Category: South Queensferry

Applications for South Queensferry ‘Community Chest’ funding grant for local groups set to open

The initiative, which is being run by Queensferry and District Community Council and supported by homebuilder Cala Homes, will open to applications on Friday 1 November

Groups in South Queensferry have the opportunity to apply for up to £1000 of funding for local projects, thanks to a new initiative between Queensferry & District Community Council (QDCC) and Cala Homes (East). 

The ‘QDCC & Cala Community Chest’ scheme will see a total of £5,000 distributed to local organisations in 2025. The funds will be provided by the local homebuilder and forms a key part of its Community Pledge for the South Queensferry area.

The joint Community Chest initiative aims to support a diverse range of voluntary groups that exist within the town, as well as cultural, environmental and sports clubs.

Applications open on Friday 1 November 2024 at 7am, with groups able to apply to the grant scheme before the deadline on Tuesday 31 December 2024.

A panel comprising QDCC & Cala representatives will formally review all applications in January 2025 and will announce successful recipients of the funding at the end of January.

Keith Giblett, chairperson of South Queensferry and District Community Council, said: “We are thrilled to be partnering with Cala Homes (East) once again to offer this fantastic opportunity for local groups.

“The Community Council and Cala have worked closely together for a number of years, and this ongoing collaboration has already brought significant benefits to South Queensferry.

“We are excited to continue building on this strong relationship, which reflects our shared commitment to supporting local projects and enhancing the wellbeing of our community.

“We encourage as many groups as possible to apply and look forward to seeing the range of projects that come forward, all of which will contribute to the vibrancy and wellbeing of our town.”

Elaine Doyle, Sales and Marketing Director at Cala Homes (East), said: “We’re thrilled to be working in partnership with Queensferry & District Community Council on this Community Chest to help voluntary groups in the area thrive.

“This project forms a key part of our Community Pledge for the area, which is designed to bring measurable and meaningful benefit to the town and the people living in it.

“Collaborating with communities on initiatives that will really make a difference helps us forge even stronger connections to the places in which we are building homes, and we are excited to be continuing our close work with QDCC.

“We are looking forward to learning about the groups which will benefit from this additional funding and watch them make a real difference to the lives of the people living in the town.”

To apply for a funding grant, visit the application form link on the QDCC website: https://www.queensferrycommunitycouncil.co.uk/qdcc-cala-community-chest/

To learn more about Queensferry and District Community Council, visit: https://www.queensferrycommunitycouncil.co.uk/

Cala Homes (East) has two flagship developments in South Queensferry – Queensferry Heights and the recently launched Rosebery Wynd – presenting an impressive mix of two-, three-, four- and five-bedroom houses as well as one-, two- and three- bedroom apartments.

Meanwhile, a brand-new show apartment plus two showhomes recently opened their doors at Rosebery Wynd.

To find out more information, visit: https://www.cala.co.uk/homes-for-sale/scotland/edinburgh/rosebery-wynd-south-queensferry/

To learn more about the range of community support initiatives announced for the South Queensferry area of Fife as part of the Community Pledge programme, and to explore Cala’s developments within South Queensferry, visit: 

www.cala.co.uk/southqueensferry

Appeal for witnesses following petrol station robbery in South Queensferry

Detectives are appealing for information following a robbery in South Queensferry.

Around 2.15pm yesterday (Friday, 25 October, 2024), a man was seen outside a petrol station at Ferrymuir Gait.

A short time later he entered the premises, presented a weapon and demanded money.

The male staff member was unhurt and did not require medical treatment.

The suspect is described as being between 5ft 8ins and 5ft 10ins and of medium build. He was wearing a black beanie style hat with a grey trim, a grey snood which covered his mouth and nose. He was also wearing a brown coat with a fur trim collar and cuffs, blue jeans and white trainers. He wore blue gloves with writing on the rear of the left hand, was carrying a black backpack and he spoke with a local accent.

Detective Sergeant Martin Smith said: “The staff member was understandably shocked at what happened, but thankfully uninjured.

“Reviewing CCTV is key part of this enquiry and officers are extensively working through all available footage. If you have local CCTV or were in the area and have dash-cam footage, please get in touch as you may have captured something that can assist our investigation.

“Anyone with any information should contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 2072 of 25 October, 2024. Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

Meet Pantosaurus!

THIS MORNING AT MUIRHOUSE LIBRARY

BRING your kids along to meet Pantosaurus and listen to his roarsome story!

Muirhouse Library, Friday 18 Oct, 10.30am

Stockbridge Library, Friday 25 Oct, 2.30pm

South Queensferry Library, Friday 1 Nov, 10.30am

Find out more about keeping children safe at http://edinburgh.gov.uk/talkpants

Cala breaks ground on affordable homes in South Queensferry

CONSTRUCTION has begun on the second phase of affordable homes in South Queensferry which will provide a much-needed boost to housing supply.

Cala Homes (East), in partnership with Manor Estates Housing Association (MEHA), has broken ground on 25 social rent homes at its Queensferry Heights development near the Firth of Forth.

The £4.3 million project, supported by the City of Edinburgh Council with grant funding from the Scottish Government’s Affordable Housing Investment Programme, includes 15 one- and two-bedroom apartments and 10 three-bedroom terraced houses.

It builds on the 19 homes that have already been built and handed over to MEHA as part of the first phase, taking the total number of affordable homes delivered across the development to 44.

The second phase of homes are scheduled for completion in the first quarter of 2026, providing new opportunities for families and individuals seeking affordable living in the area.

Derek Lawson, Strategic Land Director at Cala Homes (East), said: “Given all the challenges around building new affordable homes in Scotland we are delighted to have agreed all the terms required to start work on this second, larger phase.

“Manor Estates Housing Association is based locally and has already proven to be an excellent partner to work with at this location. Together we’re able to ensure that those moving in can benefit from warm, efficient and contemporary homes, within a flourishing community.”

The development, located in a prime position near the Forth Bridges, offers excellent transport links and access to local amenities, making it a desirable location for new residents. As with the first phase of 19 MEHA homes, the second phase blends seamlessly with the wider private development.

In addition to its attractive location, the development has been designed with sustainability and community in mind, featuring energy-efficient homes and integrated green spaces.

Cala have signed a contract with housing association, Manor Estates, to provide 19affordable homes at Cala’s Queensferry Heights development. Pictured: site manager Gavin McCann and Manor Estates’s CEO, Claire Ironside and Chair of the Board, Rachel Hutton (Glasses)

Amanda Hay, Property Services Director with Manor Estates Housing Association said: “Our goal is to create safe, sustainable communities, and this project is an excellent example of what can be achieved through collaboration with Cala Homes and support from the Scottish Government and the City of Edinburgh Council. 

“We are delighted to have appointed C~urb Property Development to provide a full development consultancy service for this phase of new homes.”

C~urb Property Development, part of the Link group of companies, provides expert affordable housing development services to a range of customers including Registered Social Landlords cross Scotland.

Keith Giblett, Chair with Queensferry and District Community Council (QDCC), said: “QDCC is pleased that Cala has found a way forward to deliver the much needed affordable homes working with Manor Estates, an existing provider of homes in Queensferry.

“The added benefit is the Community Council has good working relationships with Manor built up over many years which is good for the community of Queensferry.” 

Search for Jenny Hastings: Body found

Around 3.20pm this afternoon (Saturday, 7 September, 2024), the body of a woman was found in the Hound Point area of South Queensferry.

Formal identification is yet to take place but the family of missing woman Jenny Hastings has been informed.

There do not appear to be any suspicious circumstances and a report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.

Police use drones to target antisocial behaviour in South Queensferry

Police Scotland Air Support Unit launched their drone in South Queensferry this week as part of an operation tackling antisocial vehicle use in the Hawes Pier area.

Community officers were joined by Cllr Lewis Younie and assisted by colleagues from our Roads Policing Team to raise awareness of the issue and engage with those involved.

Cunard’s newest ship Queen Anne makes historic maiden call to Scotland

Scotland’s capital hosted the first visit to the nation by Cunard’s newest ship Queen Anne.

Queen Anne made a spectacular transit of the Firth of Forth before dropping anchor at South Queensferry for Edinburgh on the first port of call of its British Isles Festival Voyage – a celebratory ‘lap of honour’ circumnavigation of the British Isles.

Her arrival beneath the famous Forth Railway Bridge attracted significant interest as the 249th ship to fly under the Cunard flag made her maiden call.

A traditional piper played on the pier as Queen Anne sailed into port, with spectators also treated to a tug water cannon display during her arrival.

Queen Anne arrived early yesterday morning and later departed bound for Kirkwall, Orkney Islands.

Her passage then takes in scenic coastal cruising as well further calls at Invergordon and Greenock where Cunard’s long and historic association with the Clyde will be recorded.

This historic visit was marked by a short Plaque Ceremony during which the ship and the port exchanged specially commissioned commemorative plaques. The port plaque will be displayed on board Queen Anne and the ship’s memento will be displayed by the Port.

Cunard guests sailing on board had a range of shore excursion opportunities to enjoy, including the chance to savour a unique visit to Summerhall Distillery – partners of the luxury cruise line – with a Cunard 4 Queens gin tasting, an exclusive Queen Anne shore experience.

The British Isles Festival Voyage

The 14-night British Isles Festival Voyage departed Southampton on 24 May and includes a spectacular Naming Ceremony for the ship in Cunard’s spiritual home at Liverpool on 3 June.

Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, said: “Queen Anne’s British Isles Festival Voyage is celebrating the very best of Great Britain and Ireland and we are delighted that our guests on board can visit Scotland, starting in the nation’s capital Edinburgh.

“Queen Anne’s maiden voyage around these shores is a truly historic sailing for Cunard.”

Queen Anne 

Whatever your dream destination, discover it with Queen Anne. As the newest addition to the Cunard fleet, her design concepts have been founded on heritage, craftmanship, style, storytelling, and innovation, and the 113,000-ton, 3,000-guest ship, which spans 14 decks, will offer travellers several breath-taking experiences, and more choices of entertainment, dining, and bars than ever before. 

She will also boast the widest selection of fitness, beauty, thermal and spa facilities so far seen on a Cunard ship, with her reimagined Mareel Wellness & Beauty proposition heralding a new era of wellbeing at sea. 

Throughout her maiden season, Queen Anne will sail from Southampton on itineraries to the Mediterranean, Scandinavia, the Canary Islands, and the Norwegian Fjords, visiting over 60 unique destinations in 16 countries – taking in several of Europe’s most enchanting ancient cities. 

Singer Callum Beattie visits Control Centre to learn CPR and thank Scottish Ambulance Centre staff

Edinburgh singer songwriter Callum Beattie visited the Scottish Ambulance Service’s East Ambulance Control Centre (ACC) on Thursday (April 25) to learn vital CPR skills and give thanks to SAS staff.

Callum, in the middle of a busy touring schedule which includes a number of dates across the United Kingdom, spoke to ACC staff at South Queensferry, giving thanks to the entire Service, and also learning CPR from Bryan Finlay, SAS’s Community Resilience Team Leader.

Callum, along with manager Dave Rogers, said he had an enormous amount of respect for SAS and urged people to learn CPR.

He said: “I was delighted to visit the East Ambulance Control Centre today to speak to staff and learn CPR. I was really impressed with the entire team and how they handle calls from across the country.

“It really shows how important they are to ensuring people get the best possible care. I’ve always admired the entire service, so great to see how things work up close.

“I’d also like to thank Bryan for showing me CPR. It’s something I had never tried, but can see how valuable it is, so I’d encourage anyone to get out there and learn the basic skills. You never know when it could save someone’s life.

“Thanks to everyone at the ACC and the rest of the service – you do an amazing job for the people of Scotland and I was thrilled to see it first hand and learn about the different roles within the control centre.”

To find out more about how to learn CPR, visit Home – Save a Life for Scotland

Running for RNLI: Edinburgh man takes on ten race challenge

Edinburgh–based Kevin White, who works as a Compliance Officer for Scotmid, is taking on a ten-race challenge to raise money for the RNLI, Scotmid’s charity partner for 2024.

The 38-year-old grew up in the coastal area of South Queensferry, so has always recognised the vital role the RNLI plays in saving lives at sea. Having worked at Scotmid for 23 years, supporting numerous good causes through group fundraising events, this will be his first individual fundraising challenge for a charity partner.

Kevin has already completed – and enjoyed – the Supernova Kelpies in March and is most looking forward to the Scottish Half Marathon in August.

Kevin White, Scotmid Compliance Officer, said: “I am incredibly proud to be supporting such an important charity for communities around the UK.

“My father and grandfather were keen runners, but I only took up running during lockdown, so this challenge is a great opportunity to follow in their footsteps. I am loving the challenge but not sure if my legs will agree by the end of the year!”

Kirsty Connell, Membership & Community Manager (East) at Scotmid, said: “We are immensely proud of Kevin and his achievements in this challenge so far.

“Through our partnership with the RNLI, we hope to raise enough funds to purchase a new Atlantic 85 Lifeboat. It’s great to see our colleagues contributing through individual and team challenges. Good luck Kevin!”

Through the partnership, Scotmid is fundraising to purchase an Atlantic 85 lifeboat for the RNLI which will serve in the reserve fleet for when lifeboats across the UK are undergoing maintenance. The Atlantic 85 is one of the fastest in the RNLI’s fleet. The boat has the capacity to carry four crew members as well as core medical and rescue equipment.

To support Kevin’s 10 race challenge, visit: 

https://www.justgiving.com/page/scotmidkevinwhite2024

Enjoy a more sustainable Scottish Christmas from Craigies Farm

Experience a festive feast like no other this year from family-run Craigies Farm in South Queensferry. Fourth generation farmer and owner John Sinclair promises a selection of high-quality, locally grown produce alongside largely Scottish-sourced food and drink items for a greener Christmas celebration this year. 

Craigies is committed to reducing food miles by growing their own produce or sourcing from local suppliers as much as possible. The Sinclair family raises their own pork and lamb on the farm, guaranteeing the highest standards of quality and provenance. Highland beef comes from the neighbouring Dalmeny Estate, just a stone’s throw away. To guarantee freshness, all meat is prepared by Craigies highly-skilled on-site artisan butchers. 

Customers can shop an array of delicious vegetables including potatoes, cabbage, cauliflower and carrots – all cultivated on Craigies Farm. Buy them loose or oven-ready as Christmas sides with options like traditional roast potatoes and maple-roasted root vegetables. You’ll find homegrown ingredients in the popular Craigies range of homemade condiments, including windfall apple chutney, red onion marmalade and festive spiced cranberry sauce. 

Satisfying sweet tooths, Craigies have a mouthwatering selection of home-baked goods with traditional Christmas cake, indulgent chocolate yule log, and mince pies all on offer. 

Craigies Farm Shop proudly stocks a range of products from local Scottish producers such as Ramsay of Carluke bacon, Mellis artisan cheeses, and Cairn O’Mohr craft wine. 

For the main event, this year Craigies has opted to stock free-range, organically reared turkeys from fellow family-run farm, Northumberland Poultry.

Striving to locate the best in poultry as close to Scotland as possible has not been easy due to widespread shortages, but Craigies are confident their turkeys from the North East are the very best in quality and taste. 

Lastly, in addition to its wide range of delectable food and drink, Craigies Little Farmers on-site toyshop stocks a menagerie of wonderful toys and unique gifts like high-quality Bruder farm toys, Orange Tree wooden toys, and adorable Keel cuddly toys. 

Key deadlines:  

Christmas orders can be made up until Sunday 10th December for delivery up till 24th December, or customers can book for click & collect for a convenient festive shopping experience. 

John Sinclair, owner of Craigies Farm, commented: “At Craigies our focus is always on quality. We want to give our customers the very best produce for a memorable Christmas. We raise our own meat and grow our own veg where possible, and only choose suppliers that are as committed to quality as we are.  

“We’re thrilled to be offering our own pork and lamb as well as beef from our neighbours. With a focus on quality and provenance, we’re confident that a Craigies Christmas offers the very best for festive feasting this year!”