Fly me to the moon: projects for the space age

Space Industry Act ‘to unlock billions for the UK economy’

The government’s plans to add billions of pounds to the UK economy and create hundreds of high-skilled jobs by unlocking opportunities in the new space age were outlined by the Science Minister Sam Gyimah on Thursday. Continue reading Fly me to the moon: projects for the space age

Rohingya crisis: we have not forgotten you, says Mordaunt

Reacting to the release of the Joint Response Plan for the Rohingya Humanitarian Crisis, International Development Secretary Penny Mordaunt said yesterday:

“I urge the international community to continue to support the Government of Bangladesh to find the best solutions to protect Rohingya victims of ethnic cleansing who are in dire need. The UK has led the way to help alleviate suffering and meet humanitarian needs in Cox’s Bazar, and will continue to be a leading donor.

“The sprawling camps have provided safety for those who have fled cruel violence, but this place of refuge is becoming unsustainable with over-crowding compounding the risks of the coming monsoon and cyclone season. Rohingya families and host communities urgently require smaller and more manageable facilities for the future, and planning for the medium term.

“At the same time we must remember that the origins of and solution to this crisis lie in Burma. The UK will continue to maintain international pressure on Burma to create the conditions for safe, voluntary and dignified returns overseen by the UN.

“This crisis has not left the minds of the British public and I would like to thank them for their remarkable generosity in raising millions of pounds for lifesaving food, water and shelter which is making a real difference.”

Leonardo apprentices adapt sensor technology to aid blind pupils

A futuristic piece of technology has been adapted by a leading aerospace company to help young blind pupils find their way to class. Apprentices working at Crewe Toll-based company, Leonardo, have adapted sensor technology to help Royal Blind School pupils who are wheelchair users to navigate around the school more easily. Continue reading Leonardo apprentices adapt sensor technology to aid blind pupils

Leave Leith alone!

STAND UP FOR LEITH: Leith Central CC to oppose ‘invasive’ development

Another invasive development could be coming to Leith Walk. If you live in Leith and want to make your voice heard, please attend the Leith Central Community Council meeting on Monday 19th March. We need to strongly and visibly oppose this.  Continue reading Leave Leith alone!

Nine out of ten Edinburgh homes sell above valuation, says Warners

SELLERS in and around the capital continue to find conditions in the local housing market favourable, with around nine of every ten properties selling above Home Report valuation.

According to Warners Solicitors and Estate Agents, almost 90% of Edinburgh homes sold since December have achieved a price in excess of their Home Report valuation – around a 20% increase on last year’s numbers.

Although good news for sellers, conditions aren’t so favourable for those looking to purchase a property in the capital. Thanks to the rise in demand, more buyers than ever are being left paying over the odds in order to secure a property.

David Marshall, Operations Director with Warners, (above) explained: “The property market in Edinburgh and the Lothians remains challenging for buyers, and in particular those who are looking to get onto the property ladder.

“Take the example of a first-time buyer looking to buy a one-bedroom flat in Edinburgh valued at £130,000.

“As properties are achieving an average premium of 6.7% above their valuation, on average, we can expect this flat to sell for £8,710 more than its valuation.

“For many that presents a hurdle that is difficult to overcome without turning to the ‘Bank of Mum and Dad’ for assistance, if that is an option open to them.”

However, there is a ray of hope for Edinburgh house hunters as the number of homes coming onto the market continues to show signs of improvement.

New listings through Warners have risen by just under 10% on an annual basis as the strong conditions tempt more sellers to get their homes onto the market.

David added: “The improvement in the supply of properties to the market will help to ease pressure on buyers over the medium term.

“We are also seeing signs that the property market south of the border has started to slow down somewhat and it is likely that this will have a knock-on effect to the local market as we move forward.

“At this stage we continue to expect there to be greater balance between supply and demand as we move forward in 2018 and this will help to moderate some of the high premiums we are currently seeing in the months ahead.”

Warners Solicitors and Estate Agents is one of Edinburgh’s leading estate agents, operating three property centres throughout the city.

Soldiers get on their bikes to launch Poppyscotland Sportive

Soldiers from 2 SCOTS were ready to ride them on the beaches as they get on their bikes in East Lothian to help launch the 2018 Poppyscotland Sportive. The annual mass participation cycling event later this year aims to raise funds for the leading Armed Forces charity and takes place in and around the county. Continue reading Soldiers get on their bikes to launch Poppyscotland Sportive