Ian Murray and Daniel Johnson call for more power and funding
Ian Murray and Daniel Johnson, the MP for Edinburgh South and MSP for Edinburgh Southern, have called for increased power and funding for Edinburgh, as new analysis shows the city has been short-changed by £147 million since 2014.
New analysis from the House of Commons Library found that if local government funding in Scotland had kept pace with the Scottish block grant, Scottish Councils would be £2bn better off.
Scottish Labour is arguing for more power and funding to be pushed out of Holyrood and into local communities.
Commenting, Ian Murray said:“Edinburgh is Scotland’s worst-funded local authority, receiving less funding per resident than every other council in the country. Everyone knows a road with a pothole that needs fixed, a school that needs more support for children with additional support needs, or a high street that needs local investment.
“Instead of empowering local communities and opening up politics and decision making to communities here, the SNP has chosen to hoard power and money in Holyrood and deprive areas of funding which would have made a real difference to the lives of local people.”
Daniel Johnson MSP said:“Too much money and control is centralised in Scotland, we need to reverse that and push funding and powers out of Holyrood and into local communities.”
Chancellor announces Edinburgh as host city for 2027 G20 finance meeting
Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors from across the world will gather at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre from 8 to 9 July 2027
The UK will host the twenty-second G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors’ meeting in Edinburgh next year. The gathering will take place on 8 and 9 July 2027 and will be a core feature of the UK’s programme of events across its Presidency year.
Speaking at the IMF in Bangkok today, Chancellor of the Exchequer John Healey expressed pride at the prospect of hosting counterparts in Scotland’s capital.
The work of the G20 and our relationship with G20 partners has real impact in the UK. In recent years G20 members have brought thousands of investment projects into the UK, creating hundreds of thousands of new jobs.
The G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors’ meeting will be held at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC). This is the second time the Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors G20 meeting has been held in Scotland. In 2009, the group met in St Andrews where they coordinated responses to the 2008 financial crisis to drive economic recovery.
The G20 Leaders’ Summit will take place in Manchester on 27 and 28 November 2027. As well as this event, and the Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors meeting in Edinburgh, a range of locations across the UK will host further high profile ministerial meetings.
The UK Government is determined to ensure the Summit and the year-long Presidency will benefit people in every part of the UK – bringing the G20 to nations and regions across the UK.
The Prime Minister set out his intention to put AI at the heart of the UK’s G20 Presidency at UNGA last month. He detailed how the UK will bring the right people together on the key issues: delivering on the potential of AI for good and dealing with the risks to ensure that AI development is safe.
Chancellor of the Exchequer John Healey commented:“As the UK’s second financial centre, Edinburgh is a fitting host for the G20 finance meeting.
“Alongside the Leader’s summit in Manchester, and other meetings around the nations and regions, the G20 is a real opportunity for the whole of the UK.”
Secretary of State for Scotland Douglas Alexander commented:“The UK’s presidency of the G20 is a huge opportunity for the whole of the country.
“Bringing the world’s finance ministers to Edinburgh recognises our capital’s reputation as a global financial centre.
“This is a significant moment for Edinburgh and the whole of Scotland – the event showcases Scottish innovation and ambition to a global audience.”
EICC board chair, Cllr Lezley Marion Cameron, said: “I am delighted the Edinburgh International Conference Centre is again hosting world leaders and economic decision makers.
“To do so is a privilege and a responsibility. It also boosts Edinburgh’s offering as a business events city and shows confidence in the EICC’s facilities and track record of delivering international political and financial gatherings to world class standards.
“Our excellent EICC team, led by CEO Amanda Wrathall, will work closely with partners to ensure all aspects of this G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors business meeting is executed with the necessary care, precision and expertise for which the EICC is warmly and widely respected and renowned.”
Preparations are already underway, with EICC working closely with international, national and local partners to ensure world-class facilities, technology, delegate services and security arrangements are in place ahead of the meeting.
Council Leader Jane Meagher said: “We’re pleased to have been chosen to host the G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors meeting in Edinburgh next Summer and look forward to welcoming the world’s most prominent financial decision makers to our capital city.
“Edinburgh has long earned its global status as a major centre for financial services, with our history in the sector spanning over three centuries. We’re proud to be the UK’s second largest financial centre outside of London and of our longstanding reputation, expertise and innovation in the finance sector.
“With a strong track record of delivering events on the world’s stage, we look forward to having all eyes on us next year – and working with partners at both a Government and local level to showcase the very best of what Edinburgh has to offer.”
Hosting the G20 finance meeting will be a significant operation and Edinburgh has experience hosting major events such as sporting fixtures, the arts festival, national and international conferences.
The G20 brings together 19 of the world’s largest economies and the European Union and the African Union.
Together, it makes up 85% of global GDP, 75% of international trade, and two-thirds of the world’s population and is the main international forum for coordinating the world’s largest economies.
A new trial to assess whether bus journey times and reliability can be improved by extending bus lane hours launches on Monday, 12 October.
The trial will be in force between Milton Road East and London Road, where bus lane times will be extended to operate between 7am and 7pm, seven days a week. Current bus lane times are peak only – 7.30am to 9.30am and 4pm to 6.30pm, Monday to Friday.
The changes will test whether longer bus lane hours can help reduce delays for buses along the route, in turn encouraging and supporting people to choose to travel by public transport and improving the experience for those who rely on buses.
Reliable and efficient bus services:
are essential for getting around the city
encourage more people to choose public transport over the car
provide a vital transport option for many residents who do not have access to a private vehicle
Edinburgh has a great bus service, but more can be done to reduce delays to buses along key routes. Bus lanes that support buses to get ahead of traffic for as long as possible during the day are one way to achieve this.
The trial route is used by several services including the number 44, which Lothian Buses has identified as one of the services most affected by delays and reliability issues outside of current bus lane operating hours. Initial data analysis shows that bus journey times on part of the route have increased by 22% since 2019.
Data and stakeholder feedback collected during the trial will be used to help decide whether the measures should be made permanent.
Transport and Environment Convener Councillor Stephen Jenkinson said: “Edinburgh is lucky to have a first-rate public transport system, which hundreds of thousands of people rely on every day. We want to make travel by bus an attractive, accessible and reliable alternative to the car and bus lanes support that.
“However, travel behaviour is changing and bus demand is increasing, leading to delays outside of traditional peak periods. This trial will help us to assess whether extended bus lane hours can reduce journey times on one of our busiest routes.
“Thanks to the nature of the trial we’ll be able to carry out real-world monitoring of traffic impacts and network performance, alongside feedback from the public.”
The 18-month trial will be introduced through an Experimental Traffic Regulation Order (ETRO), which provides an opportunity to monitor the effects of the changes and gather evidence before recommendations are made on the longer-term arrangements.
Monitoring analysis will include bus journey times, traffic surveys, parking and loading surveys, business surveys and feedback from residents and other stakeholders. The first six months of the trial also serves as a consultation period.
During the trial some parking and loading restriction times will change.
People are encouraged to check signs and road markings and can find out more about the trial on the Council website.
‘WE’LL TRANSFORM THIS FORMAL INDUSTRIAL SITE INTO A NEW COASTAL TOWN AND COMMUNITY’ – COUNCIL LEADER JANE MEAGHER
First Minister John Swinney has marked the start of construction on one of Scotland’s largest net zero housing developments as part of the latest chapter of Granton Waterfront regeneration,
The development will provide 847 net zero homes, including 387 affordable homes, 14 commercial units and a new primary school on former industrial land.
It is part of a wider £1.3 billion transformation of Edinburgh’s waterfront that will create 3,500 homes, new leisure facilities and Scotland’s largest coastal park.
The First Minister joined local school pupils at the site, including young people who have benefited from construction courses supported through Scottish Government investment in Granton’s regeneration.
John Swinney said: “This is one of the largest regeneration projects Scotland has seen in decades and a major vote of confidence in Edinburgh’s future.
“For years, people have looked across this waterfront and seen disused industrial land. Today, we are laying the foundations for a new community that will be home to thousands of people.
“Through our investment, hundreds of families will have affordable, energy-efficient homes as we transform Edinburgh’s waterfront into a thriving neighbourhood with new homes, schools and businesses.
“We are putting the people of Granton at the heart of this transformation, with better transport links, new green spaces, apprenticeships, skills training and investment in local organisations.”
Jane Meagher, Leader of City of Edinburgh Council, said: “This is a big step forward for Granton and the whole city, as construction begins on the first phase of one of the largest public sector led regeneration projects of its time.
“Through our joint efforts we’ll transform this former industrial site into a new coastal town and community. It’s important that those living in neighbouring communities benefit from the investment we’re making in the area.
“Our Place Accelerator approach will ensure residents see the benefits, including more green spaces to enjoy and opportunities for local young people to gain hands on construction skills and qualifications through work on site.”
Telford College
Audrey Cumberford, Principal of Edinburgh College, which works with Cruden Homes to deliver Granton Waterfront Construction Pathway courses for school and college pupils, said: “Edinburgh College has been at the heart of the Granton community for many years and we’re delighted to be involved in the next stage of its regeneration.
“Not only will this project provide hundreds of new homes in the area, this is already providing hundreds of opportunities for students to get hands-on experience in the construction industry.
“These opportunities could be transformative for our learners – allowing them to gain vital skills and develop a career in the sector.”
Edinburgh Green Councillors and Edinburgh Liberal Democrat councillors are jointly hosting a screening and discussion of the National Emergency Briefing. The event, in Edinburgh City Chambers, is tomorrow – Wednesday 7th October – and all 63 Edinburgh councillors have been invited to attend.
The screening and discussion, facilitated by Edinburgh Community Climate Action Network (ECCAN) shows a 40-minute film on the climate and nature emergencies, presented by ecologist Chris Packham, followed by a facilitated discussion on the issues raised.
Speaking ahead of the screening, Liberal Democrat group leader Councillor Ed Thornley, one of the hosts of the event, said: “The Climate Emergency is having very real impact in Edinburgh – flooding and extreme rainfall are serious and growing concerns in my own part of the city.
“So, I’m delighted to be working cross-party to host this important screening and discussion so that councillors from all parties can come together and discuss what that means for our city and how we can move forward together.”
Co-host Councillor Ben Parker, Edinburgh Greens co-convenor, said: “The climate and nature emergencies are the most important issues of our time.
“We know that the impacts are already being felt across the world, and here in Edinburgh. It is so important that all elected members are knowledgeable about how climate change will impact on our lives and what we need to do differently to keep people safe and ensure we have a planet to pass on to future generations.
“I hope that we see a good turnout from councillors for this important screening.”
Mark Dowey, Hub Manager at the Edinburgh Community Climate Action Network (ECCAN) said: “In Edinburgh, communities are leading the way in responding to the climate and nature crisis.
“This briefing gives councillors from across the political spectrum a unique opportunity to come together, reflect on the challenges we face, and discuss what they mean for Edinburgh.
“ECCAN is pleased to support that conversation and help strengthen the connection between decision-making in the city and the community action already happening on the ground.”
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Month-long programme to tackle knife crime makes it’s mark
Throughout September, communities across Edinburgh have taken part in activities designed to help people understand the risks associated with carrying knives and explore how to prevent violence.
The 27-foot Knife Angel sculpture, created by artist Alfie Bradley and the British Ironworks Centre from 100,000 confiscated knives and blades, has provided a powerful focal point for conversations about the devastating impact of violence and knife crime.
As part of the programme, 500 pupils were funded to attend Code at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. The gritty theatre production explores county lines gangs and violence through rap, parkour and BMX stunts.
The performance prompted important discussions among pupils, teachers and peers about the realities and consequences of violence.
Pupils from 13 high schools also attended Balisong, an educational play about knife crime produced by Strange Town. With support from Forth Ports, the production has toured high schools across Edinburgh, reaching thousands of pupils.
Young people have also played a key role in a creative project which saw 92 pieces of pupils’ artwork selected to form a mosaic on a Lothian bus. The artwork focuses on keeping safe and being kind, providing a positive message that was seen by people across the city.
Police Scotland school engagement officers have worked with schools and young people throughout September as part of ongoing efforts to prevent violence before it starts.
The Local Policing crime prevention team took part in community workshops, while officers have been providing local retailers with advice and guidance around the responsible sale of knives.
The Council held a closing ceremony on Friday to mark the end of the Knife Angel’s time in Edinburgh. The event brought the community together to reflect on the month’s activities and consider how partners can build on this work to continue reducing violence and knife crime across the city.
Council Leader Jane Meagher said: “The Knife Angel has provided a powerful opportunity to bring people together and have important conversations about knife crime, violence and how we can make our communities safer.
“I would like to thank everyone who has contributed to the Knife Angel programme, particularly our schools, young people, community organisations, Police Scotland and our other partners. The creativity and commitment shown throughout the month has helped keep these important conversations going.
“Although the Knife Angel is now leaving Edinburgh, the work does not stop here. The partnerships, conversations and lessons from the past month give us a strong foundation to continue working together to prevent violence and keep our communities safe.”
Chief Inspector Kieran Dougal said: “Edinburgh Division has been proud to have supported the Knife Angel residency alongside Places For People, City of Edinburgh Council and over 100 partners to raise awareness of the devastating consequences of violence crime and the support available to those affected by crimes of this nature.
“There is no place for violence in our society and our officers work daily with our communities and partners to respond to incidents of violence when they arise and support a range of diversionary activities aimed at deterring at risk groups from getting involved in violence.
“During the month of the Knife Angel residency we have helped keep people safe by patrolling the transport network, providing local retailers with advice on the responsible sale of knives, delivering inputs to schools on the dangers of weapon carrying, and, crucially, listening to those impacted by violence across our communities, including children and young people, about their experience of violence. This is all in addition to enforcement activity targeting perpetrators of violence.
“The Knife Angel has provided a platform for discussion reaching millions, united partners to roll out education programs, community engagement events, practitioner events and the sharing of accounts from those impacted by violence. However, the work does not end when the Angel goes, we remain committed to tackling violence in communities.
“If you are a young person who knows information about violent crime, including weapon possession, you can report it 100 percent anonymously via Fearless, the youth service of independent charity Crimestoppers, at fearless.org.
“If you are an adult, you can report anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or directly to Police Scotland by calling 101 or 999 in an emergency. Together we can keep Edinburgh a safe place to work, live and visit.”
The Council will continue to work with partners, schools, and communities to support violence prevention and build on the work inspired by the Knife Angel’s visit.
And for Lisa Petrie, the remarkable wee mum who lost her son John McNab in a stabbing last September, the campaign goes on. The Angel may have moved on, but Lisa’s determination to ensure her terrible loss is Not In Vain remains as strong as ever.
More information about the Knife Angel’s time in Edinburgh and the Book of Remembrance is available on the Council’s website.
New project follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Edinburgh UNESCO City of Literature and the City of Edinburgh Council
Edinburgh UNESCO City of Literature and Edinburgh Trams have launched Tramlines, a new partnership bringing poetry and literature into everyday public spaces across the city.
The initiative will see poems displayed throughout Edinburgh’s tram network, celebrating the city’s literary heritage while introducing thousands of passengers to poetry as part of their daily journeys.
The project features a selection of work by established, emerging and historic poets connected to Edinburgh. The project was partially inspired by London’s Poems on the Underground project, which is currently celebrating its 40th anniversary.
The project includes the winning poem from the inaugural Tramlines Poetry Competition, which invited emerging poets to create work for public space and everyday readers. The winning entry, Timelines by Stephen Deazley, was selected by a panel for inclusion.
Other poets featured in this iteration include: Norman MacCaig, Robin Robertson, Stephanie Green, Zain Rishi, Hannah Lavery, Jess Brough, Bridget Khursheed, Valerie Gillies, Wilfred Owen, Carolina Oliphant, Robert Burns, Dorothy Lawrenso, Jeda Pearl, Medha Singh, Vicki Feaver, Màrtainn Mac an t-Saoir/Martin MacIntyre and Theresa Muñoz.
Tramlines is also a celebration of a new Memorandum of Understanding between Edinburgh City of Literature and City of Edinburgh Council. Signed as Edinburgh celebrates more than two decades as the world’s first UNESCO City of Literature, the Memorandum of Understanding recognises this vital partnership.
It reaffirms a shared commitment to maintaining Edinburgh’s UNESCO designation, nurturing the city’s literary life, raising the profile of literature across communities, and strengthening Edinburgh’s reputation as a leading international city of culture and ideas.
The Rt Hon Lord Provost of Edinburgh, Robert Aldridge, said: “Edinburgh’s reputation as a City of Literature has been built over generations by writers, readers, publishers, libraries, festivals and communities across the city.
“This partnership is about building on that remarkable legacy and creating the conditions for our literary life to continue to flourish. Projects like Tramlines show how literature can be part of everyday life, reaching people in unexpected places and reminding us that stories belong to all of us.”
Dr Harriet MacMillan, Director of UNESCO Edinburgh City of Literature, commented:“We are delighted to formalise our longstanding relationship with the City of Edinburgh Council through this Memorandum of Understanding.
“It reflects our shared ambition to embed literature and storytelling across the life of the city and to ensure that Edinburgh continues to lead internationally as a UNESCO City of Literature.
The launch of Tramlines is a wonderful example of that ambition in action, bringing poetry directly to residents and visitors as they travel through the city. We’re thrilled to see the insightful, inspiring and moving words of some of Edinburgh’s outstanding poets appearing across the tram network, and we hope they encourage moments of reflection, connection and discovery for everyone who reads them.
“We hope that this will be the first of many iterations of Tramlines – we have so many wonderful Edinburgh poets to celebrate!”
Sarah Boyd, Chief Executive of Lothian Buses and Edinburgh Trams, said: “We are proud to support this initiative in partnership with Edinburgh UNESCO City of Literature.
“We hope these poems, including Stephen Deazley’s winning entry, inspire moments of reflection, creativity and enjoyment for our tram customers as they travel across the city.
“Edinburgh’s rich literary heritage deserves to be preserved, celebrated and shared with future generations.”
Learn more about the Edinburgh Green Investment, including full terms and risk information 
