davepickering

Bus lane trial to launch on Monday

A new trial to assess whether bus journey times and reliability can be improved by extending bus lane hours launches on Monday, 12 October.

The trial will be in force between Milton Road East and London Road, where bus lane times will be extended to operate between 7am and 7pm, seven days a week. Current bus lane times are peak only – 7.30am to 9.30am and 4pm to 6.30pm, Monday to Friday.

The changes will test whether longer bus lane hours can help reduce delays for buses along the route, in turn encouraging and supporting people to choose to travel by public transport and improving the experience for those who rely on buses.

Reliable and efficient bus services:

are essential for getting around the city
encourage more people to choose public transport over the car
provide a vital transport option for many residents who do not have access to a private vehicle

Edinburgh has a great bus service, but more can be done to reduce delays to buses along key routes. Bus lanes that support buses to get ahead of traffic for as long as possible during the day are one way to achieve this.

The trial route is used by several services including the number 44, which Lothian Buses has identified as one of the services most affected by delays and reliability issues outside of current bus lane operating hours. Initial data analysis shows that bus journey times on part of the route have increased by 22% since 2019.

Data and stakeholder feedback collected during the trial will be used to help decide whether the measures should be made permanent.

Transport and Environment Convener Councillor Stephen Jenkinson said: “Edinburgh is lucky to have a first-rate public transport system, which hundreds of thousands of people rely on every day. We want to make travel by bus an attractive, accessible and reliable alternative to the car and bus lanes support that.

“However, travel behaviour is changing and bus demand is increasing, leading to delays outside of traditional peak periods. This trial will help us to assess whether extended bus lane hours can reduce journey times on one of our busiest routes.

“Thanks to the nature of the trial we’ll be able to carry out real-world monitoring of traffic impacts and network performance, alongside feedback from the public.”

The 18-month trial will be introduced through an Experimental Traffic Regulation Order (ETRO), which provides an opportunity to monitor the effects of the changes and gather evidence before recommendations are made on the longer-term arrangements.

Monitoring analysis will include bus journey times, traffic surveys, parking and loading surveys, business surveys and feedback from residents and other stakeholders. The first six months of the trial also serves as a consultation period.

During the trial some parking and loading restriction times will change.

People are encouraged to check signs and road markings and can find out more about the trial on the Council website.

Support for bereaved families

Raising awareness of help available this Baby Loss Awareness Week

Social Security Scotland is highlighting the financial support available to families that have lost a baby this Baby Loss Awareness Week (9 – 15 October 2026).

Families that already receive qualifying benefits can apply for additional support if they have experienced a stillbirth or have lost their baby after being born.

Bereaved families may be able to access Best Start Grant Pregnancy and Baby Payment to help relieve financial pressures if their baby has died. In addition, Funeral Support Payment is available to help cover the costs of a baby’s funeral.

Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, Shirley-Anne Somerville, said: “Losing a baby can have a devastating impact on families. During a time where parents should be able to grieve the loss of their infant, many are faced with added financial pressures that can make their loss even harder to process.

“This Baby Loss Awareness Week, I am letting families know about the package of financial help the Scottish Government offers to help ease some of those strains, giving parents the chance to mourn without added financial worries.”

An estimated 1 in 4 people in the UK experience pregnancy or baby loss. Social Security Scotland recognises the profound impact loss can have on families and is committed to providing support to clients and colleagues.

Social Security Scotland’s Deputy Director of People and Place, Nicola Rudnicki, added: “We understand that losing a baby is one of the hardest experiences a family can face.

“For families looking to apply for support, our teams are specially trained to manage bereavement cases with compassion and respect, meaning our clients can speak to our colleagues knowing they will be treated with dignity.

“We are also proud to have signed Miscarriage UK’s Pregnancy Loss Pledge, recognising that every loss matters and reaffirming our commitment to creating a supportive and understanding environment for those affected by pregnancy and baby loss.”

Rowena Pailing, Director of Bereavement Support Services, Community and Volunteering, Sands commented: “Baby loss has a huge emotional impact. It can also have a financial impact.

“At Sands, we hear from families who may be struggling because of their employment situations, or who are concerned about funeral costs. We would encourage anyone who loses a baby to check whether they are eligible for financial help from Social Security Scotland.”

Baby Loss Awareness Week (9 – 15 October 2026) brings people together to create a supportive space to share their experiences about pregnancy and baby loss. The awareness week also marks the annual Wave of Light memorial on 15 October where families around the work are invited to light a candle at 7pm in remembrance of all babies that have died too soon.

Sands is the charity speaking up about pregnancy and baby loss, saving babies’ lives and supporting bereaved families.

Miscarriage UK’s latest figures from March 2026 estimate that 1 in 4 pregnancies in the UK end in loss. To find out more about the research, visit: Miscarriage UK research report – March 2026 | Miscarriage UK

Family adventures take over the big screen at Vue Edinburgh this October half-term

Families looking for ways to make the most of the October half-term can enjoy a packed programme of animated adventures, familiar favourites and big screen fun at Vue Edinburgh from TODAY (Friday 9 October).

Causing plenty of mischief on the big screen is Shaun the Sheep: The Beast of Mossy Bottom, the latest feature-length adventure from Aardman.

With Halloween approaching, Shaun and the Flock are looking forward to some spooky celebrations at Mossy Bottom Farm, that is until the Farmer accidentally destroys their prized pumpkin patch. Shaun’s attempts to fix things with a spot of mad science soon spiral out of control, leaving a mysterious beast roaming the woods of Mossingham.

Packed with Aardman’s trademark slapstick humour and playful takes on classic horror, it’s a fitting family watch as spooky season gets underway.

Families can also catch a recent big screen favourite for a low price of £2.49 when booked online with Vue’s Mighty Mornings, taking place throughout the school holidays. Among the films returning is animated adventure David, which brings the famous story of David and Goliath to life, following a young shepherd whose courage is put to the ultimate test when he steps forward to face a fearsome giant.

Also joining the Mighty Mornings line-up is Coyote vs. Acme, which sees legendary Looney Tunes character Wile E. Coyote finally fight back after years of malfunctioning ACME products. Teaming up with a down-on-his-luck lawyer, Wile E. takes the company responsible for his countless cartoon catastrophes to court in an adventure combining live action with classic Looney Tunes chaos.

For younger guests, Vue’s Big Shorts offers the opportunity to experience some much-loved stories on the big screen in a relaxed environment.

Join in the adventure with We’re Going on a Bear Hunt, the animated adaptation of Michael Rosen and Helen Oxenbury’s much-loved children’s story, alongside The Tiger Who Came to Tea, which brings Judith Kerr’s classic tale of an unexpected teatime guest to life.

Families at Vue Edinburgh can also enjoy Vue’s biggest and comfiest seat, the Ultra Lux. Strategically positioned to give the best possible view of the big screen, Ultra Lux seating also features an extra-wide armrest, back and leg rests that recline independently, a personal table for snacks and drinks and a state-of-the-art beverage cooler – making it the most luxurious way to immerse yourself in a great story.

Ian Chester, General Manager at Vue in Edinburgh, said: “The October half-term is a great opportunity for families to spend some quality time together, and there are plenty of adventures to discover on the big screen at Vue.

“Whether it’s joining Shaun and the Flock for some spooky fun, catching up with recent family favourites through Mini Mornings or introducing younger children to the big screen with Big Shorts, there’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy together this half-term.”

Tickets are available at www.myvue.com

October Half Term at Vue

Shaun the Sheep: The Beast of Mossy Bottom – Showing this October half-term

Mini Mornings: David – Showing this October half-term

Mini Mornings: Coyote vs. Acme – Showing this October half-term

Big Shorts: We’re Going on a Bear Hunt & The Tiger Who Came to Tea – Showing this October half-term

Police appeal following serious tram accident in Broomhouse

Road Policing officers are appealing for information following a serious crash in Edinburgh.

Around 10.55pm on Monday, 5 October, 2026, a pedestrian was struck by a tram on the tramline adjacent to Broomhouse Drive.

The pedestrian, a 20-year-old man, was taken to hospital for treatment to serious injuries.

No other injuries were reported.

Sergeant Grant Hastie said: “Our enquiries remain ongoing to establish the full circumstances of this incident.

“I am appealing to those who witnessed the crash and have yet to speak to officers or anyone who was in the area prior and has information that could assist, to come forward.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 3804 of 5 October, 2026.

Man sentenced to six years in prison for violent offences against women

A 21-year-old man has been sentenced to six years in prison for violent offences against women in Edinburgh, including endangering life.

Charlie Swain appeared at Edinburgh High Court today -Friday, 9 October, 2026 – having been convicted at the same court in August.

Detective Sergeant Euan Stobie said: “Swain is a dangerous individual who subjected women to horrific, violent attacks, which has understandably had a profound impact on them.

“I would like to acknowledge the support provided by those involved throughout the investigation and court process, and I hope this sentence brings them some form of closure.

“Police Scotland remains absolutely committed to tackling violence against women and girls and is determined to bring those responsible to justice. I would encourage anyone who has been a victim of such crimes to come forward and report it to us.

“We will thoroughly investigate and have specially trained officers and partner agencies to support you throughout.”

NHS Lothian: Bridge Builders

VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITIES WITH NHS LOTHIAN

Are you currently studying for a career in healthcare? Want to make a difference to the patient experience?

Apply to become a Bridge Builder Volunteer today!

Bridge Builders support patients to attend and engage with their outpatient appointments, providing practical and emotional support throughout their healthcare journey.

For more information, please visit: https://www.nhslothian.scot/…/bridge-builders…/

Challenge Poverty Week: Friday

INVESTING IN COMMUNITIES

Tomorrow: Granton Nature Map Community Walk

SATURDAY 10th OCTOBER at 2pm

Please come on a Granton Nature Map Community Nature Walk on Saturday 10th October at 2pm, meeting at Granton Crescent Park, by the benches at the top of the path.

You can walk and look, sketch and / or photograph the wildlife we see there if you like. Later, you will have the option to stitch something for the collective map (beginners and experienced embroiderers welcome).

Everyone is welcome. This is a free event – no need to book.

More information here: https://grantonnaturemap.org/

Local author event at Granton Library

TEA & BISCUITS WITH DAVID MUNRO

Wednesday 14 October from 6.30 – 7.30pm

Next Wednesday we’re delighted to welcome David Munro to Granton Library – his childhood patch!

Find out all about David’s writing process and his inspirations – he’s a history lover so you can find out how this feeds into his work.

Also an opportunity to discuss the process of creating and marketing your own books.

Light refreshments will be available!

Police Scotland: Improved local service under new community policing model

Victims and witnesses get an improved local service, including more dependable appointments and quicker investigations under a new community policing model being implemented across Scotland.

Forth Valley, Fife, and Tayside areas are already operating the model which has also recently been expanded to Highland and Islands, Argyll and West Dunbartonshire, Edinburgh and Renfrewshire and Inverclyde.

The approach draws clearer lines around the role of response officers, introduces a community investigations team, and will introduce additional community police officers across the country.

Areas already operating under the model report significant improvements in keeping local policing appointments, which were often cancelled when officers had to respond to emergencies.

There have been improvements on how quickly reports from the public about non-emergency incidents are assigned and progressed, while reducing pressure on response officers.

Although the new model makes better use of resources, community officers continue to be re-directed to support emergency response and to police events.

Chief Constable Jo Farrell said: “I want the public to have the best possible local policing, whether that’s the response to an emergency, reliable and timely support around non-emergencies, or identifiable and accessible officers who work with citizens and our partners to build cohesive and resilient communities which feel safe and experience less crime.

“The results so far are encouraging. Response officers are under less pressure and we’re progressing non-emergencies more reliably and in a way that enables local officers to listen to victims and witnesses.

“But community officers are still too often required to support emergency response and police events, drawing them away from the policing which strengthens community relations to solve shared problems, prevent crime and build cohesion and resilience.

“So, while this model makes the best use of the resources we have, I am asking government to support us to put an additional 350 officers into those crucial community teams over the coming years.”

The Policing For Our Communities local policing model was developed based on over 1,000 interactions with officers, staff, members of the public, and key local partners, to understand where we needed to change local policing.

The model uses richer demand data, including travel time around rural incidents, and how many people and how long different incidents need. This approach provides a clear and evidenced understanding of what resource we need, and where and when we need it. The new community policing model is expected to be in place nationally by March 2027.

A complementary approach to local public protection and crime will begin a proof of concept by the end of 2026 in North East Division and Highland and Islands Division.

The investigations and safeguarding project will deliver a new model to modernise how we deliver investigations and safeguarding services across local policing as part of our overarching response to the violence against women and girls emergency.

It will create a more nationally consistent, sustainable and victim-centred approach to investigations and safeguarding through improved victim care, better resource utilisation and more effective investigative capabilities.

As part of the new approach to local policing, Police Scotland is also developing how we deliver frontline support services, such as licensing to reduce duplication and increase efficiency.

Further details about the public protection and crime model and the approach to delivering frontline support services will be shared as progress is made.