month, but due to the council’s actions the stock went to waste. As the councillor for the city centre she also said there had been many complaints – a different kind of complaint but complaints nonetheless about a badly run scheme. She continued: “The difference comes because Cllr Ross has brought forward a plan which he says is the only plan the SNP can agree whereas the Liberal Democrats and the Conservatives have said bring forward a scoping exercise for future projects. It would not affect the Roseburn project. If we planned our works properly and carried them out in accordance with the plans then we would never have to pay a penny piece to any businesses in compensation.”

Shouting and thumping the desk she exclaimed: “This is the fundamental problem here. We have not been able to do that and in doing so have ruined the livelihoods of many of these small traders. No-one can sit here and say that they are supporting small businesses when we conduct our business like that. It has been shameful what we have done to those businesses. We have a remedy, but a token, on the table today. I am very concerned that the hubris and arrogance of one party – because we will not do it their way when we have asked as we always do for a report to come back for discussion, to question officers and to shape that in a sensible way may well fall because we will not do it their way.

Cllr Scott Arthur Transport Convener

Cllr Arthur summed up after these various amendments to the administration motion, saying he had paid attention to everyone who had spoken and commended Cllr Ross who had stood up for the traders even during the last administration.

But he admitted he had not really heard from Cllr Ross why the council’s position on this should change, and how a routine compensation scheme would be managed. He said: “I didn’t hear anybody offering anything to the North Bridge traders. I met with them all last week and in particular the Scran Café where the people who run it told me that because of the works they are struggling to earn a living to maintain their own household.”

He lamented that none of the city centre councillors had offered anything to the North Bridge businesses. He said it is a difficult decision to make but could not support any compensation as the longer term impacts are so uncertain.

The council’s decision was therefore not to support the Roseburn traders with any form of compensation for loss of business during the works.

Frank Ross

Mr Ross has confirmed to The Edinburgh Reporter that he remains a member of the SNP. He has also recently taken up a new position as Financial Accountant and Business Analyst with a Scottish firm. Previous to his political career he held various accountant and managerial roles in several businesses including his hotel in the north of Scotland.

As a keen curler he will now take part in the Strathcona Cup Tour 2023 in Canada, playing in the East Team in many of the matches in a variety of Canadian cities and towns until the tour ends at the beginning of February.

Cllr Adam McVey, the SNP group leader since Frank Ross stepped aside from the leadership in 2017 said: “I’d like to thank Frank for his work over more than a decade on the Council. He’s been a tireless campaigner for the communities of Corstorphine/Murrayfield, as well making huge achievements leading the city’s economic development and then becoming only the second SNP Councillor in Edinburgh’s history to serve as Lord Provost. We wish him very well for the future post-council.”

Council Leader, Cllr Cammy Day, said: “I am very sad to see former Lord Provost Frank Ross leave the council so abruptly, after the SNP leadership creating a farce at last council meeting. I wish Frank all the best in his future endeavours.”

Roseburn Traders

The report prepared for the council set out the way that a scheme for the Roseburn businesses differed from that offered to businesses on Leith Walk who have received help and support during the building of the Tram to Newhaven.

It stated: “The decision to introduce a business continuity fund was made in 2018, as part of the business case for the Tram to Newhaven project, and is principally focused on addressing hardship during the works, not compensation for loss of profit. There has been no similar support scheme since that time.”

Council officers warned against setting a precedent by establishing a compensation programme for the Roseburn businesses – saying that any thought of a precedent from the Trams scheme would only be made worse by paying off traders in the Roseburn town centre.

But the report also set out ways of paying up to £3,000 to each business subject to certain criteria which would cost around £100,000 in total. And it set out a possible source of the funding – the Edinburgh Discretionary Business Support Fund which was set up to help businesses in the post-Covid recovery period.

Any other kind of discretionary scheme would be a first for any Scottish council and would have had financial implications for any future infrastructure schemes, meaning a cost to the council of at least £500,000 per annum if the funding came from the council’s revenue budget.

And it is the revenue budget which will be the council’s big news when it is debated and fixed in February.

The public are to be given a final say on highly controversial plans to build more student flats in Canonmills.

The application for 142 studio flats on the “complex” site of a recently-demolished builders’ merchant in Canonmills attracted nearly 400 objections from locals.

They argue the plot on Eyre Place is “totally unsuited” to student accommodation, with fears the six-storey block would tower over neighbouring properties and block out sunlight. 

And councillors have stressed the need for more affordable housing to be delivered on on vacant land across the capital. 

Planning officers at the city council have backed the proposals – which were split into two applications, one of which is for nine residential townhouses – and recommended councillors gave plans the green light.

However, members of the planning sub-committee agreed unanimously on Wednesday there should be a hearing for the applications, which will allow residents and the developers, CA Student Living/Novel Student, to address the committee before a final vote is held.

All four Inverleith councillors and Lothian MSP Foysol Choudhury also called for a hearing to allow the community’s voice to be heard.

In total, the council received 398 objections and 25 statements of support.

Eyre Place Residents Special Interest Group said: “A building of this scale will have highly detrimental impacts on the residents of Canonmills”. 

Furthermore, New Town and Broughton Community Council (NTBCC) said in its objection to planners: “NTBCC supports the principle of redevelopment on this site to provide residential accommodation including ‘affordable’ housing’.

“We remain unconvinced that the current proposal for the northern section of the wider site is a suitable or supportable location for student housing (PBSA).

“Furthermore, the proposed height, massing and proximity of the proposed development have an unacceptable impact on the amenity of existing residents.”

Committee convener Cllr Hal Osler said it was “quite a complicated application” and added the council should “give the residents a chance to have a say as well as the applicants a chance to answer some questions about this site”.

Neil Gardiner, SNP, said: “Having been on the site visit with committee members it clearly is quite a complex site, the proposals are quite complex and it has raised a lot of issues locally.”

Meanwhile Cllr Jo Mowat told councillors the plans “throw up a number of challenges that we’re going to have to face as a committee going forward about how we squeeze in developments into already developed areas”.

And the City Centre councillor added: “Given the number of people who have taken the opportunity to write in and state their concerns, there’s a lot of issues here to get through and I’d be happier if that was done via a hearing.”

Inverleith councillor Vicky Nicolson, said following the decision: “This is good news not only for local people, but for the whole city.  For too long Purpose Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) has been approved on sites in residential areas, far enough from colleges and universities so they don’t meet the 20 minute neighbourhood standards.  This is not a criticism of students, who bring so much to our city and are often exploited by student housing landlords.

“I hope that the hearing will bring an opportunity to explore fully why the development has been divided into two which allows the developers to proceed without any requirement to build social housing on the site.”

The Eyre Place residents group said: “‘We are very pleased that the development management sub-committee have agreed to our requests for a hearing.

“We would like to see, in line with the council’s own City plan, family homes, affordable homes and some green space.

“Although the developer changed the plan following pre-consultation, at its heart there is still a large, high density, student block in an inappropriate location.

“Now the Planning Department of the council have recommended that the planning application is granted. The community is disappointed and feels let down by the process to date as substantive concerns have been ignored.

“The landowner and Developer are making two separate planning applications to potentially exploit the system and subvert the wishes of neighbours and the wider community, however the community will continue to fight for better and more creative use of this site. Surely Edinburgh can do better than this!?

“We will continue to oppose this application from a developer with no interest in the local community.”

Foysol Choudhury Labour MSP for Lothian said: “I am delighted the Councillors on the Planning Development Sub Committee have all agreed a Hearing for this application which had almost 400 objections. 

“I was so disappointed the Planning officers were recommending approval of the Eyre Place application.  

“I contacted the Development Management Sub-Committee asking for a Hearing and I am delighted they have agreed to my request.  

“The Hearing will give an opportunity for the concerns of the local residents and groups to be heard. I hope that following the Hearing, Councillors will reject the application.  

“Having visited Eyre Place myself on 23 September 2022 and discussing with the residents of Rodney Place, I concur with their objections.  

“Local residents and community groups object to the overall scale of the development, its overbearing presence blocking natural light for neighbours, and dense accommodation which would overburden local infrastructure and amenities.  

“The massing and height would lead to an overdevelopment of the site, with the potential to result in adverse impacts on residential amenities.  

“The proposal, overall, is not compatible with the character of the area neither in terms of the proposed use nor its design, the approach for which is incongruous and alien to the established urban form in terms of roofscape and appearance. 

“I am also concerned that a storey of the student flats will be dedicated to ‘entertainment’ and karaoke booths and can understand why local residents are worried about noise levels.” 

by Donald Turvill

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.

A year after a devastating storm, Cairngorm Bothies open six more self catering properties.

An investment of three quarters of a million pounds will generate new jobs & new energy into the area as award winning green tourism business regenerates after major setback last winter

Green Royal Deeside tourism brand, Cairngorm Bothies, with a range of innovative eco bothies set deep into the Blelack Woods, is gearing up to offer an even wider choice of holiday properties in early 2023.

Having set up an “off grid” holiday scheme, with the launch of its first six bothies in 2020, the business, which is owned and operated by Dr Gordon Drummond, is launching six more of its Bothies. These offer holidaymakers the opportunity to holiday in the stunning Cairngorms National Park with a lower carbon footprint.

The new Bothies, named after Scottish trees, will be ready for occupancy next month with forward bookings already being taken. Three new jobs are being created, with a positive spin off for the many local suppliers who are already involved with the business which has a “keep it local” ethos.

Dr Drummond originally launched sister business Cairngorm Lodges, a collection of five individual, architecturally designed timber lodges, in 2013. Featuring organic fair-trade bed linen & towels, low energy lightbulbs, green household products, and with heating achieved through radiators powered by wood burning stoves, these lodges were marketed to those that seek the most luxurious stay in the forest, whilst having sustainability at their heart.

He then took the concept to a new level with the launch of the first six Bothies, situated in even deeper seclusion in the woods, and with solar panels generating power. The stored energy drives a water pump to purify water, whilst wood burning stoves, supplied with logs from the estate, perform a multitude of tasks, from heating the main living areas, to heating a water circuit for towel rails, providing hot water for washing, and powering a cooking range, complete with oven.

The Bothies were deliberately sited far from any connection points to existing infrastructure, such as phone, water and electric.

“At launch in 2020 our Cairngorm Bothies were a novel and extra-ordinary new proposition for the market, giving the customer a flavour of the considerations of sustainable living, integrated into nature, in the spectacular setting of an ancient woodland,” said Dr Drummond. “All properties are dog friendly too, as bringing along your four legged friend is really important to our customer base.”

The storm on the 30 January 2022 put paid to Dr Drummond’s plans to have the next six Bothies ready for occupation in April 2022.

“We were left with thousands of pounds worth of damage following this storm. The whole business was threatened and we had to re-group,” he said. “It was a major setback to our plans, at what was already a difficult time, having survived the various lockdowns and uncertainty over the Covid19 pandemic.”

Continued Dr Drummond: “But we have fought on over the last six months or so and are delighted that we are now in a position to launch these next six Bothies which are marketed at couples looking for a relaxing break. I’d like to thank my amazing team of people who have helped me get to this point, including my builder, my architect and other suppliers such as Accommodation Services who run all our reservations and help us market and promote both businesses. The fact that bookings remained vibrant for our existing lodges and bothies was down to their hard work. This meant that income was still coming in so we could carry out our repairs and bring the next stage of the bothies to fruition.”

Although Dr Drummond admits that he is still “licking his wounds financially,” he still plans to launch another six bothies at a later date to provide eighteen bothies in total at what is one of Scotland’s most unique eco-friendly holiday developments.

During the stress and upset of the last year, several major boosts came in the form of prestigious industry awards for the businesses: a Scottish Enterprise Unlocking Ambition entrepreneurial award, a Green Gold Tourism Award and a Scottish Thistle Regional Tourism Award for Working Together, which certainly demonstrates the collaborative approach Drummond has taken in rebuilding and regenerating the business.

“We’re through to the National Final for the Thistle Awards as the winning business for the North East of Scotland, so to add a national award would be absolutely fantastic. It’s an honour to represent the North East. We’ll have to wait until next year to find out, but we are keeping everything crossed. Along with seeing the new bothies open their doors to our guests, this would be the best possible start to the new year,” finished Gordon Drummond.

The Cairngorm team have made a video of the business’ journey from the storm in January 2022 which can be viewed here.

www.cairngormlodges.com and www.cairngormbothies.com

The City of Edinburgh Council has approved planning applications for 20 new AirBnB-style holiday flats in the city centre, despite a pledge to limit the number of short-term lets in the capital.

Councillors granted permission to convert a former New Town language school into tourist accommodation at a meeting on Wednesday — without any debate about the proposals.

The planning sub-committee approved change of use of two adjoining townhouses on Albyn Place, which was occupied by Kaplan International Languages until the school moved into a new building on St Andrew Square last year.

The former classrooms and offices will be turned into a block of short-term lets (STLs), the proliferation of which is often blamed in part for the city’s housing shortage. 

The Labour group, which runs the local authority as a minority administration, promised in its 2022 manifesto to “limit the numbers of short-term lets”.

New powers allow the council to refuse holiday let applications in cases where there would be loss of existing housing or neighbours could be disturbed. However, neither policies were relevant to the Albyn Place application.

Officials said the plans would “preserve the special architectural and historic interest” of the listed Georgian building.

But the Architectural Heritage Society of Scotland took a different view, and said in an objection sent to the council the proposals “constitute over-development”.

The letter added: “The council’s guidance is clear that there should not be more than one flat per floor in a townhouse conversion. A lighter touch would have less impact on the fabric of the building.

“We believe that the proposals would result in unnecessary damage to the listed building.”

And residents also opposed the scheme, questioning how the plans matched up with the authority’s pledge to crack down on STLs.

One said: “This proposal flies in the face of ECC’s stated aim of reducing the extent of tourist accommodation in the city centre.

“This is a quiet residential neighbourhood where buildings back onto a square which accommodates Wemyss Place Mews. The proposal, with rear access to two of the units and, in effect, 24 hour access to car parking will result in an enormous increase in noise, which is funnelled upwards and magnified by surrounding buildings.”

Another added: “I find it hard to understand why this application is being made, considering the council’s purported objection to so many AirBnBs, and this proposal for short term lets is the same except in name.”

by Donald Turvill

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.

Robbie Neilson is delighted to have captured England under-21 defender James Hill on loan and Hearts manager hopes to provide the talented young player with what he wants, regular game time.

Neilson told a press briefing ahead of Friday’s home test in the cinch Scottish Premiership with St Mirren (kick-off 19.45) tthat Hill is a player who did really well as a teenager and earned a big move to Premiership side Bournemouth, nicknamed The Cherries.

The manager added: “He as not played as much as he wanted so there was an opportunity to bring him up here and we’ll give him game time and, hopefully, develop him as a player.”

Hill, the son of former professional footballer, Matt Hill who appeared for clubs including Bristol Rovers then Preston North End and Sheffield United, and is now manager of Stafford Rangers in the Northern Premier League, has trained with the Bournemouth first team for the past six or seven months, revealed Neilson.

The defender, who played against Newcastle United in the last 16 of the EFL Cup in December – Bournemouth lost 1-0 on Tyneside – trained on Thursday with the squad after spending his 21st birthday on Tuesday in the gym and at his hotel.

Neilson said the player, who made his debut as a 16-year-old for Fleetwood Town, the club’s youngest ever player, before being recruited by former Cherries boss, Scott Parker, for a reported fee of £1m, claimed to be Fleetwood’s record export, is an option for Friday. 

He confirmed Hill is at Tynecastle on loan “at the moment” to give him game time and he added: “Hopefully, we can improve him and he can improve us.”

Hearts’ other newcomer this week, 21-year-old Yutaro Oda, needs to prove his fitness, but he has quality, according to the manager, as he has played in the top league and with the Japanese under-21 side.

Neilson said: “He is very quick, he has good feet and is a good finisher and he has a lot of attributes, but he has not played since the end of November so, fitness wise, we need to develop that so it will be a gradual process to get him into the first team.”

As regards, Garang Kuol, an Australian World Cup player who visited the Gorgie cub last week and is with Newcastle, Neilson said both clubs had agreed and the paperwork was being processed.

Other transfer speculation has surrounded former Hearts star Callum Paterson, and Neilson confirmed he sporting directors of Sheffield Wednesday and Hearts have spoken to each other about a possible move for 28-year-old, former Hearts man, a former Scotland international. Hearts await a response. 

Potentially, the relationship that Neilson has with the player and the player with the club could help here but Neilson he added; “He is a Sheffield Wednesday player.”

Overall, Neilson said it has been difficult for Hearts this season. The club have lost a number of key players through injury but he said: “We are in third position and it is important to kick on through this transfer window.”

He indicated that not to many more new faces would be making an appearance at Tynecastle before the transfer deadline shuts again, but the drive was all about brining in real quality to add to the squad. 

Touching on the Japanese market, Neilson said people are more aware of it now, but Hearts have previously been successful in the Australian market. 

The manager said: “First, they are affordable, which is important for us, and second they are hungry to come to Europe and want to do well. He added: “If Oda does well, the Japanese market will be one we will continue to look at.”

It will, he said, take newcomer Oda time to settle and that is why Hearts have to be patient with him. Neilson said: He will take to the pitch when he is ready to take to the pitch. We have an interpreter at the moment, he came on on Tuesday, and he has a flat to stay in and most of the players are in that area as well. We are just trying to  help him adapt to a new culture on the other side of the world.

“It will take a bit of time, but he is a football player and what he does on the pitch is the most important thing. We just have to make sure we help him out with that.” 

Oda does not, he said, have a chance of being involved on Friday, but Neilson confirmed the player trained with the squad on Wednesday and he looked sharp. He was very hungry and very energetic.

As to other injured players, Neilson said experienced Andy Halliday is fine after his concussion protocol last week.

Overall, Neilson said he was delighted with the squad before the transfer window and it was a case of trying to strengthen it again, but losing some key players in key positions meant they had no option but to recruit fresh blood.

He added: “The players we have got so far I am pleased with. The targets we have I am pleased with. It is about trying to improve the team. The players we have brought in already have improved the group and, hopefully, the players we have brought in now will improve the group.

Being at a big football club will potentially mean there is competition for places, said the manager, and it was key that every day at training the players are at it and ready to go. 

Looking at Friday’s fixture following the 1-1 draw at Paisley on Saturday, Neilson said: “Friday will be very difficult. It is at Tynecastle and we expect a different game.”

Yutaro Oda has signed a three-and-a-half-year deal from Vissel Kobe and the 21-year-old could make his debut against St Mirren at Tynecastle on Friday.

The talented Japanese newcomer told the Hearts website that he is keen to show the Jambos faithful what he can do.

He said: “I have been looking for a challenge, so this is a great club for me to come to. As a player, I see myself as a very speedy and sharp player. I am also good at dribbling and with the ball at my feet.”

Oda revealed that when he had his meeting with Hearts it was clear the club had done their homework and he added: “To me, that shows that they really wanted to sign me and that they are keen to help me develop further as a player.”

He is the second player to sign in 24 hours after Bournemouth defender James Hill joined the club on loan until the end of the current season.

The actions of two former Edinburgh councillors are to be examined following a complaint about their involvement in a vote to shut a heavily congested road near to where they both live.

Former Labour councillors Maureen Child and Karen Doran, who both stepped down at last year’s election, will face a standards watchdog hearing over their participation in the move to close Brunstane Road in Portobello.

The vote, held at a meeting of the Transport Committee in November 2021, was later re-run after it emerged the pair had previously declared an interest as local residents, sparking concern among council lawyers the closure could be open to legal challenge.

Ms Child said the issue had become “a storm in a tea cup” and added it was “a complete waste of time and public resources” to hold a hearing.

And she said neither herself nor Ms Doran – both of whom voted in favour of the motion – stood to benefit from halting through traffic along the historically congested road which residents say has given rise to anti-social behaviour and damage to vehicles.

Ms Child added the declaration of interest was only made “in the interests of transparency”.

Ms Doran was approached for comment.

The Standards Commission for Scotland (SCS) – which functions to encourage high ethical standards in public office – confirmed the hearing will be live streamed online on 22 February from 9.30 am.

It follows a complaint to the Ethical Standards Commissioner (ESC) claiming Ms Child had “emphasised her support over nearly 30 years for closing Brunstane Road” and Ms Doran “indicated to officers her support for closure,” it was reported at the time.

Local groups set to address the committee back in 2021 were prevented from doing so due to the ‘quasi-judicial’ nature of the process which is used to shut roads.

Councillors agreed not to allow deputations to speak based on legal advice given to them – which it is understood also stated any members who had previously expressed an opinion about the issue should not participate in the debate.

The matter returned to the Transport Committee last month when members voted to make the closure permanent – despite being told the “vast majority” of Portobello residents wanted it re-opened, and traffic problems had only been displaced to nearby streets.

Those living on Brunstane Road however backed the move, saying reduced levels of traffic and congestion had made the street “a pleasant place to walk and live in” with residents there finally free from “abuse, gridlock and stress”.

by Donald Turvill

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.

Detectives in Edinburgh are appealing for information after the attempted murder of a 28-year-old man in Edinburgh on Thursday, 5 January, 2023.

Around 10.10pm, officers were called following a report of a man having been assaulted in West Pilton Terrace.

He was taken to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh where he was treated for his injuries.

Officers are keen to speak to anyone who may have seen two vehicles, a dark coloured VW Golf and a blue Ford Focus ST, which were in the area at the time of the incident.

A blue Ford Focus ST was discovered burnt out at Fyles Farm, Tranent on 7 January, 2023 and a dark coloured VW Golf was found burnt out at Howe Dean Path, Braid Hills, on the same day.

Officers believe these two vehicles may be linked to the incident.

Detective Chief Inspector Mark Petrie said: “Extensive enquiries are ongoing to trace those responsible and we are appealing to anyone who witnessed the incident, or may have information, to come forward.

“We believe this was a targeted attack and we do not believe there was any risk to the wider public.

“I am also keen to hear from anyone who recognises the vehicles and may have information about their movements.

“I would ask anyone with potential dashcam footage, private CCTV, or doorbell footage of these two vehicles, to contact officers as it could be helpful for our enquiries.

“Anyone with any information is asked to contact 101 quoting incident number 3414 of 5 January, 2023. 

“Alternatively, please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be given anonymously.”

Striking teachers across Edinburgh have taken to the streets calling for an ‘across the board’ pay rise of 10 per cent.

Primary school staff in the capital walked out on Tuesday as part of industrial action taking place across Scotland after negotiations failed to reach a deal.

Teachers at secondary schools are due to follow on Wednesday with another walkout planned in Edinburgh on January 25 in a further wave of strikes, unless a new pay offer is agreed.

Secretary of teaching union Educational Institute of Scotland’s Edinburgh branch, Alison Murphy, said many teachers are “giving up” and “going to do other jobs” because of poor pay and terms and conditions.

She said a pay rise of 10 per cent for all teachers is “what we need to stop us getting poorer”.

Among the teachers who gathered for a picket in the rain outside local government body COSLA’s headquarters on Tuesday was Louise Bishop, an additional support needs teacher at schools across Edinburgh.

And she insisted teachers would not back down from their demand, and said the rise was vital to them being able to do their job.

“Teachers are not valued enough, our pay needs to be restored to a reasonable pay,” she said. “Teachers are very important to society – we aren’t just teaching numeracy and literacy, we are health and well-being, we nurture, we are here from early years from birth to university.

“Last year we had to settle for 2.5 per cent which was very very low. The decision was made by the unions to accept on the basis that we would then be going to the 10 per cent this year. So this hasn’t just suddenly come out of nowhere.

“The claim is about pay, but it’s not just about pay – it’s about terms and conditions and conditions in the classroom. We can’t be good teachers, we can’t solve societies ills, we are doing this for the kids.

“We’re not going away, we’re not going to just suddenly cave tomorrow. We will get our 10 per cent.”

Addressing the crowd, Ms Murphy urged teachers ‘to fight’.

“If we surrender, they are going to keep kicking us in the teeth, they are going to keep depressing our pay,” she said. “They’ve been trying to do it for over a decade and we have to fight now – because if we don’t fight, we lose.”

Unions rejected an offer of five per cent which included an increase of up to 6.85% for the lowest-paid staff.

Mr Murphy told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: “Coming back and telling us: ‘instead of five per cent you can have 5.04 per cent’ and claim that that’s an improvement – we’re teachers, we do numeracy and we’re not putting up with that nonsense.

“We are here today because teachers are sick and tired of getting poorer and poorer and poorer every year. Our salaries keep going down, austerity has driven our terms and conditions into the ground and we can’t put up with it any more.

“We don’t want to be here, we’d rather be in our classrooms – we actually like teaching children. But we can’t keep putting up with this, we have to fight and we have to fight back.

“We’re here to make COSLA and the Scottish Government know they need to pay us a fair wage.

“We need across the board a decent pay rise – we are in this together and we need to have an undifferentiated pay rise, absolutely.”

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon warned her government has “no more money” to offer teachers, although education secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville said she would leave “no stone unturned” to bring about a quick resolution, whilst acknowledging there remained “some distance” between unions and the Government. 

by Donald Turvill

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.

Since the school vacated the building in 1968,  finding a new use for the Old Royal High School building on Calton Hill has been a major subject of public controversy. Widely seen by architectural historians as the finest Greek revival building in the city, it has been mothballed for most of the period since.  

Public debate over the Royal High School was brought to a head with the attempts to turn the building into a hotel. This project was finally and unanimously rejected by councillors in 2017, having been opposed by heritage groups including the Cockburn Association. 

A suitable new use for this fine old building has now been found. The building will now be used by St Mary’s Music School and the National Music Academy, with major musical events also taking place there. The architect leading the project of bringing the building back into use is Richard Murphy.

In an engaging and enlightening talk to the Architectural Heritage Society of Scotland on 9 January, he spoke about the ‘transformation’ of Thomas Hamilton’s Royal High School for use by the music school and the creation of public performance spaces.

Murphy said he was honoured to be by working on this project, in conjunction with the The Royal High School Preservation Trust. He felt something of ‘a culmination of a career’, building on previous projects.  However,  he emphasised that the project was ‘quiet’ in architectural terms in that the building would still be mainly Thomas Hamilton’s: “it’s Hamilton’s gig not Murphy’s”. Murphy is part of a lead team of 10 who are working “intensively”  on the project. It was an exciting time for the project as the first steps are being made. Some initial demolition work will start very soon,  with building work beginning in earnest after the summer. 

Murphy began his talk by setting the historical context.  For him,  it is Calton Hill which is a far more interesting centrepiece for the city than Castle Hill.  As Iain Gordon Brown. has outlined in his new book Auld Greekie, the physical character of Calton Hill, with its resemblance to the Acropolis, was one important inspiration for the idea of Edinburgh as the ‘Athens of the North’.  Within Calton Hill the Royal High School Building had an “ambiguous position”,  not fully on the hill itself,  but still sitting above Edinburgh. It was, as Murphy put it, “a  world of learning floating above the city”,  which sought to emphasise the prestige of the school and its pupils,  many of whom went on to play leading roles in the British Empire. 

Though Calton Hill is often compared to the Acropolis in Athens, the building itself was modelled on the Temple of Hephaestus, a short distance away. In terms of the architectural features of the building, the lack of windows in its front  was notable and posed some challenges. Murphy wished to emphasise that the building had changed over time; his remodelling was not the first. This he illustrated with a series of photographs of the main debating chamber since the First World War.  

The chamber has gone through a series of  remodellings over the decades.  The most significant changes occurred  when mooted as the debating chamber of a future Scottish Parliament in the 1970s. For Murphy,  this would have made a better debating chamber than Enric Miralles’ rather “strange”, “low-density” chamber. The one at the Royal High School would, argued Murphy, have been better suited for ‘the cut and thrust’ of political argument. The plans for the main performance spaces will result in them become highly adaptable, with seating and staging easy to rearrange. They will be appropriate for all performances right up to full orchestra concerts. 

Murphy then examined the hotel ‘saga’  of the last decade  and the designs drawn up by the late Gareth Hoskins. Murphy  was sympathetic to some of the designs believing that they included some “very interesting” proposals. The way they framed views of Arthur’s Seat was impressive.  Ultimately though,  the proposals were an “ill struck balance” which “destroyed the essence of Hamilton’s original”. 

In terms of his own proposals for the site,  there were two elements. First was about restoring and adapting  the original building, making it more accessible. The second element of the project was a series of new buildings to the east of Hamilton’s. These have been designed for use solely by the school, as  teaching spaces, a library, and accommodation.  

The main issue with the original building was the “lack of circularity”. In short, it’s very difficult to move from one side to another without going through the debating chamber or one of the other large performance spaces. Murphy’s  solution to this is to create a foyer for the building as the main public entrance,  with a hidden walkway  enabling access from either side of the building. This would include direct access from a new public garden and café which will be created on the west side of the building. This walkway has been designed so that it can’t be seen from Regent Road at the front of the building and generally won’t affect views of the building.  

Others have commented that, with this move, Murphy has successfully ‘unlocked’ the building. The new entrance foyer will create a significant new public space in the building, with access through “a glazed slot” in the portico  which  will bring natural light in. Access from this foyer to the higher levels will be via new staircases. The design of these have been a major focus of Murphy’s, requiring a number of rethinks and revisions. More generally, the plans are constantly being tinkered with as practical issues emerge (“architects always have to make compromises”). Murphy aims  to show how intervening in a historic building  can actually help “show it off”  and reveal  qualities  which have long been concealed. This, in Murphy’s view, is what any work on significant old buildings should do. Revealing and opening up the building is what has inspired the project.

Work on this aspect of the restoration and  reconfiguration is due to start within the next six weeks. The building work will require digging down and there is still some uncertainty about exactly where the natural rock lies.  At present he could only speculate.  Inherent in any such project on such a complex site was a degree of uncertainty. 

Murphy believed that the “weird and wonderful” uses of the building by the Hidden Door and Pianodrome has given a glimpse of the potential of the building. However, they had also shown how difficult the building was to navigate as well as its deteriorating condition. These  two aspects would require substantial effort to ameliorate. Simpson & Brown Architects, partners in the project, are in charge of restoring and cleaning the stonework. 

The new section will be built on an area to the east of the main building.  Clearing the site requires the demolition of some Victorian buildings which were part of the school, including the old swimming pool building.  While Murphy admitted that the buildings were not without architectural merit,  they could not be compared to Hamilton’s original building  in historic or architectural value. The new sections will include ‘pepperpot’ practice spaces connecting the corridors leading to the classrooms. The classrooms and accommodation blocks will have fantastic views out towards Arthur’s Seat. The school will have a separate entrance at the rear to help ensure security. The building will have a clear demarcation between the public and private, with the main performance spaces between the two. Murphy emphasised that, in marked contrast to the hotel proposals, the ‘peripheral’ buildings will become smaller than they are at present. With turfed roofs they will blend into the hill, ensuring that the original building is the only eye-catching aspect of the site. Murphy is confident that the plan will open up the original building while maintaining its visual unity and “horizontality”. 

The Hidden Door and the Pianodrome last summer gave us a glimpse of the potential of the Old Royal High School. The plans outlined by Murphy hopefully herald a full revival of this long overlooked architectural gem. 

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An appeal to build 500 houses on the greenbelt in the west of the city has been refused by The Scottish Government. 

The proposals to develop protected green belt land at Cammo faced fierce backlash from the community as hundreds objected. 

It was argued that the plans violated a range of planning policies designed to protect the area’s rural landscape, whilst there was local concern about how schools and doctors surgeries would cope with an influx of new residents. 

A local councillor hailed the decision as “a great victory for all those who campaigned so hard to protect this important green space in the west of Edinburgh”. 

Developers were criticised last March when they appealed their application less than 24 hours before city councillors were due to make a decision. 

West Craigs Ltd. and Wheatley Homes East (formerly Dunedin Canmore Housing) were able to refer proposals to a government planning reporter for determination as more than six months had passed since plans were lodged. 

It was proposed that up to 500 homes alongside retail units and active travel routes would be built on the site, north of Craigs Road. 

The project would have delivered a mix of houses and flats with half of all properties affordable.

But there has been little support for such a development to go ahead. More than 100 objections were sent to the council whilst a petition opposing the scheme gathered more than 1,000 signatures.

Cramond and Barnton Community Council led calls for the plans to be rejected, saying they were “contrary to current and emerging planning policies”. 

Arguing “enough is enough”, the group said with over 2,500 houses being built at Cammo and Maybury the area has already experienced “loss of valued greenbelt, landscapes and habitat”. 

The City of Edinburgh Council also took issue with the plans – and urged councillors to reject the development before the appeal was made. Officials concluded they would not comply with the local development plan, which outlines which sites across the city are appropriate for building on. 

The Scottish Government ruled the application did not meet any tests for approving new developments on the green belt and refused planning permission. 

Cllr Kevin Lang who represents the area previously said the developer’s bid represented an “unacceptable assault on our greenbelt”. 

Following the Government’s decision he said: “It was disgraceful that developers sought to cover even more of our precious Cammo greenbelt in concrete.

“Worse still was the disrespect the developer showed when it choose to appeal to the government at the eleventh hour, just when it became clear the Council’s planning committee were likely to reject their proposals.

“The dismissal of the appeal is a great victory for all those who campaigned so hard to protect this important green space in the west of Edinburgh.

“It is now important for the Scottish Government to approve the council’s new local development plan so this area and many other important greenbelt sites in Edinburgh can be protected in the years to come.”

by Donald Turvill

The Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) is a public service news agency. It is funded by the BBC, provided by the local news sector, and used by qualifying partners. Local Democracy Reporters cover top-tier local authorities and other public service organisations.

Hibernian FC has today announced it will appoint a Director of Football.

The process has begun to bring in an experienced candidate to work alongside the Chief Executive and Manager to improve the Club’s sporting performance.

When appointed, the new Director of Football will be responsible for all areas of football support at the Hibernian Training Centre, including the Academy and development, analysis, football administration, medical, player care, recruitment, and strength and conditioning.

When speaking about the appointment, Hibernian FC Chief Executive Ben Kensell said: “I’m excited that we can bring in a Director of Football and believe it will considerably benefit the Club.

“I have worked with Directors of Football before, so I have a full understanding of the difference they can make.

“This decision was made following a thorough review that has taken place over the last few months, and I’d like to thank Ron, and the Board, for their backing and support.”

When speaking to Hibs TV, Kensell detailed the experience, skills, and characteristics he’s ideally seeking from an incoming Director of Football.

In short:

• Knowledge of Scottish football
• Experience of working at a senior level at a high performing club
• Extensive contacts within the game
• A strong background in implementing strategy and bringing sporting success

“Ron’s desire to make the Club successful hasn’t wavered, and we’re hoping that bringing in a Director of Football will help mirror our off-the-pitch success, so we can achieve our sporting ambitions,” Kensell added.

New Hearts defender James Hill told Hearts TV that he was over the moon to be at Tynecastle and he can’t wait to get started and to play in front of the thousands of Jambos who are currently packing the stadium.

Speaking in the dressing-room at the ground, the England under-21 defender said it was a new experience and a step on the road to where he wants to be in the future.

Hill is 21 today (January 10) and is here until the end of the season and Hearts are giving away a signed shirt (picture courtesy of Heart of Midlothian FC). See Hearts social media for details on how to win.

The player added: “Hearts are a massive club and it has a great history and obviously the players involved with the team can help improve myself and give me a great fighting chance for next season.”

He played for Fleetwood Town and made his senior debut aged 16 in an EFL Cup tie against Leicester City in August 2018 to be the ckub’s youngest every player.

He posted 53 appearances before moving to Bournemouth in January 2022 and has been capped four times for England under-21s and the player admitted that Hearts back-room team showed him what he is good at and what he is not and he added: “This is the perfect place to do that and to come here and get some minutes under my belt is ideal.”

The Bournemouth loanee said he is an aggessive defender who enjoys having the ball at his feet but he added: “I quite enjoy defending and working hard and every moment I get to step onto the pitch I never give up and I fight to the end. I would say I am very physical and I have a long throw which in like to contribute as well.”

Hearts manager Robbie Neilson told Hearts social media that it was always high of Hearts’ priorities to recruit another defender and he added: “James has fantastic experience of playing at a high level down south and with England.”

A bid to bring the Eurovision song contest to Edinburgh indicated the council was in a financial position to provide up to £17.6m to host the event, documents have revealed.

This is despite a £76 million hole in the local authority’s budget which councillors will work on balancing next month.

It was proposed that Eurovision would be held at the Royal Highland Centre if Edinburgh was picked as the host city. The council also said it stood ready to set-up a 12,000-capacity ‘Eurovision Village’ in the city centre, a Freedom of Information request (FOI) showed.

Although the capital did not make the shortlist – with Liverpool announced as host of Eurovision 2023 – council leader Cammy Day said he did not regret making an application and rejected claims that Edinburgh “never had a chance”.

He has also suggested the failed bid could be an opportunity to look at how Edinburgh hosts large scale events in future, and re-open the debate about whether the city needs a new venue.

Details of Edinburgh’s bid were made publicly available following a FOI request by the Local Democracy Reporting Service (a public service news agency, funded by the BBC, provided by the local news sector, and used by qualifying partners). The council initially refused to release the documents over concerns they could harm “commercial interests” – however it later admitted this response was “not appropriate”.

In the application the council claimed that the city has extensive experience hosting large scale events and said Edinburgh was “prepared and ready to deliver an unforgettable and unprecedented Eurovision  Song Contest”.

Asked if the local authority was in a financial position to contribute up to €20 million (£17.6 million) to the event’s costs, the council replied it “understands the levels of financial and other resource commitment required” and added it would reach out to partners and potential sponsors for help meeting the costs. 

However with no guarantee the full amount could be raised in time for May when Eurovision takes place, there was a risk the city would be forced to pay over millions despite facing a deepening financial crisis with a £76 million gap in the 2023/24 budget.

Cllr Day said there was “no way” the council would have spent €20m on hosting the international music competition.

“We would have supported it,” he added, “we would have worked with partners and I’m sure a number of the city’s investors would be keen to have their name on all this as well. But there was no [financial] commitment.”

In December SNP councillors called on the Labour administration to release the bid sent to the BBC so the council could learn from the process to inform any future applications for large scale events but the group’s motion was voted down by a majority of members in the chamber.

Lib Dem group leader Kevin Lang said at the meeting he was “not that bothered” about the content of the bid, arguing the city “never had a chance” in the first place due to not having a big enough indoor arena.

Cllr Day said this week: “We considered it, we sent it off to the Chief Executive, the head of culture and all the group leaders were asked about this and every one of them supported us putting a bid in.

“The only venue we had is the Royal Highland Show ground which was available at that time, has the capacity, it’s near to a tram stop, it’s by the airport and there’s a bus service from the airport every 20 minutes or so. On that basis we put a bid in for it.”

He admitted there were “cities that had better options than us” but added: “Why should I as the council leader not be trying to get international, global events into my city?”

He continued: “I think there’s a call for us now quite rightly to look at how the capital city of Scotland, which is growing every week, hosts these major events going forward. Should we always have to travel to Glasgow or to Manchester and Newcastle for events? Or should we be saying the capital should have a proper venue.

“This has spurred an opportunity. That might be entirely unaffordable or it could be something we could work on.”

SNP councillor Danny Aston said: “It’s good that the bid has finally been released and we can see what can be learned from it.

“Disappointingly this is only after the Labour administration voted against the SNP’s request for basic transparency and the Conservative group supported Labour in that, like a puppet on a string.”

by Donald Turvill

The Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) is a public service news agency: funded by the BBC, provided by the local news sector, and used by qualifying partners. Local Democracy Reporters cover top-tier local authorities and other public service organisations.

The City Art Centre will be home to a major retrospective exhibition of one of the UK’s leading figurative painters, Peter Howson, which opens in May 2023.

Bringing together around 100 works spanning the artist’s career, some of these have never been seen before in Scotland.

Howson has established a formidable reputation in the art world. His heroic portrayals of the mighty and the lowly confront subjects of human conflict and destruction that offer a penetrating insight into the human condition.

His experiences of abuse—whether self-inflicted and substance-related, or the traumatic events of his childhood—have moulded his world view, and afforded him an affinity with individuals on the margins of society. 

The City Art Centre’s Curatorial and Conservation Manager, David Patterson has been planning the exhibition for three years, working closely with Howson and his London gallery. Howson has previously shown at the City Art Centre, when his critically acclaimed solo exhibition devoted to Scotland’s patron saint Andrew was displayed in 2007.

Patterson commented: “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see works assembled from public and private collections. This retrospective will illustrate Peter’s consummate skill in a range of media and explore his religious work as well as his graphic responses to recent global events including the Covid pandemic and war in Ukraine.”

Councillor Val Walker, Convener of Culture and Communities said: “Peter Howson is one of the most respected artists of his generation and we are very proud that the City Art Centre will host this major study of his work. Visitors will be able to discover Howson’s instantly recognisable works with many on display in Scotland for the first time. Celebrating Howson’s 50-year career, we will showcase over 100 pieces across four floors. It will be the highlight exhibition of 2023.”

Graduating from Glasgow School of Art in the 1980s, Howson quickly proved his skill of capturing the maverick, the excessive, the non-conformist and his own personal understanding of the struggles of everyday life.

In 1992 he was commissioned by the Imperial War Museum to record the conflict in the former Yugoslavia. He was appointed official British war artist for Bosnia in 1993 and in 1996 was awarded Doctor of Letters at The University of Strathclyde. His work is included in numerous national and international museum collections.

When the Apple Ripens: Peter Howson at 65: A Retrospective opens at the City Art Centre in Edinburgh on 27 May 2023 and runs until 1 October 2023. A new book will accompany the exhibition, published by Sansom and Co.

https://www.edinburghmuseums.org.uk/whats-on/when-apple-ripens-peter-howson-65

Peter Howson, OBE, was born in London in 1958. He was a focal member of the group of young artists to emerge from the Glasgow School of Art during the 1980s dubbed the New Glasgow Boys, and one of his generation’s leading figurative painters. He studied at Glasgow School of Art from 1975 – 1977, and returned in 1979 to complete a Masters degree. In 1985 he was made the Artist in Residence at the University of St Andrews and also a part-time tutor at Glasgow School of Art. Howson witnessed the harrowing realities of combat as an official war artist appointed by the Imperial War Museum during the Bosnian War from 1993-4, culminating in a solo exhibition at IWM London in 1994. In 1996 he was awarded Doctor of Letters Honoras Causa, University of Strathclyde. Howson has exhibited extensively in the United States and Europe. His work is represented in public collections including the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Museum of Modern Art, New York; the Tate Gallery, London; the Victoria & Albert Museum, London; the British Museum, London; Gallery of Modern Art, Glasgow; and the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, Edinburgh. Howson currently lives and works in Glasgow.

All primary schools in Edinburgh, as well as elsewhere in Scotland, are closed today while members of the EIS take strike action.

Late negotiations yesterday between teaching unions, local authorities and the Scottish Negotiating Committee for Teachers (SNCT) did not stop the strike which will affect primary schools today and secondary schools tomorrow. Special schools are closed over the two days.

EIS General Secretary Andrea Bradley said on Monday evening: “The SNCT negotiating meeting, held today following a request from teacher unions, did not result in any new pay offer from the Scottish Government and COSLA. This means that strike action – planned for Tuesday in primary schools and for Wednesday in secondary schools – will proceed as scheduled.”

Ms Bradley added, “It is disappointing, though not surprising, that no new offer was presented today, despite some positive progress in discussions. The union side remains willing to talk, at any time, with a view to reaching a resolution to this dispute.

“While it is now too late to halt this week’s strike action in schools, we hope that fresh talks may take place later this week to advance discussions towards an improved offer. Only a significantly improved offer from the Scottish Government and COSLA can bring an end to this dispute.”

Specific Edinburgh details are contained in the letter from the Acting Head of Schools and Lifelong Learning at The City of Edinburgh Council which is shown below.

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The strike has a hashtag for social media #PayAttention and the EIS has tweeted many photos of schools in Edinburgh where strikes are taking place.

A spokesperson for the EIS said: “We can also now confirm that Scotland’s teachers will strike on sixteen consecutive days in January and February, with teachers in two local authorities on strike on each of these sixteen days.”

The next action in Edinburgh is planned for 25 January.

In answer to a Freedom of Information request it appears that the Edinburgh sign may be here to stay for the next decade.

The cost of putting up the illuminated ‘Edinburgh’ sign installed on The Mound just before Christmas was £22,000.

But The City of Edinburgh Council said it is unable to confirm the exact amount of the running costs until it is billed this year, although they estimate the cost to be between £50 and £100.

The ‘EDINBURGH’ Light Art installation will be in place until this month and it will then be used in the public realm every year going forward until it is no longer usable which the council estimates is around 5 – 10 years. Any required repairs will be made to the sign to increase its ‘shelf life’.

Certainly any time we passed it during December the sign was an attraction for visitors to the city who stopped to take selfies there.

And thanks to Andy Arthur who made the initial request….

Just out of interest.https://t.co/xrCzzRXxU8 pic.twitter.com/ivHAcKFWkZ

— Andy Arthur – threadinburgh.scot (@cocteautriplets) November 21, 2022

Fifty new jobs will be created by GGMS Ltd, the corporate workplace solutions specialist in the next three to five years, by establishing a new plant in the Buko Building in Glenrothes.

Looking to grow in Scotland, the business has a heavy focus on the circular economy. 

Concerned with Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment (FF&E) Asset Management, its cutting-edge technology allows the firm to seamlessly manage the entire lifecycle of FF&E and unlock more value from furniture assets through smart re-use.

With an extensive blue chip client base, GGMS Ltd works with the majority of the country’s High Street Banks, through to recognised tech and pharma companies, as they aim for net zero waste by reusing and repurposing.      

GGMS Ltd has been assisted in its move to Fife by Economic Development’s InvestFife services, who have connected the business with the right teams and contacts to provide a smooth and straight forward move.  Additionally, the Opportunities Fife team is on hand to support GGMS Ltd’s job creation in the area. 

“We’re really pleased to find a suitable base in Scotland as we look to open more regional hubs across the UK,” said Andrew Neill, Business Development Director from GGMS Ltd.  “As we have several clients in Scotland it makes sense to open a hub here. We’ll reduce our carbon footprint in the process which is central to our ethos.”

“Our business, providing robust reporting and tracking carbon footprint on a project-by-project basis, is growing fast. We are continuing to understand our customers’ needs and develop the innovative cloud-based technology which is unique to us.”  

The business is thankful to InvestFife for its support and for the introduction to Matrix Fife, where both business’ share many synergies and see future further partnership working as part of the new site.  GGMS confirmed that recruitment for additional posts within the new plant at the Buko building have progressed and would continue over the next few years.

Service Manager Pamela Stevenson, Economic Development at Fife Council, said:“We wish to welcome GGMS Ltd to Fife. We are delighted they have found exactly what they need, from suitable premises, an engaged workforce and to partner organisations committed to sustainability and giving something back.”

“Their unique proposition to businesses all over the UK to upcycle and repurpose as opposed to purchase new is to be commended and one we very much applaud.”          

GoGreen Managed Services | ggmsteam.com

Edinburgh’s school libraries have been awarded funding for a progressive anti-racism project, as part of the 2022/23 School Library Improvement Fund (SLIF). 

Administered by the Scottish Library and Information Council (SLIC), on behalf of The Scottish Government, the Fund supports creative and innovative projects within the school library sector in Scotland.

Available to all state-run nurseries, primary schools and secondary schools with a library, this year’s funding priority was given to applications which focused on supporting anti-racism and racial equality. 

The £200,000 2022/23 SLIF has been allocated to a total of 18 initiatives across Scotland, including the ‘The Library is Anti-Racist’ project in Edinburgh. The funding will support the creation of an anti-racism toolkit and collection of travelling resources for Edinburgh’s school libraries to ensure the service is diverse, inclusive and reflective of the school and its wider community.

This brings the total investment from the Scottish Government to £1.5 million during the lifetime of SLIF, playing an important role in helping school library services achieve the key aims of ‘Vibrant Libraries, Thriving Schools: A National Strategy for School Libraries in Scotland 2018-2023’ – the strategic document for the development of school libraries in Scotland.

Education Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville said: “School libraries play a key role for young people by providing access to educational resources, supporting learning and helping to close the poverty-related attainment gap.

“The School Library Improvement Fund continues to support creative and innovative projects in school libraries.

“The anti-racism focus of the projects will allow school libraries to engage with pupils on the importance of belonging, inclusion and social justice.”

Schools can apply via individual or collaborative applications with SLIC accepting up to two individual approaches per local authority and an unlimited number of collaborative applications to ensure equal opportunities across Scotland.

Pamela Tulloch, Chief Executive of SLIC, said: “School libraries play a valuable role in education and learning, and ensuring every young person has the chance to fulfil their full potential.  Projects funded through programmes like SLIF help to improve and expand the services school libraries can provide, so it’s great to see such strong applications coming in from schools eager to further develop these resources.

“We’re particularly proud to award support to those advocating for anti-racism and anti-discrimination through this year’s Fund and we can’t wait to see these initiatives come to fruition.”

https://scottishlibraries.org/funding/the-school-library-improvement-fund/

Buzzworks Holdings has taken over the former Three Bridges restaurant in South Queensferry, opening a new venue there called Thirty Knots.

The new restaurant has views of all three bridges and the owners have big plans for future development, including an outdoor terrace and venue space for up to 100 guests. The company is also looking to hire new employees at the new venue and also at any of its sixteen Scottish locations.

Stephen Buchanan from Buzzworks said: “Thirty Knots is an incredible addition to our existing business and offers something entirely different to our successful Scotts Bar and Restaurant at Port Edgar Marina.

“The concept is something that we’ve been carefully crafting for quite some time, with world-class designers contributing to the completion of this amazing new venue.

“We’re really passionate about getting involved in the South Queensferry community and providing an amazing venue where customers can come to enjoy great service, delicious food and quality drinks.

“Providing a relaxed and welcoming environment, that is warm, comfortable and accessible to all has been at the centre of our every thought since we started work on Thirty Knots, many months ago and we are proud to have delivered just that. 

“Making people feel great through hospitality is what we’re all about, so if we can help by providing our guests and the local community with the perfect place to come along and enjoy themselves, whilst making their day that little bit better, we’re happy. 

“We’re incredibly proud of everything Thirty Knots has to offer and can’t wait to welcome new and returning guests along over the coming months.

“What we try and do with each of our venues is make them accessible for everyone, so whether it’s a leisurely lunch with friends or casual dinner out with family in the restaurant, celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a drink or two in the pub, we aim to provide the perfect place for any occasion.

“Coming into the warmer months, we’re also excited to be launching an outdoor terrace, which will definitely be the place to be this summer.

“Since opening, our team has been very much enjoying welcoming guests through our doors over the past few weeks and we can’t wait to show them what’s coming next.”

Buzzworks was recently named in the top ‘100 Best Companies to Work For in the UK’ list, and has become renowned for its industry-leading staff benefits, including competitive rates, ongoing training and development, career progression, flexible working, and health and wellbeing incentives.

The operator also offers ongoing training and development, including a newly-launched Chef Apprenticeship Program, to ensure employees are fully supported and continue to progress within the business.

 www.buzzworksholdings.com/careers

Following a serious assault and robbery on Ferry Road in November, Police have released images of a man that they wish to speak to as they believe he may have information that can assist with their investigation.

The incident took place around 10.15 pm on Thursday 10 November 2022. The victim, a 46-year-old man, was assaulted and robbed, resulting in serious injuries.

The male shown in the images is described as a white male, in his late teens to early 20s, around 5ft 8 to 5ft 10 inches in height, slim build, shaved dark hair and was wearing a black T-shirt, light grey jogging bottoms and light coloured trainers.

Detective Constable Chris Docherty, from Edinburgh CID, said: “This incident was highly distressing for the victim and we’re eager to trace the man pictured. The male victim in this incident sustained a serious injury and was treated at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh.

“I am asking that the male pictured in the images to make contact with police in order that further enquiries can be conducted. I am also asking members of the public that if they recognise this individual to contact police.

“Anyone with information should call police on 101, quoting incident 3719 of 10 November 2022. Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, if you wish to remain anonymous.”

Drysdale & Company has announced that it is acting for Old Churches House Hotel, situated on Cathedral Square in Dunblane, which is for sale at offers over £850,000.

The two storey property, which overlooks the historic Dunblane Cathedral, is contained within several interconnecting historic terraced houses which were originally developed from derelict cottages in the 1960s.

In 2013 the current owner, Alex McKie of The Fusion Group of Companies, purchased the property, which had latterly been used as Scottish Churches House, an ecumenical centre visited in its time by Terry Waite, Pope John Paul II, and Her late Majesty The Queen, and created Old Churches House Hotel, which has gone on to become an award winning Hotel.  

With eleven en-suite bedrooms, including an accessible room, the hotel has a restaurant for 50, bar, various meeting rooms, an events space The Fraser Suite, and the Secret Chapel- discovered in the 1960s in thick undergrowth in the grounds to the rear of the property. Following its full restoration by Fusion, the Secret Chapel is now a part of Dunblane’s “heritage quarter” visitor attraction scene, and provides a unique space for intimate wedding and naming ceremonies.

Seven offices are also included within The Old Churches House complex, let out with up to a three month notice period.  Whilst the full service hotel is currently closed, the business is trading as a Guest House.

“This historic, award winning property, with its prominent position within Dunblane town centre, now presents an excellent opportunity for an experienced hospitality operator to acquire the Hotel and put their stamp on it,” said Stuart Drysdale of Drysdale & Company. “There is significant potential for re-development here if running it as a Hotel is not the intention however, with a pre-planning application lodged, and responded to positively, to create seven residential properties within the terraced property, and to the rear of the original building.”

Alex McKie said: “We, at Fusion, have thoroughly enjoyed our tenure of Old Churches House, surely one of the quirkiest and most historic small Hotels in Scotland which has taken its place ably beside Dunblane’ s many other attractions – the Cathedral, Andy Murray’s Gold Postbox, The Leighton Library, and Dunblane Museum. The building was rescued from ruin and given a new use, with the renovation of the Secret Chapel a particular highlight for us all.

“The time has come for us to sell, and we wish any new owner all the very best in taking on Old Churches House, whether as a charming Hotel that is that little bit different, or as a very lucrative development opportunity. Dunblane is an affluent, sought after residential area which enjoys great transport links across the entire Central Belt.”

stuart@drysdaleandcompany.co.uk Tel 07851 317 186.

Balance of power sits with employees despite the recession.

An ”unprecedented” shortage of skilled labour will be the defining issue of the coming year according to an influential annual report on Scotland’s financial services sector.

Warnings over the struggle to meet soaring staff expectations are symptomatic of a jobs market whereby employees still hold the balance of power, despite the country’s economic woes.

Now in its eighth year, Core-Asset Consulting’s “Industry Trends and Salary Guide” is a forensic review of salary levels, as well as being a gauge of market sentiment, activity and the themes impacting the sector in Scotland.

Due to be published in late January, the report by the sector’s leading recruiters also underlines that the decreased reliance on face-to-face work means that firms in Scotland must compete with London and other financial hubs for available talent.

Firms offering roles north of the border have been left struggling to fill vacancies, which have risen 23% over 2022 compared to the previous year, while the number of applicants is down by 19%.

The time taken to fill a vacancy has also telescoped, with many firms forced to review and hike initial salary levels, forcing difficult conversations internally with existing staff on similar pay brackets.

Betsy Williamson, founder and Chief Executive of Core-Asset Consulting, said: “Winning the race for talent requires a deep understanding of what employees’ value.

“Flexibility is the name of the game, but as a basic benefit, not a nice to have. Flexible working is now the norm for many and organisations must reposition and reinvent themselves to compete effectively.

“Ultimately, businesses must be prepared to market themselves to candidates just as they would to potential customers – as candidates know their value and they know that many skills face a supply shortfall.”

The guide states that the causes of labour market deficiencies are layered, however states that the reduction in available labour is interconnected with the UK’s exit from the European Union and the subsequent exodus of overseas nationals during the pandemic.

It advises that to be successful in hiring, firms must be closely attuned to the needs of the pool of labour, with salaries meeting rising inflation, a focus on employee wellbeing, investment in training and development and support with the cost of living expected.

A straw poll of 43 recent Core-Asset Consulting candidates revealed that 39.5% would not entertain a role that offered no flexible working, while 79% would be willing to travel to London two days per week in return for flexibility, over a role necessitating five days in the office.

The guide sets the stall for salary reviews in Scotland’s financial services sector which usually happen in March and April. Uniquely, all of the data is entirely Scottish and the report sets expectations for those who are awarding salaries, allowing them to benchmark against competitor organisations.

The report also gauges market sentiment and activity, as well as highlighting the themes that are impacting financial services across Scotland. Major issues this year include staff shortages, ESG, Brexit and ethical investing.

Core-Asset Consulting is Scotland’s pre-eminent recruitment and headhunting agency dedicated to financial and professional services. Formed in 2005, it was born out of Betsy Williamson’s desire to take the best of her experience of large corporate recruiters, applying the focus on infrastructure and training to a more sector-specialised business.

Based in Edinburgh, the £26 million firm employs 23 people and works across the entire financial services sector, from the smallest boutiques to the biggest global players.

Initially the firm carved its reputation in Scotland’s globally-renowned asset management sector. However, the success of its model allowed it to expand across the wider financial services market. It now boasts dedicated accounting, investment operations and finance teams and also works in Scotland’s thriving legal sector.

The Industry Trends and Salary Guide is 63 pages of market analysis, salary data and insights from consultants, clients and candidates.

https://bit.ly/Salary-Guide-2023

The first Parkrun at Winchburgh’s Auldcathie District Park took place at the weekend.

Two new records for the highest attendance ever recorded at a Scottish inaugural Parkrun and the busiest in Scotland were set as 601 people took part.

Parkrun is a volunteer-led, 5km challenge that takes place every weekend at various locations all over the world.

The runs bring together people of all abilities, ages and backgrounds together to take part for free as walkers, runners, or volunteers. Winchburgh Developments Limited has provided the main sponsorship for the Auldcathie Parkrun with further contributions provided by the key housebuilders on site.

Cutting the ribbon on the start line, Bo’ness-based Paralympian and world record holding wheelchair racer, Ben Rowlings, said: “It’s amazing to have Parkrun come to Winchburgh and just incredible to see this level of turnout. The events are a great way to get people up and active and having the first Winchburgh park run at the start of the year sets an active tone for the rest of the year.

“The new Winchburgh course makes the Parkrun event even more inclusive. The smooth surface opens the event to users with a variety of disabilities ranging from wheelchair users, race running frames and visually impaired runners with guides.

“Parkrun is about bringing a community together and getting active regardless of times, speed or disability. Winchburgh Park Run has the ability to do this within our local area, which is brilliant.”

Winchburgh’s Auldcathie District Park has been designed with Parkrun in mind after the community raised the idea during initial consultations in 2018.

The park is a stunning backdrop to the 5km challenge flanked by dense woodland. All cycle and walking routes throughout the park are tarmac-covered, providing full access for everyone including wheelchair users.

Personal Trainer and Parkrun event director, Gillian Wells from Winchburgh, led the campaign to secure a Parkrun for Winchburgh Village. She said: “This is a really exciting moment for us. My passion is in inspiring people of all ages, shapes and sizes to get moving and Parkrun is the perfect way to achieve this. Now more than ever it’s really important to encourage one another to look after our mental health as well as our physical and being able to access this free and inclusive event on your doorstep is invaluable.

“At a time where many are struggling with the stresses and strains from such a difficult and stressful pandemic it’s a fantastic way to come together as a community in a relaxed environment with fellow residents whilst also allowing us to help support local businesses who will provide space for conversation and refreshments afterwards.”

Penny Lochhead, Community Sports and Greenspace Manager at Winchburgh Developments Limited, said: “This is a fantastic, free weekly event that is going to offer a regular routine for people to get together, get exercising and enjoy this beautiful district park in the process. Gillian and her team of volunteers have done an amazing job to bring Parkrun to Winchburgh. It has taken a lot of hard work and dedication to get it over the line and going forward it is a massive commitment to deliver this 5km run every week of the year hopefully for many years to come.

“I’m thrilled all the hard work over the past few years has been worth it and Winchburgh now has a wonderful Parkrun to enjoy every Saturday morning. As the community of Winchburgh continues to grow in the next few years, it’s going to be a lovely event to bring everyone together.”

The running route is one of the most accessible in Scotland. The broadly flat 2.5km tarmac path is part of a fitness loop that takes runners from the recently opened ‘schools in the park’ education campus and Sports and Wellbeing Hub, down through the park and towards the Union Canal, where it then loops back for a second circuit. In the next phase of the park’s development another 40 acres of greenspace will be added allowing for a full 5km circuit.

There are toilet facilities at the adjacent Sports and Wellbeing Hub in the car park at the start of the race and there are hot drinks and treats awaiting the runners at the finish area from local business, Zac & Co. 

www.parkrun.org.uk/auldcathiedistrict/course/