Tag: city council

New solar-powered lighting improves safety and sustainability in Edinburgh’s parks

New solar hybrid lighting has been installed by Signify across several Edinburgh parks, making pathways safer and more welcoming for residents and visitors while supporting the city’s climate goals.

The City of Edinburgh Council has introduced the innovative lighting system in Baronscourt Park, Hailes Quarry Park and Ferniehill, with an off-grid solar solution installed at Dundas. The project includes both new lighting in previously unlit areas and upgrades to existing infrastructure where lighting levels were insufficient.

The hybrid lights use solar energy wherever possible and automatically switch to grid power when needed, ensuring reliable lighting all year round. Smart sensors dim lights when paths are empty and increase brightness when people approach, improving safety for pedestrians and cyclists while reducing energy use and light pollution.

The improved lighting encourages greater use of parks during evening hours, supporting active travel, wellbeing and community use of green spaces. Smart dimming also helps protect wildlife by limiting lighting to areas and times where it is needed.

Edinburgh is the first city in the UK to implement this type of connected solar hybrid lighting in parks, setting a new benchmark for sustainable, people-focused public spaces.

Councillor Margaret Graham, Culture and Communities Convener said: “Working with Signify on these park lighting projects has been transformative for our city. The innovative solar-powered lighting system has not only enhanced safety for park users during evening hours but also aligns perfectly with our sustainability and climate goals.

“By reducing grid energy consumption by 53% and minimizing ecological disruption, this project sets a new benchmark for environmentally sensitive urban development. I’m also pleased that the technology has been rolled out in three other parks, namely Ferniehill, Hailes Quarry and Dundas.  

“The community response has been overwhelmingly positive, and we’re proud to lead the way with a solution that balances safety, sustainability, and innovation. This collaboration demonstrates how technology and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand to benefit both people and nature.

“This initiative sets a new standard for sustainable and connected public lighting systems. I’m proud that Edinburgh has taken the lead here as the first UK city to implement such a scheme.”

Michelle McLaughlin, Key Account Manager, said: “The vision for this project was rooted in environmental responsibility and community empowerment. The Council aimed to enhance safety by illuminating park pathways while minimizing reliance on grid electricity and protecting the park’s ecosystem.

“The solution also sought to adapt dynamically to user activity and provide actionable data for future improvements. We are proud to be a part of such a great initiative and are happy that our solutions can benefit the visitors of the parks.”

Consultation opens on mobiles phones in Edinburgh’s schools

Pupils, families and school staff encouraged to share their views

A report discussed at Education, Children and Families Committee on Tuesday (20 January) provided an update on mobile phones in schools.

Following the decision made by Councillors in September 2025 to restrict the use of mobile phones in all primary schools, the report presented a range of next steps and options to support potential restrictions on mobile phones in secondary schools.

An interim Integrated Impact Assessment has taken place with consideration for pupils with medical or caring needs who may need access to a phone during the school day.

A citywide consultation is now live, and will run until 2 March, encouraging pupils, parents/carers and school staff to engage with the consultation and share their views:

Parents/carers: Mobile Phones in Schools – Parent/Carer survey – City of Edinburgh Council – Citizen Space

Pupils: https://consultationhub.edinburgh.gov.uk/cf/7c310789/

School staff: Mobile Phones in Schools – Staff survey – City of Edinburgh Council – Citizen Space

The report discussed at Education, Children and Families Committee outlined an initial evaluation of the two-year pilot underway at two Edinburgh secondary schools, Portobello and Queensferry High Schools, using lockable pouches, restricting access to mobile phones during the school day.

Both schools report that, in the relatively short time pouches have been in use, feedback is largely positive.

Elected members were presented with a range of options for implementing restrictions, with the preferred option outlined being the use of lockable pouches to support restrictions on mobile phone use across all secondary schools, and lockable cabinets in primary schools.

This would create a position of equity for families and schools but would require additional funding, factored into the Council’s budget setting process.

Next steps in the coming weeks and months include:

  • Conclusion of the Integrated Impact Assessment later this month
  • Focus group sessions carried out as part of the consultation process in January and February
  • Citywide consultation running until 2 March
  • Findings analysed and report presented to Education, Children and Families Committee later in the year

Councillor James Dalgleish, Education, Children and Families Convener said: “In September 2025, it was agreed that restricting the use of mobile phones in our schools would be a positive step forward.

“We want these new measures to be brought in as soon as is practical, but it is the right thing to do to make sure that citywide consultation with families and communities, alongside an integrated impact assessment, takes place to explore and address any issues or concerns.

“Through many conversations, I understand that there is broad support for keeping smartphones out of the classroom, however there are individuals who have concerns which makes it even more important that as a Council we get this change right.

“Pilots, using lockable pouches, at Queensferry and Portobello High Schools have anecdotally been broadly successful, and as such the rollout of pouches in other settings needs to be explored. This includes options for financing mobile phone restrictions and the potential use of lockable pouches in secondary schools and lockable cabinets in primary schools.

“I am working closely with officers to move this forward as quickly as we can, while also making sure that we have done our due diligence to ensure that restricting mobile phones in our schools will have the intended positive impact.”

Jewellery making with Flourish at North Edinburgh Arts

We’re excited to share a fantastic creative opportunity for local adults who would like to develop skills in jewellery making at North Edinburgh Arts.

We have a couple of places available for an extended jewellery programme with Flourish Jewellery Project, open to local adults living in Granton or Pilton.

Workshops will run weekly on Thursday mornings, 10.30am – 12.30pm, from February to August 2026.

As places are limited, participants must be able to commit to attending weekly to ensure they get the most out of this opportunity.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO APPLY:

Places are being offered to adults (aged 18+). The course is funded by City of Edinburgh Council Forth Ward so to be eligible to attend you must live in Granton or Pilton.

If you are interested in taking part but unsure if your address is eligible, please get in touch.

TO APPLY FOR A PLACE:

Email Lisa at hello@flourishjewelleryproject.com and include the following information:

– Your full name

– Your address and postcode

– Contact telephone number

– Tell us why you would like to attend the extended Jewellery programme?

£21million contract recommended for approval for retrofit and upgrades at Craigmillar and Peffermill Court

Project forms part of the Council’s wider Strategic Investment Plan for high-rise buildings and will bring both blocks up to modern standards

 Thurday’s meeting of the Finance and Resources Committee recommended the approval of a £21 million contract to Kier Construction to deliver a comprehensive retrofit and upgrade programme at Craigmillar Court and Peffermill Court, two 15 floor blocks in East Edinburgh.

Built in 1968, the two floor blocks currently have no insulation, making homes difficult and expensive to heat. The retrofit will introduce extensive external wall insulation, dramatically improving thermal performance and helping homes retain heat more effectively. These upgrades are expected to create warmer living spaces and reduce heating costs for residents throughout the year.

To further improve indoor air quality and tackle long-standing issues with damp and mould, each flat will be fitted with a mechanical ventilation and heat recovery (MVHR) system. This will provide a continuous supply of fresh air while retaining heat, supporting healthier and more comfortable homes.

Other improvements include:

  • fire safety enhancements including installation of new fire doors, sprinkler systems in every flat and a dedicated firefighting lift in each block
  • existing bin chutes will be removed and replaced with a new on-site waste strategy
  • security will also be strengthened through the installation of a comprehensive CCTV system, covering all stairwells and common lobby landings
  • almost all mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) services will be replaced where they have reached the end of their life or are difficult to maintain
  • larger, brighter entrance lobbies, increased natural light and new canopies to provide shelter from the weather. Concierge facilities will be significantly upgraded
  • new and improved shared spaces will encourage interaction between residents and support activities with the wider community, making better use of previously underutilised areas within the buildings.

The surrounding environment will also be transformed, with:

  • additional tree planting
  • relocated and expanded allotments
  • a renovated and improved play park
  • realigned parking and improved access between both blocks
  • new waste and recycling facilities

Craigmillar Court and Peffermill Court each contain 57 two-bedroom homes.

This major investment represents a long-term commitment to improving living conditions, reducing carbon emissions, enhancing safety and creating more welcoming, sustainable communities for current and future residents.

Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work Convener Cllr Tim Pogson, said: This £21 million investment represents a major step forward in improving the quality, safety and sustainability of our high-rise homes.

“By upgrading insulation, ventilation, fire safety and communal spaces, this project will deliver warmer, healthier and more affordable homes for residents, while also ensuring these buildings are fit for the future.”

Greens highlight potential funding cuts to community organisations

At yesterday’s meeting of the city council’s Finance and Resource Committee (Thursday 15 January) the Scottish Greens presented an amendment which drew attention to a £15m Scottish government budget cut to community organisations and the end of Investment in Communities.

The shock proposed cut by the Scottish government risks a long list of local community groups being left high and dry as core funding for charities continues to be a pressing issue in the city (see list below).

Finance spokesperson Alex Staniforth said, “We’re glad our amendment passed at committee and officers will investigate the impact of these proposed cuts, but every time we think we’ve got a handle on cuts to the third sector some other proposal comes forward to squeeze it still further.

“The Scottish government should reflect on whether this is the best way to save £15 million given the vital work community organisations do in the city.”

List of Edinburgh organisations potentially affected:

  • About Youth, Calder Youth Action Project (part of Wester Hailes Together), City of Edinburgh, £105,822
  • Community Renewal Trust, Our Neighbourhood: A new hyperlocal Community Wealth Building partnership, City of Edinburgh, £300,732
  • Dr. Bell’s Family Centre, Start Well, Live Well: Wellbeing Support for Families in Leith, City of Edinburgh, £348,067
  • Edinburgh Food Social Cic, Changing Craigmillar Food Culture, City of Edinburgh, £325,847
  • Fresh Start, Fresh Connections, City of Edinburgh, £280,201
  • North Edinburgh Arts, North Edinburgh Arts Link Up, City of Edinburgh, £331,400
  • Space @ The Broomhouse Hub, Together We Can, City of Edinburgh, £350,000
  • The Venchie Children And Young People’s Project, Family Support Service, City of Edinburgh, £208,732
  • Transition Edinburgh South (Scotland) Ltd, Investing in Gracemount, City of Edinburgh, £302,196
  • Whale, The Arts Agency, Creativity, Place and Enterprise in Wester Hailes (part of Wester Hailes Together), City of Edinburgh, £332,494

Link to relevant part of Scot Government budget:

https://www.gov.scot/publications/scottish-budget-2026-2027/documents

City Council: Business Drop-in

You’ll be surprised at the range of ways the Council supports Edinburgh’s businesses to help them succeed.

Join us at the Assembly Rooms on 3 February 2026 to talk with our teams and some of our partner organisations that support businesses. It’s your chance to ask questions, share your thoughts, and learn more about how we work for, and with, businesses to make our city a better place.

Get answers to practical questions – from business rates and what licences you may need for new businesses and much, much more.

3 February 2026 10am to 1pm

Assembly Rooms, George Street Edinburgh EH2 2LR

Free but please register https://mtcedinburgh.eventbrite.com

Library opening hours this week

Tuesday 30 December – normal opening hours

Wednesday 31 December– libraries closing at 5pm

Thursday 1 January – closed

Friday 2 January – closed

Saturday 3 January – normal opening hours

And don’t forget, Your Library is always open online for eBook’s, audiobooks, magazines and newspapers!

https://yourlibrary.edinburgh.gov.uk/web/arena

Lord Provosts reflects on a year to remember for the capital

Edinburgh’s Lord Provost Robert Aldridge reflects on 2025

It has been another fantastic year in our capital, and it has been a real honour and privilege, as Lord Provost, to take part in so many memorable events. Some were poignant, many were inspiring, and all of them reflected the rich diversity and community that makes Edinburgh such a special city.

2025 gave us plenty to celebrate as we marked 900 years of Edinburgh’s status as a Royal Burgh and looked back on the remarkable achievements of our city over the centuries.

At the heart of Edinburgh 900 were the communities and organisations across the city who brought this milestone to life. Together, they delivered an extraordinary programme of activity from travelling exhibitions and lectures to school concerts, parades, marches and more than 300 unique events that reached into every corner of the capital.

The Edinburgh Riding of the Marches provided a spectacular finale in September, bringing the 900th anniversary to a close with a People’s Procession and horse cavalcade that thrilled the thousands of spectators lining the Royal Mile.

I was especially honoured to ride alongside The Princess Royal on beautiful grey horses from Tower Farm Stables, travelling from Holyrood Palace to the Mercat Cross, where Her Royal Highness Princess Anne addressed the crowd and brought our special year to a fitting conclusion.

It was, I believe, the first time in over a hundred years that a senior member of the Royal Family has ridden up the Royal Mile, a truly unforgettable moment for our city.

And who could forget the very first Edinburgh Tartan Parade, which took place on a gloriously hot Saturday in May? A huge crowd filled the city centre, coming together to celebrate our rich heritage – our tartans, culture and, above all, our spirit of inclusivity. It was a wonderful occasion, and one I very much look forward to seeing return in 2026.

But as the year reminded us of all there is to celebrate in our city, it also brought moments that gave us pause, calling on us to reflect and to remember those we have lost.

In April, we were deeply saddened by the sudden and unexpected passing of Councillor Val Walker. I heard nothing but positive words about Val, her warmth, her commitment, and her passion for her role as Culture and Communities Convener.

At the Council meeting following her death, the tributes paid from across all parties and sides of the chamber were profoundly moving, and they will stay with me for a long time.

Val is a great loss, to the Council, to her colleagues, to the city, and most of all to her family and friends. She is greatly missed.

Then in June, we sadly lost another inspirational figure with the passing of Professor Sir Geoff Palmer. Sir Geoff was a guiding hand as our city sought to better understand its history and come to terms with its colonial past.

At his memorial service, I described him as “a quiet man, a dignified man, an influential man, and an extraordinary man, whose words and guidance offered insight and wisdom to so many.”

His teachings, his wisdom and his generosity of spirit will not be forgotten. We owe him a great deal, and we thank him sincerely for the legacy and lasting gift he leaves to our city.

He remains a source of inspiration to me, and I am equally inspired by the extraordinary volunteering spirit that runs through our city.

As the City’s Volunteer Ambassador, I am immensely proud of the contribution our active citizens make every day across the capital. In Edinburgh, roughly a third of adults regularly volunteer which is a remarkable reflection of the generosity, kindness and community spirit that defines our city.

To everyone who gives their time to support others – thank you. You make an immeasurable difference, helping to create neighbourhoods that are stronger, kinder and better places to live, work and enjoy life.

It has been a real pleasure to meet so many volunteers throughout the year, and I close 2025 feeling inspired and optimistic about what our city can achieve together in the year ahead.

At the same time, I am mindful that this season can be difficult for those who are unable to celebrate, or who may be facing personal or family challenges. You are not forgotten, and you remain very much in our thoughts.

To our residents and visitors alike, I wish you a very Merry Christmas, a Happy Winter Festival, and a safe, peaceful and successful New Year.

Council secures Lottery grant to progress slavery and colonialism work

The Council, in partnership with the independent Edinburgh Slavery and Colonialism Legacy Review (ESCLR) Implementation Group, has been awarded £239,746 to progress the ESCLR’s recommendations.

Published in 2022 and led by Sir Geoff Palmer, the ESCLR report examined how Edinburgh’s connections to slavery and colonialism are represented in its street names, monuments, and public spaces, and how this history continues to shape present-day inequalities.

The funding will accelerate progress on the outstanding recommendations, including public engagement, education, and the development of future approaches to heritage, interpretation, and commemoration.

Key planned activities include:

  • Recruiting a full-time Project Officer and forming an Advisory Group
  • Hosting a Decolonising Edinburgh Conference and an open symposium
  • Developing digital platforms to support engagement and transparency
  • Creating a small touring exhibition on diversity in Edinburgh’s cultural and heritage activity
  • Delivering a community research project and a series of consultation workshops on built heritage
  • Piloting learning resources for schools and anti-racist educators
  • Coordinating annual stakeholder meetings and a digital campaign around UNESCO’s Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition

As part of its commitment, the Council has also provided £10,000 and significant in-kind support to help realise the project’s ambitions.

Council Leader Jane Meagher said: “Thanks to National Lottery players, this funding marks an important step forward for Edinburgh. If we are to be the inclusive and welcoming city our residents expect, we must continue to confront the uncomfortable parts of our past.

“Whilst we’ve issued a civic apology for Edinburgh’s historic role in sustaining slavery and colonialism, the project allows us to go further and become an example for how a city can face up to its slavery and colonial legacy.

“I’m pleased to see work moving ahead and look forward to the progress it will bring.”

Chair of the Implementation Group, Irene Mosota, said: “On behalf of the Edinburgh Slavery and Colonialism Legacy Review Implementation Group, I thank the National Lottery Heritage Fund for accepting our bid and ideas, and for this funding, and the City of Edinburgh Council for its continued support.

“Edinburgh is acknowledging the impact of its past and recognising that the legacy of slavery and colonialism continues to shape inequalities today and into the future.

“This funding will enable us to work with communities and institutions across the city in open and honest reflection and dialogue, not to reopen old wounds, but to help us understand our shared responsibility and how we move forward together with compassion, equality, and justice.

“We recognise the trust placed in us to carry forward the work begun by Sir Geoff Palmer, and we hope this work will offer a meaningful example of how cities across the UK can address historic legacies with care and integrity.”

Caroline Clark The National Lottery Heritage Fund Director for Scotland said: “Thanks to National Lottery players our funding will support the City of Edinburgh Council in partnership with the independent Edinburgh Slavery and Colonialism Legacy Review Implementation Group, to take a considered and collaborative approach to this important work.

“Edinburgh’s historic links to the transatlantic slave trade and colonialism are engrained in the city’s heritage.

“This project will develop ways for the city to engage thoughtfully with its past, contextualising and acknowledging these parts of the city’s story.”

Pupils perform at Haymarket station as grand finale to Royal Scottish National Orchestra residency

The performance was the culmination of a three-month residency with RSNO’s world-class musicians who worked alongside the school’s Instrumental Music Service to inspire young brass musicians.

Twenty pupils from the Council’s Instrumental Music Service (IMS) Senior Brass Ensemble, made up of young people from across Edinburgh secondary schools, put on a festive performance with the Royal Scottish National Orchestra (RSNO) Brass Quintet at Haymarket train station, on Friday 12 December.

The performance was the culmination of a three-month residency which involved RSNO’s world-class musicians working alongside the school’s IMS teaching team to coach, encourage and develop skills in young brass instrumentalists from secondary schools across the city.

Over the course of the residency, the young people worked alongside members of the RSNO to rehearse for two performances – the first was at the Usher Hall on 3 December 2025 where the brass ensemble performed Tielman Susato’s Renaissance Dances. The second at Haymarket station, brought the residency to a close, while entertaining the general public with a selection of Christmas carols and festive tunes.

Musicians in the IMS Senior Brass Ensemble, and those who took part in the residency, included pupils from Drummond High School, Tynecastle High School, Trinity Academy, Boroughmuir High School, Balerno High School, James Gillespie’s High School, Leith Academy, Queensferry High School, St Augustine’s RC High School, Broughton High School, Firrhill High School and Craigmount High School.

Councillor James Dalgleish, Education, Children and Families Convenor said: We are committed to not only making music tuition accessible to a large number of learners in our schools, but also in nurturing and developing musical talent.

“Our residency with the Royal Scottish National Orchestra is a great example of how we are doing this, bringing together world class musicians to join our instrumental music service team to inspire our talented young brass players.

“It is thanks to our team of dedicated instrumental teachers that children and young people have opportunities like this to perform and showcase their talents in such public forums.  

“I am sure that that the skills they have learned and the experiences they have had will stay with them for years to come, paving the way for future success. A sincere well done and thank you to all involved, including our Instrumental Music Service Team, teachers, families, the RSNO – and of course to our talented young musicians.”

Andrew Stevenson, RSNO Director of Engagement, said: “I am so pleased that we’re able to work so closely with the Council’s Instrumental Music Service. The IMS provide such invaluable teaching and support to young people across Scotland and it’s a real privilege to help bolster them in any way we can.

“Rounding out our residency with this free, public performance is a fantastic way to show off how brilliant these young people are and how important music education is, something we feel very passionately about at the RSNO.

“I’d also like to extend a big thanks to ScotRail, our principal travel partner, for their continued support.”

Carter, an S1 pupil at Balerno High School who took part in the Royal Scottish National Orchestra residency, said: “I found the RSNO Brass side by side project inspirational and AMAZING, thank you for letting me be part of this wonderful experience.