Day: April 30, 2026

Extreme and Very High wildfire warning this holiday weekend

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS), in conjunction with the Scottish Wildfire Forum (SWF), is issuing wildfire warnings for areas of Scotland going into the May Bank Holiday weekend. 

  • South West Scotland: from Wednesday, 29 April, there is a very high risk of wildfire.
  • Whole of Scotland: starting Thursday, 30 April, there is an extreme risk of wildfire. This warning will remain in place until Friday, 1 May.
  • Southern Scotland and Central Highlands: starting Saturday, 2 May, there will be a very high risk of wildfire.

SFRS’ Head of Prevention and SWF Chair, Deputy Assistant Chief Officer Kenny Barbour, said: “Going into the May bank holiday weekend, we will be seeing an extreme risk of wildfire across the whole of Scotland. We know people will be wanting to enjoy the good weather, but we ask they do so responsibly.

“People should avoid lighting outdoor fires and be mindful that one spark can spread causing a large amount of damage. 

“Remember, there’s no such thing as a harmless fire. Wildfires have the potential to destroy property, landscapes and wildlife, which is why it is so important that members of the public use extreme caution under these conditions.

“Share wildfire warnings with your family, friends, and visitors. And if anyone spots a large outdoor fire, please report it immediately by calling 999, providing your location, and any other relevant information so we can respond quickly.”

With the extension to the Muirburn season also drawing to a close on Thursday 30 April, we advise landowners to exercise caution in line with the Muirburn Code.

Learn more about the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.

About Time! Tollcross Clock restoration gets green light

Funding to restore one of the city’s most cherished landmarks – the historic Tollcross Clock – was approved yesterday, with works set to begin next month

Finance and Resources Committee Members approved £72,572 to carry out full restoration of the James Ritchie and Sons clock, which has stood at the heart of the Tollcross community since 1901 and has been in storage since 2022.

The clock was removed from the Tollcross crossroads four years ago following a routine inspection that identified significant structural deterioration at its base. While the planned junction works is now delayed, restoration work will still get underway, meaning the clock could return to the area from April 2027.

Officers will use the restoration period to engage local stakeholders and councillors on the most suitable location for the clock’s return. While the original position within the carriageway is no longer considered appropriate due to risk of further damage and ongoing maintenance costs, work is ongoing to find a setting that honours the clock’s place in the community. Any relocation may require listed building consent.

Funding for the restoration is expected to come from the council’s Common Good Fund. The clock’s permanent reinstatement, site selection and funding will be referred to the Culture and Communities Committee next month.

Cllr Mandy Watt, Finance and Resources Convener, said: “This clock has been part of Edinburgh’s story for more than 120 years, and the community has been clear that it belongs back where people can see and enjoy it. Today we’re making that happen. By approving the funding, we’re committed to get this iconic piece of civic heritage properly restored and back where it belongs.

“We’ll work closely with residents to find the right location, and I’m delighted that we’re finally able to give this project the momentum it deserves.”

The Tollcross Clock has been a fixture of the city since its installation at what was then a thriving tram interchange.

Originally a pendulum clock, it was converted to a spring-driven mechanism in 1926 and later to electrical operation in 1969.

It was temporarily removed in 1974 for junction works but was reinstated following strong public demand.

PICTURE: DIARMID MOGG