Day: August 17, 2026

Full steam ahead to fast-track more homes near stations

Thousands of quality homes to be built closer to stations, cutting commute times and helping families live closer to work, school and transport

Thousands of new homes will be built around England’s train, tram and underground stations under new planning rules introduced today (Monday 17 August), helping families to live closer to work, schools and transport. 

The ‘common-sense’ changes will fast-track quality homes in well-connected areas, making better use of underdeveloped land around stations while creating jobs, unlocking investment, driving growth and connecting communities. This builds on the priorities set out by the government to ensure that planning decisions give proper consideration to the proximity of public transport links. 

Under the government’s new National Planning Policy Framework, there will be a default ‘yes’ for homes within reasonable walking distance of well-connected stations, alongside new minimum expectations for how much housing should be built in these areas. It will also prevent excessive gold-plating where there are clear national standards already in place. 

It comes as the government passes the quarter-way mark towards its stretching target of 1.5 million homes and goes further to get developments that meet clear standards moving quickly from plans on paper to spades in the ground.  

Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government Angela Rayner said: “A safe, secure home is the foundation of opportunity, but too many people are being priced out of the communities where they want to live and work. 

“By unlocking thousands of homes around well-connected transport hubs, we’re helping people live closer to work, school and the services they rely on, while backing local businesses and driving growth in our communities. 

“That’s how we’ll tackle the housing crisis and raise living standards for people in every corner of the country.” 

Chancellor of the Exchequer, John Healey MP said: “Making it easier for people to buy their own home is about more than a house. It is about security and families feeling they have a place they can truly call their own. 

“We want to drive growth in every postcode and help more working people into home ownership. A secure home is the heart of all our lives, helping people put down roots, plan for the future and build a good life for themselves and their families. This is about creating opportunity, prosperity and stronger communities across the country.” 

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said: “Earlier this year, we published Better Connected: A Strategy for Integrated Transport. The steps announced today act on a key commitment we made as part of that Strategy, to support densification of development around well-connected stations to create vibrant, sustainable and well-connected homes and places. 

“The changes being announced today turn long-held ambitions into reality for our communities. Densification, combined with high-quality walking, wheeling, cycling and public transport, will support healthier lifestyles, improve access to jobs and services, and protect important public transport services.” 

Pubs and music venues are the lifeblood of communities, local jobs and high streets – and the changes we are making will protect them from being lost without good reason.  

The changes will also make it easier for councils to approve developments that create jobs, unlock investment, and deliver the shops, leisure facilities, clean energy and food production local areas need.  

They build on measures announced last week to back farmers and rural businesses, including making it easier to deliver reservoirs, greenhouses, polytunnels and farm shops.  

The government is also cutting unnecessary bureaucracy by reducing blanket consultation requirements that have slowed planning decisions.   

Councils will no longer need sign-off from public bodies where specialist advice is not needed, while expert input will be focused on the cases where it adds most value. Sport England will continue to advise on significant cases, and the Gardens Trust and Theatres Trust will still be notified of relevant applications so they can play an important role in the planning process.  

Together, these reforms are part of the government’s wider overhaul of the planning system – tackling the housing crisis, unlocking investment and driving good growth in every postcode. 

Work experience opportunties at Royston Wardieburn Community Centre

We are having some work done in the centre next week w/b 24 August and there are opportunities for local residents to volunteer for a minimum of three days AND earn City and Guilds accreditations.

If you are interested, the contact details are on the poster.

Hilariously brave stand-up show raises awareness for The House of Hope

Manogram – a man with breast cancer

Alan Wake, who poignantly tells his personal story of breast cancer in a stand-up comedy show, Manogram – a man with breast cancer, put on an exclusive performance in The Caves, for Edinburgh-based The House of Hope, Scotland’s first bespoke wellbeing centre for people impacted by breast cancer.

Alan’s incredible story is taking the Edinburgh Fringe by storm and explores a man’s experience of mammograms, mastectomies and hormone therapy, in a light hearted one-man show, which celebrates laughter and love through adversity, while raising awareness and funds for breast cancer.

When Alan was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2025, his wife had already been treated for the disease twice, and having to tell their two boys of a third breast cancer diagnosis in the family was unthinkable and according to Alan; ‘somewhat ridiculous.’

The special show received a standing ovation from the House of Hope community and supporters in the audience, when Alan asked the question; ‘Has anyone here been impacted by breast cancer?’ 

Alan said: “I was blown away by the support shown for the show and the audience unexpectedly taking to their feet was incredible. It was really moving and very powerful to see the whole room unite against breast cancer.”

House of Hope Manager, Hazel McLinden said: “Alan’s show adds a lot of love and light to people going through a breast cancer journey, which is so important. 

“We are thrilled that Alan selected The House of Hope as a charity partner and all donations will go towards improving and enhancing the wellbeing services for people impacted by breast cancer in Scotland and their families.”

Alan continues: “The impact breast cancer had on my wife Julie was totally devastating. While I have lost a breast and have a scar, most people wouldn’t realise I’ve been through breast cancer and that’s just not the same for women, who often lose a part of their identity through treatment and surgery.

“While breast cancer is no laughing matter, I wanted to raise awareness through humour, because that’s what I know best and my show gives a totally different perspective by exploring the weird and often humorous ways men support each other through banter and comradery.”

Manogram – a man with breast cancer – will continue to raise funds for breast cancer charities throughout its run at the Edinburgh Fringe, with shows running until 30th August.

For more information about Alan’s story and the important wellbeing services provided by the House of Hope visit houseofhope.org.uk.

Woman jailed for six years for attempted murder of child

A 35-year-old woman from Glenrothes has been sentenced to an order of lifelong restriction and jailed for a minimum of six years for the attempted murder of a child.

Laura Docherty repeatedly administered medication to a child, none of which had been prescribed for them and were not suitable for children. As a result, the child suffered bouts of sickness and was hospitalised on a number of occasions.

These offences occurred over a period of a year from 2022 to 2023.

Concerns were raised by medical staff in February 2023 and an investigation was launched. In May 2023, officers arrested and charged Laura Docherty in connection with attempted murder.

She was found guilty at the High Court in Edinburgh in December, 2025, and sentenced to an order of lifelong restriction with a minimum of six years in prison at the same court today – Monday, 17 August, 2026.

Detective Constable Gemma Warriner said: “This was prolonged and abhorrent abuse of a young child which resulted in numerous stays in hospital. Throughout the investigation, Docherty took no responsibility for her actions and repeatedly blamed others.

“Cases where children are subjected to harm can often be difficult to deal with, however, we are committed to investigating such incidents fully and ensuring those responsible are held accountable.

“I hope today’s sentence brings some comfort to the family.”

If anyone has concerns about the safety or welfare of a child, please contact Police Scotland on 101 or partner agencies. Reporting concerns can help us protect the most vulnerable members of our communities.

This week at Drumbrae Library

TONIGHT: GROW A ROW WORKSHOP

A wee reminder that this interesting workshop is taking place today at 6pm.

We are delighted to host Hannah from Lauriston Farm for a Grow a Row workshop, focusing on how to harvest and save seeds!

Grow a Row, encourages the local community to dedicate a row, a pot, or a garden bed to growing seeds for the Drumbrae Library Seed Library.

You do not need to have attended the previous session so all are welcome!

This session is suitable for adults, and you do not need a large garden to take part. Whether you have a small garden bed, a few pots, or even a balcony, there are plenty of ways to grow for seed saving in small spaces.

Monday 17th August at 6pm

Free

Adult event, age 16+

#GoAllIn

#lauristonagroecologyfarm

#NationalYearOfReading

EVENTS and ACTIVITIES from 17 – 22 AUGUST

Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society’s Keep It Fringe US returns for 80th Anniversary of Festival Fringe

THE Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society has launched the Keep It Fringe US bursary initiative for a second year ahead of the Edinburgh Fringe 2027, which will be the Edinburgh Fringe’s 80th anniversary year. 

In 2026, 555 shows from the United States participated in the Edinburgh Fringe, highlighting what an important market this is for the festival.  

Keep It Fringe US will provide five artists based in the United States with bursaries of $2,500 to help bring work to the Edinburgh Fringe in 2027. In addition to financial support, successful recipients will receive a tailored support package of marketing, screen development, and industry networking opportunities to help with audience and career development.

Supported by Fringe Ambassador, Brian Cox, Keep It Fringe US was an initiative designed to help reduce the financial barriers faced by US-based artists taking part. Keep It Fringe US was launched in 2025, when five US-based artists each received a $2,500 grant. The fund followed the successful launch of the original Keep It Fringe fund in 2024 by the Fringe Society’s honorary President Phoebe Waller-Bridge.

In 2025, more than 130 artists applied for the five bursaries available through Keep It Fringe US. Keeping in the spirit of the original fund, Keep It Fringe US aims to encourage applications from the widest possible range of artists with professional ambitions. Successful recipients will have the flexibility to use their grants in the way that best supports bringing their work to the Edinburgh Fringe and making the most of the opportunity to perform for a global audience.

Heather and Paul Innella, and Her Royal Majesty Queen Angelique-Monet, The American born Queen Consort of Eti-Oni, Osun State, Nigeria and Edinburgh Fringe performer herself, have confirmed their support to help bring Keep it Fringe US back for 2027.

Through Keep It Fringe 2027, the Edinburgh Fringe Society hopes to continue supporting artists to access the festival and are inviting partners, sponsors and donors to get in touch to see how they can support this important work.

Tony Lankester, Chief Executive Officer of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society, said: ‘I am pleased to announce the return of Keep It Fringe US for a second year.

“Next year will be Edinburgh Fringe’s 80th anniversary, and throughout its history artists, from the United States and beyond, have pushed boundaries and responded to the world around them. I do not doubt that 2027 will continue in that tradition.

“We look forward to receiving applications from artists across the United States when applications open and welcoming many to one of the greatest demonstrations of arts and culture on Earth in Edinburgh next year.’

Her Royal Majesty Queen Angelique-Monet, The American born Queen Consort of Eti-Oni, Osun State, and Keep It Fringe US 2027 supporter said: “Opportunities for performing artists are crucial to the survival of the arts and to their power to bring people together for the greater good.

“Supporting Keep It Fringe US helps ensure that American artists have the opportunity to bring their stories to the world’s largest arts festival, while strengthening the historic cultural ties between Scotland and the United States.

“Having experienced the Edinburgh Fringe firsthand, I know the extraordinary work, courage and talent not mentioning the financial constraints that could stop artists from being part of it. I want to help ensure that other American artists have that same once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and the support needed.”

Extend Child Benefit for your teen before 31 August

  • Parents of 16 to 19-year-olds starting further education or approved training courses must extend their Child Benefit claim by 31 August or payments will stop automatically.
  • Scottish pupils received their exam results on 4 August and many will now be confirming their education or training plans for the autumn.
  • Parents can extend their claim in minutes using the HMRC app or GOV.UK.

Parents of 16 to 19-year-olds have just 2 weeks left to tell HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) whether their child will continue in non-advanced approved education or training, or they risk missing out on Child Benefit payments.

Following the release of National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher results on 4 August, many teenagers across Scotland will now be making decisions about their next steps in education or training.

For families whose teenager is staying in non-advanced approved education or training, Child Benefit can continue, but only if parents act before 31 August. 

Parents can extend their claim in minutes using the HMRC app or on GOV.UK. Those who received a letter from HMRC can also scan the QR code to go straight to the digital service. Payments will stop automatically for anyone who hasn’t responded by the deadline.

More than 372,000 parents have already extended their Child Benefit payment digitally ahead of the deadline.

Child Benefit is worth up to £1,406.60 a year for the eldest or only child, and up to £930.80 a year for each additional child.

Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC’s Chief Customer Officer, said: “Exam results season is a big moment for teenagers deciding their next steps, and it’s the perfect time for parents to confirm those plans with us. 

“Child Benefit is a vital source of support for many families and we don’t want anyone to miss out. It only takes a few minutes using the HMRC app or GOV.UK, so make sure you’re receiving the payments you’re entitled to.”

Child Benefit continues for children in full-time, non-advanced education, including A levels, T levels, Scottish Highers, NVQs up to level 3, and certain approved training schemes. A full list of approved education routes is available on GOV.UK.

Parents whose child’s plans change, for example if they leave education or start a paid apprenticeship, must tell HMRC straight away to avoid being overpaid. 

If a Child Benefit claimant or their partner has an individual adjusted net income of more than £60,000, the higher earner may need to pay the High Income Child Benefit Charge (HICBC). Use the Child Benefit tax calculator on GOV.UK to find out how much HICBC to pay. Eligible parents can pay through their PAYE tax code using the HICBC digital service, or through Self Assessment.

Drylaw Neighbourhood Centre needs your help!

🎟 Can you help us fill our Harvest Festival Tombola? 🌾

We’re looking for prize donations for our Harvest Festival tombola on Saturday 5th September, and we’d be so grateful for your support.

If you have any new, unused items you’d be happy to donate – such as chocolates, toiletries, bottles, gift sets, toys or other small gifts – we’d love to hear from you. Every donation, big or small, helps make our tombola a little more exciting!

Donations can be dropped off at the centre during our opening hours up to Friday 4th September.

Every penny raised on the day will go towards keeping our community activities and groups running, helping us continue to provide a welcoming space for local people.

If you’re not able to donate, sharing this post with friends and neighbours is another great way to support us. Thank you!

Local food businesses set to feed thousands of fringe-goers at iconic  Edinburgh festival venues this August

Edinburgh University Students’ Association will host a line-up of incredible food vendors across central venues this August in collaboration with Gilded Balloon and Pleasance Theatre Trust.

With a strong focus on supporting the entrepreneurial spirit of Scotland’s local food scene and suppliers, festival-goers will be spoilt for choice at the city’s most iconic Fringe venues.  

Pleasance Courtyard 

Smash & Stack, Total Meltdown, Pizza Geeks, Happy Dumplings, Mint, Mimi’s Bakehouse,  Backstage Bar & Bistro 

The Pleasance Courtyard, an original Fringe venue since the event’s first year – 1947, is one  of the most popular social areas for performers and punters alike. Come rain or shine, the  Courtyard offers that beer garden buzz, with plenty of covered seating.  

Smash & Stack, Edinburgh’s gourmet burger stall, are cooking up a range of dishes, from  its ‘Moving Mountains’ vegan burger to its beef truffle and parmesan burger. Find Smash &  Stack in the Front Courtyard.  

For pure indulgence, head to local legends Total Meltdown to try their grilled cheese  sandwiches oozing with cheddar and delicious fillings, including kimchi, nduja and  pastrami. Vegans will be spoilt for choice too, with seven options available on the menu. 

Cheese enthusiasts can also get their fix at Pizza Geeks who have been serving Neapolitan-style sourdough pizzas with a slice of geek in Edinburgh since 2016.  

Happy Dumplings are on a mission to bring their famous family recipes from restaurants  in China to Scotland. Packed with explosive flavour, dumpling options include prawn, pork,  beef or chicken.  

Mint will be serving up their signature wraps, perfectly balancing texture and taste through  their unique combination of smoked paprika, fresh tzatziki and tangy pickled cabbage.  Their famous Za’atar chicken or falafel and humous wraps are on the menu. 

And for a sweet treat, Mimi’s Bakehouse – one of Edinburgh’s best-loved bakeries – are back with their award-winning cakes, scones and coffee, alongside hot filled rolls.  

Drink amongst the stars at our various bars:

• Arthur’s Bar – a relaxed bar area tucked away behind the Pleasance Courtyard  looking out to Arthur’s Seat. 

• Cragg’s Bar – located under the famous yellow stretch tent – the perfect spot for a  drink and a bite. 

• Cabaret Bar – combining a bar and performance space inside the main Pleasance  building, the Cabaret Bar has previously attracted the likes comedians such as  Frank Skinner, Rich Hall and Jenny Éclair. The bar is operated by Backstage Bar and  Bistro serving teas, coffee and hearty food. 

Teviot 

The Loft Bar, Union Social, Gallery Cafe, Union Social Garden, Relics Coffee Co. 

Teviot is back on the Fringe scene, following its extensive refurbishment. Crowned ‘Best  Night Out’ at the 2026 Scottish Entertainment and Hospitality Awards, Teviot is the world’s  oldest purpose-built students’ union and has an array of dining spaces for visitors to refuel  in between Fringe shows.  

Inside Teviot you’ll find the spacious Union Social serving local craft beer by the award winning Stewart Brewing. On sunny days, head to the Loft Bar’s roof terrace to escape from  the bustling crowds.  

Outside, Union Social Garden is your classic beer garden, with beach hut booths and picnic benches. Alongside the bar, Relics Coffee Co. will pop up at Union Social Garden,  offering speciality brews and espresso martinis for a day-to-night caffeine hit.  

On Friday and Saturday nights, you’ll be able to pair your beverage of choice along with live music as DJ sets take over Union Social Garden – there’s no need to purchase a ticket, just  rock up and enjoy! 

Charles Street Lane  

Mac Love, Greek Street Food, Churros Truck  

Outside Teviot is Charles Street Lane. This Fringe hotspot is where to find an array of street  food staples, including Mac Love with their popular mac ‘n’ cheese, Greek Street Food offering chicken and halloumi gyros, and Churros Truck for Spanish fried doughnuts with a  range of dipping sauces. 

Pleasance Dome & Plaza  

The Dome Bar, Box Bar, Bar & Kitchen, Chicken & Fries 

The Dome Bar is the main bar in the Pleasance Dome, offering a wide selection of draught,  bottles, spirits and hot food. Situated in the lower Dome is the Box Bar complete with 

decked seating, giving the perfect summer festival feeling. If you fancy a bite, you can also  find the Bar & Kitchen serving up tasty hot dogs, sides and drinks – perfect for a proper pit stop between shows.  

Outside the Pleasance Dome on Pleasance Plaza (named as one of the Fringe’s top places to be) you can find Chicken & Fries with a delicious selection of chicken options.  

Drinks across venues 

A broad selection of drinks is available across the venues — Madri, Coors, Alpacalypse  Session IPA, Staropramen, Aspall Cyder, Caffrey’s Black Stout and Blue Moon to name a few.  In addition, you will find Alcohol 0% options, Rekorderlig Ciders, NICE Wine, Whitley Neill  Gin, Fever-Tree soft drinks and much more.

We also have some “Grab and Go” canned items  that will ensure you can quickly get served, even while you wait in your queue for the show,  so refreshments are never far away.

Funding available for Maths Week Scotland activities

Apply for Maths Week Scotland Grant Funding by 5pm on Sunday 30 August!

Schools, nurseries, early learning & childcare providers, community & family providers & other educational settings can apply for £250 or £500 towards their #MWS2026 activities!

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