A report outlining a revised timetable for the City of Edinburgh Council’s City Plan 2030 will be now be considered by councillors on Wednesday, 10 March.
The report, which will be made public on Thursday (4 March), will say that the proposed plan will now be considered by councillors in the summer with the preference being for a committee in August.
The proposed plan was due to be considered by the Planning Committee this month but Scottish Environment Protection Agency was subject to a significant cyber attack just before Christmas which is still affecting its services.
This is having an impact on work on the Strategic Flood Risk Assessment required for the proposed plan as well as many other matters.
Cllr Neil Gardiner, Planning Convener, said: “The proposed plan will be ambitious and will help us build a more sustainable future as the Capital grows in the coming years. When complete, the proposed plan needs to be robust and not open to challenge on the credibility of the flood risk evidence, which is why we need to postpone its completion.
“I have every sympathy with SEPA and the challenges they are experiencing as a result of this incident and appreciate they are rightly focusing at the moment on immediate risks of flooding or significant breaches of the other regulatory responsibilities they have.”
The City of Edinburgh Council and Corstorphine Cougars RFC is celebrating a £50,000.00 funding boost from SUEZ Communities Trust and the FCC Communities Foundation for a rugby pitch drainage project at Union Park.
Corstorphine Cougars Rugby Club lease two rugby pitches from the City of Edinburgh Council at Union Park in Carrick Knowe.
One of the pitches is floodlit to facilitate evening training sessions. The growth in playing numbers in recent years has meant that the pitch is regularly in demand 7 days a week.
The club’s success, notably in recruiting primary and secondary schoolchildren (girls and boys) and senior women players, has been undermined by poor drainage effectively making it unusable for long periods during the winter months.
This funding will enable the installation of an environmentally sustainable drainage solution (SuDS) at the park. The project is planned to be completed in late March by Groundwater Dynamics using their patented EGRP technology.
Councillor Amy McNeese-Mechan, Culture and Communities Vice Convener welcomed the news: “As a Council we are committed to promoting and supporting access to sport and physical wellbeing and this is a fantastic result for Union Park.
“I look forward to seeing work get underway to install the environmentally sustainable draining solution and seeing the pitches being enjoyed all year round.
“We will continue to work with sports clubs across the capital to look at how we can best manage facilities.”
Stewart Pilkington, Corstorphine Cougars RFC President, said: “We’ve been very successful in growing the club in the last few years.
“This project will be a game changer in improving the club’s training and playing facilities as we push forward with our development plans and continue to encourage participation in rugby in the west of Edinburgh. We are very grateful to each of the funders for their valuable contributions.”
SUEZ Communities Trust and FCC Communities Foundation each contributed £25,000 through the Scottish Landfill Communities Fund to the £65,000 project.
Funding from the City of Edinburgh Council’s North West Locality Community Grants Fund, the Scottish Rugby Union, Friends of Scottish Rugby and the rugby club itself made up the balance.
PLATFORM_’s planning application for a Build-to-Rent (BTR) scheme at Bonnington Road Lane was ‘minded to grant with conditions’ by the City of Edinburgh Council Development Management Sub-Committee yesterday.
PLATFORM_ intends to build 453 BTR units, including 25% affordable housing. BTR is an innovative housing solution where homes are built, rented, and managed over the longer term. They are not for sale.
The site extends from the former Bonnington Resource Centre at the southern edge and over the recently demolished John Lewis depot to the north.
The development is a mixture of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, duplexes, and studios, and will benefit from on-site concierge and maintenance staff. The proposals also include communal amenity spaces such as a residents’ lounge, roof terraces, a Bike Café and Workshop and gym.
To help create a vibrant atmosphere, the proposals also include retail and employment space at ground level which will be available to residents, start-up companies, and other workers.
Additionally, the development will create a public pocket park, a new pedestrian priority public street connecting Bonnington Road Lane and Anderson Place, and will replant 80 additional trees across the site.
PLATFORM_ has undertaken an extensive community and stakeholder engagement programme.
A community consultation was held in December 2019 and readvertised again in December 2020 to demonstrate improvements made since the original May 2020 submission.
Proposals were recommended for approval ahead of yesterday’s meeting after thorough discussions and collaboration with city planners.
Turley provided planning support and architectural design was produced by jmarchitects. Hirst were the landscape architects and Harley Haddow the project engineers.
A spokesperson for PLATFORM_ said: “We are very pleased to have received approval for our high-quality Build-to-Rent scheme at Bonnington Road Lane.
“The development will offer residents flexibility on a wide range of housing needs. The project will support the delivery of regeneration within the local area.
“Our key aim is to create quality, sustainable, and responsibly managed properties and we are looking forward to delivering this for Edinburgh.
“We will continue to update the community as the project develops and look forward to working with our partners across Edinburgh to deliver this exciting development.”
The final proposed concept design for the transformation of George Street has been unveiled.
Detailed artist’s impressions and a 3D fly-through illustrate how the street and surrounding area within the UNESCO World Heritage Site could look under the George Street and First New Town Public Realm Improvements Project.
Significantly widened pavements, landscaped spaces for play and relaxation and a cycling thoroughfare, where motor traffic is largely removed, will create a people-friendly setting. By retaining symmetry and removing street clutter alongside ‘urban greening’ through shrubs and hedging, the designs both protect the area’s heritage and enhance the environment.
Improvements are being delivered as part of a coordinated package of projects under Edinburgh City Centre Transformation.
This includes the forthcoming Meadows to George Street and City Centre West to East Link schemes, which will transform walking, wheeling and cycling routes and connections across the city centre. These schemes also support the City Mobility Plan, a ten-year strategy to overhaul transport and mobility in the Capital to deliver a sustainable, net zero carbon and inclusive future.
The concept design for George Street, which has been progressed by a design team led by Tetratech with LDA Landscape Design, follows several years of development and engagement to refine design objectives with the public and stakeholders, including community councils and heritage, business, walking, cycling and accessibility groups.
During February and March, further engagement will take place with key groups, while the public will be able to see the design for themselves and tell us how they might enjoy a revitalised George Street.
Feedback gathered in February and March will inform a final iteration of the design proposal before being brought to Transport and Environment Committee in April. The required statutory processes under which the scheme will be constructed would begin this summer.
https://youtu.be/YaWvPP4QFTQ
Transport and Environment Convener Councillor Lesley Macinnes said: “These animated concept designs offer an exciting glimpse into what George Street and the surrounding area could look like in 2025 – a welcoming, relaxing and unique space, where people will want to spend time, to visit local shops, cafes and restaurants and to travel to and through the city centre.
“This vision has been years in the making and follows significant engagement with the public and a range of groups representing different interests. It’s essential that its design works for everyone, which is why we’ve spent time ensuring it meets people’s access needs, that it allows residents to go about their daily lives and that it will encourage local businesses to flourish, particularly as we look to make a strong, green recovery from the COVID crisis.”
Transport and Environment Vice Convener Councillor Karen Doran said: “I was thrilled to see the concept designs for this project brought to life and look forward to hearing the responses of all those who watch our video or see the beautiful, detailed illustrations.
“This initiative offers the opportunity to transform one of Edinburgh’s iconic streets for the better, creating an accessible, inviting space, where both the historic environment is protected and biodiversity promoted, and where people can relax and spend time on foot, bike or wheelchair.”
The Transport and Environment Committee first agreed to increase pedestrian space in the city centre in 2013 and in 2014 and 2015 a new layout was trialled on George Street, with stakeholder engagement and a subsequent series of user surveys demonstrating a strong appetite for change.
Since then, a vision and design principles have been developed and the project was widened to include the interconnecting Castle, Frederick and Hanover Streets and the junctions with Charlotte and St Andrew Squares. Further, significant engagement with the public and stakeholders has led to the designs published today.
Key considerations for the project have been putting people first, protecting the area’s heritage, promoting the environment and biodiversity and providing accessible transport links.
Elements of the concept design relating to each include –
Putting people first:
Increased pedestrian space; adaptable, landscaped areas with seating, space for play and opportunities for events; space for outdoor seating for cafes and restaurants; better lighting to animate the streets after dark; level access crossings at street junctions for unimpeded crossing; disabled parking bays on George Street and interconnected streets
Protecting heritage:
Retaining symmetry on George Street; removing unnecessary street clutter; removing parking to reduce the dominance of motor traffic; upgrading pavements with high quality materials
Enhancing the environment:
Suitably scaled soft landscaping including shrubs and hedging, reducing the impact of heavy rain and floods; permeably paved areas to allow drainage
Improved walking, cycling and wheeling connections;
Largely car-free; cycling is prioritised in George Street and directly connects with the Meadows to George Street and CCWEL cycle route schemes at Hanover Street, St Andrew Square and Charlotte Square; improved pedestrian crossings at junctions; loading retained for businesses
The George Street and First New Town Public Realm Project responds to and supports various Council initiatives, such as Edinburgh City Centre Transformation, the City Mobility Plan and the Active Travel Action Plan, as well as projects like Trams to Newhaven and Low Emission Zones.
If approved, it is intended to begin construction work on the scheme in 2023, with an anticipated completion in 2025. It is expected to cost £32m, with £20m from Transport Scotland via Sustrans.
Simon Strain, Interim Head of Infrastructure Delivery for Sustrans Scotland said:“George Street is one of the most vibrant and distinctive shopping streets in Scotland, thanks to the insightful planning of James Craig.
“We are pleased to be supporting the increased space for walking, wheeling and cycling that this project will create, upgrading one of the city’s key travel routes. The new spaces for sitting and relaxing provide both visitors and residents with comfortable spaces where they can rest and enjoy the World Heritage Site.”
Richard Grant, from Spokes, said: “George Street forms a crucial section of the Council’s flagship west-east ‘CCWEL’ cycleroute project, as well as being a major destination in its own right.
“The new George Street plans, taking lessons from European “cycle streets,” provide a wide central “cycling zone” shared with blue badge and (at restricted times) delivery vehicles treated as ‘guests.’ This replaces the previously planned segregated bidirectional cycleroute.
“This will be an innovative scheme for Scotland, which could be widely followed, and as such the Council must get it right. Given the funding from Sustrans, safe and pleasant conditions for cycling and walking are critical.
“Spokes welcomes the scheme subject to strict enforcement of the limited number and timings of permitted vehicles, as well as design details. We particularly welcome the assurance of enforcement, by automated means such as number plate recognition or in other ways, which is essential to success.”
Edinburgh Access Panel
“EAP is aware that George Street currently presents many obstacles for people with disabilities. We are delighted to be involved in a scheme which will remove so many barriers that prevent a significant proportion of the population, both residents and visitors from being able to participate fully in the many facilities that are available in this attractive central city location.”
Living Streets Edinburgh
“Edinburgh – perhaps uniquely for a European city of its size and history – lacks any significant space in the city centre where pedestrians really come first. George Street has been dominated by traffic and parking for too long and is the obvious place to put this right in the heart of the New Town. These proposals offer the prospect of George Street becoming a place where it is finally a pleasure to walk in and linger.”
George Street Association
“There is no doubt that the current pre-occupation of George Street Association members is how to recover when the prolonged coronavirus restrictions are lifted. However, we have a mutual interest with the City Council and others involved in this ambitious project to deliver the high-quality changes needed for the future success of this iconic street.
“This overdue transformation to the appearance and operation of George Street will impact on our members and affected businesses in the area will need support throughout the inevitable disruption involved.
“We appreciate the opportunity for ongoing engagement with the City Council on the final concept design and thereafter.”
Essential Edinburgh
“Essential Edinburgh welcome the proposed concept designs for George Street which are the result of extensive consultation. It is vital the design works for all its users whether they be retail and hospitality businesses, residents, office workers and people undertaking active travel.
“The design takes this into account including issues related to servicing and accessibility and we look forward to continuing to work with the Council and other stakeholders to support delivery of a plan that works for all.”
Edinburgh World Heritage
‘Edinburgh World Heritage is highly supportive of the design for the public realm improvements in George Street as currently proposed. Over time, the proposal has evolved into a simple and elegant design, removing traffic and street clutter, with the potential to enhance the character and authenticity of this significant centrepiece of the First New Town in relation to its existing state.
“New elements have been carefully introduced and will echo the symmetry and materials of the historic streetscape. Based on the current visuals, we believe these changes will improve the way the street is experienced and valued by putting pedestrians first and allowing them to enjoy the rich heritage which surrounds them. We would like to thank the City of Edinburgh Council for taking our views on board at critical stages during the design process.’
Find out more about the George Street and First New Town Public Realm Improvements Project and watch the 3D fly-through, developed by Luma3D, on the Council website.
The four main areas highlighted for improvement are:
Improving processes to report racist incidents
Improving the culture in schools to clearly show zero tolerance of racist conduct
Managing racist incidents sensitively and ensuring ongoing support for anyone reporting racist conduct
Reviewing the curriculum to ensure it does not perpetuate racist or colonialist attitudes
The move comes after the completion of an investigation into claims made following last year’s Black Lives Matter campaign. The claims were made by former and current pupils who complained that a number of high schools were failing to deal with racist incidents properly and that a culture of racism existed.
The main focus of the investigation was on St Augustine’s and Holy Rood RC High Schools but also included Craigmount, Drummond and Firrhill.
In total 73 complaints were received via social media and emails, and 30 complainants agreed to be interviewed.
As part of the detailed and wide-ranging inquiry, evidence was gathered through interviews with the complainants, school staff and by examining school records. The three-month long investigation was overseen by an independent equalities adviser.
Although schools demonstrated many effective examples of responding appropriately to alleged racist incidents, the overall conclusion of the investigation was that more could be done within schools to develop a firm anti-racist perspective.
There was no evidence, however, to support complaints that schools enabled racism.
Interviews were carried out by senior Council officers skilled at working with young people and trained in equalities and anti-racism.
Parents or supporters were invited to be present during interviews and support was available from the independent third sector agency, Edinburgh and Lothians Regional Equality Council. As well as detailing their concerns, complainants were also asked what outcomes they were looking for.
Complainants have now been issued with a personal letter summarising their complaint and detailing the conclusions and next steps relating to their investigation. They have all been offered face to face meetings to fully discuss the findings and the actions the Council proposes to take.
The authority has committed to auditing its current plans to improve equalities in schools, to ensure that all actions identified from the report are included.
These include supporting all schools to: appoint pupil and staff equalities co-ordinators, embed additional guidance for dealing with racist incidents and provide staff training to review the curriculum so it does not perpetuate racist or colonialist attitudes.
In addition, an annual equalities award (Saroj Lal award) will shortly be announced. This has been created in honour of Saroj Lal (1937-2020), Edinburgh’s first Asian primary school teacher and a leading figure in the campaign for race equality and social justice in Scotland.
It will be launched by summer 2021 and is designed to raise awareness of diversity and equality. The award aims to shine a light on the impact of prejudice and the potential to use art for positive change.
Councillor Ian Perry, Convener for Education, Children and Families at the City of Edinburgh Council, said: “Firstly I want to apologise unreservedly to any of our young people who felt their concerns or reports about racism were not taken seriously or that their school has not dealt with any incidents properly.
“I want to thank everyone who has come forward and brought these allegations to light for sharing their personal accounts and recollections and to the staff who took part in the inquiry.
“This will have been very difficult for our young people but hearing their voices has allowed this investigation to take place and has shown clearly what is needed to drive forward positive change in our schools.
“This was a very thorough investigation and as a result we now have a clear and very robust action plan which can only strengthen our commitment to dealing with racism. Ultimately, we all want every young person who attends our schools to feel safe and supported as they go through their education. I hope that the lessons learned from this investigation will mean that many more young people feel that this will improve as a result.”
Councillor Alison Dickie, Vice Convener for Education, Children and Families at the City of Edinburgh Council, said: “I’m so sorry that young people have felt their voices weren’t being heard and have had to resort to being part of this investigation to help bring about change.
“I want to praise them all for showing such strength in coming forward to raise these issues with us. They have all shown great patience and co-operation while their complaints were being investigated. While this will have been a difficult process, it is only by hearing their voices that we can fully understand the experiences that young people have and make improvements.
“Racism is an issue that needs both city and Council-wide action. This is about a change of culture and systems. Although there is positive work taking place across our schools, we fully realise that much more needs to be done. This involves listening to young people who have experienced racism and placing them in the driving seat of our work towards race equality.
“Already, as a direct result of that direct voice, we are working to increase staff training, develop an anti-racist and culturally inclusive curriculum and empower young people with lived experiences across our schools to lead on improving our procedures for the reporting of racist incidents.
Citizens are being asked for their views on how Edinburgh celebrates Christmas and New Year in a new consultation launching today (Wednesday 24 February).
The twelve-week survey, being carried out by independent market research company Progressive on behalf of the Council, is now live on the Consultation Hub.
The survey seeks feedback from the Capital’s residents, communities and businesses on how Edinburgh’s Christmas and Edinburgh’s Hogmanay, should be delivered from 2022 onwards.
In addition to the online consultation residents without internet access can request a paper copy by calling the Council on 0131 200 2000.
Originally planned for Spring 2020 the delivery of the consultation was delayed due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and suspension of all public consultations. In the meantime, officers procured independent agency Progressive to allow the consultation to be delivered as soon as the suspension was lifted.
Councillor Donald Wilson, Culture and Communities Convener for City of Edinburgh Council, said: “We want to hear from the people of Edinburgh both on how our Winter Festivals should be delivered and indeed what should be delivered.
“Their feedback to our consultation will shape the future direction of our celebrations from 2022 onwards, when the current arrangements come to an end. This is a good time to take stock and look at what people think and what people want.
“Our Winter Festivals have grown in size and renown both at home and throughout the world. Their cultural and economic importance is well documented and through this consultation we will establish a balanced knowledge of how Edinburgh citizens regard these celebrations, both positive and negative.
“It is therefore important that as many people as possible make their views heard and I would urge everyone, whatever their views, to spend the small amount of time needed to complete the survey and have their say.
Councillor Amy McNeese-Mechan, Culture and Communities Vice Convener said: “We want Edinburgh’s residents and businesses to be at the heart of shaping the future of the Winter Festivals in the Capital. We are engaging in an open public conversation about the future of these events, with opportunities to respond online or in written form.
“In this consultation, residents will be asked about their experiences of Christmas and Hogmanay celebrations in Edinburgh, as well as what activities they would like to see included in the planning and operation of the festivals in the future.
“We want to ensure that our future Winter Festivals achieve the right balance for those living, working in and visiting our capital city.
The consultation will close on 19 May and the outcomes will be presented to both the Festivals and Events All Party Oversight Group and to the Culture and Communities Committee later this year.
Scotland’s phased and careful approach to easing lockdown restrictions while continuing to suppress Coronavirus (COVID-19) has been outlined by the First Minister.
The updated Strategic Framework sets out the six tools the Scottish Government will use to restore, on a phased basis, greater normality to our everyday lives.
The immediate priority will continue to be the phased return of education, building on the return of some pupils to school yesterday.
On the basis that progress in suppressing the virus and vaccinating key groups remains on track restrictions would be eased in the following order:
the next phase of school returns with the rest of the primary school years, P4 to P7, and more senior phase secondary pupils back in the classroom for part of their learning and the limit on outdoor mixing between households increasing to four people from a maximum of two households
the stay at home restriction to be lifted and any final school returns to take place. Communal worship to restart in limited numbers mindful of the timing of major religious festivals. This phase would also see the re-opening of retail, starting with an extension of the definition of essential retail and the removal of restrictions on click-and collect
return to a levels approach with all of Scotland moving to at least level 3, with some possible adjustments. This could mean that from the last week of April that we would expect to see phased but significant re-opening of the economy, including non-essential retail, hospitality and services like gyms and hairdressers
There is likely to be a gap of at least three weeks between each easing of restrictions to assess the impact of changes, and to check that it is safe to proceed further using the six conditions for safe easing set out by the World Health Organisation.
As the vaccination programme progresses, a return to more variable levels of restrictions, which can vary by location, is likely when it is safe to do so.
Ongoing financial support is set out in the Framework and will continue to be available to businesses as we emerge from lockdown. This includes the ongoing commitment to fund the Strategic Framework Business Fund and to provide Level 4 payments for an additional month once businesses are moved down a level. These proposals are contingent on receipt of additional consequentials from the UK Government.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon told Parliament: “I know how hard current restrictions are after 11 long months of this pandemic, however they are working and we can now see our way out of them.
“We are in a far better position now than at the start of January and these measures are initial steps on a slow, but hopefully steady, route back to much greater normality.
“Our intent remains to suppress the virus to the lowest possible level and keep it there, while we strive to return to a more normal life for as many people as possible.
“At the moment, and for a bit longer, we need to rely very heavily on restrictions to suppress the virus. This is essential when the virus is so transmissible, and when case numbers are still quite high.
“In time though – once the vast majority of the adult population has received at least one dose of the vaccine – we hope that vaccination will become our main tool for suppressing the virus.
“The Strategic Framework is deliberately cautious at this stage but in the coming weeks, if the data allows and positive trends continue, we will seek to accelerate the easing of restrictions.”
CAMRA: First Minister must make sure tier system is fair and extend financial support to save our pubs as lockdown is lifted
A spokesperson for CAMRA said: “Whilst there is now light at the end of the tunnel for pubs and breweries, today’s announcement still leaves lots of uncertainty about what re-opening our pubs could look like.
“The beer and pubs industry will need next month’s announcement on a return to the tier system and the plan for re-opening the economy to treat pubs fairly compared to other industries like non-essential retail.
“CAMRA has concerns that a return to any unfair or unevidenced restrictions like alcohol bans, curfews or only being allowed to serve alcohol with a meal as we move back to the different Covid protection levels would mean we aren’t getting a proper or fair re-opening.
“The First Minister mentioned ongoing tapered financial support. This must include enough help to make sure pubs are viable for as long as they are facing restrictions or having to operate at reduced capacity.
“Next week’s Budget at Westminster is also now more vital than ever. Pubs, breweries and the wider supply chain desperately need ongoing financial support beyond the next few weeks.
“The Chancellor must commit to extending furlough for as long as pubs are running at reduced trade, even if that is longer than in England. CAMRA are also campaigning for a reduction in VAT for on-trade alcohol sales as well as food and cutting duty for beer served in pubs to help them compete with supermarkets.”
STUC broadly welcomes cautious approach set out by First Minister in Framework announcement and that future decisions will be driven by data not dates – but STUC remains concerned about precautions required for safe return of more pupils to schools.
STUC General Secretary Roz Foyer said: “We welcome that the First Minister has taken a cautious approach towards the easing of lockdown restrictions and that, in contrast to the Prime Minister, the government will be driven by data rather than fixed dates. It is entirely correct that Scotland should not move out of national restrictions till all priority groups are immunised.
“We also welcome the call for employers to continue to allow employees to work from home. Unfortunately a minority of employers still seem to be resistant to this and we will name and shame any employer that does not stick to the Government’s guidance.
“Whilst we understand that giving hope is important, we must also manage expectations and tightly control the transition from restrictions to vaccinations as the key way we suppress this virus. If we rush too fast we risk people’s health and the future economic recovery.
“On schools, we echo the concerns of education unions at the Scottish Government rejection of the use of medical grade face masks, already used in other countries, as short-sighted given the need to guard against aerosol transmission.”
“Essential Edinburgh said: “We welcome @ScotGovFM‘s Strategic Framework announced today. It is imperative businesses can plan effectively, with some certainty for re-opening and the statement allows this.
“The proposed date of 26th April for a potential return to Level 3 is still however two months away.”
City council Leaders have welcomed the Scottish Government’s plans for easing restrictions, though have urged the public to continue following guidance.
The gradual easing of restrictions began on Monday when early learning and childcare and schools reopened for primary one to three, as well as for senior pupils carrying out essential practical work. Further easing will be subject to several conditions being met.
Council Leader Adam McVey said: “Today’s announcement by the Scottish Government offers hope for better times to come, where some sense of normality is restored and where we can return to some of the activities we have all been missing so much.
“Right now, though, our number one priority is keeping the public safe. The First Minister has made it clear that we must be cautious. While the overall number of cases are falling and the rapid vaccine rollout continues, increased cases in Edinburgh of recent days highlight that our position is still fragile.
“That’s why it’s still so important that we continue to observe the restrictions in place, led by expert public health data, to limit the impact of this virus, which has by no means gone away.
“We’re working hard to deliver services with as little disruption as possible during this time, and this week welcomed the return of some of our pupils to schools across the city. We’ll continue to adapt and respond to guidance as it changes, and I encourage everyone to do the same. We’ve come this far – let’s work together to follow the path out of lockdown safely and sustainably.
Depute Leader Cammy Day said: “The Scottish Government’s route map outlined today offers guidance on how we could carefully, steadily reduce restrictions.
“It’s essential that we observe this gradual, phased approach if we are to protect people’s health and safety while working towards the city’s successful recovery from the pandemic.
Responding to today’s announcement by the First Minister, a spokesman for Edinburgh Airport said:“We of course understand the priority given to protecting public health and whatever steps are taken now to prepare the economy for a sustained period of recovery should not distract health professionals from the important job to save lives and protect the NHS.
“But today we hoped we would hear some indicative dates to allow us to begin planning for some form of recovery, but we are no further forward and remain in limbo.
“There does not appear to be a plan, we are unsure what data will be used to make vital decisions about our future and the remit and membership of a task force announced two weeks ago is still to be confirmed. Meanwhile further divergence will see travellers, airlines and jobs move to England. It seems the Scottish Government remains indifferent to Scotland’s impending connectivity crisis.
“If we are going to use New Zealand as a blueprint on suppression then we must also follow their act in support for aviation. Aviation facilitates many things, such as tourism which contributes more than £6 billion to the economy. We cannot afford to throw that away because we failed to invest in protecting our hard-earned direct connectivity.”
The Scottish Licensed Trade Association commented:“Pubs and hospitality businesses, while welcoming the Scottish Government’s “cautious” road map out of lockdown for the sector, are bitterly disappointed that today the First Minister said nothing other than that there will be a “reopening of the economy and society” from April 26th.
“While today’s announcement by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon brings hope for the country, a late spring reopening will sadly be too late for many and for those who do survive there remain serious challenges ahead.”
Paul Waterson, SLTA media spokesman, added: “Brighter days lie ahead – there’s no doubt about that. However, pubs, bars and restaurants have been unable to open since before Christmas – under significant Covid constraints – and large swathes of 2020 were lost to lockdown closures or severely limited trading conditions.
“While it is encouraging that our sector can hopefully reopen from the end of April, we are concerned that a return to the previous tiered system will lead many operators to decide that such restrictive reopening conditions are simply not worth the time, effort and money involved.
“Hospitality is not a ‘one size fits all’ sector given the breadth of premises that operate within it – pubs, restaurants, hotels, nightclubs and so on – and depend on events and functions to survive.
“Of course, we welcome today’s news that the Scottish Government is committed to continuing financial support for those firms suffering as a result of the pandemic, and we also welcome the First Minister’s announcement that she is considering support for businesses facing trading restrictions after they are allowed to reopen.
“However, our response to today’s announcement is one of disappointment for the licensed hospitality industry which has been among the hardest hit by trading restrictions throughout the pandemic, an industry that invested an estimated £80 million on becoming Covid compliant.
“For us, it is now a case of waiting to hear what the First Minister puts on the table in her next announcement in three weeks’ time – until then, we will work with her officials to help the Scottish Government make the best decisions for our industry.”
The city council has launched a cosultation seeking views on where improvements for walking, cycling and wheeling made during the COVID pandemic should be kept longer term.
The council’s press release says:
In line with our wider ambitions to create a green, healthy and well-connected future for the Capital, we want to make it as easy as possible for people to get from A to B using sustainable, active modes of transport.
With these ambitions in mind, we’re asking residents if they’d like to see some of the schemes introduced as part of the Spaces for People programme, or elements of them, retained or removed.
In response to the COVID pandemic, we’ve been rolling out changes to help residents to travel by foot, bike or wheelchair while physically distancing, as well as providing alternatives to travel by bus while restrictions are in place. During lockdown we saw a surge in people walking and cycling, and we want to support that longer term, and the benefits this can bring to the environment, to people’s health and to quality of life.
Responses to the Spaces for People: Moving Forward consultation will help inform any proposals to keep measures in place, either on a trial basis or more permanently.
The Council’s Transport and Environment Committee will consider the consultation results in April and the relevant statutory procedures would be followed before any schemes were made more permanent.
Councillor Lesley Macinnes, Transport and Environment Convener, said: We know from our own engagement with the public that people do want to see change happen.
“Our consultation on the City Mobility Plan found the vast majority of respondents supported proposals like introducing protected cycle lanes on arterial routes and creating more space for walking, while over the last year we’ve heard from many, many people who have gained from Spaces for People measures.
“We’re working toward a more sustainable, inclusive and connected future and we want to see if we can deliver longer-term benefits by extending the life of Spaces for People projects, whether through trial schemes or by retaining projects in place more permanently.
“This is in line with Scottish and UK Government aspirations to support and encourage walking and cycling through better infrastructure. We’ve had encouragement from the Scottish Government to consider turning the most useful of these schemes into permanent infrastructure to help further support walking, wheeling and cycling.
“As we look beyond the pandemic, we really want to know what difference retaining, modifying, or removing schemes would make to your lives. Please help us by sharing your views.”
Councillor Karen Doran, Transport and Environment Vice Convener, said: “It’s been a particularly challenging year and we’ve been doing everything we can to help people to make essential journeys or take daily exercise safely, as well as spending time in local high streets when restrictions allowed.
“As we look to make a green recovery from the pandemic, we’re considering whether some of the temporary schemes in place could be kept longer term to help people to continue to walk, cycle and wheel, and we’d like to know what you think.
“Of course, we’re just beginning the process – I want to reassure people that we’ll be carefully reviewing their responses as we consider the best way forward, and that we’ll be following the statutory procedures before anything is made more permanent.”
In January, members of the Transport and Environment Committee approved recommendations to assess Spaces for People schemes by a set of criteria to determine whether it would be appropriate to keep some of them, and to commence a public consultation to seek people’s views.
Amongst the interventions to support safer walking, cycling and wheeling introduced or developed since last May are 39km of pop-up cycle lanes, widened footpaths in 11 key shopping streets and the introduction of safety measures at every Edinburgh school.
We’ve also implemented several schemes based on suggestions via the Commonplace consultation and have made changes to help pedestrians get around the city, including removing street clutter and improving pedestrian crossings.
Many of the Spaces for People projects align with the Council’s broader aims, particularly those of the City Mobility Plan, a ten-year strategy for transforming travel and mobility in the Capital, which was approved by Transport and Environment Committee on Friday (16 February).
The Plan envisions a connected, net zero carbon future, a healthier environment and better air quality, achieved by providing reliable, sustainable transport options, including much improved active travel links.
It also reflects the Scottish Government’s Strategic Transport Projects Review 2, which states that making successful Spaces for People schemes permanent is the next key step in creating a change to the way road space is allocated and supporting active travel.
The press release goes on to publish comments from enthusiastic supporters of the much-criticised initiative:
Hearing from the people using Spaces for People schemes
Teresa Holligan said:“I understand the anxiety around an apparent lack of consultation over the Braid Road closure, but given the urgency required during the pandemic I was pleased to see swift action and I am delighted with the closure.
“I have lived at the ‘top’ end of the Buckstone estate for 32 years and make regular journeys to Morningside and my allotment at Midmar. At the start of the pandemic I stopped using buses and relied on my car, but with the new cycle lanes and the closure of a section of Braid Road I now feel able, for the first time ever, to make these almost daily journeys safely by bike, and am doing so. This is obviously healthier for me, the people around me and our environment.
“I hope that the Council will find a way to make safe cycling routes from Fairmilehead and Buckstone into the city a permanent feature of our transport network.”
Dave McCraw said: “As a family with young children attending the Lanark Road nursery who also commute on the A70 we seem to be forever on this stretch of road.
“As it exists today it is extremely hazardous to cross on foot, such that we do not use the bus or at any time allow grandparents to handle the nursery run (unless they were driving door to door). Under the proposed scheme, we would happily allow grandparents to take our children to nursery by bus.
“We often cycle, especially in the summer months when it is dry. Unfortunately the lack of safe street lighting on the Water of Leith path combined with the horrific mud finds us doing a two mile drive to nursery more often than we’d like.
“We have considered taking our children to a different nursery because the A70 both makes it extremely difficult to access nursery except by car and detracts from the setting of the nursery in general. With the benefit of a 30mph two lane road with excellent active travel provision, the nursery will find itself in even greater demand.
“All of this is to say: the changes proposed to the Lanark Road will allow us to keep cycling through the winter instead of driving.”
Colin Fischbacher said:“I usually cycle both for travel and work and I know from speaking to colleagues that the main reason people with bikes are reluctant to cycle more in Edinburgh is concern about the safety of cycling in traffic.
“That’s particularly true on a road like Lanark Road where as you cycle, cars may be passing close to you at 40mph. I think that better provision of cycle lanes is a vital measure to encourage more cycling. A painted line is nice, but a physical barrier is even better.”
Mike Livesley said:“The recently installed cycle lane and segregation on Duddingston Road has vastly improved the quality of life for my family travelling to and from school before the recent lockdown, and will continue to do so once the restrictions are lifted.
“We are a family with no car and currently travel from Rosefield Place in Portobello to Duddingston Primary where my eldest son (6 years old, p2) is a student. As we have to travel quite far, cycling has always been a popular option as I can also take my youngest son (2) on the back of my bicycle, however until the installation of the cycle lane,
“Duddingston Road was always far too dangerous to entertain cycling with my son and was scary enough at the best of times on my own, with always a block of parked cars on both sides of the road by St John’s School and Nursery, with opening car doors an additional hazard.
“However this was transformed with the new cycle lane and has allowed my son and I to cycle together and to greatly improve his confidence and ability to cycle safely on the roads.”
Barbara Kerr said: “I live just off the Links and regularly cycle in the area. Before Links Gardens was closed to provide Spaces for People I avoided it a lot. 2It was really busy with cars, and drivers tended to ignore me at the narrow bits as I was on a bike and they thought they could squeeze through even though I had right of way.
“Now it is a joy to cycle along that way. It is such a short section, but provides a really important link to the shared use paths on the Links and towards the Water of Leith Cycle way. Before I would be on the road trying to keep up with traffic on East Hermitage place and Duke street, now I use Links Gardens and the shared use path instead.”
Colin McLean, Head Teacher at James Gillespie’s Primary School, said:“The Greenbank to Meadows Quiet Route allows students and staff to cycle, walk and wheel more safely to James Gillespie’s Primary School and Nursery.
“Our school community has worked hard over a number of years to encourage cycling, walking and wheeling which are known to improve life-long health and wellbeing and improve air pollution in our neighbourhood.
“Whilst we have one of the highest number of students travelling in this way, we know that many families still consider the road network too dangerous for young children to cycle. The new road safety measures are a game changer to reassure families that it is safe.
“The Quiet Route will allow us to run our bike- and walking-buses in greater safety and will reduce the risk of accidents involving children and vehicles. We hope that these can now run daily rather than weekly or monthly.
“We hope that the Quiet Route approach can be expanded into a Low Traffic Neighbourhood approach over time and this will allow students and staff from all parts of the city to reach our school safely and using active travel.”
Strangely there are NO COMMENTS AT ALL from those citizens from all over the capital who are critical of the Spaces for People scheme. Funny, that …
A scheme being introduced to make the journey to school safer may have the opposite effect, local residents fear.
The city council has pushed ahead with plans to close Wester Drylaw Avenue to through traffic and ‘Roads Closed’ signs were introduced at the weekend.
The placing of those signs has caused some confusion, however, and there are fears that the uncertainty may endanger Ferryhill schoolchildren when the school returns today. The situation has not been helped by the temporary signs being knocked over.
Inverleith Lib Dem Councillor Hal Osler said yesterday: “The confusing message on Wester Drylaw Avenue is exactly what locals were concerned about. The barrier has already been breached & cars are driving over the pavement. Instead of ensuring safe passage for vulnerable users, this is doing the opposite.
“I’ve Been up to Wester Drylaw Avenue to have a look at the “barriers” as it had been reported to me that met had already been “moved”. Whilst standing there two cars drove through one slightly over the pavement I was standing on.
“This is really poor and is exactly what we were all concerned about. I have reported this to officers as it’s supposed to be “monitored” and it deeply concerns me with pupils returning on Monday.
“If this continues please email me (Hal.osler@edinburgh.gov.uk) or the other ward councillors & we will pass all comments on to the Spaces for People team.”
Drylaw Telford Community Council is appealing to motorists to be extra vigilant in the area around the school.
The Spaces for People plan for Wester Drylaw Avenue was approved on 19 February. THe scheme was to be discussed at the community council’s regular meeting last month but the Zoom meeting had to be postponed.
The local body responsible for co-ordinating the safety and well-being of adults in Edinburgh is backing the fourth national Adult Protection Day today (20th February 2021).
Edinburgh’s Adult Protection Committee is hoping to raise awareness of how some adults are harmed or abused. It is encouraging people to act on their gut feeling and say something when they see anything that points to an abusive situation to someone they know or come across.
Harm and abuse can take many forms; physical, psychological, financial, sexual harm, neglect and self-harm but there are usually signs and clues that indicate something out of the ordinary might be happening.
Through the Edinburgh Adult Protection Committee, City of Edinburgh Council, NHS Lothian, Police Scotland and local voluntary sector organisations, are committed to working together to tackle abuse of vulnerable adults.
Jackie Irvine, Chief Social Work Officer at City of Edinburgh Council said: “Everyone has the right to feel safe. However, for some people, a disability, health condition or impairment can prevent them from being able to keep themselves from harm.
“It’s not always easy to tell if an adult is in trouble, but there are signs and situations to be aware of. For example a person may have unexplained cuts and bruises or refuse to talk about their injuries.
“They may be failing to look after themselves or their property, or are confused where their money has gone, or giving money to people they know for reasons that might concern you. They may constantly be having people – friends or strangers – ‘hanging out’ at their house.”
Anne Neilson, Chair of the Adult Protection Committee added: “We all have a responsibility to look out for people in our communities. If you’re concerned an adult is at risk of harm, or something feels wrong, it’s right to have it checked out.
“Of course we understand that sometimes members of the public may not want to get involved, intrude on privacy or subject another person to unfair accusations. But the process can be simple – you can send an email or anonymous phone call and it will be checked out and any support needed will be given. It may be a false alarm, but there’s no harm in being sure.”
Find out about the types of harm we can help with and if you are worried about an adult at risk of harm you can contact the social work service Social Care Direct on 0131 200 2324
