‘We must not normalise crisis or celebrate small improvements – our patients and our members deserve more.’That is the response of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine to the latest A&E performance data.
Yesterday (14 December 2023) two sets of data published by NHS England, have been released: the latest Urgent and Emergency Care (UEC) Daily Situation Reports 2023-24 (also known as Winter Sitrep); and monthly A&E performance figures for November 2023.
While there have been some small signs of improvement in certain areas the overall situation remails extremely challenging with A&E departments declaring critical incidents this week, clinicians describing things as the worst they have experienced and ambulance chiefs expressing serious concerns about the pressure their service is under.
The most recent Winter UEC Sitrep data which covers the period 4-10 December 2023 paints a worrying picture with bed occupancy running dangerously high at almost 95% (the level considered ‘safe‘ is 85%) and two-thirds of ambulances not meeting the 15-minute target to hand over patients.
There was a small uplift in the number of beds available within hospitals, but these do not appear to have helped to ease pressure elsewhere in the system, and there remain thousands of patients, who are well enough to go home, but have not been discharged – occupying beds which are needed for other people.
The November performance data reveals that last month more than 144,000 people who visited an A&E within the month were there for more than 12 hours – the target is four hours.
Reacting to these figures, Dr Adrian Boyle, President of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine, said: “While the data suggest a marginal improvement compared to last year, it’s just deja-vu and we must not allow this permacrisis to become accepted as ‘normal’.
“Ambulances are queueing outside A&Es, Trusts are declaring critical incidents, patients are facing dangerously long waits in overcrowded and uncomfortable A&Es. Conditions are intense and difficult for staff, and the experience of patients is distressing and undignified.
“Clinicians are doing their very best, despite the circumstances, to deliver optimal and compassionate care, and mitigate any potential risks to patients but it is taking its toll on them too.
“It is welcome to see small increases in bed numbers, but it is not enough and patients continue to endure long waits.
“Significant and urgent action is required now to address these issues – this is what our members and their patients need and deserve.”
Data in detail:
The latest Urgent and Emergency Care Winter sitrep data for week ending 10 December (week 4 of publication for 2023/24) published today by NHS England show:
Bed occupancy levels at Trusts with a major A&E (Type 1 acute Trust) was 94.9%.
There were 99,497 beds open at Trusts with a major A&E, 1,521 more than the same week last year.
The Government promised that by winter 2023/24 there would be 5,000 more beds open when compared to October 2022 (97,287). For this week, there was an increase of 2,210 Type 1 beds compared with October 2022.
On average, one third of ambulance handovers involved a delay of over 30 minutes, while only one third of patients arriving at A&E were handed over within 15 minutes as per national guidance.
On average, 46,929 patients occupied a bed for more than seven days at a Trust with a major A&E.
On average, 384 beds were general and acute beds were occupied by patients with flu.
On average, 12,927 patients remained in hospital while no longer who were ready to be discharged.
There was an average of 49,020 daily staff absences at Trusts with a major A&E.
This is 7,547 fewer than the same week last year.
Published today (14 December 2023) by NHS England, the latest A&E performance figures for November 2023 show:
There were 1,385,701 attendances to major A&Es (Type 1 EDs) in November 2023. This is a 1.97% decrease compared with the previous month.
In November 2023, 144,085 patients waited 12-hours or more from their time of arrival. This accounts for 10.9% of all major A&E attendances in November. This means that more than one in 10 patients waited 12-hours or more.
The four-hour target at major A&Es stood at 55.4%, this is the fourth worst four-hour performance on record and the lowest so far in 2023.The aggregate four-hour target stood at 69.7%, the lowest so far in 2023. This is 6.3 percentage points lower than the Government’s intermediary threshold target of 76% to be hit by March 2024.
42,854 patients waited 12 hours or more from decision to admit (DTA) to admission. This is a 4% decrease when compared to the previous month. It is a 13.2% increase when compared with November 2022.
Beds data for October 2023 show bed occupancy stood at 94.8%.
Data show there were 98,844 Type 1 General & Acute beds available. This is an increase of 1,473 beds from October 2023 (97,371). And an increase of 1,636 beds from November 2022 (97,208).
Since it was announced in January 2023 that 5,000 new beds would be made available by winter 2023/24 compared with October 2022 (when there was 97,287 beds available), there has been an increase of 1,557 beds.
There were 396,755 emergency admissions at major A&Es. This is a 1.19% decrease since the previous month (401,523). This is the second highest number of admissions so far in 2023.
A new parliamentary inquiry examining Scotland’s Commissioner ‘landscape’ has been announced.
Holyrood’s Finance and Public Administration Committee will investigate whether a more “coherent and strategic approach” is needed for the creation of any further commissioners.
Scotland currently has seven commissioners directly responsible to Parliament. An eighth – the Patients Safety Commissioner – was agreed by Parliament in September 2023.
A further six commissioners have been proposed, or are being considered, that could potentially bring the total number to 14 by the end of this five-year session of Parliament.
Finance and Public Administration Committee Convener Kenneth Gibson said: “Seven commissioners cost £16.6m, according to budget figures for 2023/24. Each office comes with its own staff and its own running costs.
“The smallest cost £0.3m and the largest £6.7m. More are being proposed, or considered, by both the government and by backbench MSPs.
“Our committee believes this inquiry is both timely and necessary.
“The Scottish Government has already stated there is very little published research on commissioners in Scotland – or the UK – and little evaluation exploring their pros and cons, powers or ways of working.
“Our committee will therefore investigate whether a more coherent and strategic approach is needed for the creation of such commissioners in Scotland.”
The committee will launch a call for views in January. Oral evidence will be taken in March / April. The committee’s report is expected to be published in May / June 2024.
Increasing housing availability using the tax system
New powers enabling councils to charge up to double the full rate of council tax on second homes have been agreed by the Scottish Parliament.Councils will be able to increase the charges from 1 April 2024, with rates for the first year being based on those from 2023-24.
The change brings second homes into line with council tax policy on long-term empty homes and aims to increase housing availability by encouraging more homes to be used for living in.
New owners of properties that have previously been empty for more than twelve months will now have a six-month grace period, during which they will be protected from paying double the full council tax rate, with the potential for the six months to be extended by councils. This is subject to evidence that renovations or repairs are being undertaken by the owner with a view to the building being brought back into use.
Public Finance Minister Tom Arthur said: “I’m pleased Parliament has backed this important legislation. These changes to council tax were a commitment made in our Programme for Government and aim to make sure the tax system works as an incentive to prioritise homes for living in.
“A majority of those who responded to our consultation earlier this year supported councils being able to charge a council tax premium on top of regular rates for second homes.
“By protecting those renovating an empty home from paying the empty home premium, we are incentivising new ownership and giving them time to organise and undertaken the work necessary to bring it back into use.”
Councillor Katie Hagmann, COSLA’s Resources Spokesperson, said: “I am delighted that this important legislation has now been given Parliamentary approval. COSLA very much welcomes the ability for councils to take the decision to increase the premium on second homes in their areas.
“This supports our long-standing position that councillors who are closest to their communities should be empowered to take the decisions about what best works in their local communities, demonstrating the value of the Verity House Agreement.”
A second home is classed as any home that is not used as someone’s primary residence but that is occupied for at least 25 days in a year.
Latest figures show that at the end of September 2022, there were 24,287 second homes in Scotland.
Second homes are currently subject to a default 50% discount on council tax. However, local councils can vary council tax charges and the majority already charge second home-owners the full of council tax, the maximum currently allowed.
Detectives in Edinburgh have released images of a man that they believe may have information that can assist with an ongoing investigation into a serious assault which took place at around 10.30pm on Saturday 18th November 2023 at George Street near to North Castle Street, Edinburgh.
The man police believe may be able to assist is described as white and in his 30s with dark-coloured hair. He was wearing a blue and white tie dye t-shirt, with jeans, and black and white trainers.
Detective Constable Christina Yeoman of Gayfield CID said: “This was an unprovoked attack at a busy time of night in the city centre.
“Violent crime such as this is of the utmost concern to police in Edinburgh so I would urge the male or anyone who recognises him to contact us as soon as possible through 101 quoting incident number 743 of 20 November.
“Alternatively contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, where anonymity can be maintained.”
ROYAL EDINBURGH MILITARY TATTOO ANNOUNCES FIRST ACT FOR 2024
Not content with the traditional festive 12 drummers, The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is upping the stakes with 30 drummers set to perform as part of Majesticks Drum Corps next year
The announcement follows an incredible 2023 Show run, with a host of performers dazzling the capital throughout last August
Swiss drumming group, Majesticks Drum Corps, has been announced as the first act set to wow crowds when The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo returns to the Castle Esplanade in 2024.
The dynamic drumline will bring its precision drill routine to the capital and serve as a showcase of the extraordinary skills of around 30 drummers, entertaining audiences with incredible timing, showmanship, and a touch of humour.
Formed in 2011, the Swiss drumming sensation has wowed crowds across the world, including in France, Germany and Malta but will make its Tattoo debut at next year’s Journeys performance.
Majesticks aim to offer visually attractive and innovative presentations in their performances, using a mix of special effects and original staging which ensures a spectacular and memorable performance for Tattoo fans.
Next year’s routine is expected to be a vibrant offering which treads the line between modernity and tradition. The music and all aspects of the display are composed by members of the group, who will be using a selection of snare drums, bass drums and cymbals.
The first act announcement follows a triumphant Show run throughout August for the Tattoo and almost a quarter of a million guests set to enjoy a celebration of the art of journeys at next year’s performance.
Tickets are already on sale, in time to make the perfect Christmas gift that offers a unique experience that will provide memories for years to come.
Jason Barrett, Chief Executive at The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, said: “The bar’s set incredibly high when it comes to acts for the Tattoo so it’s imperative that we work with those that are of the highest standard.
“That’s something that can certainly be said for the Majesticks Drum Corps, who I can’t wait to see as part of Journeys next year.
“Known for their incredible precision drill, they’re sure to set the Esplanade alight, delighting audiences with unbelievable displays of skill and smooth transitions as the group swap drumsticks and change drums in a mesmerising display.
“I’d encourage people to snap up their tickets quickly and keep an eye out for the next acts to be announced as I can assure you, you don’t want to miss out.”
This year, the Show saw 56 Tattoo dancers and 240 Pipers and Drummers take to the Castle Esplanade to tell their story, with 168 dance shoes worn – three pairs per dancer – and 340 drumsticks banged against 170 drums.
Ludovic Frochaux, Artistic Director of Majesticks Drum Corps, said: “We’re very excited to be bringing our electric and dynamic performance to The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo in 2024 and look forward to performing for audiences on the iconic Edinburgh Castle Esplanade.
“Audiences should pay close attention to the way our performers display precision in their marching and drumming skills and keep their ears open to appreciate all that our performance has to offer.”
The 2024 Show, Journeys, will transport audiences on an international cultural journey, bringing together the voices and stories that connect the worldwide cultures of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. With the Royal Navy taking on the role of lead service, the Show will be a journey through time, celebrating the tides of change.
Journeys will continue to share the tales of performers and acts from around the globe, developing the theme through visual storytelling and taking audiences on a journey of imagination, wonder and amazement.
To purchase tickets for next summer’s Show, please visit edintattoo.co.uk/tickets or call 0131 225 1188.
Oral health is a topic that has been shrouded in myths and misconceptions for years. From old wives’ tales to internet rumours, it’s easy to get confused about the best way to look after your smile.
Thankfully, dentist Dr. Elham Kordrostami at PAIST, the UK’s first 100% plastic-free toothpaste tube has shared some of the most common oral care myths and replaced them with evidence-based truths. It’s time to set the record straight and ensure you’re on the right track to a healthier smile.
“You should brush your teeth after every meal.”
While it might seem like a good idea to brush your teeth right after eating, it’s not always the best approach. After you eat, due to many reasons the broken-down food can make your mouth more acidic, meaning brushing your teeth immediately after eating can weaken your tooth enamel. Dr Kordrostami recommends waiting at least 30 minutes before brushing as this allows your enamel to reharden, making it safe to brush.
“Rinsing with mouthwash is a suitable replacement for brushing.”
Mouthwash should not replace brushing; instead, it should complement your oral care routine. According to Dr. Kordrostami, if you choose to use mouthwash, incorporate it between meals for added freshness, but avoid using it immediately after brushing.
It’s important to note that relying solely on mouthwash is insufficient for maintaining healthy teeth and gums, and dentists do not recommend it.
The traditional toothbrush and floss remain essential for maintaining your oral health, as they effectively remove plaque and food particles. When selecting a mouthwash, opt for one without alcohol to prevent potential irritation.
“Brushing your teeth harder cleans them better.”
Some people think that brushing vigorously with a hard-bristle toothbrush will clean their teeth better. However, this can damage your tooth enamel and gums. It’s best to use a soft or medium toothbrush and brush gently. Zealous brushing can wear down the enamel, leading to yellow teeth in the long run and increased sensitivity of your teeth. It can also cause gum recession.
“All toothpaste tubes are recyclable.”
Not all toothpaste tubes are made from recyclable materials. Traditional toothpaste tubes are often made from a combination of materials that can be difficult to recycle. With 300 million plastic toothpaste tubes ending up in landfills every year, PAIST is committed to providing a fully recyclable alternative. Unlike traditional plastic toothpaste tubes, PAIST is 100% plastic-free, and is made from infinitely recyclable metal – cap included.
“Sugar free drinks are a safe option for your teeth.”
While sugar-free drinks don’t contain the sugars that can directly contribute to tooth decay, they can still be harmful to your teeth. Many sugar-free drinks are acidic, which can weaken tooth enamel over time. So, it’s essential to be mindful of the acidity and other potential tooth-damaging components in these beverages and consume them in moderation. Dr. Kordrostami advises using a straw when drinking anything other than water or milk to minimise potential damage to your teeth.
“Flossing isn’t important.”
Flossing is a crucial part of maintaining good oral hygiene. Brushing alone cannot effectively remove all the food particles and plaque build-up from between your teeth and along the gumline. Flossing helps to clean these hard-to-reach areas, preventing gum disease and cavities. Dr Kordrostami recommends flossing at least once a day to maintain optimal oral health. If you don’t floss, you’re missing cleaning 40% of your tooth surfaces. Most dental problems occur in between teeth due to the lack of flossing.
“You should rinse with water or mouthwash after you brush.”
You should not do this. Follow the “spit don’t rinse” rule. After brushing, spit out excess toothpaste but do not rinse with water or mouthwash. Rinsing immediately removes the beneficial ingredients from the toothpaste, and by not washing them away, you allow these ingredients more time to work effectively.
“Fluoride is bad for your health.”
Fluoride, when used in recommended amounts as directed by dental professionals, is safe and effective in preventing tooth decay.
There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that fluoride in toothpaste or water is generally bad for your health.
The gentlemen residents at Letham Park and Mathison Care Home are looking sharp for the festive season after a local barber shop paid a special visit to help out the community.
Ryan McCutcheon and Nicky Campbell from Black’s Barbering spent the day at the care homes to give the male elderly residents the chance to get a new trim for Christmas in a bid to give back to their local community.
90-year-old resident John McKenzie (above) said: “My hair is looking great and we had some good banter while it was getting done. Big thanks to the guys for coming in.”
Barber Ryan McCutcheon said: “We just really wanted to do something nice for Christmas and we thought the gentlemen in the care home would enjoy getting a nice haircut.
“It was our gift to these very deserving chaps, and we enjoyed every minute of it. We had a laugh and some of the banter was great!”
Following consultation with residents and interested organisations in and around the west of the city a final framework for development will be considered by the Planning Committee on 19 December.
Development in the west of Edinburgh forms part of the draft City Plan 2030, currently being considered by the Scottish Government. Therefore, if approved by committee, The West Edinburgh Placemaking Framework and Strategic Masterplan (WEPFSM) will be implemented when City Plan 2030 is adopted. The masterplan would then be used as a material consideration as non-statutory guidance for future planning applications.
The framework was informed by previous work on this area and a 12-week consultation from July to October last year for land extending from Eastfield Road in the west to Maybury junction in the east, with Edinburgh Airport and Turnhouse Road to the north.
There are a range of new opportunities for new homes and other uses in this area as set out in City Plan 2030. The aim is to create new 20 minute neighbourhoods to help Edinburgh toward its housing and net zero ambition, with a range of facilities which people will need to live well locally such as schools and medical centres.
Hundreds of people took part in the consultation either online or in person at drop in sessions or focus groups we held. Meetings also took place with key developers and landowners.
A major theme from the consultation was having excellent transport links in the area including active travel routes and public transport. These objectives are all at the core of the proposed WEPFEM and tie in with the wider Broxburn to Maybury Transport Improvements – a major transport improvement project for area.
The project is funded through the Edinburgh and South East Scotland City Region Deal. The plan is to have better connected communities with major employment, education, healthcare and leisure opportunities easily accessible. This will also make it easier for more people to make a greater number of journeys by bus or by cycling, walking or wheeling.
An overarching vision on how the west of the city could be developed over the next 30 years – Towards West Edinburgh 2050 – was also published for discussion last year.
Planning Convener Cllr James Dalgleish said: “I’d like to thank everyone who took part in the consultation last year. The feedback was really valuable in helping us to finalise our draft framework for committee to consider next week.
“When City Plan 2030 is adopted developers will be able to use this framework as a guide to help us create new thriving 20 minute neighbourhoods to the north of Gogarburn.
“We’re hoping to see more than 3,500 quality energy efficient affordable homes delivered. This will help us address the city’s housing emergency as well as significantly contributing to Edinburgh achieving net zero. The development will have a mix of uses such as retail, schools, healthcare and office space.
“Like other neighbourhoods in west Edinburgh these new communities will need to be well connected to the rest of the city, the wider region and beyond through improved public transport links.
“To help to reduce car use the high density 20 minute neighbourhoods created will need to be supported with a number of new bus and active travel routes and as well as the existing tram line which runs through the area.”
Police Scotland today (Thursday, 14 December, 2023) announced plans to consult and engage the public on proposals to close a number of properties across the country.
The Service has published details of 29 police stations and other buildings which it says are now surplus to requirements, with officers and staff being moved to other locations. Of these buildings three are already vacant and 14 others have no public access.
The Edinburgh stations listed as ‘surplus to requirements’ are Balerno, Fettes, Leith, Portobello and West End.
In addition, Police Scotland will carry out consultation and engagement on a further 16 properties, which are all already vacant or are plots of land with no buildings. As such there is no public access to these properties.
Plans to close a further 14 properties will be brought forward at a later date.
Properties have been selected for potential disposal under the Service’s estate strategy, which seeks to move toward co-location with partners where possible to ensure services are delivered in the most efficient and effective way.
As part of the review, local Divisional Commanders have been asked to identify where they would want to locate their resources to better meet the demands of 21st century policing and to highlight any buildings in their areas that are underused, surplus to requirements or where there could be opportunities to rationalise buildings or co-locate with partners.
Deputy Chief Constable, Malcolm Graham said: “Our estate needs to be fit for 21st century policing, putting service enhancement, visibility, and engagement at the heart of the communities we serve.
“These are core components of the legitimacy and consent on which policing in Scotland relies.
“Our presence in communities is not defined by buildings but by the officers and staff who work there, and we have already introduced technology that enables our officers to remain in local areas, reducing the need for them to return to police stations to deal with paperwork.
“We are determined to continue to improve our visibility and accessibility, as well as to bring partners together to deliver services in the most efficient and effective way.
“The buildings in which our officers and staff work need to be safe, functional spaces, and they need to be sustainable and adaptable enough to meet changing public expectations and the changing nature of policing.”
He added: “Police Scotland inherited a very large and ageing estate, much of which was not fit for purpose, with high maintenance costs and environmental inefficiencies.
“The locations of many inherited buildings no longer meet the requirements of local communities and in some cases the organisation is currently maintaining multiple buildings in the same geographic area, less than five miles apart.
“Some of the buildings are just a few miles apart, others are used by only a handful of police officers or staff and have no public access, while many are rarely visited by a member of the public.
“For the majority of properties, the proposed moves will be an average of four miles from their current location.
“Local communities will therefore continue to receive the same high level of service from officers, and still from within their local area.
“We now have more than 60 co-locations with partners, providing more sustainable, more modern, and safer workspaces for our people.
“We have great examples of successful partnerships in the North East, Perthshire, Forth Valley, and Ayrshire among others and this will continue to be an important part of ensuring policing in Scotland is prepared for the future.
“We understand and are sensitive to community concerns around changes involving police buildings and as we bring forward proposals we wish to communicate our proposals to the public and our staff and seek their feedback. Please do view our plans and let us know your thoughts.”
The financial savings of these property disposals would be re-invested into providing policing services.
As part of our ongoing transformation work Police Scotland is in the early stages of progressing plans for other sites across the country. As plans are developed and submitted for approval to the Scottish Police Authority they will undertake consultation with local communities, key stakeholders and trade unions, statutory staff associations, and impacted staff.
Police Scotland added: ‘We they continuously review our estate as part of our normal business and this will continue. As part of this work, we may identify other properties that are considered surplus and appropriate engagement and consultation will be undertaken.’
To review the proposals and have your say visit our engagement hub:
The 29 buildings proposed for closure/disposal are:
Station
Local Policing Division
Current Front Counter / Opening hours
Front counter usage
Local Policing Base (Yes or No)
Proposed destination
Castlemilk
Greater Glasgow
Yes – 9am – 5pm Monday -Friday (not Wednesday)
Low
No. Community police drop-in facility only.
Cathcart
Saracen
Greater Glasgow
Yes – 9am – 5pm – Monday to Friday
Low
No
Baird St or Maryhill
Bishopbriggs
Greater Glasgow
Yes – Monday – Sunday 8am – 4pm
Low
Yes. Community policing, community campus, licensing
Kirkintilloch
Milngavie
Greater Glasgow
Yes – Monday – Sunday 8am – 4pm
Low
Yes. Community policing.
Kirkintilloch
Stewart Street
Greater Glasgow
Yes – 24/7 front counter service
High
Yes. Response, community policing, divisional management team and CID
Baird St
Gorbals
Greater Glasgow
Yes – 7am-12am all week
Medium / low
Yes. Response, community policing
Cathcart
Baillieston
Greater Glasgow
Temporarily closed.
N/A
Yes. Response, Community policing
Shettleston
Pacific Quay
Greater Glasgow
No
N/A
No. Base for corporate staff.
Dalmarnock
Paisley
Renfrewshire & Inverclyde
Yes – 24 hours
Medium
Yes. Response, community policing, divisional management team and CID
TBC
Ferguslie Park
Renfrewshire & Inverclyde
No
N/A
Community Policing / Alcohol and Violence Reduction Unit
TBC
Greenock
Renfrewshire & Inverclyde
Yes – 24 hours.
Medium
Yes. Response, community policing, divisional management team and CID
Yes. Response, community policing, divisional management team and CID
TBC
Alexandria
Argyll & West Dunbartonshire
No front counter or public access.
N/A
Yes, Response, Community policing
TBC
Ayr
Ayrshire
No
No
No. Already closed and new facility in Ayr has opened. Old site proposed for demolition.
N/A
Balerno
Edinburgh City
No
N/A
No. Building was used as a base for 10 officers for social distancing purposes during the pandemic but was previously vacant. Officers will be relocated nearby.
TBC
Fettes
Edinburgh City
Yes
Medium – High Most public footfall relates to Lost property /Productions / Firearms licensing enquiries.
Yes
TBC
Leith
Edinburgh City
Yes – 7am hours to midnight – however nine days per month only open 7am – 4pm
High – Public enquiries relate to lost/found property / reporting crime, neighbour disputes, MIT enquiries etc. Station also located on tram line and near to Edinburgh’s most densely populated community.
Yes
TBC
West End
Edinburgh City
Yes – Open Monday -Friday 9am-5pm
Medium –Public enquiries relate to lost/found property / reporting crime etc.
Yes
TBC
Portobello
Edinburgh City
TBC
Oakley
Fife
No
N/A
No. Used by Operational Support Division officers.
TBC
Muir of Ord
Highlands and Islands
No
N/A
No. Used by officer/staff member but not local policing.
Dingwall or Inverness
Mastrick
North East
No
N/A
Yes
TBC
Rosemount
North East
No
N/A
Not presently – no officers currently stationed nor deployed from there but used periodically as stop point.
NA
Seaton
North East
No
N/A
Yes
TBC
Whinhill
North East
No
N/A
Yes
TBC
Torry
North East
No
N/A
Yes
Nigg
Dundee Annexe
Tayside
Yes – no counter staff. Responded to by dept staff /officers.
Low
No
West Bell Street
Ryehill
Tayside
No
N/A
No – limited use of building.
West Bell Street
Hilltown
Tayside
Yes – public counter not staffed. Officers answer the door to members of the public.
Medium
No. Functions as a space for comfort breaks for operational officers.
West Bell Street
The 16 properties which are already vacant or are plots of land with no buildings are:
Station
Local Policing Division
Current Front Counter / Opening hours
Front counter usage
Local Policing Base (Yes or No)
Proposed destination
Anderston
Greater Glasgow
No – Building vacant and has been declared Surplus
N/A
No. Building has been vacant for more than two years. Officers/staff who worked there now deploy from various police stations around Glasgow. Building is under offer, sale to complete this FY pending planning approval.
N/A
Partick (land)
Greater Glasgow
No – land has been declared Surplus
N/A
No. We are disposing of a pocket of land next to police station only as it is not required. Police station is being retained.
N/A
Maybole
Ayrshire
No – Building vacant and has been declared Surplus
N/A
No. Building vacant since 2022 when Officers/staff moved to new co-location with South Ayrshire Council in 2022.
N/A
Kilwinning
Ayrshire
No – Building vacant and will be declared Surplus
N/A
No. Building vacant since 2023, officers and staff now deploy from Irvine
N/A
Kirkcudbright
Dumfries and Galloway
No – Building vacant and has been declared Surplus
N/A
No. Building vacant for more three years, we are now co-located with SFRS in Kirkcudbright.
N/A
Tarbert Office
Argyll & West Dunbartonshire
No – Building vacant and has been declared Surplus
N/A
No. Building vacant for more 5 years, officers deploy from Lochgilphead.
N/A
Dalmally
Argyll & West Dunbartonshire
No – Building vacant and will be declared Surplus
N/A
No. Building vacant, and local consultation is ongoing. Building is a small police house/station (1 police officer), the previous officer has moved out and this area will be resourced from Oban Police Station.
N/A
Port Glasgow
Renfrewshire & Inverclyde
No – Building vacant and has been declared Surplus
N/A
No. Building vacant for more than five years, officers/staff now deploy from Greenock.
N/A
Burntisland
Fife
No – Building vacant and has been declared Surplus
N/A
No. Building has been vacant for more than three years, officers who worked there now deploy from Kirkcaldy.Building under offer to complete this year.
N/A
Alloa
Forth Valley
No – Building vacant and has been declared Surplus
N/A
No. This building is still in partial use by specialist officers although we expect to be vacated this month. Local officers vacated in 2021 to move into a co-location with Clackmannanshire Council.
N/A
Linlithgow
Lothians and Scottish Borders
No – Building vacant and has been declared Surplus
N/A
No. Building has been vacant for more 6 years. Officer/staff deploy from other nearby police stations.Remarketing of the building is under way.
N/A
Coldstream
Lothians and Scottish Borders
No – Building vacant and will be declared Surplus
N/A
No. Building has been vacant for more than 4 years. Officer/staff deploy from other nearby police stations.
Whalsay
Highlands and Islands
No – Building vacant and has been declared Surplus
Building is a small property on an island off Shetland that has been vacant for more than a year. Officer/staff located on mainland Shetland.Sale negotiations are ongoing.
N/A
Lairg
Highlands and Islands
No – Building vacant and has been declared Surplus
No. Building has been vacant for more than three years. Officer/staff now deploy from other stations within the division. Re-marketing or auction to be progressed.
N/A
Peterhead
North East
No – Building vacant and has been declared Surplus
No. Building has been vacant for more than 18 months, officers/staff deploying out of Buchan House where we co-locate with Aberdeenshire Council. Re-marketing or auction of building to be progressed.
N/A
Portlethen
North East
No – Building vacant and has been declared Surplus
No. Building has been vacant since this year, officers/staff now deploying from Stonehaven. Marketing under way.
