city centre – Page 90 – The NEN

Castle of Light set to illuminate Edinburgh

Interactive event launches tonight

Edinburgh Castle will welcome visitors after dark to experience the wonder of Castle of Light as the immersive experience officially opens to the public this evening (19 November).

Guests were treated to a sneak peek of what’s in store at this year’s event at a preview evening last night, where Paul Marshall from Portobello had the honour of switching on Castle of Light: Hidden Treasures for the first time.

Promising to uncover incredible tales, old and new, Castle of Light: Hidden Treasures brings Scotland’s lesser-known stories to life with the use of stunning visuals, state-of-the-art projections and captivating storytelling.

Following a national hunt for Castle of Light’s own ‘wee treasure’, 21-year-old Paul Marshall was selected as the deserving winner chosen to switch on this year’s event after tallying up an astonishing 199 individual nominations in his name.

Paul, who has one of the rarest brain diseases in the world which has left him partially sighted and with learning difficulties, was nominated by locals, family and friends as a ‘wee treasure’ due to his winning personality and devotion to helping others.

One anonymous nomination, submitted to Edinburgh Castle as part of the Wee Treasure search, noted: “Paul brings a smile to the whole community, he’s the bright light in everyone’s day. When he was a year old, his mum was told that he would never walk or talk due to his rare brain disease.

‘Despite this, he has beaten all the odds and spreads love and happiness wherever he goes. No job is too small for him to help with. He didn’t miss a night during clap for carers and always has the biggest smile on his face. He truly is a wee treasure.”

During lockdown, Paul became a familiar presence in the community as he cheered on the UK’s key workers on a Thursday evening from his front door.

He became such a cheerful and welcoming part of the Edinburgh landscape during this difficult time that the bus drivers in the city gave him his own Lothian Buses jacket on his birthday to thank him for his support.

He also received hundreds of cards from people in the community to help him celebrate his 21^st.

Castle of Light’s creative director Andy McGregor, who is working alongside Double Take Projections, NL Productions and War Productions Ltd, in partnership with Historic Environment Scotland, on this year’s event, said: “As Castle of Light: Hidden Treasures is all about putting a spotlight on the lesser-known stories from Scotland’s past, we wanted to find other unique stories about the special people who make up our country today. And we knew there would be some gems right on our doorstep.

“We were overwhelmed by nominations for Paul, who is clearly a shining star in the community. We can’t think of a more deserving person to help us light up the city with Castle of Light – just as Paul has done in his own local area with his unwavering support and joyful spirit.”

Castle of Light: Hidden Treasures brings light, legend, mystery and magic to the capital for eight weeks through the festive season, from Friday 19 November 2021 to Sunday 9 January 2022 (on select dates, Thursday – Sunday).

A selection of street food vendors, including Hector and Harriet, specialising in artisan blend barista coffee and unique home baked goods, the Prime Street Food wagon boasting restaurant quality bites and The Haggis Box, serving up traditional Scottish scran, will also be onsite to ensure visitors can spend the full evening exploring Edinburgh Castle’s grounds.

Caterers Benugo will also be found serving food and drink outside the castle’s Redcoat Café, alongside an Edinburgh Gin cocktail bar serving mixed drinks, with bottles of Edinburgh Castle Gin available to purchase. Various other retail pop-ups will be open exclusively to Castle of Light visitors, with over 18s welcome to visit the Whisky and Finest Foods shop for free samples, including a taste of the delicious Magnum Scotch whisky cream liqueur.

Tickets are also available for an ‘Access’ night taking place on Thursday 25 November, designed to cater for people with additional support needs, including autism and dementia.

To ensure that as many people as possible can experience the animated storytelling tour, the evening will feature a range of specific support, including British Sign Language interpretation and audio described tours, as well as a designated quiet space and ear defenders to help manage noise.

For more information and to get your tickets, visit CastleofLight.scot.

Scotch Malt Whisky Society event brings back the Roaring Twenties

The world’s most entertaining whisky club invites you to 28 Queen Street for a night of glitz and glamour

The Scotch Malt Whisky Society (SMWS) is transforming its Members’ Room at 28 Queen Street into a Gatsby-themed party for one night only. From 7 pm on Friday, 26 November 2021 the venue will be transported back to the ‘Roaring Twenties’, as SMWS members and non-members are invited to the party of the century.

With champagne on arrival, live music, cocktails, canapes, and the Society’s ever-changing selection of single cask whiskies, 28 Queen Street will be engulfed with guests dressed to impress.

Tickets are available now for members and non-members for just £65. Get yours here: https://smws.com/queen-street-does-gatsby/

Sarah Prior, Queen Street Venue Manager, said: “We can’t wait to see all those smiling faces at 28 Queen Street for our Gatsby event. The world is getting back to (almost) normal, and what better time to celebrate as we enter the glorious festive season.

“With what has been a challenging year for everyone, we are delighted to welcome our members and new faces back to Society events. With Christmas around the corner, it’s the perfect time to come and see what the Society is all about.”

For the SMWS monthly Outturn this November, a new cask collection is taking to the stage every week: https://smws.com/latest-outturn

Belonging to the world’s most entertaining whisky club gives you access to exclusive Members’ Rooms, partner bar discounts, colourful tasting events, whisky education, and a monthly members’ magazine Unfiltered.

There’s so much more than whisky to appreciate when you join the Society for just £65: https://smws.com/whisky-club-membership

It’s Christmaaas … at The Quarter

St James Quarter hosts first Christmas switch on supporting local charity partners

St James Quarter celebrated the launch of its first Christmas season at The Quarter’s official switch on last night. The magical moment was followed by an exclusive performance from Edinburgh Rock Choir.

An enchanting array of festive stars have taken centre stage of The Quarter with over 40 glowing sculptures on display giving an explosion of gold sparkle throughout the galleria for Christmas shoppers to admire.

The event, which took place on Register Square, saw representatives from St James Quarter’s charity partners Deaf Action and Cash 4 Kids hit the big red button to declare Christmas at the Quarter officially here.

Edinburgh Rock Choir rang in the special occasion with their own rendition of ‘I Wanna Dance with Somebody’ and ‘Hold Back The River’.

Deaf Action Choir performed ‘Merry Christmas Everyone’ and ‘Thank You For The Music’ and both charities together helped raise vital funds throughout the night.

Nick Peel, Managing Director at St James Quarter, said: “Christmas has officially arrived at The Quarter. Having our charity partners here to help us kick off the festivities was the perfect way to welcome the festive season.

“Not only was it a fantastic evening but we also managed to raise money for some great causes. For some, Christmas can be a difficult time of year so we’re pleased to be able to do our bit and help where we can.

“We hope everyone had a great night and we’re looking forward to welcoming all our customers over the festive period.”

To make the most of the festive period St James Quarter has extended its opening hours on various days throughout December.

For more information please visit: https://stjamesquarter.com/plan/

Festivities start here: Bar Hutte St James Quarter is officially open!

Bar Hütte, a brand new après ski themed alpine village, is now open for festivities at St James Quarter.

The pop-up experience, complete with cosy furnishings, exclusive private hüttes, walk-in bar, live music sessions, house DJs and Christmas karaoke, welcomes guests to enjoy seasonal cocktails, delicious hot serves, a broad selection of wines and Cold Town Beer brewed locally in Edinburgh.

Located at St James Square, the unmissable festive concept will be open until Sunday 2nd January.

Inspired by some of the coolest après ski bars in Europe, Bar Hütte St James Quarter combines super snug ski hüttes with a vibrant and fun atmosphere, whether you’re out with friends, hosting a Christmas party or looking to chill-out for an afternoon drink.

Bar Hütte has partnered with Scotland’s award-winning master brewers Cold Town Beer to offer locals some of their favourites. The range on the menu includes Cold Town Lager (recently awarded ‘best pilsner’) Cold Town New England IPA, and festive brews, including Christmas Pudding Ale, Chocolate Cake Stout, and their best-seller Queen of Puddings.

Guests to the alpine village can also enjoy authentic Neapolitan pizzas from Salerno Pizza, ordered via QR code and brought straight to your cosy karaoke hütte. The rustic Italian pizza specialists will be serving an array of incredible tasting pizzas, including gluten-free bases and non-dairy toppings.

As well as Cold Town Beer, there’s an array of season cocktails including Lemon Drizzle Spritz: Sipsmith Lemon Drizzle, mancino rosso, tonic & rosemaryand Winter Spiced Old Fashioned; Makers Mark, spiced syrup & orange bitters. Bar Hütte’s hot serves include Makers Biscoff Hot Chocolate; Makers Mark, hot chocolate & speculoos syrup and Hot Gin & Gingerbread; Sipsmith London Dry, gingerbread syrup, water, orange slice plus many more.

There’s also an extensive wine list curated and supplied by local wine merchants Good Brothers Wine.

To experience a ‘Cosy Karaoke Hütte’ for up to eight people, each hut requires a non-refundable booking fee of £60 and this secures your exclusive use for 1 hour, 45 minutes along with a complimentary welcome ‘Bombardino’ and Christmas karaoke.

Hosting a party? Bar Hütte’s VIP hütte can cater for a minimum of 9 and a maximum of 20 people. Pay £150 to hire the space, enjoy a welcome glass of prosecco and a Bombardino for all guests on arrival, then go crazy on karaoke and keep the drinks flowing for two hours.

Larger groups are encouraged to email edinburgh@barhutte.co.uk to find out which sections of the Après Bar would be a great fit for special festive events and parties.

Bookings advised, but walk-ins welcome, visit: www.barhutte.co.uk/bar-hutte-edinburgh/ to claim your hütte.

If you’re wondering what a Bar Hütte Bombardino is, then you are in for a treat – An Italian Mountain classic, warm rum, cream and cinnamon shot served topped with whipped cream… essentially Christmas in a cup.

Bar Hütte is also known for their ‘Shot-Ski’s too – four shots of limoncello on an actual ski. Tip back together, then head to the dance floor.

Animal lovers can also expect a Doggy Grotto, complete with ‘paw-secco’, and complimentary dog treats. This un-fur-gettable experience has everything dog lovers need to get into the festive spirit, including photo props and Santa hats to make your four-legged friend look even cuter.

Check out Bar Hütte on Instagram and Facebook.

The George unlocks our capital’s hidden histories in partnership with the University of Edinburgh

InterContinental Edinburgh The George has commissioned historians from the University of Edinburgh to explore the hidden stories behind the iconic building and local area.

The tour is part of InterContinental Hotels & Resorts 75th anniversary celebrations, in which the world’s largest luxury hotel brand marks special moments that have taken place within the walls of its’ hotels across the world and looks forward to continuing its journey of innovation in the luxury travel space.

To share these stories, InterContinental Edinburgh The George has partnered with VoiceMap to develop an exclusive audio walking tour guide for guests and visitors to the city. Developed and narrated by Dr Esther Mijers and Professor Ewen Cameron, historians from the University of Edinburgh, the tour unlocks Edinburgh’s hidden history, showcasing the lesser-known stories of city.

Starting at InterContinental Edinburgh The George, the audio tour tells the lesser known stories behind the renowned hotel. During the 19^th Century the hotel was a collection of five prestigious townhouses and home to the well-known Ferrier family, who boast a historical connection to Scotland’s literature scene.

Sir Walter Scott and Robert Burns were frequent guests, while their daughter and novelist, Susan Ferrier – commonly referred to as ‘Scotland’s Jane Austen’ – was somewhat of an unsung hero in Scottish literature.

Guests are then guided to seven other locations across the city including:

17 Heriot Row, the home of one of Scotland’s most famous writers, Robert Louis Stevenson – author of Treasure Island.
Edinburgh Academy Senior School, a school that exemplified the very best of a structured education for the youth of the ever-growing New Town of Edinburgh and has since produced notable alumni.
St Andrew Square, where James Craig’s plans to build a church, dedicated to patron Saint Andrew were foiled by Lawrence Dundas. The church was instead built on George Street itself, right next door to InterContinental Edinburgh The George.
St James Quarter, to uncover the origins of the original site – St James Square.
Old College, University of Edinburgh, the site where the mysterious murder of Lord Darnley, the unpopular second husband of Mary Queen of Scots, took place in February 1567.
The Old Medical School, to reveal the story of The Edinburgh Seven – pioneers of women’s education in the UK whose trailblazing campaign prompted a change in the law that allowed women to study medicine in the UK.
George Square, to tell the tale of its’ notable residents including Sir Walter Scott who, whilst living there, was working furiously to pay off the debts acquired from the collapse of his publisher, Ballantynes, of which he was a partner.

Kieran Quinn, Hotel General Manager InterContinental Edinburgh, The George said: “It is hugely exciting to be launching our own unique Hidden Histories walking tour in collaboration with the University of Edinburgh.

“Forming part of our celebration of 75 years of InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, it is a brilliant way to indulge in the nostalgia of the city and the perfect activity for our guests and likeminded explorers while staying here in Edinburgh.

“This walking tour is a celebration of the rich heritage within the city of Edinburgh, our iconic hotel and the exclusive experiences we can offer to our guests both from the UK and across the globe.”

Professor Ewen Cameron, the University of Edinburgh said: “It has been brilliant to have been involved in developing this audio walking tour for the guests of InterContinental Edinburgh The George.

“It is important that we continue to highlight and tell the stories that lie hidden within the walls of the city of Edinburgh, and this walking tour does just that.”

Guests of InterContinental Edinburgh The George will be able to enjoy the walking tour, by booking the Hidden Histories package, inclusive of a luxurious picnic hamper, or by obtaining a voucher code from the hotel concierge team.

As part of the celebration of its’ history and heritage and the brand’s 75th Anniversary InterContinental Edinburgh The George will also be serving up the limited-edition InterContinental75 cocktail.

InterContinental Hotels & Resorts have reimagined the well-loved classic, French 75 to celebrate this milestone year, with partners Piper-Heidsieck Champagne and the artisanal hand-crafted Botanist Islay Dry Gin, distilled on the Scottish Isle of Islay.

For more information about the InterContinental Edinburgh The George visit:

https://edinburgh.intercontinental.com/.

St James Quarter and FUSE to provide 200 jobs this Christmas

Scotland’s retail and hospitality industries are set to benefit from a significant job boost this Christmas, thanks to St James Quarter and its FUSE initiative.

As the retail and hospitality industries prepare for a busy festive season, more than 200 new temporary and permanent jobs will be recruited for at the development, ranging from style advisors, retail assistants, bar staff, waiting staff and chefs.

Launched by the team at St James Quarter and working in partnership with a number of organisations across the city, FUSE is a new initiative providing a high-quality recruitment service, specialising in retail and hospitality for employers both within St James Quarter and the wider Edinburgh area.

FUSE is recruiting for a variety of brands including Bershka, Calvin Klein, H Beauty, Maki & Ramen, GDK and many more.

Further to driving recruitment, FUSE will also continue to support those employed by providing further training, accredited qualifications, and ongoing networking opportunities.

Rochelle Weir at St James Quarter said: “Christmas is gearing up to be an extremely busy time for St James Quarter and all the brands within it, so we’re delighted to be working with FUSE to be providing new job opportunities for people in the city.

“The team at St James Quarter is passionate about doing our part to support and bolster the local community and we’re proud to be able to bring so many exciting career opportunities to Scotland during the festive season and beyond.”

Calum Nicol, FUSE Manager, added: “At FUSE, we’re committed to providing a leading service for both employers and employees – helping to match recruits with the needs of employers.

“Our diverse and experienced team allows us to stay at the forefront of recruitment needs, with our in-depth knowledge of all sectors placing the most suitable candidates in the most suitable positions.

“Our Job Recruitment Fair is an opportunity for those seeking employment to come down and see what’s available. There are a number of exciting brands within St James Quarter hiring and our aim is to find the right people for the right role.”

For more information of the FUSE Job Recruitment Fair visit:

https://edinburghfuse.com/events

Edinburgh Castle launches search for Scotland’s ‘Wee Treasure’

Edinburgh Castle has launched a search to find a deserving person to become part of this year’s Castle of Light show.

Celebrating Scotland’s ‘hidden treasures’, Castle of Light will put a spotlight on the lesser-known stories from Scotland’s past using stunning visuals, state-of-the-art projections and captivating storytelling. Ensuring it doesn’t miss out on the unique stories on its own doorstep, Edinburgh Castle has also launched a search to find Scotland’s ‘wee treasure’.

Highlighting those who go above and beyond, Edinburgh Castle is asking the public to nominate the people around them that they consider to be a ‘wee treasure’ – giving one lucky person the opportunity to switch on the 2021 event.

Stephen Duncan, Director of Commercial and Tourism at Historic Environment Scotland (HES), which operates Edinburgh Castle, said: “Scotland is known for the friendly and welcoming nature of its residents, and so people stories are a key part of our history. That’s why we want to shine a spotlight on the deserving people in our communities – someone you consider admirable, young or old. We want to find Scotland’s own ‘wee treasure’, anyone with a story to be told.

“After a tough 18 months, the people around us have never been more important and so we’re excited to be able to give recognition to some of Scotland’s special people. Extending the celebration, we’ll be offering one ‘wee treasure’ the opportunity to switch on the 2021 event – a truly unique experience. So whether it’s a pillar of the community or just a great pal, we want to hear your stories.”

Visitors can expect wonder, enchantment and a spectacle of colour as Castle of Light returns to the capital this winter. Castle of Light: Hidden Treasures is set to come to life, transforming the historic attraction into an interactive wonderland, for eight weeks throughout the festive season, from Friday 19 November 2021 to Sunday 9 January 2022 (on select dates, Thursday – Sunday).

Nominate yourself or someone else as a ‘wee treasure’ online at CastleofLight.scot/competition and follow the ‘wee treasure’ search on Edinburgh Castle’s social channels @EdinburghCastle.

The nominated individual from all valid entries will gain free access for them and a plus one to the Castle of Light: Hidden Treasures preview event on Thursday 18 November.

One ‘wee treasure’ who has shone brightly within their community will be picked to switch on the show at the preview event on Thursday 18 November.

Nominations close on Thursday 11 November.

For more information and to get your tickets, visit CastleofLight.scot.

2021 Rolex Novelties exhibition arriving at Hamilton & Inches

Hamilton & Inches is hosting the 2021 Rolex Novelties exhibition at its newly renovated showroom in Edinburgh. Brought to life by its unique watchmaking expertise, the exhibition will showcase latest timeless pieces from Rolex.

The 2021 exhibition is taking place from the 1^st to the 7^th of November and will give customers a chance to view the 2021 Rolex novelties. The collection will be available to view without an appointment during the showroom opening hours.

The exhibition will display the newest pieces in the Rolex portfolio, including the new-generation Explorer and Explorer II. The Explorer collection has long been developed in collaboration with legendary explorers to ensure expert performance. The new additions are emblematic of the brand’s perpetual drive to improve and its never-ending quest for excellence.

The exhibition will also give Hamilton & Inches customers the chance to view the unique Rolex dials, including new versions of the Datejust 36 and the Cosmograph Daytona which showcase refined and original dials – from palm dials to meteorite!

The 2021 Rolex Novelties exhibition reinforces Hamilton & Inches’ position as Edinburgh’s premiere destination for fine jewellery, luxury watches and hand-crafted silver.

Having recently undergone an extensive renovation, the Rolex showroom offers a serene and luxurious escape from the bustling city of Edinburgh. Hamilton & Inches is also proud to offer its customers first-class watch servicing from its in-house Rolex-accredited watchmaker.

Victoria Houghton, Hamilton & Inches CEO, said: “Our newly renovated showroom in Edinburgh is the perfect place to host the 2021 Rolex Novelties Exhibition.

“This exhibition will allow our customers to fully immerse themselves in the world of luxury watchmaking and will provide visitors with the perfect opportunity to see the latest set of Rolex novelties in person.”

To find out more, visit www.hamiltonandinches.com

It’s beginning to look a lot like … Edinburgh’s Christmas is back!

On behalf of the City of Edinburgh Council, Underbelly announces that tickets for Edinburgh’s Christmas 2021 are now on sale.

– Tickets on sale for selected rides and attractions.

– The much-loved ice rink returns, sponsored by Lidl GB and partnered by Essential Edinburgh.

– East Princes Street will see the return of festive food & drink and the Christmas Market.

– West Princes Street will include Santa Land, featuring the magical Santa’s Grotto and family friendly attractions.

– EH postcodes receive 20% discount.

Edinburgh’s Christmas is back and set to bring festive cheer to the heart of the city.

This year we see the return of the city’s much-loved Christmas ice rink, sponsored by Lidl GB and partnered by Essential Edinburgh, in its new home on George Street. The firm favourite will include a first for Edinburgh’s Christmas, skate up festive food and drink offerings alongside family sessions. Lidl on Ice will open on 19 November.

Once again East Princes Street Gardens hosts one the UK’s favourite Christmas Markets. The fantastic festive market will offer a wide range of European and local food, drink and crafts which are bound to get you into the Christmas spirit.

The Forth 1 Big Wheel will return, alongside the Star Flyer, all against the backdrop of the iconic Edinburgh Castle.

Edinburgh’s Christmas at East Princes Street Gardens will open on 20 November.

In a first for Edinburgh’s Christmas, those looking to get to the top of the nice list will find the city’s magical Santa’s Grotto in West Princes Street Gardens.

The lower gardens will be transformed into Santa Land featuring family friendly attractions including the Christmas Tree Maze and market stalls, full of festive treats and gifts.

Santa Land will open on 19 November.

Tickets for Ice Skating, Santa’s Grotto, The Forth 1 Big Wheel and Star Flyer are now available to purchase through the Edinburgh’s Christmas website. Those with an EH postcode receive 20% off their tickets.

This year, Edinburgh’s Christmas is going contactless and introducing a new ‘tap and ride’ scheme, rather than purchasing tickets from the traditional box office you will be able to purchase your ticket at each ride.

Further additions to the programme include:

Winter Windows will return throughout the city, and this year’s theme is “Connections and Kindness”.

This special creative project encourages Edinburgh’s young and budding artists to showcase their talents to residents and visitors outside of the classroom. School pupils are invited to design their own stained-glass window to be displayed in our streets and community hubs.

This year’s theme allows Edinburgh’s school children to reflect on the connections made and kindness that they received and gave during the global pandemic.

The Nativity Scene, which this year moves to St Andrew Square.

The Nativity Carol Concert, organised in conjunction with Edinburgh Churches Together, takes place on 28 November in St Andrew Square.

Following on from the success of the Light Night rainbow installation on the Mound in 2020, Edinburgh’s Christmas is working with Edinburgh based artist Hannah Ayre who will produce a beautiful contemporary art installation, illuminating the Mound with cascading geometric snowflakes.

This installation will sit alongside Edinburgh’s Christmas tree donated by the Hordaland County Council in Norway and will replace the Light Night event.

The Mound installation will be illuminated from 20 November.

The Neighbourhood Market will return in 2021 and offer free listings for local Edinburgh businesses and attractions to showcase their products. In 2020, 207 local Edinburgh businesses showcased their products on the Edinburgh’s Christmas website.

To make sure Edinburgh’s Christmas is an experience as enjoyable as possible to all, Underbelly is pleased to be offering sensory packs to children and adult visitors with additional needs.

These will be available to hire, free of charge, and will contain a fidget toy, earplugs, water bottle, stress reliever and ear defenders. These items are designed to help users relax in situations they might find stressful.

The sensory packs are designed and kindly provided by the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society.

Underbelly is meticulously planning Edinburgh’s Christmas with Covid-19 in mind and is dedicated to creating a safe and fun environment for the 2021 Christmas celebrations.

Working closely with the City of Edinburgh Council and Essential Edinburgh, Underbelly has created an unmissable festive programme, helping to boost domestic tourism and reinvigorating Princes Street and the surrounding areas.

Edinburgh’s Christmas is designed to support economic recovery across the capital, driving footfall to the wider city centre area, bringing some much-needed cheer and happiness to both residents and visitors to Edinburgh.

This year’s festivities will also support Edinburgh’s Social Inclusion charity, the OneCity Trust with donations being taken at point of sale on the Edinburgh’s Christmas website and collection points at bars.

Underbelly Co-Directors, Charlie Wood and Ed Bartlam said: “The Underbelly team has been working tirelessly to create a bespoke Edinburgh’s Christmas programme that not only provides unforgettable memories and experiences, but also makes visitors feel safe and at ease at all times.

“It’s been a very challenging couple of years for everyone but our proposed plans for Christmas are designed to support economic recovery throughout the capital, and to help Edinburgh be together again.”

Roddy Smith, Chief Executive and Director of Essential Edinburgh said: “We’re delighted to be able to partner with Underbelly to restore Edinburgh’s world-renowned festive celebrations for 2021.

“This year’s event has been designed to provide a much-needed boost to local business by supporting footfall throughout the wider city centre, providing more businesses with the chance to reconnect with residents and visitors to our spectacular capital city.

“We are especially pleased to support the fantastic ice rink on George Street which I am sure will be a great hit with everyone.”

Edinburgh’s Lord Provost and President of the OneCity Trust Frank Ross, said: “The festive season is a very special time for our city and our communities and I’m sure this year’s programme will be warmly welcomed by residents and visitors.

“Whilst the safety of everyone remains a priority it will be fantastic to see people coming together again and enjoying Edinburgh’s Christmas this year where there really is something for everyone.

“Festive favourites like the big wheel and the Christmas market will be back and it’s great that the fun is spread out a bit further this year, with Santa Land in West Princes Street Gardens and a magical festive ice rink at the west end of George Street. It promises to be a cracking Christmas party for everyone to enjoy.”

Commenting on the partnership with the OneCity Trust, he added: “After months of lockdowns and social distancing, tackling the challenge of social isolation and inequalities has never been more pressing.

“Partnerships such as this with Underbelly and Edinburgh’s Christmas are crucial to our work. Not only will the return of Edinburgh’s Christmas help bring people back together and promote social inclusion, but the money raised will be a vital lifeline for so many community projects across Edinburgh through our main grant funding programme.”

LISTING INFORMATION

Edinburgh’s Christmas 2021
19 November – 4 January

Facebook: EdinburghsChristmas
Instagram: EdinburghsChrsitmas
Twitter: EdXmas
Website (and to subscribe to the Edinburgh’s Christmas newsletter): www.edinburghschristmas.com

Prices start from £6. EH postcodes receive 20% off

Edinburgh’s Christmas, East Princes Street Gardens
20 November – 4 January

Santa Land, West Princes Street Gardens
19 November – 4 January

Lidl on Ice, George Street
19 November – 4 January

Winter Windows around the city centre
19 November – 4 January

Edinburgh’s Christmas Neighbourhood Market Place
20 November – 4 January

Councillors to discuss finalised proposals for city centre Low Emission Zone next week

A final proposed Low Emission Zone (LEZ) for Edinburgh has been published for approval ahead of its planned introduction next Spring.

Proposals for a city centre LEZ applying to all motor vehicles, except motorcycles and mopeds, and with a two-year grace period, were first reported to Transport and Environment Committee in June. These have been reviewed following a major, 12-week consultation involving both statutory and non-statutory consultees.

Participants were asked for their views on key elements of the LEZ, such as the boundary, grace period and whether local exemptions should be allowed. More than 5000 responses were received, with around 100 on behalf of organisations. After careful analysis of feedback, it has been recommended to proceed with the city centre zone approved for consultation in June.

While there was support for the LEZ in principle, some issues were raised by respondents, amongst which are the potential for the restrictions to displace traffic around the zone’s boundary and the two-year grace period being too short.

The report published yesterday, to be considered by Transport and Environment Committee on Tuesday 26 October, responds to the main areas of concern, providing reassurance around the effectiveness of the scheme, support for people to adjust and mitigating measures, in particular a Network Management Strategy. This is being developed to reduce any traffic and air quality impacts.

Councillor Lesley Macinnes, Transport and Environment Convener, said: “The publication of the final LEZ for approval is the culmination of a power of work analysing monitoring data, assessing consultation feedback and scenario-modelling, so it’s fantastic to have reached this point at last.

“Being able to breathe clean air is a basic right that everyone in the city deserves and this scheme, along with the many other projects to encourage sustainable transport, is key to achieving this. We urgently need to address air pollution and the damage it’s doing to our health.

“I’m confident that the LEZ being put forward for approval will have a really positive effect, while taking into account any impact on local businesses, residents and traffic patterns.”

Councillor Karen Doran, Transport and Environment Vice Convener, said: “This report outlines the many measures that will be taken as we continue to develop the LEZ ahead of its introduction next spring to ensure it works for everyone, while doing the essential job of limiting air pollution in the city.

“This is central to our plans to deliver a more sustainable, environmentally friendly transport future in Edinburgh.”

Dr Mark Miller, Senior Research Fellow at The University of Edinburgh’s Centre for Cardiovascular Science, added: “The research we have carried out with the support of the British Heart Foundation has unequivocally shown that the particles in vehicle exhaust have harmful effects in the heart and circulation.

“These effects would make a person more likely to develop heart disease over time and could even increase the chances of a heart attack or stroke. It is vital that we adopt measures to reduce the levels of these harmful pollutants from our environment.”

An evidence-led approach was taken when developing the LEZ, adhering to the National Low Emission Framework and based on detailed traffic and air quality modelling and data.

The city centre boundary was selected based on various factors, including the expected limited impact of a larger zone and predictions that an alternative city centre zone would have longer lasting negative impacts on air quality at its boundary.

While it is not expected that air pollution will get worse across the city due to diversions around the boundary, and with cleaner vehicles expected to use the surrounding area, the Network Management Strategy aims to mitigate any short-term impacts near the boundary. This is likely to include junction reconfigurations, improvements to signage and optimised signalling.

Other measures to mitigate the impact of the LEZ are the two-year grace period, which is considered sufficient to allow people to prepare, and several support funds currently available for lower income households and small businesses.

Once the LEZ is in place, vehicles must meet a minimum emissions standard to enter the zone freely, and those that don’t will be considered non-compliant and subject to penalties.

Penalty charges are set nationally at £60 for non-compliant vehicles (though halved if paid within 30 days), with the penalty rate roughly doubling for subsequent contraventions to a maximum level depending on the vehicle.

Following the two-year grace period for Edinburgh’s LEZ, enforcement will begin in spring 2024.

Read the full report, Low Emission Zone – Consultation & Development, on the Council website and watch the discussion live via webcast from 10am on Tuesday, 26 October.

You can also find out more about the LEZ on CEC’s dedicated web pages.