City Centre West to East Link officially opened

A scheme to transform walking, wheeling and cycling between the east and west of the city was officially opened yesterday (Wednesday 20 March).

Members of the community joined Councillor Scott Arthur, Transport and Environment Convener; Patrick Harvie, Minister for Zero Carbon Buildings, Active Travel and Tenants’ Rights; and other stakeholders in Haymarket to celebrate the occasion, following the completion of the City Centre West to East Link (CCWEL).

Pupils from local primary schools were amongst the first to test out part of the route, participating in a group ride from Old Colt Bridge which arrived in Haymarket in time for the festivities. Here, they were treated to music performed by St Mary’s Music School pupils and a range of walking, wheeling and cycling-themed activities.

Construction on the £23m CCWEL route began in February 2022 and has been principally funded by the Scottish Government through Sustrans’ Places for Everyone programme.

The scheme connects Roseburn to Leith Walk via Haymarket and the West End with a safe and direct cycle route, as well as significantly enhancing streets for those walking, wheeling and spending time there.

This will tie into a new George Street cycling thoroughfare delivered as part of the George Street and First New Town project.

Councillor Scott Arthur, Transport and Environment Convener, said:Today we celebrated a major development for walking, wheeling and cycling in the Capital, with the completion of CCWEL.

“This major scheme is not only one of the largest pieces of active travel infrastructure delivered in Edinburgh, but it has transformed spaces along the route for the use and enjoyment of people who live, visit and work here.

“I’m pleased that that the community and all those involved were able to share in celebrating the occasion today – we really want them to benefit from the route. I’d like to thank local residents and businesses for their patience throughout construction, which I know has been disruptive at times.

“Now it’s open, CCWEL will form a key section of our growing walking, wheeling and cycling network, connecting with Roseburn to Union Canal, George Street and First New Town and other key routes.

“This kind of joined-up project delivery is essential for helping people to choose clean, sustainable modes of transport, in turn supporting our net zero 2030 goals, as well as improving air quality and reducing congestion.”

Patrick Harvie, Minister for Active Travel said: “I was delighted to attend the start of the work on the City Centre West to East Link two years ago and even more so to see it open today.

“This new active travel route forms a key part of the growing network across Edinburgh, providing another safe and sustainable option for people to move about Scotland’s capital.

“This ambitious investment in active travel infrastructure was made possible through grant funding from the Scottish Government administered through Sustrans Scotland’s Places For Everyone Fund.

“I am grateful to City of Edinburgh Council for working so closely with all partners, not least the many communities set to benefit from this investment.”

Karen McGregor, Scotland Director for Sustrans said:The City Centre West to East Link is an absolute game-changer within the world of active travel.

“For the first time ever in Scotland, we’ve delivered a fully segregated walking, wheeling and cycling connection that cuts through the heart of the city centre. In doing so, this fantastic new route gives the people of Edinburgh a safe and accessible driving alternative, allowing people to get to where they want, how they want, regardless of age or ability.

“I would like to thank all those involved for their support and keen involvement in its delivery.”

Other activities along the route included free bike checks from Dr Bike, bike marking by Police Scotland, cargo bike trials and the opportunity to meet the team responsible for the project.

As well as connecting to cycling and walking improvements delivered through the George Street and First New Town project and on Leith Walk as part of Trams to Newhaven, CCWEL will link to the Roseburn to Union Canal route, due for completion this year, and Meadows to George Street. Construction on this is planned for 2025.

By supporting people to travel by foot, bike and wheel, CCWEL aligns with the City Mobility Plan 2030, which envisions a clean, connected and net zero carbon future.

Find out more about CCWEL.

Celebrate International Women’s Day at Johnnie Walker Princes Street

Celebrating some of Diageo’s most pioneering women, Johnnie Walker Princes Street is hosting an exclusive Spirited Women Tasting in its Explorers’ Bothy Bar on 8th-10th of March. 

Telling the stories of the influential women who have helped shape the face of Scotch whisky, the tasting features a welcome highball using an exclusive Johnnie Walker Princes Street blend created by Master Blender Emma Walker, and a Johnnie Walker Princes Street Cellar Blend prepared by Master Blender, Aimee Morrison. 

Featured in the tasting session will be the Cardhu 12, 200th anniversary release. Created to celebrate two of the original female whisky trailblazers, Helen and Elizabeth Cumming, this malt is strikingly smooth and characterised by beautiful berry and blackcurrant notes. 

Also making an appearance will be the Singleton of Glen Ord 2022 Special Release for a sweet and spicy fix, and the Dalwhinnie 17, 125th anniversary release which offers a famously spicy and fruity experience with strong vanilla notes. 

Priced at £55 per person, tickets for the event can be purchased online https://www.johnniewalker.com/en-gb/visit-us-princes-street/book-whisky-tasting/#id=spirited-women-an-international-women-s-day-tasting.

As well as the tour, visitors can also enjoy an exclusive 10% discount across the retail store on the day of their tour when they present their ticket.

This offers reduced prices for merchandise and products, including the Bottle Your Own experience, where customers can engrave products with personalised messaging.

The 10% discount is also extended to the 1820 Rooftop Bar, where guests can savour the panoramic views of the Edinburgh skyline with delectable food and drink. 

To check out other Johnnie Walker experiences, and for more information, please visit www.johnniewalkerprincesstreet.com

Spring Talk From Great British nature writer Sir John Lister-Kaye

One of Britain’s best-known conservationists, John Lister-Kaye, described by Springwatch’s Katie Humble as ‘joyful and inspirational’, gives a rare glimpse into his intriguing life and work at a literary talk and book signing at the Royal Scots Club on 23rd March, 10:30am-12:30pm.

Entry is free and there will be a pop-up Toppings bookstall.

A true naturalist, John Lister-Kaye patiently and meticulously observes and records the lives, habits and habitats of otters, badgers, weasels and pine martens. Hours of careful waiting and watching in the woods and loch, the river, fields and moorland is rewarded with insight into how these animals live when unhindered by human interference; sometimes red in tooth and claw, but often playful, familial, curious and surprising.

John’s own journey from aristocratic roots to being captivated by the creatures of Scotland and becoming one of the most respected academic observers of the natural world gripping too.

During deep dives exploring natural history, familial characteristics and ecological significance, he began to find the animals were ‘teaching me to become feral myself, guiding me into their ways so that my senses seemed to merge with theirs at a level far more intimate than just scientific interest or admiration.’

His new book, FOOTPRINTS IN THE WOODS, The Secret Life of Forest and Riverbank, is not only a love letter to these elusive animals and what he describes as the ‘irresistible wildness’.

It is also a timely reminder of the fragility of habitat and the beauty and variety we have to lose if we don’t choose to actively protect it.

A peerless observer who is as much a part of the land as his beloved badgers. This, unusually, is nature writing that is actually about nature rather than the writer, and so it has the power and wisdom of the hills and forest. Marvellous’ – CHARLES FOSTER (Author, Cry of the Wild)

No one writes as movingly, or with such transporting poetic skills, about encounters with wild creatures’ – HELEN MACDONALD (Award-winning writer, H is for Hawk)

I am addicted to the writings of John Lister-Kaye’ – JOANNA LUMLEY

Sir John Lister-Kaye is one of Britain’s best-known naturalists and conservationists and has spent a lifetime exploring, protecting and celebrating the British landscape and its wildlife

John came to live in the Highlands of Scotland in 1968 to work with the celebrated author and naturalist Gavin Maxwell of Ring of Bright Water fame. 

He is the author of eleven books on wildlife and the environment, including The Dun Cow Rib, shortlisted for the Wainwright Prize, and Gods of the Morning, winner of the Richard Jeffereies Award for Nature Writing.

John has lectured on the natural environment all over the world. He was awarded an OBE for his services to nature conservation, the Royal Scottish Geographical Society’s Geddes Environmental Medal and honorary doctorates from two Scottish universities for his contribution to nature writing. 

He has served prominently in the RSPB, the Nature Conservancy Council, Scottish Natural Heritage and the Scottish Wildlife Trust. He lives with his wife and family among the mountains of the Scottish Highlands, where he runs the world-famous Aigas Field Centre.

The literary coffee morning with author talk will be held on 23rd March 2024 at The Royal Scots Club, 29-31 Abercromby Place, Edinburgh, EH3 6QE starting at 10:30am.

There will be an opportunity to purchase books for signing by the author at a pop-up bookshop provided by Topping & Company Booksellers, Edinburgh.

The event is free and is open to all, members and non-members alike, with numbers limited by venue capacity only.

Reservations may be made by via Eventbrite or by emailing The Royal Scots Club on events@royalscotsclub.com

Bright & Beautiful Afternoon Tea at The Caledonian

This spring, enjoy a diverse array of sandwiches crafted by head chef Ryan MacFarlane, including Sun-Blush Tomato Tartlets and Mortadella with Pistachio Mascarpone.

Followed by an exquisite pastry selection, featuring selections such as the Flutter Around Butterfly (Rhubarb Compote & Elderflower Custard Stuffed Matcha Cookie) and One Little Speckled Egg (Crunchy Chocolate, Marsala Crémeux & Coffee Petit Gateau), this expertly crafted menu is certain to delight.

Standing proudly at the West End of Princes Street, this former Victorian railway building hotel nestles in the shadow of the imposing Edinburgh Castle and its reputation for style and excellence has attracted generations of locals, internationals, and notable personalities for over one hundred years.

Formerly the station concourse and ticket office, Peacock Alley represents the historic heart of the Caley, and is imbued with the peerless style and sophistication of this famous former railway hotel – the perfect setting for an elegant afternoon tea.

The Bright & Beautiful Afternoon Tea is available in Peacock Alley, The Caledonian daily from 12:30 – 4pm, from 19th February to 10th April. Gluten free, vegan, and children’s menus are also available. Priced at £119 for two or £30 for children. The menu can be viewed here.

Bookings can be made by emailing caledonian.dining@waldorfastoria.com or calling the reservations team directly at 0131 222 8832.

Vaping ‘best way to stop smoking’, says Vape boss

VPZ is the UK’s leading vaping retailer with over 160 stores throughout the UK. Since it was established in 2012 it has helped over 700,000 smokers quit.

VPZ Director Doug Mutter says the 12 per cent rise in vape sales figures across the industry is no surprise due to its effectiveness as a smoking cessation tool but urged the wider industry to take steps to educate consumers on sustainable products.

Doug said: “The significant increase in sales figures across the industry last month highlights once again that vaping is the best way for people to quit smoking and make a major lifestyle that improves your health and financial wellbeing.

“At VPZ, our stores offer a dedicated one-to-one service to help smokers quit and our consumer intelligence tells us that the majority of customers prefer being instore where they can access a personalised service and get the right guidance and advice from our staff that can’t be accessed elsewhere.

“VPZ specialists are trained and have expert knowledge, engaging with smokers to educate them on the health, environmental and financial benefits of switching to reusable and sustainable vaping products.

“Our approach gives adult smokers the help and advice they need at a time when local stop smoking services across the country are under threat whilst supporting the country’s ambitions to become a smoke free nation by 2030.

“As the UK’s leading vaping retailer we are supportive of the Government’s disposable vape ban but it’s important that they take on board advice and guidance to regain much-needed momentum and ensure that the country meets its targets.”

The Eden Mill Experience opens for Valentine’s Day

Located in the heart of the Scottish capital, Eden Mill has opened the doors of its first-ever city centre Edinburgh venue in time for the most romantic day of the year; the city’s brand-new drinks venue offers a delicious journey through Eden Mill’s best-selling fruity & floral Love Gin 


Edinburgh’s drinks lovers will enjoy the perfect Valentine’s Day date as independent distiller Eden Mill announces The Eden Mill Experience is now open in the heart of Edinburgh’s West End. 

The capital’s latest drinks experience, and Eden Mill’s first venue in central Edinburgh, is located in the Heads & Tales Gin Bar at 1A, Rutland Place, EH1 2AD, inviting gin lovers to share their love for the spirit through an interactive & immersive mixology experience. 

Eden Mill’s delectably fruity and subtly floral pink Love Gin, originally created as a limited-edition for Valentine’s Day in 2015, is available in the ‘Share The Love Gin’ session. Gin fans are whisked through a dreamy experience with three uniquely delicious cocktails, one of which guests will learn to mix themselves. 

SHARE THE LOVE GIN | (From £30) 

Love Gin (40% ABV) is Eden Mill’s floral pink gin joined the Eden Mill portfolio in 2015 as a limited-edition, but the taste of fresh rhubarb spice, sweet strawberries & vanilla combined with green apple, citrus and a hint of rose water, was adored and earned Love Gin a permanent position in the Eden Mill portfolio.

During the Share The Love Gin session, gin enthusiasts will hear the story of how Love Gin was born and the flavoursome botanicals used to make it so delicious. With three uniquely delicious cocktails and some sweet treats, this immersive session will tell the story of Eden Mill’s best-selling Love Gin. 

The Eden Mill Experience joins a flourishing area of the capital’s drinks scene; bursting with culture,  innovative bars and restaurants. Positioned as an experience and journey into the Eden Mill brand, the location is the ideal venue for drinks fans to begin their perfect day or night out in the beautiful Scottish capital. 

Hannah Ingram, Head of Marketing at Eden Mill, said: “We are thrilled to bring a taste of St Andrews to the Scottish capital. Valentine’s Day is a fabulous opportunity for Edinburgh’s gin fans to experience the versatility of our Love Gin through a range of inventive & delicious cocktails. 

“The Eden Mill Experience is the perfect opportunity to showcase our wonderful expressions in an interactive and immersive way, and it’s a privilege to launch in a city with such a vibrant drinks scene.”   

‘The Guard Bridge Masterclass’ is also available for whisky fans; Eden Mill’s blended malt Scotch whisky is designed to be enjoyed in cocktails, and guests will enjoy three – all expressing the whisky’s deliciously sweet tasting notes of sherried fruit and light warm gingerbread. 

THE GUARD BRIDGE MASTERCLASS | (From £35)
The Guard Bridge Blended Malt Scotch Whisky (46% ABV) is a new addition to Eden Mill’s range, crafted using an eclectic mix of single malts sourced from the Highland and Lowland regions of Scotland; the blend also contains Eden Mill Single Malt whisky which is highly scarce in quantity.

The expression soothes the palate with the taste of creamy vanilla and barley sugar, finished with sherried fruit and light warm gingerbread. 

During The Guard Bridge Masterclass, whisky fans will learn the journey and discover the story behind this new blended malt Scotch whisky while delving into its deliciously sweet tasting notes. Designed to be enjoyed in cocktails, attendees will try three as part of the experience to demonstrate the whisky’s versatility, with one cocktail “guaranteed to feature an ingredient guests have never tasted before!”.  

LAYING FOUNDATIONS

Eden Mill is currently building a contemporary Scotch Whisky and gin distillery which is due to become operational in 2024. Set to be one of Scotland’s iconic distilleries, it will also be a major St Andrews landmark and a key Scottish tourism attraction. The brand has been recording progress with work on the exterior of the distillery now complete; a time-lapse video capturing the first stage of the journey is available on the Eden Mill website

The Eden Mill Experience opened on Saturday 3rd February 2024 and is located in the Heads & Tales Gin Bar at 1A, Rutland Place, EH1 2AD in the heart of Edinburgh’s West End. Offering immersive whisky & gin experiences, bookings are available now via the Eden Mill website. 

Rachel Scott Couture marks 20 year anniversary with launch of new designer eveningwear boutique

Fashion fans set to flock to the official open weekend to shop new collections from Vivienne Westwood, Temperley London and Suzanne Neville

Good news for fashion fans – the award-winning Rachel Scott Couture is marking its 20th anniversary with an exciting expansion.

The new boutique will feature a carefully curated selection of eveningwear, bespoke jewellery and accessories from top designers such as Vivienne Westwood, Temperley London and Suzanne Neville, and Scottish style enthusiasts can get an exclusive first look from tomorrow – Thursday 1st February.

Located in the heart of the Scottish capital on Edinburgh’s Queensferry Street, fashion aficionados can book a private appointment at the boutique from Thursday 1st February.

Alternatively, fashionistas can drop in and browse the full collection without an appointment during the open weekend on Saturday 3rd – Sunday 4th February. Here, they can take full advantage of the launch offers which include 20% off all Rachel Scott bespoke jewellery and a £250 discount on Rachel Scott bespoke jewellery pieces with any dress purchase. 

The new premises will showcase a range of colourful cocktails dresses, beautiful black tie gowns and the finest couture formalwear, as well as handcrafted headwear and jewellery for any occasion.

Designer names include Vivienne Westwood whose exclusive made-to-order collection will be available for the very first time in Scotland at Rachel Scott Couture.

What’s more, the new made-to-order eveningwear collection from celebrity favourite Suzanne Neville will also be available for the first time in Scotland at Rachel Scott Couture.

Speaking ahead of the launch, boutique owner Rachel Snedden explains the benefits of buying made-to-order pieces; “Fit is such a huge issue for many people when buying ‘off-the-rack’ clothing, and even more so when shopping online.

“Now imagine you can have something made to your exact measurements and specifications, for example – you don’t like the neckline, the colour, or you don’t want to have to worry about a bra – we can change it and have it made the way you really want it!”

As well as offering this made-to-order service, the new Rachel Scott Couture boutique will also provide the same exceptional level of expertise and personal attention that has resulted in the couture experts winning an impressive collection of accolades and awards throughout their 20 years in business.

The Eden Mill Experience Edinburgh

A TASTE OF ST ANDREWS ARRIVES IN THE CAPITAL

Eden Mill’s first-ever city centre Edinburgh venue opens next Saturday 3rd February 2024 as ‘The Eden Mill Experience’; located in the heart of the Scottish capital, the city’s newest drinks venue offers two unique journeys through the spirits & flavours of Eden Mill 

Independent distiller Eden Mill announces a date for the grand opening of The Eden Mill Experience, the capital’s latest drinks experience and Eden Mill’s first brand-owned venue in central Edinburgh.

Located in the Heads & Tales Gin Bar at 1A, Rutland Place, EH1 2AD at the West End, the immersive drinks venue offers two interactive mixology experiences. 

Opening Saturday 3rd February 2024, drinks lovers will have the chance to explore the stories behind Eden Mill’s whisky and gin expressions through a range of delicious cocktails, one of which guests will learn to mix themselves. 

The Eden Mill Experience joins a flourishing area of the capital’s drinks scene; bursting with culture, innovative bars and restaurants. Positioned as an experience and journey into the Eden Mill brand, the location is the ideal venue for drinks fans to begin their perfect day or night out in the beautiful Scottish capital. 

SHARE THE LOVE GIN | (From £30) 

Love Gin (40% ABV) is Eden Mill’s delectably fruity, lightly sweet and subtly floral pink gin. Joining the Eden Mill portfolio in 2015, the spirit was originally created as a limited-edition for Valentine’s Day, but the taste of fresh rhubarb spice, sweet strawberries & vanilla combined with green apple, citrus and a hint of rose water, was adored and earned Love Gin a permanent position in the Eden Mill portfolio. 

During the Share The Love Gin session, gin enthusiasts will hear the story of how Love Gin was born and the flavoursome botanicals used to make it so delicious. With three uniquely delicious cocktails and some sweet treats, this immersive session will tell the story of Eden Mill’s best-selling Love Gin. 

THE GUARD BRIDGE MASTERCLASS | (From £35)

The Guard Bridge Blended Malt Scotch Whisky (46% ABV) is a new addition to Eden Mill’s range, crafted using an eclectic mix of single malts sourced from the Highland and Lowland regions of Scotland; the blend also contains Eden Mill Single Malt whisky which is highly scarce in quantity. The expression soothes the palate with the taste of creamy vanilla and barley sugar, finished with sherried fruit and light warm gingerbread. 

During The Guard Bridge Masterclass, whisky fans will learn the journey and discover the story behind this new blended malt Scotch whisky while delving into its deliciously sweet tasting notes. Designed to be enjoyed in cocktails, attendees will try three as part of the experience to demonstrate the whisky’s versatility, with one cocktail “guaranteed to feature an ingredient guests have never tasted before!”.  

Hannah Ingram, Head of Marketing at Eden Mill, said: “We are thrilled to bring a taste of St Andrews to the Scottish capital. It’s a really proud moment for us to launch a venue in a city with such a vibrant drinks scene. To have our very own Eden Mill experience in Edinburgh is an honour and an exciting milestone for the brand. 

“While our new distillery is being built, this is the perfect opportunity to showcase the versatility our expressions have, through inventive and delicious cocktails. The experiences are really special, interactive and immersive and we can’t wait to see the reaction from Scotland’s wonderful capital.”   

LAYING FOUNDATIONS

Eden Mill is currently building a contemporary Scotch Whisky and gin distillery which is due to become operational in 2024. Set to be one of Scotland’s iconic distilleries, it will also be a major St Andrews landmark and a key Scottish tourism attraction.

The brand has been recording progress with work on the exterior of the distillery now complete; a time-lapse video capturing the first stage of the journey is available on the Eden Mill website

The Eden Mill Experience will open on Saturday 3rd February 2024 and is located in the Heads & Tales Gin Bar at 1A, Rutland Place, EH1 2AD in the heart of Edinburgh’s West End. Offering immersive whisky & gin experiences, bookings are available now via the Eden Mill website. 

‘Surplus to Requirements: Five Edinburgh Police Stations set to close

CONSULTATION PLANS TO BE ANNOUNCED

Police Scotland today (Thursday, 14 December, 2023) announced plans to consult and engage the public on proposals to close a number of properties across the country.

The Service has published details of 29 police stations and other buildings which it says are now surplus to requirements, with officers and staff being moved to other locations. Of these buildings three are already vacant and 14 others have no public access.

The Edinburgh stations listed as ‘surplus to requirements’ are Balerno, Fettes, Leith, Portobello and West End.

In addition, Police Scotland will carry out consultation and engagement on a further 16 properties, which are all already vacant or are plots of land with no buildings. As such there is no public access to these properties.

Plans to close a further 14 properties will be brought forward at a later date.

Properties have been selected for potential disposal under the Service’s estate strategy, which seeks to move toward co-location with partners where possible to ensure services are delivered in the most efficient and effective way.

As part of the review, local Divisional Commanders have been asked to identify where they would want to locate their resources to better meet the demands of 21st century policing and to highlight any buildings in their areas that are underused, surplus to requirements or where there could be opportunities to rationalise buildings or co-locate with partners.

Deputy Chief Constable, Malcolm Graham said: “Our estate needs to be fit for 21st century policing, putting service enhancement, visibility, and engagement at the heart of the communities we serve.

“These are core components of the legitimacy and consent on which policing in Scotland relies.

“Our presence in communities is not defined by buildings but by the officers and staff who work there, and we have already introduced technology that enables our officers to remain in local areas, reducing the need for them to return to police stations to deal with paperwork.

“We are determined to continue to improve our visibility and accessibility, as well as to bring partners together to deliver services in the most efficient and effective way.

“The buildings in which our officers and staff work need to be safe, functional spaces, and they need to be sustainable and adaptable enough to meet changing public expectations and the changing nature of policing.”

He added: “Police Scotland inherited a very large and ageing estate, much of which was not fit for purpose, with high maintenance costs and environmental inefficiencies.

“The locations of many inherited buildings no longer meet the requirements of local communities and in some cases the organisation is currently maintaining multiple buildings in the same geographic area, less than five miles apart.

“Some of the buildings are just a few miles apart, others are used by only a handful of police officers or staff and have no public access, while many are rarely visited by a member of the public.

“For the majority of properties, the proposed moves will be an average of four miles from their current location.

“Local communities will therefore continue to receive the same high level of service from officers, and still from within their local area. 

“We now have more than 60 co-locations with partners, providing more sustainable, more modern, and safer workspaces for our people.

“We have great examples of successful partnerships in the North East, Perthshire, Forth Valley, and Ayrshire among others and this will continue to be an important part of ensuring policing in Scotland is prepared for the future.

“We understand and are sensitive to community concerns around changes involving police buildings and as we bring forward proposals we wish to communicate our proposals to the public and our staff and seek their feedback. Please do view our plans and let us know your thoughts.”

The financial savings of these property disposals would be re-invested into providing policing services.

As part of our ongoing transformation work Police Scotland is in the early stages of progressing plans for other sites across the country. As plans are developed and submitted for approval to the Scottish Police Authority they will undertake consultation with local communities, key stakeholders and trade unions, statutory staff associations, and impacted staff.

Police Scotland added: ‘We they continuously review our estate as part of our normal business and this will continue. As part of this work, we may identify other properties that are considered surplus and appropriate engagement and consultation will be undertaken.’

To review the proposals and have your say visit our engagement hub:

The 29 buildings proposed for closure/disposal are:

StationLocal Policing DivisionCurrent Front Counter / Opening hoursFront counter usageLocal Policing Base (Yes or No)Proposed destination
CastlemilkGreater GlasgowYes – 9am – 5pm Monday -Friday (not Wednesday)LowNo. Community police drop-in facility only.Cathcart
SaracenGreater GlasgowYes – 9am – 5pm – Monday to FridayLowNoBaird St or Maryhill
BishopbriggsGreater GlasgowYes – Monday – Sunday 8am – 4pmLowYes. Community policing, community campus, licensingKirkintilloch
MilngavieGreater GlasgowYes –  Monday – Sunday 8am – 4pmLowYes. Community policing.Kirkintilloch
Stewart StreetGreater GlasgowYes –  24/7 front counter serviceHighYes. Response, community policing, divisional management team and CIDBaird St
GorbalsGreater GlasgowYes – 7am-12am all weekMedium / lowYes. Response, community policingCathcart
BailliestonGreater GlasgowTemporarily closed.N/AYes. Response, Community policingShettleston
Pacific QuayGreater GlasgowNoN/ANo. Base for corporate staff.Dalmarnock
PaisleyRenfrewshire & InverclydeYes – 24 hoursMediumYes. Response, community policing, divisional management team and CIDTBC
Ferguslie ParkRenfrewshire & InverclydeNoN/ACommunity Policing / Alcohol and Violence Reduction UnitTBC
GreenockRenfrewshire & InverclydeYes – 24 hours.MediumYes. Response, community policing, divisional management team and CIDTBC
DumbartonArgyll & West DunbartonshireYes – 8am-6pm (12.30pm-1.30pm – lunchtime closing)LowYes. Response, community policing, divisional management team and CIDTBC
AlexandriaArgyll & West DunbartonshireNo front counter or public access.N/AYes, Response, Community policingTBC
AyrAyrshireNoNoNo.  Already closed and new facility in Ayr has opened.  Old site proposed for demolition.N/A
BalernoEdinburgh CityNoN/ANo. Building was used as a base for 10 officers for social distancing purposes during the pandemic but was previously vacant. Officers will be relocated nearby.TBC
FettesEdinburgh CityYesMedium – High
Most public footfall relates to Lost property /Productions / Firearms licensing enquiries.
YesTBC
LeithEdinburgh CityYes – 7am hours to midnight – however nine days per month only open 7am – 4pmHigh – Public enquiries relate to lost/found property / reporting crime, neighbour disputes, MIT enquiries etc. Station also located on tram line and near to Edinburgh’s most densely populated community.YesTBC
West EndEdinburgh CityYes – Open Monday -Friday 9am-5pmMedium –Public enquiries relate to lost/found property / reporting crime etc.YesTBC
PortobelloEdinburgh City   TBC
OakleyFifeNoN/ANo. Used by Operational Support Division officers.TBC
Muir of OrdHighlands and IslandsNoN/ANo. Used by officer/staff member but not local policing.Dingwall or Inverness
MastrickNorth EastNoN/AYesTBC
RosemountNorth EastNoN/ANot presently – no officers currently stationed nor deployed from there but used periodically as stop point.NA
SeatonNorth EastNoN/AYesTBC
WhinhillNorth EastNoN/AYesTBC
TorryNorth EastNoN/AYesNigg
Dundee AnnexeTaysideYes – no counter staff.  Responded to by dept staff /officers.LowNoWest Bell Street
RyehillTaysideNoN/ANo – limited use of building.West Bell Street
HilltownTaysideYes – public counter not staffed. Officers answer the door to members of the public.MediumNo.  Functions as a space for comfort breaks for operational officers.West Bell Street

The 16 properties which are already vacant or are plots of land with no buildings are:

StationLocal Policing DivisionCurrent Front Counter / Opening hoursFront counter usageLocal Policing Base (Yes or No)Proposed destination
AnderstonGreater GlasgowNo – Building vacant and has been declared SurplusN/ANo. Building has been vacant for more than two years. Officers/staff who worked there now deploy from various police stations around Glasgow. Building is under offer, sale to complete this FY pending planning approval.N/A
Partick (land)Greater GlasgowNo – land has been declared SurplusN/ANo. We are disposing of a pocket of land next to police station only as it is not required. Police station is  being retained.N/A
MayboleAyrshireNo – Building vacant and has been declared SurplusN/ANo. Building vacant since 2022 when Officers/staff moved to new co-location with South Ayrshire Council in 2022.  N/A
KilwinningAyrshireNo – Building vacant and will be declared SurplusN/ANo. Building vacant since 2023, officers and staff now deploy from Irvine N/A
KirkcudbrightDumfries and GallowayNo – Building vacant and has been declared SurplusN/ANo. Building vacant for more three years, we are now co-located with SFRS in Kirkcudbright. N/A
Tarbert OfficeArgyll & West DunbartonshireNo – Building vacant and has been declared SurplusN/ANo. Building vacant for more 5 years, officers deploy from Lochgilphead.  N/A
DalmallyArgyll & West DunbartonshireNo – Building vacant and will be declared SurplusN/ANo. Building vacant, and local consultation is ongoing. Building is a small police house/station (1 police officer), the previous officer has moved out and this area will be resourced from Oban Police Station.N/A
Port GlasgowRenfrewshire & InverclydeNo – Building vacant and has been declared SurplusN/ANo. Building vacant for more than five years, officers/staff now deploy from Greenock.  N/A
BurntislandFifeNo – Building vacant and has been declared SurplusN/ANo. Building has been vacant for more than three years, officers who worked there now deploy from Kirkcaldy.Building under offer to complete this year.N/A
AlloaForth ValleyNo – Building vacant and has been declared SurplusN/ANo. This building is still in partial use by specialist officers although we expect to be vacated this month. Local officers vacated in 2021 to move into a co-location with Clackmannanshire Council.  N/A
LinlithgowLothians and Scottish BordersNo – Building vacant and has been declared SurplusN/ANo. Building has been vacant for more 6 years. Officer/staff deploy from other nearby police stations.Remarketing of the building is under way.N/A
ColdstreamLothians and Scottish BordersNo – Building vacant and will be declared SurplusN/ANo. Building has been vacant for more than 4 years. Officer/staff deploy from other nearby police stations.   
WhalsayHighlands and IslandsNo – Building vacant and has been declared Surplus Building is a small property on an island off Shetland that has been vacant for more than a year. Officer/staff located on mainland Shetland.Sale negotiations are ongoing. N/A
LairgHighlands and IslandsNo – Building vacant and has been declared Surplus No. Building has been vacant for more than three years. Officer/staff now deploy from other stations within the division. Re-marketing or auction to be progressed.N/A
PeterheadNorth EastNo – Building vacant and has been declared Surplus No. Building has been vacant for more than 18 months, officers/staff deploying out of Buchan House where we co-locate with Aberdeenshire Council.  Re-marketing or auction of building to be progressed.N/A
PortlethenNorth EastNo – Building vacant and has been declared Surplus No. Building has been vacant since this year, officers/staff now deploying from Stonehaven. Marketing under way.N/A

New Edinburgh office for floating offshore wind pioneers

  • Gillian Martin MSP, Minister for Energy and the Environment formally opens new Scottish office for BlueFloat Energy & Renantis Partnership
  • Edinburgh office will be the hub from which the Partnership will develop its UK pipeline of floating offshore wind farms

A new office for the BlueFloat Energy | Renantis Partnership was opened in Edinburgh last week [Wednesday 29 November] by the Scottish Energy Minister, strengthening the Partnership’s position at the forefront of floating offshore wind development in Scotland, and creating a hub from which it will develop its UK offshore wind pipeline.

The Partnership brings together BlueFloat Energy and Renantis with the aim of contributing to a world leading floating offshore wind industry in the UK.

With 3.3 gigawatts (GW) of floating offshore wind in development in Scotland, the Partnership has two ScotWind sites – Broadshore north of Fraserburgh and Bellrock east of Aberdeen, as well as the majority stake in the consortium with Ørsted to develop the Stromar project east of Wick.

Two further innovation projects, Sinclair & Scaraben, which lie adjacent to Broadshore were secured in the recent INTOG leasing round and could pave the way for the Partnership’s ScotWind portfolio.

The partnership is also preparing for the upcoming Crown Estate seabed auction in the Celtic Sea, with the potential for a further 1.5 GW of floating wind through its Petroc and Llywellyn projects off the southwest coast of England and Wales.

Gillian Martin MSP, and Minister for Energy & the Environment officially opened the new office in the Capital’s west end, which will initially accommodate the Partnership’s 45 strong team, and symbolises the remarkable progress achieved since its formation two years ago.

Addressing key stakeholders and employees at the event, Gillian Martin MSP said, “Scotland is uniquely placed to play a leading role in the renewables revolution, and the support and collaboration of companies such as BlueFloat and Renantis will be key in supporting Scotland’s net zero ambitions, while helping to secure a fair and just energy transition.

“The opening of this office is an important milestone in the partnership between BlueFloat and Renantis. I look forward to following the partnership as it scales up and develops its exciting ScotWind projects – Broadshore and Bellrock – as well as the INTOG projects – Sinclair and Scaraben – which will both play an important role in realising our enormous offshore wind potential.”

Susie Lind, Managing Director of the BlueFloat Energy & Renantis Partnership, thanked the Energy Minister for honouring the occasion.  She said, “This is a momentous day for our Partnership, and illustrates our commitment to advance our shared vision to deliver best-in-class floating offshore wind farms in the UK.

“Our new Edinburgh office will be the hub from which we develop our UK pipeline of floating offshore wind farms, and through our diverse team of specialists, we are integrating cutting-edge technology with a plan to cultivate a robust Scottish workforce and stimulate local supply chain growth.

“Today’s event underlines our dedication to playing a leading role in Scotland’s energy transition, with the goal of making a positive impact on our people and communities.”

Carlos Martin, CEO BlueFloat Energy said, “We are incredibly proud to be part of this joint venture, contributing our global expertise in floating offshore wind and pioneering new technology to accelerate Scotland’s offshore wind sector. We believe in the power of collaboration and look forward to creating a sustainable energy future together.

“Establishing our new office in Edinburgh marks a major and exciting milestone for our partnership, bringing us significantly closer to turning our vision of world-leading, large-scale floating offshore projects into reality.”

Carmelo Scalone, Chief Growth Officer, Renantis said, “Scotland’s potential for floating offshore wind aligns perfectly with our vision to build a better future for all and, through our Partnership, we aim to contribute with Renantis’ long-standing experience of working with communities across Scotland.

“This really is the energy transition in action and it’s great to see Scotland once again drawing on its rich heritage of innovation and engineering influence on the world.”