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Category: North Edinburgh News
Family Fun Day at Drumbrae Library
SATURDAY 1st AUGUST from 10am – 3pm
SUMMER EVENT ANNOUNCEMENT!
Come along and join us on Saturday 1st August for our Family Fun Day!
As well as our regular Bookbug session at 10:30am, we will have fun Circus Skills, Facepainting, Balloon Modelling, live entertainment, crafts and refreshments.
Come along and join the fun!
Very High Wildfire Risk
15 – 20 JULY
A very high wildfire risk is forecast across central highlands, southern and eastern Scotland later this week and into the weekend.
If you’re enjoying the warmer weather, please do so responsibly. One spark can start a wildfire that destroys property, wildlife and landscapes.
Stay vigilant, even if a warning is not in place in your area.
Learn more – https://ow.ly/3cTp50ZnuAx
Very High risk of wildfire warning for Central Highlands, Southern and Eastern Scotland: 15-20 July
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, in conjunction with the Scottish Wildfire Forum (SWF) have issued a wildfire warning for some parts of Scotland:
- Central Highlands, Southern and Eastern Scotland: from Wednesday, 15 July to Monday, 20 July, there will be a very high risk of wildfire.
SFRS’ Wildfire Tactical Advisor, Kevin Dingwall, said: “A very high wildfire risk is forecast across central highlands, southern and eastern Scotland later this week and into the weekend.
“We know many people will want to enjoy the warmer weather. If you’re spending time outdoors, please do so responsibly and take simple steps to prevent fires from starting.
“Hot, dry conditions increase the risk of wildfire across Scotland. Even if a warning is not in place where you live, we ask everyone to stay vigilant.
“Wildfires can destroy property, landscapes and wildlife. That’s why it’s so important that everyone takes extra care during these conditions.
“Avoid lighting outdoor fires or barbecues in affected areas, and remember that a single spark can cause significant damage. There is no such thing as a harmless fire.
“You can help by sharing wildfire warnings with your family, friends, and any visitors.”
If you see a large outdoor fire, call 999 immediately. Give the location and any other relevant information so we can respond quickly.
Learn more about the Scottish Outdoor Access Code..
More than 58,000 fake football strips seized during FIFA World Cup 2026 in record breaking operation
THE City of Edinburgh Council’s Trading Standards Team has seized an estimated 58,000 counterfeit football jerseys and kits intended for distribution during the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The haul follows a series of intelligence led operations with assistance from Police Scotland, alongside linked action by the National Trading Standards Intellectual Property team in Newport Trading Standards.
It is estimated to be one of the largest ever seizures of its kind in the UK, weighing in at over nine tonnes and worth over £5million.
The shirts will be securely recycled after having been confirmed as counterfeit by brand holders. Investigations into the source and supply routes continue.
Unlike authentic shirts, counterfeits bypass safety regulations, are often of poor quality, and could potentially expose buyers to harmful toxins in dyes and materials. Fake shirts, along with other counterfeit goods, also have strong links to the funding of organised crime.
Regulatory Convener, Councillor Neil Ross said: “Our Trading Standards team have secured a tremendous result in intercepting these shirts.
“With the World Cup well underway this is a timely reminder that criminals exploit major sporting events by flooding the market with counterfeit goods to cash in on fan demand. Let me be clear, this is not a victimless crime.
“Counterfeiters undermine legitimate businesses, rip off supporters and sell products with no guarantee for how or where they were made or whether they meet basic safety standards.
“The investigations into the supply routes involved in this discovery continue but we know that this is part of an international trade in counterfeit goods and represents a significant dent to their illegitimate trade.”
Christopher Bell, Chair of the Society of Chief Trading Standards Officers in Scotland (SCOTSS) said: “This is a great result, particularly taking place ahead of the World Cup.
“The scale of such a seizure shows the challenge faced by Trading Standards teams throughout the country. Officers help to protect legitimate trade and intercept illicit goods, which are often linked to organised crime.
John Herriman, Chief Executive of the Chartered Trading Standards Institute, said: “This is an outstanding seizure that strikes a significant blow against organised criminal networks while protecting consumers from potentially unsafe and substandard products.
“The global trade in counterfeit and pirated goods remains one of the world’s most pervasive illicit markets. The latest international estimates put its value at around $467 billion a year, representing 2.3% of global trade.
“Far from being a victimless crime, counterfeiting undermines legitimate businesses, deprives economies of revenue, puts consumers at risk, and provides a source of income for organised crime groups.
“The proceeds from counterfeit goods can help fund a range of serious criminal activities, including human trafficking, modern slavery and the exploitation of vulnerable people.
“Seizures like this demonstrate the vital role Trading Standards and enforcement partners play in disrupting criminal networks and protecting the public.”
A spokesperson for Back Four Brand Protection, said: “We’ve never seen a seizure of this scale in the UK. A huge proportion of the total were England and Scotland shirts, as well as other counties such as Spain, Portugal and France.
“We estimate that this seizure represents an estimated £5.5 million in genuine product.”
A Scottish Football Association spokesperson said: “The Scottish FA invests income into the game at every level, from the grassroots scene through to the senior international squads.
“Without the funds generated from licensing, merchandising and sponsorship, this would be severely impacted.
“Counterfeit goods hit those revenues and, therefore, the amount that we can pour back into Scottish football.
“We are committed to tackling fake merchandise and protecting our loyal supporters from sub-standard products.
Scotland’s return to the FIFA World Cup stage has, understandably, led to huge demand for official kit and merchandise in general. Unfortunately, major tournament involvement also brings about a rise in counterfeit goods.
“Aside from taking funds away from local community clubs, charities and key programmes around facilities like Pitching In, these items are typically poor quality and have often skipped rigorous safety tests. They can be highly flammable, made with harmful dyes and can be linked to funding organised crime networks and human exploitation.
“We would strongly encourage Scotland supporters to opt for official merchandise – to protect them and Scottish football.”
Change of date for Granton Library’s Musical Escape Room
Hello, you might have spotted the ESCAPE ROOM we are planning on our holiday schedule which was to be unveiled today – (Wed 15th).
We think it will be even more fun if we have some more planning time so the first date for this will now be Sat 25th July.
Looking forward to unpuzzling with you!
Update on Princes Street closure
Princes Street is expected to remain closed into August following a major fire at the former Debenhams store in the early hours of 9 July.
Work is continuing to make the building safe while ensuring its historic features are preserved as far as possible. While timescales are not yet confirmed, these works are expected to take several weeks to complete.
Princes Street remains closed between Frederick Street and South Charlotte Street to all vehicles and pedestrians, with diversions in place. Buses are currently rerouted along George Street and Queen Street, with trams to and from the airport terminating at Shandwick Place.
With the diversions set to continue into next month, including on George Street, alternative arrangements are being put in place to limit disruption to forthcoming festivals and events.
A dedicated page has been created on the council website, which includes up-to-date information and guidance, with relevant links to partner sites. This will be regularly updated as and when new information becomes available.
Council Leader Jane Meagher said: “While, of course, I’m disappointed that Princes Street is to remain closed for weeks to come, our priority must be on the safety of the public.
“Our focus continues to be on making the building safe while aiming to retain as many of its historic features as we can. This is a painstaking process and will take time.
“I’m acutely aware that we’re now entering the busiest period of the year for Edinburgh, and there will inevitably be disruption in and around the city centre. We will continue to work with bus, tram, and other transport colleagues to keep the city moving as best we can.
“We’re also in regular contact with festival and event organisers with a view to minimising the impact on our events calendar, while ensuring those attending can easily access the latest information and guidance before travelling.
“This an ever-changing situation and we will provide further updates as and when new information becomes available, including through a dedicated page on the Council website.
“I want to thank people for their patience and understanding and have no doubt that we can still look forward to a fantastic summer of festivals here in Edinburgh.”
Mum urges young people to get MenB vaccine
A Glasgow mum is urging young people to come forward for vaccination against meningococcal group B (MenB), after her son became critically unwell with meningitis in 2023.
The MenB vaccine, which helps to protect against meningitis and sepsis (inflammation throughout the body) caused by meningococcal group B bacteria, is now being offered for young people in clinics across Scotland.
The programme aims to protect young people who are at higher risk of infection, especially those who are preparing to start university or college in the 2026/27 academic year, where close contact and shared living arrangements can increase the risk of meningococcal disease.
Gaynor Simpson, mum to Ross who fell ill with meningitis during his first year at university in 2023, said: “Ross became critically unwell after just feeling a bit under the weather. It quickly escalated into a situation where it was unclear whether or not he would survive.
“To see your healthy, thriving 18-year-old child go from feeling a bit off colour to fighting for his life in ICU within the space of a few hours is a feeling that we, as parents, will never forget.
“We are immensely grateful that despite the severity of the infection, he is still with us. It is a very long road to recovery from meningococcal disease and as we have seen from recent outbreaks in the UK, others are not so lucky.
“It is a cruel and unforgiving disease that takes effect at terrifying speed. Given our experience, I can’t stress enough to young people and to their parents how important it is to take up the full two-dose offer of the MenB vaccine.
“It could save your child’s life.”
The MenB vaccine is being offered to:
- young people born between 1 March 2008 and 28 February 2009, and any others who were in S6 during the 2025-26 academic year, regardless of future education plans
- undergraduate university entrants under the age of 25 who are starting for the first time in the academic year 2026-27, including international students
- college entrants under 25 starting for the first time in the academic year 2026-27 while living away from home in shared student accommodation, including international students.
It’s essential to receive two doses of the MenB vaccine, at least 28 days apart, for full protection. Ideally, both doses should be completed before starting college or university.
All health boards in Scotland are offering the vaccination by either appointment or drop-in clinic, or a combination of these. To find out how to get your MenB vaccine in your area, visit www.nhsinform.scot/menb-youngpeople
Dr Sam Ghebrehewet, Head of Vaccination and Immunisation at Public Health Scotland, said: “Immunisation is the most effective way of preventing illness from meningococcal disease.
The roll out of the MenB vaccination programme is an opportunity for all eligible young people to receive vital protection from such a serious and life-threatening disease. We encourage all those who are eligible to take up the offer, and to ensure both doses are received for full protection.”
Read more about Gaynor and Ross’ experience on the Meningitis Now website
More information about the MenB vaccination programme for young people: www.nhsinform.scot/menb-youngpeople
More information on signs and symptoms: www.nhsinform.scot/meningitis
Vaccines offer the best protection against meningococcal disease. For information on how to check your own or your child’s vaccination history:
Support your local Community!
JOIN WEST PILTON WEST GRANTON COMMUNITY COUNCIL
Official nominations for community councillors for West Pilton West Granton are finally live!
Follow the link on West Pilton West Granton Community Council Facebook Page to submit your nomination. Any questions please reach out
£4.6m new extension transforms Frogston Primary School
A major extension to Frogston Primary School in Edinburgh has been completed, delivering six new classrooms along with additional office and breakout space to support the school’s growing roll.
The original school building, completed in 2021, was designed with future expansion in mind as part of the City of Edinburgh Council’s strategy to cater for several new significant housing developments included in the City Plan 2030.
Foundations were extended at the time to allow the new accommodation to tie seamlessly into the existing substructure. The latest works also include new external facilities and landscaping, with materials carefully selected to match the appearance of the original building.
Structural and civil engineering was provided by Will Rudd, a locally based multi‑award‑winning engineering consultancy.
Frogston Primary now supports more than 500 learners, including around 100 nursery children and 400 primary pupils.
Construction was carried out while the school remained fully operational, with works planned around teaching activities to minimise disruption. The connection between the existing building and the new extension required only minimal alterations to the original fabric, further reducing impact on school operations.
The £4.6m project has been built to an enhanced energy performance standard and will welcome pupils after the summer holidays.
Sebastian Mitel, Project Engineer at Will Rudd Edinburgh, said: “It was incredibly rewarding to help create more space for the pupils and teachers at Frogston Primary.
“Will Rudd has extensive experience delivering education buildings in Edinburgh and beyond. The main challenge was ensuring construction had minimal impact on a busy school environment, and that no learning time was lost.
“This excellent new space is testament to the collaborative work of the design team, the contractor, and the school.”
Lorraine Lawrie, Head Teacher at Frogston Primary School, said: “Our pupils have loved watching the construction team at work, but they are even more excited to explore this new part of their school.
“With more than 500 children attending Frogston, this additional space will help them thrive and enjoy a really positive learning experience.”
Holmes Miller acted as architect, with Henry Brothers as main contractor. Project management and quantity surveying were delivered by AtkinsRealis, landscaping by ERZ, and M&E design by Blackwood Partnership.
Edinburgh charities receive boost from Miller Homes Community Fund
Two Edinburgh charities supporting vulnerable children and families have received a funding boost from the Miller Homes Community Fund.
Hearts & Minds and Home Link Family Support have been awarded £2,000 each through the initiative, which supports charities and community organisations located close to Miller Homes developments.
Hearts & Minds will use the funding to support its Clowndoctors programme at the Royal Hospital for Children and Young People in Edinburgh. The programme brings moments of play, laughter and connection to children facing serious illness, helping to reduce anxiety and improve wellbeing during hospital stays.
Meanwhile, Home Link Family Support will use its funding to help sustain specialist Stay & Play sessions for families of young children with additional support needs or neurodivergence. The sessions provide practical support, reduce isolation and help families build vital peer networks.
Neil Gaffney, Regional Sales Director for Miller Homes Scotland East, said: “Both of these organisations are making a profound difference to families across Edinburgh, often during some of the most challenging times in their lives.
“Whether it’s bringing joy to children in hospital or providing vital support for families navigating additional support needs, the impact of their work is truly inspiring. We’re delighted to be able to support both charities through our Miller Community Fund.”
Sean Donnelly, from Hearts & Minds, said: “A smile can be incredibly powerful, especially for a child facing a hospital stay. This funding will help our Clowndoctors continue creating moments of laughter, connection and comfort when children and their families need them most.
“We’re hugely grateful to Miller Homes for helping us bring a little more joy into hospital wards across Edinburgh.”
Paula Swanston, from Home Link Family Support, said: “Many of the families we support are facing long waits for assessments and often feel isolated while trying to find the right help for their children.
“This funding will help us continue providing a welcoming space where parents can access practical support, share experiences and feel less alone. We’re incredibly thankful to Miller Homes for recognising the importance of this work.”
Miller Homes’ Community Fund is a bi-annual initiative that supports charities, community groups and local organisations located near its developments across the UK.
For more information regarding the community fund, visit www.millerhomes.co.uk.