Category: Wester Hailes

Council housing: Mixed Tenure Improvement Service report

Councillors have noted a report which sets out the result of the mixed tenure improvement service pilot following the completion of works in Wester Hailes.

In mixed tenure blocks, there is a combination of ownership including owner occupiers and landlords that include the Council and other social landlords.

Mixed tenure neighbourhoods arose from right-to-buy legislation in the 1980s and 1990s which has made it more difficult to progress repairs and maintenance to common areas of blocks or tenements, for all owners. 

Many of these blocks are now in need of significant investment to common areas due to age and lack of formal factoring arrangements and regular maintenance of shared parts of the blocks. Regular maintenance is the responsibility of all owners and is needed to the external fabric and communal areas of mixed tenure blocks to make sure flats are wind and watertight, warm, damp free, safe and secure.

The Mixed Tenure Improvement Service (MTIS) was established in 2020/21 to deliver fabric repairs and maintenance, including energy efficiency works where considered part of the repair or maintenance works, to mixed tenure blocks.

The MTIS pilot, which was carried out in Wester Hailes, included repairs to 1,341 flats in 175 blocks. Work carried out on behalf of all owners across the pilot included repairs and replacement of roofing, guttering, drying room facades, installation of external wall and attic insulation, together with the maintenance and decoration of communal stairwell spaces.

It follows the scheme being shortlisted in the Housing and Regeneration category of the 2023 SURF Awards for Best Practice in Community Regeneration. The awards identify and celebrate best practice, innovation and achievement in interventions that improve homes and communities across Scotland.

Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work Convener Jane Meagher said: “Bringing all our housing stock up to a good condition, making homes energy efficient, warm and affordable to heat is very important, both for tenants and for owners in these blocks.

“By making these older homes more energy efficient, we’re driving down carbon emissions and clamping down on issues like damp and fuel poverty. Not only are owners and tenants using less energy, and therefore saving money on energy bills, but they’ve noticed a huge improvement in the overall area because of the works.

“Council officers have worked hard to support tenants and private owners throughout the MTIS pilot, so I’m delighted that their work was recognised by the prestigious 2023 SURF Awards for Best Practice in Community Regeneration. I look forward to seeing the MTIS continue to develop and improve as we work with owners and tenants to offer support and guidance.”

LIBERTUS launches Positive Futures initiative to help address social isolation amongst over-50s

Edinburgh charity will host an interactive event to offer volunteer opportunities and promote the ‘Positive Futures’ initiative

Libertus has announced that it will host an Interactive event on the 24th of October 2024 to officially launch its Positive Futures Services Project at the Canalside, Wester Hailes location.

At this informal event attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy some light refreshments, try some of the activities and speak with Libertus’ volunteers.

Libertus, an Edinburgh-based charity committed to supporting independent living since 1981, with Positive Futures groups designed to reduce social isolation among over-50s by supporting individuals to attend, develop and facilitate art classes, jewellery making, knitting, and crafts, to board games, chair-based Pilates, and gym groups.

In the past year, Positive Futures Volunteers have facilitated nearly 1,300 weekly groups and supported over 220 participants across Central, North West, and South East Edinburgh.

The Libertus Interactive Event will provide attendees with a glimpse into the services available at Canalside. Ian Murray, Secretary of State for Scotland, has expressed his support for the launch of the new initiative in South West Edinburgh, and will be present during the Interactive event to discuss Libertus services and its continued work in supporting individuals across Edinburgh.

Andrew Farr, General Manager at Libertus, said: “Since opening in 2021 we have identified a need in the local community for an initiative to help address social isolation particularly amongst the over 50s.

“We are delighted to invite people to explore our volunteering and activity opportunities at Libertus Canalside.”  

Jennifer Fairgrieve, Chairperson of Libertus Board of Directors, added: “We are looking forward to welcoming attendees to our Interactive Event in October, and to hosting MP Ian Murray.

“In addition to highlighting the Positive Futures programme, the Interactive Event will also provide visitors with the chance to explore Libertus Day services for its older people and its mental health drop-ins for over 25s.”

Dan Fuller, Project Manager of Positive Futures, commented: “The Positive Futures program has supported individuals in the community to reduce social isolation amongst over 50s.

“By having a shared passion our service attendees are able to build strong bonds and networks. Positive Futures also helps individuals add an element of structure to their week.”

Alison Brown, a volunteer at Positive Futures, has seen firsthand how the services at Libertus have supported individuals in the local Edinburgh community. Alison commented: “My mum attended Libertus as a service user in the 90s, and the positive impact it had on her well-being inspired my husband to start volunteering in 2000.

“When he was no longer able to volunteer, he became a Day Service member in 2015. Following in their footsteps, I began volunteering at Libertus, which eventually led to me joining the board in March this year.

“This has been a wonderful opportunity for me to give back to an organisation that has supported my family for the past 30 years.”

By helping people stay active, connected, and engaged, Positive Futures is playing a vital role in reducing social isolation and improving well-being across Edinburgh. 

The Interactive Day is free to attend and will take place between 11am to 2.30 pm on October 24th. To sign up and find out more information please reach out to the Libertus team on: enquiries@libertus.org.uk

Sunday: Green Team litter pick at Hailes Quarry Park

Do something amazing to mark #WorldCleanUpDay – well the day after (!) – on 22nd September – we’re hosting a clean up of Hailes Quarry Park to raise funds for another e-cargo bike.

Get involved, be the change.

https://greenteam.org.uk/sponsored-litter-pick-for-world-clean-up-day/

Khasha Smith disappearance: Man charged

A man arrested by detectives investigating the disappearance of Khasha Smith has been charged.

Khasha, of Edinburgh, was last seen to be safe and well on a FaceTime call on Tuesday, 10 October, 2023, aged 35.

Following extensive enquiries, Khasha is believed to be dead. However, her body is yet to be found.

A 39-year-old man has been arrested and charged in connection with her death. He is due to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Monday, 9 September, 2024.

Khasha’s family have been made aware and have asked that their privacy is respected.

Detective Chief Inspector Bob Williamson, of Police Scotland’s Major Investigation Team, is appealing to the public for information.

He said: “Our thoughts remain with Khasha’s family at this extremely difficult time and they continue to be supported by specialist officers.

“They are understandably devastated and it is vital we get answers for them.

“Extensive enquiries remain ongoing to trace Khasha and I would again encourage anyone with any information regarding her disappearance to contact police, as a matter of urgency.

“Any piece of information, no matter how small or insignificant you think it is, could prove vital, so please get in touch.”

Anyone with information is asked to call Police Scotland on 101 quoting incident number 3915 of 5 January 2024.

Alternatively information can be passed anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Khasha Smith investigation: Man arrested

Detectives investigating the disappearance of Khasha Smith have arrested a man as they continue to appeal for information.

Khasha, of Edinburgh, was last seen to be safe and well on a FaceTime call on Tuesday, 10 October, 2023, aged 35.

Following extensive enquiries, Khasha is believed to be dead. However, her body is yet to be found.

A 39-year-old man has today, Friday, 6 September, 2024, been arrested in connection with her death and enquiries are ongoing.

Khasha’s family have been made aware and have asked that their privacy is respected.

Detective Chief Inspector Bob Williamson, of Police Scotland’s Major Investigation Team, is appealing to the public for information.

He said: “Our thoughts are very much with Khasha’s family at this extremely difficult time and they continue to be supported by specialist officers.

“They are understandably devastated and it is vital we get answers for them.

“Extensive enquiries remain ongoing to trace Khasha and I would again encourage anyone with any information regarding her disappearance to contact police, as a matter of urgency.

“Any piece of information, no matter how small or insignificant you think it is, could prove vital, so please get in touch.”

Anyone with information is asked to call Police Scotland on 101 quoting incident number 3915 of 5 January 2024.

Alternatively information can be passed anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Khasha: The search continues

Officers conducting enquiries to locate missing woman Khasha Smith began searching in an area off Calder Road in Edinburgh today (Wednesday, 4 September, 2024).

The work includes specialist search trained officers as part of the investigation to locate Khasha who went missing almost a year ago, aged 35.

Extensive enquiries have been carried out but Khasha is still a missing person. We are continuing to support her family throughout this time.

Khasha was last seen to be safe and well on Tuesday, 10 October, 2023. She has never gone missing before. She is around 5ft, of slim build, with blue eyes and long, blonde hair.

She also has tattoos, one which is visible on her right wrist and says ‘Forever’.

Detective Chief Inspector Bob Williamson said: “We continue to follow up several lines of enquiry and are working to find answers for Khasha’s family.

“As with every missing person inquiry, all aspects of Khasha’s life have been, and continue to be, explored. We know she would never miss events such as her daughter’s birthday and Christmas, and we have to consider the possibility that she may have come to harm.

“We are constantly evaluating and exploring all the information we have and remain open minded. We are doing everything we can to find her.”

Anyone with information is asked to call Police Scotland via 101, quoting incident number 3915 of 5 January 2024.

Plans for new supported bus services in west Edinburgh

Proposals for five new supported bus services in the west of Edinburgh are set to be discussed at the Transport and Environment Committee tomorrow (Thursday 23 May).

Under the plans the routes would be The Gyle to Hermiston Park & Ride via Ratho; Queensferry to The Gyle; Cramond to Balerno; Wester Hailes to Chesser and The Gyle to Clermiston. 

There are currently three existing bus services operating in the west of the city that are fully financially supported by the City of Edinburgh Council – services 20, 63 and 68 – operated by McGill’s Bus Services but these are to be withdrawn on 14 July this year. 

Four of the new routes would be run by Lothian with the The Gyle to Clermiston route being operated by Handicabs Lothian. 

Before the revised contracts went out for tender the Council consulted with local communities and operators to help develop route specifications and help balance community requirements within the available budget. 

The new services will improve bus provision in the west of the city with some of the routes amended and a new connection to Cramond being provided by utilising a developer contribution from new housing in the area. 

Cllr Scott Arthur, Transport Convener for the City of Edinburgh Council, said: “This is fantastic news for residents in the west of the city as it’s really important to make sure the areas they live in are connected with the rest of Edinburgh. There are some parts of the city that are just not well-connected which is why these supported bus services are so important.

“I’m pleased that the community and bus operators also fed into the proposed routes allowing us to amend some services, which should improve reliability and connections to the wider public transport network.

“I’m delighted to be proposing that these services will be operated by Lothian Buses and Handicabs. Once these contracts are awarded better connecting Lady Nairne and Dumbiedykes will become our top priority.”

If the proposals are approved next week then the Council will immediately move to award contracts so the new services can be registered with the Traffic Commissioner and be ready to operate as soon as McGill’s services stop. The proposed contract lengths are for two years, with two one year optional extensions.

The Council will also work with the successful operators to update all available passenger information on each route and keep community groups updated on the changes to services in their area.  

Tendering for the new service provision for the Lady Nairne and Dumbiedykes areas will now start to be progressed.

Starcatchers take award-winning Little Top show to France

Starcatchers, Scotland’s arts and early years organisation based in Wester Hailes, have travelled to France this week to present their acclaimed co-production with SUPERFAN, “Little Top” at Les p’tites tommettes festival in Creil, France. 

The show launches the Scottish showcase for the British Council’s UK-France, ‘Together We Imagine’, Spotlight on Culture, which is building artistic collaborations and celebrating the cultural links between the UK and France throughout this year.

Set in a specially designed ‘little top’ circus tent the show is designed to create a magical first circus experience for babies aged 0-18 months. At a time in their development when young children are discovering their own physicality, and the pleasures and perils of gravity, Little Top invites babies to experience all the fun of the circus.

Rhona Matheson, CEO of Starcatchers, is delighted to bring Little Top to France: “Little Top will transport you to a playful, joyous, upside down, topsy-turvy world where people can fly, patterns fill the air, and anything is possible.

“We are excited to present our award-winning show, a co-production with SUPERFAN, at Festival Premières Rencontres.”

The festival appearance strengthens Starcatchers’ partnership with French arts company Compagnie ACTA, following their recent Erasmus+ collaboration exploring topics around artistic awakening in early childhood.

The two organisations have already collaborated to share research findings and exchange best practices in arts for early years. Starcatchers and Compagnie ACTA presented research at PREMIERES RENCONTRES festival 2024’s European Forum in March. The Early Childhood Principles were developed by Starcatchers, Compagnie ACTA, 2turvenhoog and LaSala Teatre.

Rhona Matheson continues: “We are very grateful to the British Council’s UK-France Spotlight Fund for this invaluable opportunity to strengthen our international connections.

“It’s a huge privilege to showcase Scottish work on this platform as we deepen our understanding of what artistic experiences can mean for very young audiences.”

Starcatchers is one of six Scottish-based awardees to receive over £100,000 in funding from the Spotlight on Culture Fund programme, funded with partners including Creative Scotland and the National Lottery.

Their festival presentation is part of a wider celebration of UK-France cultural partnerships happening throughout 2024, coinciding with major events like the Paris 2024 Olympics.

Norah Campbell, Head of Arts, British Council Scotland added: “What a wonderful opportunity for very young children to experience the magic of physical theatre for the first time. An excellent example of how through cultural exchange, artists can come together to share groundbreaking research and performance.

“We’re proud to help bring this innovative work to France, a fabulous start to the UK-France Cultural spotlight activity for this year.

“All the projects are now helping to maintain vital links between Scotland and France, and creatives across both countries are coming together to connect, collaborate and form lasting relationships.”

Man arrested following drugs warrants in Wester Hailes and Stenhouse

Following information from the public, Police executed warrants at three addresses in the Wester Hailes and Stenhouse areas yesterday (Friday, 12 April, 2024).

Drugs with an estimated value of around £38,000, a significant amount of cash and other valuable items were recovered.

A 44-year-old man was arrested in connection and enquiries are ongoing.

Police would like to thank the local community for their support.

Edinburgh primary is the first in the city to be named as a Reading School

 Canal View Primary in Wester Hailes has become the first school in Edinburgh to be given the prestigious Reading School accreditation by Scottish Book Trust.

The successful Reading Schools programme, developed by Scotland’s national charity changing lives with reading and writing, supports schools to build a reading culture, where every pupil is encouraged to feed their imagination through books.

Reading for pleasure is central to supporting wellbeing, improving attainment across the curriculum, and boosting critical thinking, creativity, empathy and resilience.

Canal View Primary is one of over 400 schools in Scotland to have been accredited through the programme and, having achieved the first level, the school is now working towards progressing to silver status. 

The third, and top level, to be achieved is gold status.

Susannah Jeffries, Depute Head Teacher of Canal View Primary School said: “We are so excited to be recognised as the first accredited Reading School in Edinburgh.

“Our whole school community is so proud that, in Edinburgh – the first ever UNESCO City of Literature – we are the first school to receive this award.

“We are also absolutely delighted to represent our community in Wester Hailes in such a positive way!”

Samuel, the primary seven Reading Leader said: “Everyone’s worked hard to get the Reading School accreditation, especially the Reading Leaders.

“It’s great that everyone gets to share what they like to read as a whole school. I am proud and grateful that I could help the team get the award and spread the reading bug to everyone in our school.”

Marc Lambert, CEO of Scottish Book Trust, said: “We are thrilled that Canal View Primary has achieved the honour of being the first school in Edinburgh to be accredited as a Reading School.

“A Reading Schools accreditation is a fantastic accomplishment for pupils and teachers alike, and achieving this status is a way of demonstrating a school’s commitment to developing vibrant reading cultures and the many benefits this brings.”