Unfortunately, we have had to make the difficult decision to close FetLor today due to the Vandalism, Disrespect and Anti-social behaviour the young people carried out during and after The Boys Club last night.
The attitude towards staff, the building and community was unacceptable.
We take great pride in providing a free, safe and positive space for young people, but this behaviour has made it impossible for us to operate safely.
Our priority is always the wellbeing of everyone who uses the club, and we must take this step to protect our staff, our building and our community.
Life can be wonderful. Life can be tough. Relationships. Work. Money. Loneliness. Mental health. Self-harm. We can all struggle. Any place. Any time. One in four of us have had suicidal thoughts.
Ahead of the 2026 Holyrood Election, leading national suicide prevention charity, Samaritans Scotland, is asking all political parties to make suicide prevention a priority, keeping it in mind across all policy areas to help people not only in their moment of need, but before they reach crisis point.
The charity says that suicide is and needs to be treated as an issue of inequality, with the rate of suicide mortality in the most deprived areas in Scotland being 2.5 times higher than the least deprived area. The charity says that tackling inequalities across Scottish society and in services is the only way to reduce the number of lives lost to suicide in our communities.
Developed alongside its Lived Experience Advisory Group, Samaritans Scotland’s manifesto outlines Five Priorities to Save Lives that it wants to see taken forward by the next Scottish Government.
These priorities include increasing funding for mental health services, delivering a minimum income guarantee, using workforce training to end stigma and discrimination, increasing support for people in prison, and increasing resourcing for community services.
The asks aim to target the root causes of circumstances that can contribute to someone experiencing suicidal thoughts and behaviour, before they reach crisis point.
Speaking at the launch event, Neil Mathers, Executive Director for Scotland, said: “As we look ahead to the 2026 election and next parliament, Scotland faces many big challenges. Our communities are still grappling with the cost of living, cuts to frontline services, and the ongoing impact of inequality on mental health and wellbeing.
“But there are also real opportunities at next year’s election to make lives better – to reduce poverty, improve wellbeing, to make sure the right support is there at the right time, and ultimately, to reduce deaths by suicide.
“Suicide remains one of the most urgent public health issues facing Scotland. At Samaritans Scotland, we’re calling on all political parties, candidates, and policymakers to make suicide prevention a real priority ahead of the election.”
Mark Diffley, Founder and Director of the Diffley Partnership, was in attendance to deliver an overview of the political landscape ahead of election day. It was highlighted that three out of four people in Scotland are already supportive of a Minimum Income Guarantee, with the top priorities of voters at the moment including healthcare and the cost-of-living crisis.
Research by Samaritans Scotland in partnership with Strathclyde University released last year indicated just how closely connected economic insecurity was with suicidal ideation, as well as the importance of social connection and community support networks, which is why the charity is urging politicians to prioritise these areas.
With the most recent probable suicide rate for people in prison in Scotland standing at 18.9 per 100,000 people, higher than the probable suicide rate of 12.7 per 100,000 in the general population, the charity is also calling for increased support for people in prison.
Nancy Loucks, Chief Executive of Families Outside, who was also in attendance, spoke about the potential for delivering a Minimum Income Guarantee for Scotland, saying: Having a Minimum Income Guarantee is so important.
“So much of what we see (at Families Outside) is a result of poverty and trauma. We expect prisons to solve problems that start much earlier. It’s about giving people the opportunities at the start, that prevent these issues from arising.”
Scott Thomson, member of Samaritans Scotland’s Lived Experience Advisory Group, said: “My key ask of the next Scottish Government would be to increase funding for mental health services.
“The NHS and frontline services are under too much strain; waiting lists are too long, and people need support now.
“Nurses and doctors are at a higher risk of suicide, with burnout and workplace pressures being significant factors. I think that by increasing funding towards these services, we can impact and potentially alleviate many other challenges that arise from a system that is struggling to cope with demand.”
Suicide is complex and touches every part of society. It is vital that politicians recognise the devastating impact that suicide has on people’s lives and make clear commitments to address the factors that contribute to suicide risk.
Services in Scotland are working tirelessly to improve the lives of the people that need support, but statutory mental health services must have greater investment to enable them to keep up with growing demand.
Suicide is preventable. Samaritans Scotland’s vision is that fewer people die by suicide, that people feel able to ask for help when they are struggling, and where the right support is available at the right time.
Britain’s toy shop, The Entertainer, has officially opened a brand-new store at The Gyle Shopping Centre.
The 2,225 sq ft store, located at The Gyle Shopping Centre, is officially open and is inviting local shoppers to enjoy a series of exciting in-store celebrations on Saturday (6th December).
The brand-new space brings the world’s most popular toys and collectables to the city centre, many for the first time, including Pokémon, LEGO, Monster High, Disney, POP MART and Wicked 2, as well as its exclusive Meccano, Early Learning Centre and Addo private label ranges.
To celebrate the official opening, The Entertainer is hosting an exciting in-store celebration on Saturday (6th December) for shoppers to enjoy. Fan-favourite Bluey will be visiting the brand-new store between 11am – 3:30 pm, offering families a fun-filled opportunity to meet and take photos with the popular puppy.
Plus, the first 100 customers through the doors of the new store on Saturday will get the chance to pick up an exclusive sealed envelope containing a surprise gift voucher valued between £5 – £50. What’s more, the first 100 shoppers to spend £15 or more in-store will take home a complimentary Bluey Aqua Drawing Pad worth £6.
Located at The Gyle Shopping Centre, The Entertainer joins a host of other leading retailers, leisure providers and restaurants, including JD, NEXT and M&S.
The news follows The Entertainer’s successful recent openings at Dalton Park and Rusden Lakes, as well as the highly anticipated release of its top 10 toy predictions for Christmas, featuring much-loved names such as LEGO, Disney, and heritage brand Meccano, alongside exciting newer brands like Gui Gui and Fugglers, with prices starting from just £8.
Andrew Murphy OBE, Group Chief Executive Officer of The Entertainer, said: “As the UK’s largest toy retailer, we’re thrilled to announce the opening of our new store at The Gyle Shopping Centre, and the exciting activities planned to celebrate with local shoppers.
“Our new The Gyle Shopping Centre store offers everything we’re proud of at The Entertainer – an exciting range of toys for every budget, the introduction of a huge range of global brands and products to Edinburgh, and our market-leading 30-minute click and collect service.
“Across our 160 shops, we’re proud to be famous for our friendly, helpful and knowledgeable colleagues, as well as our support of local charities and communities. Like all our UK stores, our new Edinburgh location also offers a ‘Quiet Hour’ to support customers with sensory difficulties during the first hour of every shopping day.
“We’re confident that local Edinburgh shoppers will enjoy discovering our brand-new toy shop – especially with the festive season just around the corner.”
For more information on The Entertainer and to shop online, visit:
The Edinburgh Retail Crime Task Force launched its first day of action last week in the North East of the city, focusing on Leith Walk and Fort Kinnaird.
This initiative, funded by the Scottish Government and supported by Crimestoppers Scotland , aims to tackle shoplifting and violence against retail workers.
The operation combined two key approaches – Prevent and Pursue:
Plain-clothes officers targeted hotspot areas to identify and apprehend offenders.
High-visibility patrols visited retailers to offer reassurance, crime prevention advice, and act as a visible deterrent.
Retailers have welcomed this proactive approach and the ongoing partnership to address prolific shoplifters.
PC Sarah Brotherston, who led the operation, said: “Shoplifting is not a victimless crime. We know the harm it causes to retailers and staff, and we’re committed to reducing theft and bringing offenders to justice.
“This day of action is just one piece of work that the Edinburgh Retail Crime Task Force are involved in. Further days of action and targeting of those who are repeatedly involved in shoplifting will be taking place in the run up to Christmas”
If you have information about shoplifting or stolen property, report it anonymously at https://orlo.uk/3Fp70 or call 0800 555 111.
This December, The Real Mary King’s Close invites visitors to escape into Edinburgh’s past with two interactive underground experiences: the return of its sell-out Victorian Christmas Experience and the once-a-year revival of Underground Unlocked.
The Victorian Christmas Experience, running across all weekends from Saturday 6th to Friday 28th December, brings guests face to face with a member of the Chesney family, among some of the last to live on the Close.
Through expert-storytelling, visitors will discover how Christmas slowly re-emerged in Scotland after centuries of suppression, and how Victorian Edinburgh shaped many traditions we still enjoy today.
Following the guided tour, visitors will gather in a candlelit room to enjoy tea, traditional scones with jam and clotted cream, and a craft activity inspired by authentic Victorian practices.
December will also see the return of the exclusive Underground Unlocked tours, offering two special evenings on Thursday 4th and 11th where visitors can roam freely through the preserved 17th-century streets at their own pace.
Rather than following a guided tour, guests will encounter a number of historical residents including merchants, plague doctors, poets, businesswomen and even those once condemned during the witch trials, each sharing their own vivid story.
For just a few hours, the Close will echo with the bustle of the people who once lived and worked beneath the Royal Mile.
Characters include Mary King herself, the sharp-witted merchant and burgess; Patrick Byrne the leather tanner; Dr John Paulitious, Edinburgh’s first plague doctor; Marie Maitland, the bold poet whose verses were hidden for centuries; and Euphame MacCalzean, determined to reclaim her voice after a wrongful accusation during the witch trials.
With more than a dozen figures appearing across the site, every turn reveals a new fragment of the city’s hidden history and offers a fleeting glimpse into Edinburgh’s past as it might’ve felt centuries ago.
Paul Nixon, General Manager at The Real Mary King’s Closesaid: “December is always packed with events, and we know people have so much to choose from.
“That’s why we’re excited to offer something a bit different – an immersive festive experience that the whole family can enjoy together.
“It’s a fun and interactive way to learn more about Edinburgh’s past, and after the overwhelming response last year, we’re delighted to bring it back.
“We’re also reintroducing our ever-popular Underground Unlocked evenings, which remain one of the most memorable ways to experience the Close. Together, the two events offer something truly unique for anyone looking to do Christmas a little differently this year.”
EDINBURGH’S HOGMANAY REVEALS INTERNATIONAL PARTNERSHIP & ARTIST EXCHANGE PROGRAMME WITH BASQUE COUNTRY
Edinburgh’s Hogmanay today reveals the full line-up for its much-loved First Footin’ programme on New Year’s Day, with a landmark international collaboration led by Valtos topping the bill.
The announcement finalises a vibrant citywide celebration on 1 January, with homegrown talent and visiting artists transforming the Capital into a free, open-air music trail.
For the first time, Scottish electronic-trad sensations Valtos will host a musical and cultural exchange with acclaimed Basque Country artists Maren, Mikel Urdangarin and Olaia Inziarte at Greyfriars Kirk, as part of a new international partnership between Edinburgh’s Hogmanay and the Fair Saturday Foundation, supported bythe Scottish Government’s Festivals EXPO Fund through Creative Scotland.
This new partnership with Fair Saturday Foundation welcomes the first international artists to perform as part of the First Footin’ programme, and provides a platform to raise the profile of Scottish artists to international audiences.
The new collaboration celebrates the creative ties between Scotland and the Basque Country – two regions with strong cultural identities and deep musical traditions.
The partnership began this autumn, when Valtos performed in Bilbao at the Fair Saturday Foundation’s Ura Bere Bidean festival at Bizkaia Arena on 24–25 October. They opened each night of the event, performing to sold out audiences of over 20,000 across both dates.
On New Year’s Day, Valtos will host an afternoon of spectacular live music and collaboration at Greyfriars Kirk from 2pm – 6pm, welcoming all three Basque artists to the stage. Music fans can enjoy the meeting of two rich musical cultures within one of Edinburgh’s most historic venues.
Maren brings a blend of minimalism, psychedelia and roots influences, using the universal language of music to connect with audiences of all backgrounds. She will perform alongside Navarre-born Olaia Inziarte, who fuses traditional and avant-garde sounds for her striking “dark pop” style.
Rounding out the programme is acclaimed Basque musician Mikel Urdangarin with a special performance marking 25 years of his influential career. Together, the artists are set to spotlight the richness of contemporary Basque music.
Martyn Macdonald of Valtos said: “We were absolutely delighted to be asked by Edinburgh’s Hogmanay to return to Greyfriars Kirk for First Footin’ on the 1st January 2026.
“The event was one of our highlights last year and we’re excited to be bringing the full band this time. It’s an iconic venue and to be able to share it with, and showcase it to, our new friends from Bilbao makes us extremely proud, and we hope they love Edinburgh as much as we do.”
Maren said: “I’m really excited to travel to Edinburgh to perform for the first time! It’s wonderful to connect our cultures through music, and I’m looking forward to sharing the stage with these amazing artists.I’m sure it will be a very special experience.”
Also announced today, and expanding the First Footin’ programme with both Scottish and international talent, are:
Wide Days Presents brings a showcase of homegrown voices to Virgin Hotel’s Greyfriars Hall, featuring indie Edinburgh-born indie-folk duo Quiet Houses, three-piece alt-rock outfit Her Picture, up-and-coming singer-songwriter Goodnight Louisa and energetic Gourock six-piece Slix.
Leith Arches welcomes a wave of soul and funk sounds as homegrown High Fade are set to deliver a groove-driven set, joined by Highlands singer-songwriter Tamzene, whose music blends soul, funk, R&B and reggae.
Fruitmarket Gallery hosts an energetic ‘Day Rave’ led by electronic innovator and DJ Neil Landstrumm of legendary Edinburgh club night Pure, set within the immersive sculptural world of artist Jamie Cooper’s Levelling Up installation.
Brand new venue Gilded Saloon is set to host an afternoon session from acclaimed Americana songwriter Cahalen Morrison and award-winning Australian folk duo Rain of Animals. The two acts will come together later in the day to perform a unique collaboration set.
Also at Leith Arches, Scotstown Dance Band will bring their modern take on traditional folk to audiences in search of a Scottish party.
The Scottish Cafe will set the stage for an acoustic performance from indie duo Logan’s Close.
The elegant Eve Edinburgh at Virgin Hotel welcomes classical pianist and talented singer-songwriter Chiara Lordi to an already stunning line up of music from Justin Beverly and Theo Bleak
At Portobello Town Hall, families can kick-start 2026 with a lively afternoon of ceilidhs led by The Sensational Jimi Shandrix Experience, with free sessions running throughout the afternoon.
Previously announced, St Giles’ Cathedral, will host a carnival of sound as Edinburgh’s Tinderbox Orchestra set up residence, joined by special guests Kathryn Joseph, James Emmanuel and Rachel Sermanni throughout the day. The orchestra’s explosive combination of rappers, singers, strings and thundering drums will fill the cathedral from 2–6pm, transforming the space into an unforgettable New Year’s Day celebration.
A spellbinding collaboration between Grammy-nominated guitarist Sean Shibe and award-winning fiddler Aidan O’Rourke continues the party at New College’s Rainy Hall.
Plus, the music continues into the evening with the First Footin’ Session with Cold Town Beer, a foot stompin’ programme of free traditional and contemporary live music in Edinburgh’s best city centre pubs, to keep the party going into the night.
Made possible with funding from the Scottish Government Festivals EXPO Fund through Creative Scotland, First Footin’ transforms some of Edinburgh’s most beloved venues on 1 January into a citywide celebration of music, words and community – with a line-up of free eventsinviting audiences to start the year with some of the country’s best musical talent.
Angus Robertson, Cabinet Secretary for Constitution, External Affairs and Culture, said: “The First Footin’ and Sprogmanay programmes look like they’re shaping up to be a great way for people of all ages and interests to ring in the New Year.
“Edinburgh’s Hogmanay and New Year’s Day festivities are much-loved at home and abroad, and are a wonderful showcase for the extraordinary range of artistic talent we have in this country.
“The Scottish Government is therefore proud to continue our support with £180,000 for this year’s Edinburgh Hogmanay from our Festival Expo Fund, which aims to support festival innovation and maximise national and international opportunities for the artists who contribute to them.”
Jordi Albareda, Founder & President of Fair Saturday Foundation said: “We are so proud to collaborate with Edinburgh’s Hogmanay on this new cultural partnership, bringing a taste of the Basque Country to Edinburgh with some incredible artists performing alongside Valtos for the people of Scotland.
“The Basque Country has long had strong links to Scotland, and to further connect our passion for music and creativity at this world-famous festival is the beginning of something special.”
City of Edinburgh Council Leader Jane Meagher said: “Edinburgh has always been a city that knows how to celebrate, and there’s no time of year that shows it better than Hogmanay.
“I’m delighted to welcome Valtos and Basque Country artists Maren, Mikel Urdangarin and Olaia Intziarte to Edinburgh as new additions to our brilliant First Footin’ programme.
“With plenty of performances by Scottish and international artists in some of our most renowned venues and public spaces, this year’s First Footin’ programme is not one to miss.”
With performances spanning music, spoken word, and family events, First Footin’ 2026 invites audiences to cross the threshold into a new year surrounded by creativity, friendship, and shared celebration, from the streets of Grassmarket to the atmospheric spaces of St Giles’ and Greyfriars Kirk.
Tickets for all events, including Concert in the Gardens with Wet Leg, Torchlight Procession, and Night Afore Concert with Peat & Diesel, as well as further event information and times, are available at www.edinburghshogmanay.com.
Follow Edinburgh’s Hogmanay on social media – Facebook and Instagram.
Theatre in Schools Scotland (TiSS), National Theatre of Scotland and Imaginate’s schools touring project, was delighted to welcome Ian Murray, MP for Edinburgh South, to its final school performance of 2025, at James Gillespie’s Primary School in Edinburgh.
TiSS was at James Gillepsie’s Primary School with three performances of A Home for Hamish, by Just Us, presented by Scottish Theatre Producers.
Created and performed by Deaf Dance Artist, Clare Adam and Autistic Dance Artist, Lesley Howard (Just Us), A Home for Hamish is a colourful, immersive, interactive adventure playfully merging dance and British Sign Language and is made for younger audiences.
Across a two day visit to James Gillespie’s Primary School over 170 pupils from Nursery through to P3 enjoyed the performances in the school hall.
Following the final performance Ian Murray MP was joined by performers Clare Adam and Lesley Howard, representatives from National Theatre of Scotland, Imaginate and Scottish Theatre Producers along with pupils from the school to fly paper aeroplanes in the school hall.
Ian Murray MP for Edinburgh Southsaid: “It was delightful to see the young people completely captivated by, and participating in, the performance.
“The performers were utterly superb. The impact of the school’s programme was encapsulated in the questions from their audience at the end.
“The interest in British Sign Language, the challenge of the story, and the “can we play more with you” were all testament to the power of the show. Well done to all involved.”
Ben Horsburgh, Head Teacher, James Gillespie’s Primary Schoolsaid: “We were delighted to welcome Theatre in Schools Scotland to James Gillespie’s Primary School. A Home for Hamish was a truly memorable experience for our younger learners.
“It brought theatre right into the heart of the school and gave the children a chance to engage with themes of belonging and community in a fun, imaginative way.
“Opportunities like this enrich our curriculum and inspire our young people to see themselves as part of Scotland’s vibrant cultural story.”
Belinda McElhinney, Chief Executive, Imaginatesaid: “It was lovely to watch the children fully absorbed into the world of Hamish. The performers beautifully integrated British Sign Language into the work and kept the children focused on their every move.
“The excited response from the children encapsulates for me the importance of bringing performance into schools as a key step to ensuring every child accesses their right to culture.”
Liam Sinclair, Executive Director and Joint CEO, National Theatre of Scotland, said: “It was a delightful experience watching the inspiring A Home for Hamish at James Gillespie’s Primary School, Edinburgh and being part of such an engaged and enthused audience. We appreciated Ian Murray MP attending and sharing this occasion with us.
“TiSS is a vital project for National Theatre of Scotland, enabling children across Scotland to benefit from the joy and enrichment that live performance can bring, and we are looking forward to celebrating the Theatre in Schools Scotland 10th year anniversary in 2026”
The performances at James Gillespie’s Primary School concluded a busy autumn term for the Theatre in Schools Scotland project which tours inspiring, live theatre and dance performances to primary schools across Scotland. A Home for Hamish toured to schools from Shetland to Slamannan and will be back on the road with TiSS in March 2026.
Next year will mark ten years of touring world class theatre and dance directly into schools across the country. To celebrate a decade of creativity every Theatre in Schools Scotland performance will be free of charge for participating schools from August 2026 to June 2027, as part of a special TiSS at 10 anniversary programme. Visit the Theatre in Schools Scotland website for more info.
Following reports of stolen property being reset on Leith Walk, Edinburgh, Leith Community Officers, supported by Edinburgh Retail Crime Team, executed warrants at two business premises.
Approximately £8k of suspected stolen property was recovered, and enquiries are ongoing to ensure the property is returned to its rightful owners.
Two males were arrested and will be reported for reset.
Shoplifting is #NotAVictimlessCrime and #NECPT will continue to work with the #RetailCrimeTaskforce to identify offenders, including those benefiting from the acquisition of stolen property
Over 40 celebrities have joined anti-poverty charity Trussell in calling on Chancellor Rachel Reeves to scrap the two-child limit in the upcoming autumn budget.
The two-child limit, which restricts support from the social security system to just two children, is punishing children for their existence and forcing families to food banks. Removing the two-child limit in the autumn budget is the most effective way to protect children from hunger, give them a decent start in life, and help them reach their potential.
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Dear Prime Minister,
We are writing to implore that you fully remove the cruel two-child limit which is pushing 109 more children into hardship every single day. Ending it is the right thing to do – we need you to do it now.
The two-child limit, which restricts support from the social security system to two children, even when their parents can work, is punishing children for their existence and pushing families to food banks. We cannot stand by while this continues to happen.
Millions more people are facing hunger than a couple of years ago, and families with children are at particularly high risk. 4 in 10 families with 3 or more children face hunger, around twice as high as the rate for families with one or two children and almost 1 in 3 (29%) food bank parcels provided by the Trussell community go to families with three or more children, despite them making up just 11% of the UK population. This is not right.
Every week, food banks meet parents who’ve been doing everything they can to protect their children from hunger. Skipping meals for weeks so there’s enough for the kids to eat, making games out of wrapping up in blankets to avoid turning on the heating, trying to pretend everything’s okay – but it’s not okay.
Removing the two-child limit is the most effective way to protect children from hunger, give them a decent start in life, and help them reach their potential – there is no time to waste in a child’s life. It is your duty to act on your commitment to tackling child poverty – we need you to fully remove the two-child limit now.
Nature is not a “blocker” to delivering new housing, but rather a necessity for building resilient towns and neighbourhoods, MPs argue in a new report.
In its report on ‘Environmental sustainability and housing growth’, Westminster’s cross-party Environmental Audit Committee challenges the “lazy narrative” that nature is a blocker or an inconvenience to delivering housing.
The Committee finds that the measures contained in the Planning and Infrastructure Bill, passing through final stages in Parliament, are not enough to allow the Government to meet its targets on both the environment and housing.
MPs also find that without further action, severe skills shortages in ecology, planning and construction will make it impossible for the Government to deliver on its housebuilding ambitions.
A full summary of the Committee’s conclusions and recommendations is included below.
Chair of the Environmental Audit Committee Toby Perkins MP said: “The Government’s target to build 1.5 million homes by the end of this Parliament is incredibly ambitious.
“Achieving it alongside our existing targets on climate and sustainability – which are set in law – will require effort on a scale not seen before.
“That certainly will not be achieved by scapegoating nature, claiming that it is a “blocker” to housing delivery. We are clear in our report: a healthy environment is essential to building resilient towns and cities. It must not be sidelined.
“There are certainly issues standing in the way of meeting both our housebuilding and environmental targets.
“For instance, the skills we need in construction, planning and ecology simply do not exist at the scale we need right now. The Government has made welcome investments in construction skills, but it may not be enough, and staff at local authorities and regulators are already stretched to their limit.
“We also need much better incentives for people to construct and live in carbon-friendly homes, or to retrofit existing ones. That’s why this report suggests innovative approaches to boost manufacturing viability of climate friendly construction products and alter the tax burden in favour of climate friendly homes.
“It is possible to build the homes we need while protecting a resilient and healthy environment and allowing nature to thrive. Some major changes might be needed, but nature is not the enemy.”
Nature must not be a “scapegoat” for housebuilding issues
While the Committee acknowledges and welcomes the Government’s amendments to the Planning and Infrastructure Bill (PIB) it says these changes are not enough on their own to ensure the Government can meet its environmental targets alongside housing targets.
“The Government must not veer down the path of viewing nature as an inconvenience or blocker to housebuilding,” the Committee says. “At worst, this approach could lead to the degradation of the natural world, preventing the achievement of legally binding climate and nature targets, upon which our society and economy depend.”
Skills shortages put targets in question
The Committee finds that local planning authorities are severely under-resourced in ecological skills. It heard evidence that staff at Natural England are “stretched to their limits”, that the skills needed to deliver the ecological aspects of planning reforms “simply do not exist at the scale, quality or capacity that is needed”.
The Committee recommends the Government establish a pilot programme for local ecological resource hubs, available to local authorities facing acute resources challenges, by July 2026.
It also recommends that the Government set out a realistic analysis of the construction workforce required to deliver housing targets and the skills that will be needed, and to clearly lay out how Natural England will operate amid staffing cuts and the additional responsibilities that will apply when the Planning and Infrastructure Bill is enacted.
Planning rule changes prioritise growth over the environment
Throughout its inquiry, the Committee heard repeated concerns that the Government’s changes to the presumption in favour of sustainable development, made in the 2024 review of the National Planning Policy Framework, would lead to the environment being “sidelined”.
The Committee finds that the present form of the presumption could result in unsustainable and speculative development. The Committee recommends that the Government amend the current definition of the presumption, to give greater weight to sustainability. It should also strengthen safeguards against environmentally unsustainable, unplanned and speculative development.
More incentives for greener homes
The Committee concludes that the Government must accelerate policies to decrease the carbon emissions of the built environment. MPs recommend the Government should consider steps it could take to incentivise homeowners, housebuilders, landlords and tenants to favour homes with lower levels of embodied carbon.
The Committee also recommends the Government review tax policies such as Council Tax and Stamp Duty to consider the merit of offering lower bands of taxation for homes with lower levels of embodied carbon.
Biodiversity net gain needs more time to succeed
The Committee offers support for the government’s Biodiversity net gain policy. It says it is too early to assess the overall success of BNG but warns against introducing new wide-ranging exemptions to BNG. Whilst accepting minor alterations to the policy, MPs say the Government should not exempt all small sites to ensure that the effectiveness of the policy is maintained.
The Committee also recommends that the Government should:
Incentivise the use of sustainable building materials such as timber or hemp, e.g. by introducing eco-labelling to identify materials with lower embodied carbon and offer support to further expansion of manufacturers in these fields.
Consult on incentives to develop houses with lower full lifecycle carbon, such as a levy on new build properties containing higher levels of lifecycle carbon.
Prioritise retrofitting over demolition by reducing VAT on retrofit projects from 20% and confirm that a property brought back into use would count towards housebuilding targets.
Plain-clothes officers targeted hotspot areas to identify and apprehend offenders.
