Tag: disruption

Storm Darragh: Travel Advice

Travel and safety advice has been issued following a Met Office Amber weather warning for high winds associated with Storm Darragh today (Saturday, 7th December 2024) between 1am and 9pm.

All road users should consider if they really need to travel during the adverse weather or if travel can be delayed until conditions improve.

The Scottish areas affected by the Amber warning are:

  • Dumfries and Galloway
  • South Ayrshire

Please visit the Met Office website for more detailed information about the weather warning. Yellow warnings for wind and rain are also in place for parts of Scotland.

Please also be aware of weather warnings in place for other parts of the UK, including a Red weather warning for high winds across parts of Wales and avoid unnecessary travel to areas affected.

Motorists are advised there is a high risk of disruption in the areas affected by the warning and there may be significant delays. Conditions may be hazardous due to the high winds and extra caution should be exercised.

Travellers with bookings on ferries should check with operators for updates on crossings.

https://twitter.com/i/status/1865037333533180020

Chief Superintendent Hilary Sloan, head of Road Policing, said: “Drivers of vehicles vulnerable to being blown over should plan their route to avoid exposed areas, or consider delaying your journey until conditions improve.

“Plan ahead and keep updated by checking the Met Office and Traffic Scotland websites and social media.”

The Ready Scotland website has useful information about adverse weather, including how to secure your home from the danger of storms.

Advice for road users:

  • If you are travelling on the roads, prepare yourself and your vehicle for the conditions
  • Ensure your mobile phone is charged and plan your journey, including an alternative route
  • Have sufficient fuel, warm clothing, food and water in case you’re delayed
  • Do not ignore road closure signs – they are for your safety
  • Do not put yourself in danger trying to clear roads of debris
  • Congestion caused by vehicles may restrict emergency services and recovery vehicles from providing essential assistance
  • Listen to media broadcasts, including radio, for updates Traffic Scotland radio player | Traffic Scotland or visit Traffic Scotland | Trunk road traffic updates & route planner
  • Follow your local authority for the latest updates in your area via Facebook, X or their website
  • Other information can be found on the Met Office, Ready Scot. For public transport information visit www.travelinescotland.
  • Follow @policescotland and @trafficscotland on X for up-to-date travel information.

Wind

  • HGV and bus drivers should drive with extreme caution and be aware you may be asked to park at a suitable position by the police.
  • Drivers of vehicles vulnerable to being blown over should plan their route to avoid exposed areas or consider cancelling your journey until conditions improve.
  • Cyclists, motorcyclists and pedestrians should consider the risk of being blown over or into the path of other road users.

SEPA: Flooding expected as Storm Darragh arrives

Regional Flood Alerts are in place as Storm Darragh is expected to bring heavy rain and strong winds to much of Scotland on Friday and Saturday.

Localised flooding from surface water and high river levels is possible across parts of southern, central and north-eastern Scotland. This could lead to impacts such as disruption to travel and flooding of low-lying land, roads and isolated properties.

The Met Office also has warnings in place for potentially damaging winds associated with Storm Darragh. High winds may cause dangerous conditions in coastal areas due to wave overtopping and sea spray. 

David Morgan, Flood Duty Manager for the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), said: “The arrival of Storm Darragh is expected to cause disruption across Scotland today and tomorrow. There’s a risk of surface water and river flooding in central, southern and north-eastern areas due to persistent, and at times heavy, rainfall.

“People living, working and travelling in affected areas are advised to consider any steps they need to take now to be prepared and stay safe. Take care when travelling and plan your journey in advance as impacts may include roads being flooded and disruption to the rail network.

“We have issued Flood Alerts and continue to work with the Met Office to monitor the situation 24/7. Regional Alerts and local Flood Warnings will be reviewed throughout the weekend and updated as necessary.

“We advise people to sign up to Floodline to receive free updates for where they live, or travel through, directly to their phone. People can also check our flood updates for all the latest information and view the three-day Scottish Flood Forecast to see what conditions are expected further ahead.”

Prepare and be aware

  • Check the Scottish Flood Forecast: Combining the Met Office’s cutting-edge weather forecasts with SEPA’s data and expertise, the Scottish Flood Forecast provides a clear, three-day outlook that shows when and where flooding is expected, whether from rivers, surface water, or the sea in Scotland. It can also reassure you if flooding is not expected.
  • Sign Up to Floodline for text, phone call, or email messages for the area where you live or work, allowing you to take action and prepare when flooding is expected.
  • Follow SEPA on social media: SEPA provide information on predicted flooding in advance through the dedicated @SEPAFlood account on X and its Facebook page.

Visit SEPA’s flooding pages today to access these tools and find out more about how to prepare for and be aware of potential flooding.

Stay safe

  • Don’t walk through flood water – 15cm of fast flowing water could be enough to knock you off your feet and hazards can be hidden under the water.
  • Drive with care, and do not travel through deep fast flowing water. It only takes 30cm of fast flowing water to move an average family sized car.
  • Consider deploying flooding protection products if required.

Stay informed

What’s the difference between a flood alert and a flood warning?

Regional Flood Alerts are early advice that flooding is possible across a wider geographical area. The purpose of the Alerts is to make people aware of the risk of flooding and be prepared. We normally issue them 12 to 24 hours in advance of the possibility of flooding.

Flood Warnings are more locally specific and are issued for areas where we have gauges to measure the exact water height. They are issued at shorter notice when we are more certain that a specific area will be affected.

Motorists are being urged to take extra safety precautions before heading out on the road in heavy rainfall, strong winds, and snowfall.

Motoring experts at Quotezone.co.uk are urging drivers to ensure their cars are roadworthy in all weather conditions and have researched tips for protecting vehicles during storm season.

With storm warnings announced across the country, Brits are being urged to avoid getting behind the wheel, but for those who need to head out on necessary journeys, it’s crucial to take extra precautions to stay safe on the roads.

A survey revealed a third of drivers admit to not slowing down in wet weather and nearly one in three have driven over the speed limit despite these dangerous conditions.

According to The Highway Code, in wet weather the stopping distances are at least double those required on dry roads because water reduces the grip the tyres have on the road.

This means the distance between cars, which the Highway Code recommends as two seconds in dry conditions, should also be doubled, or even tripled in wet conditions.

This should allow drivers sufficient time to react and come to a full stop if needed without hitting the car in front of them.

If a road is flooded, drivers should turn around and find an alternative route as driving through flood water can lead to loss of control and serious damage to vehicles – which car insurance is unlikely to cover.

Motorists should also be mindful of strong winds and keep a strong grip on the steering wheel at all times to prevent being swayed off course, especially when driving past gaps in trees or buildings where they’re more likely to be exposed to side winds.

It’s also important to ensure vehicles are roadworthy and are able to handle heavy rain and strong winds.

Essential checks include ensuring the tyres have adequate tread depth and are properly inflated, windscreen wipers are fully clearing the screen, brake pads and batteries are fully operational and the correct lights are on and working properly.

It’s illegal not to turn your lights on in bad weather when visibility is poor and drivers could face a 12-month ban and £1000 fine. It’s also important to know which light should be used when the weather starts to deteriorate.

Know Your Lights in bad weather:

Headlights – when visibility is reduced

Daytime running lights – activate rear set of lights in poor visibility

Dipped headlights – in dull daytime weather or heavy rain

Fog lights – in foggy conditions so drivers can spot you at a distance

Automatic lights – if these come as standard in your vehicle, double check they are activated in bad weather, as they may not come on automatically in certain conditions such as fog

Greg Wilson, car insurance expert and CEO of Quotezone.co.uk said: “With heavy rainfall and strong winds expected across the country, we’re urging drivers to take a proactive approach to safety.

“Before getting behind the wheel it’s crucial to carry out a few checks to ensure your vehicle is in top condition. Checking tyre pressure, tread depth, lights, and wipers can make a significant difference in how your car handles adverse weather.

“Many motorists underestimate the impact of weather on driving conditions and failing to adapt your driving style to the conditions can have serious consequences.

“It’s important to reduce speed, maintain a safe distance from other vehicles and be vigilant for potential hazards like flooding and debris.

“Drivers should also check what type of insurance they have – while most comprehensive car insurance policies cover storm damage, motorists who have taken out third-party only or third-party, fire and theft insurance won’t normally be covered.

“Also, drivers who actively drive through flood water are likely to invalidate their insurance and lose protection for any damage – given it was an avoidable situation, and the driver has a duty to safeguard the vehicle.”

Quotezone’s tips for driving in stormy weather:

  1. Check your car is roadworthy

Before setting off in stormy conditions, it’s essential to ensure your vehicle is fully prepared for the journey. The essential checks include ensuring the tyre tread depth meets the legal requirements and that the tyres are properly inflated to provide maximum traction on wet roads. It’s also important to make sure that all lights and wipers are functioning correctly, as visibility can be drastically reduced in heavy rain.

  1. Reduce speed

Drivers need to reduce speed to improve vehicle control and allow themselves time to react in unexpected situations such as sudden stops or fallen trees on the road. This is because the stopping distances double on wet roads due to the reduced grip that tyres have on the water.

  1. Increase distances

It’s important to leave a larger gap between your vehicle and the one in front to give yourself ample time to react in case the car ahead stops suddenly.  Aim for at least a four-second gap in wet conditions, and consider increasing it further during heavy rain or when visibility is limited.

  1. Don’t drive through a flood

Flooded roads pose significant risks, including the possibility of losing control, stalling or damaging the engine. Even shallow water can conceal hazards like deep potholes or debris.  Also, most car insurance policies won’t cover you for damage if you drive through flooded water.

  1. Keep a strong grip on the steering wheel

Strong winds can make it difficult to maintain control of your vehicle, especially when driving through open areas where you’re more exposed to side winds. A firm grip on the steering wheel helps you react quickly to unexpected gusts of wind.

  1. Beware of aquaplaning

Aquaplaning occurs when water builds up between the tyres and the road, causing the vehicle to lose traction and making it difficult to steer and brake. If you feel the steering becomes lighter or the car begins to slide, ease off the accelerator, don’t brake and allow your car to slow down naturally.

  1. Use the right light

In heavy rain or poor visibility, it’s important to double check your lights are on, dipped headlights allow other drivers to see you more easily. They’ll be seen from a much greater distance than sidelights and they won’t dazzle other drivers or pedestrians.

Quotezone helps millions of drivers right across the UK find essential savings and better insurance across a whole range of products such as car, van and motorbike insurance. 

Roadworks in Old Town to last NINE months

The city council is improving the roads, pavements and drainage at Lawnmarket – between Castlehill and George IV Bridge – and Upper Bow. Work is due to start on 23 September 2024 and end in July 2025.

The improvement work includes the reconstruction of the existing natural stone setts on the streets, and will improve walking and road conditions, whilst enhancing road safety.

This will take place in four phases, which will be completed consecutively. Work will take place Monday to Saturday typically between the hours of 7.30am and 5pm.

Phase 1: 23 September – December 2024
Upper Bow – full length. Upper Bow will be closed. The Lawnmarket will continue to operate eastbound only.

Phase 2: December 2024 – February 2025
Lawnmarket – roundabout area. Road closed at the roundabout area with no through route for vehicles. Access may still be available from George IV Bridge. Deliveries to Castlehill will be via Ramsay Lane.

Phase 3: March – April 2025
Road closure of the eastern half with no through route for vehicles. Local access to the western half and Castlehill can be obtained via Johnston Terrace.

Phase 4: May – July 2025
Road closure of the western half with no through route for vehicles. Local access via Johnston Terrace – some access may be available from George IV Bridge.

Pedestrian access to the area will be maintained at all times, restrictions will be placed on vehicle access. Eastbound traffic will be maintained during phase 1, but Lawnmarket will be closed to through traffic from December 2024.

Access will be maintained at all times for emergency services vehicles.

Temporary parking restrictions will be introduced to make sure the work is done safely, with on-street signage providing details of specific restrictions. 

Full details on bus access, diversion routes, loading and servicing are available on our website.

Transport and Environment Convener, Councillor Stephen Jenkinson said: “Maintaining and enhancing our streets is a key priority and I’m proud that we’re taking these steps to make improvements in the Lawnmarket area.

“The Old Town is world famous for its setts and cobblestones and we need to preserve these for the future. I appreciate these works may cause some disruption for our residents, businesses and visitors so I’d like to thank them for their patience.”

Throughout the works the council says it will monitor progress and keep residents and businesses updated.

‘Give us a break’: Edinburgh Tram workers balloted on strike action

Health concerns for workers rise due to tram late running times

Unite has confirmed today that its Edinburgh Trams membership are being balloted on strike action over late running times to the nation’s largest airport which is preventing workers from taking comfort breaks.

The strike ballot opens on 29 July and closes on 12 August. 

In a consultative ballot previously conducted by Unite, over 160 tram workers indicated by 99 per cent that they are prepared to take industrial action on an 84 per cent turnout.

Unite claims there is a shortfall of between 5 – 6 minutes in the running time from Edinburgh Airport to Newhaven. Each round trip takes on average 2 hours to complete. 

The maximum driving time before a scheduled break is 5 hours, and many tram workers go this length of time without hydration or toilet breaks. This is due to running late and having to make up the time. 

The unacceptable situation has contributed to health issues developing among Unite’s membership including stress and infections. 

The trade union represents drivers, ticket service assistants, controllers and vehicle maintenance workers. 

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said:  “Unite’s Edinburgh tram workers are facing an unacceptable health and safety situation due to the pressures of having to get the travelling public to Edinburgh airport. We will back our tram membership all the way in the fight for better jobs, pay and conditions.”

A new tram timetable has added 4 minutes to each run, and delays to a new signalling system have contributed to increased delays.

It has further been reported to Unite that some trams regularly run up to 30 minutes late with control having to turn trams around mid-route. This situation completely removes the ability for tram workers to go to the toilet.

 Lyn Turner, Unite industrial officer, added: “Edinburgh’s tram workers are emphatically saying give us our breaks.

“The sustained pressure being put on our members to complete the airport to Newhaven round trip is resulting in an alarming rise in incidents at work including stress and infections.

“The situation has arisen due to delays in the new signalling system and changes in the new timetable which were not properly tested before going into passenger service. Action needs to happen quickly or strike action will be inevitable.” 

City centre grinds to a halt as Scotland marks Royal Coronation

National Service of Thanksgiving and Dedication

Scotland will mark the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III and Her Majesty Queen Camilla with a series of events in Edinburgh today.

The King, accompanied by The Queen, will be presented with the Honours of Scotland – Scotland’s crown jewels – at a National Service of Thanksgiving and Dedication at St Giles’ Cathedral.

The service will be preceded by a ‘People’s Procession’ of 100 people representing different aspects of Scottish life, which will travel from Edinburgh Castle to St Giles’ Cathedral, and the Royal Procession, which will travel to the Cathedral from the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

Public opportunities will be available along the Royal Mile to view the procession, and the accompanying military bands and escorts.

The St Giles’ Service will be followed by a 21-Gun Salute fired from Edinburgh Castle and a flypast down the Royal Mile by the RAF Red Arrows.



The First Minister, Humza Yousaf, who is a republican, said: “Scotland will mark the visit of The King and Queen this week with a series of events to celebrate the Coronation, and I’m looking forward to representing the people of Scotland at today’s historic service at St Giles’ Cathedral.

“Those who wish to be involved will be able to follow TV or radio coverage of the proceedings, or view events in person along the Royal Mile. Space will be limited and a number of roads in the area will be closed, so I strongly encourage anyone attending to arrive early, use public transport if possible, and come prepared for whatever the weather may hold.”

Lord Lieutenant Robert Aldridge said: “The eyes of the world will be upon us once again as we mark the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III and Her Majesty Queen Camilla. I’m quite sure it will be another proud day for the Capital.

“Given the scale and significance of these ceremonial events, we have to be prepared for disruption across the city, but particularly in the Old Town. We’re working with our partners to manage this as best we can and to keep residents, businesses and visitors updated on the events.

“For those who wish to enjoy the Royal and People’s Processions, I urge you to please plan ahead and keep an eye on our website and social media channels for the latest advice and guidance.”

For the most up-to-date information, visit:

City Council’s dedicated webpages, 

www.gov.scot and 

www.royal.uk.

The @edintravel traffic information team will be monitoring the city’s roads, sharing the latest information on disruption and diversions on Twitter.

See also Lothian Buses and Edinburgh Trams.

UK Government introduces laws to mitigate the disruption of strikes

New laws will allow government to set minimum levels of service which must be met during strikes ‘to ensure the safety of the public and their access to public services’

  • New laws will allow government to set minimum levels of service which must be met during strikes to ensure the safety of the public and their access to public services
  • the Strikes (Minimum Service Levels) Bill will ensure crucial public services such as rail, ambulances, and fire services maintain a minimum service during industrial action, reducing risk to life and ensuring the public can still get to work
  • Business Secretary Grant Shapps said in Parliament today: “We do not want to have to use this legislation unless we have to, but we must ensure the safety of the British public.”

Millions of ‘hard-working’ people across the UK will be protected from disruptive strikes thanks to new laws introduced yesterday, which will allow employers in critical public sectors to maintain minimum levels of service during strikes.

The government is introducing this legislation to ensure that striking workers don’t put the public’s lives at risk and prevent people getting to work, accessing healthcare, and safely going about their daily lives.

The government will first consult on minimum service levels for fire, ambulance, and rail services, recognising the severe disruption that the public faces when these services are impacted by strikes, especially the immediate risk to public safety when blue light services are disrupted.

The government hopes to not have to use these powers for other sectors included in the Bill, such as education, other transport services, border security, other health services and nuclear decommissioning.

The government expects parties in these sectors to reach a sensible and voluntary agreement between each other on delivering a reasonable level of service when there is strike action. This will, however, be kept under review and the Bill gives the government the power to step in and set minimum service levels should that become necessary.

Business Secretary Grant Shapps said: “The first job of any government is to keep the public safe. Because whilst we absolutely believe in the ability to strike, we are duty-bound to protect the lives and livelihoods of the British people.

“I am introducing a bill that will give government the power to ensure that vital public services will have to maintain a basic function, by delivering minimum safety levels ensuring that lives and livelihoods are not lost.

“We do not want to have to use this legislation unless we have to, but we must ensure the safety of the British public.”

The sectors the legislation includes are:

  • health services
  • education services
  • fire and rescue services
  • transport services
  • decommissioning of nuclear installations and management of radioactive waste and spent fuel
  • border security

This principle is already recognised in many countries across the world, such as Italy and Spain, where systems for applying minimum levels during strikes are in place for services the public depend on.

As is the case currently a union will lose its legal protection from damages if it does not comply with the obligations set for them within the legislation.

Yesterday’s reforms come as government ministers are meeting trade unions to discuss fair and affordable public sector pay settlements for 2023 to 2024. 

TUC to hold national ‘protect the right to strike’ day on February 1

Union body says it will fight new anti-strike legislation “every step of the way”

  • The TUC will hold a national ‘protect the right to strike’ day on Wednesday 1 February. 
  • The announcement comes following a meeting of trade union leaders yesterday. 
  • Events will take place in different parts of the country against the Conservative’s new anti-strike legislation.  
  • Members of the public will be invited to show their support for workers taking action to defend their pay and conditions.
  • More information will be provided in the coming weeks about planned activities. 

The TUC has vowed to fight the new strike curbs “every step of the way” – including through parliament and the courts. The union body says the government’s new anti-strike plans are unworkable and almost certainly in breach of international law. 

TUC General Secretary Paul Nowak said: “The right to strike is a fundamental British liberty – but the government is attacking it in broad daylight.  

“These draconian new curbs will tilt the balance of power even more in favour of bad bosses and make it harder for people to win better pay and conditions. 

“Nobody should lose their job if they take lawful action to win a better deal. But ministers have gone from clapping our key workers to threatening them with the sack. 

“Unions will fights these plans every step of the way – including through parliament and through the courts. 

“On February the 1st will we hold events across the country against this spiteful new bill – which is unworkable and almost certainly illegal. 

“We will call on the general public to show support for workers taking action to defend their pay and conditions, to defend our public services and to protect the fundamental right to strike.” 

On the need for the government to follow the example of the private sector, Paul Nowak added: “The government should be following the example of many employers in the private sector who have sat down with unions and agreed fair pay deals. 

“But instead ministers are drawing up plans that will succeed only in escalating disputes and driving workers away from wanting to work in our public services.” 

TUC polling published in last year revealed that 1 in 3 public servants were taking active steps to leave their professions. 

Analysis published by the union body shows: 

  • Nurses have lost £42,000 in real earnings since 2008 – the equivalent of £3,000 a year 
  • Midwives have lost £56,000 in real earnings since 2008 – the equivalent of £4,000 a year 
  • Paramedics have lost £56,000 in real earnings since 2008 – the equivalent of £4,000 a year 

And if the government does not improve its pay offer for public servants, public sector pay will fall, on average, by over £100 a month in real terms in 2023. 

Scotland battered by severe weather

Flooding continues to affect parts of Scotland, particularly in the North East, as heavy rain caused disruption across the country following an amber warning from the Met Office.

Parts of Aberdeenshire and Angus were given severe flood warnings by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) – the highest level of risk indicating danger to life. SEPA and local resilience partners are working with responders on the ground to deploy flood defences and help focus support to those communities who will need it most. Local rest centres have been set up to support people in affected areas.

The amber warning for rain covered Grampian, Tayside, Central and Fife and stayed in place until 9pm. A yellow warning for rain was inplace for a large part of eastern Scotland, inclusing Edinburgh, with disruption likely to continue into the weekend.

Across Scotland heavy rain is causing disruption to the transport network. Surface water and reduced visibility is leading to difficult driving conditions, a number of rail lines are currently closed and some ferry services are cancelled or delayed.

Advice remains to check with your operator to see if your service is affected. Traffic Scotland provides regular updates on the trunk road network and Police Scotland continue to warn of a high risk of disruption.

Justice Secretary and lead Minister for resilience Keith Brown chaired a meeting of the Scottish Government’s resilience committee last night (Friday 18 November).

Mr Brown said: “The high rainfall currently being experienced in many areas is causing significant issues in some parts of the country, and is now likely to cause potentially damaging and dangerous risk of flooding in some areas.

“Flooding could happen quickly, even in areas not usually prone to flooding. Local resilience partners are working with emergency services to ensure those communities most at risk are kept safe, and urgently get the support they need.

“Please take extra care if you are out and about and do not attempt to walk or drive through flood water. The conditions have already caused disruption to the transport network, with further disruption expected – so it’s important people plan their journeys before they set off – particularly if they are looking to use the trunk roads or travel by rail.

“The Scottish Government’s resilience arrangements have been activated to ensure preparations and appropriate measures are in place, and we will continue to monitor the situation over the course of the weekend.

“We are in close contact with resilience partners, local authorities and the emergency services to ensure people in the affected areas receive the latest information, advice and support where needed.”

Vincent Fitzsimons, Flood Duty Manager for the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), said: “Heavy and persistent rain overnight has led to significant increases in river levels across the east of Scotland.

“We have seen almost a month’s worth of rain in some parts already this week and we are expecting around the same again over the course of Friday and Saturday in parts of Northeast Scotland.

“The highest risk is to riverside communities in parts of Aberdeenshire and Angus, with Severe Flood Warnings already issued. The worst impacts will occur between early Friday afternoon and early Saturday morning. We are working 24/7 with the Met Office and with information from SEPA’s gauge network to review the flood predictions for these communities and others. This will continue until the risk is over.

“SEPA is working with emergency response partners in the areas most at risk to help them prepare and to focus support to those communities who need it most. People living and working in affected areas are advised to plan their essential journeys and consider the steps they need to take now to be prepared and to stay safe. They can also keep updated on floodline.sepa.org.uk.”

Responding to reports of extreme flooding and transport disruption across Edinburgh and Scotland yesterday (18th November 2022), Foysol Choudhury MSP said: “The rainfall we are experiencing today is causing major disruption-to trains, to roads, to pedestrians.

“We cannot, of course, control the weather. However, we unfortunately can expect more and more extreme weather patterns such as this in the future due to the devastating impact of climate change.

“The Scottish and UK Government must have plans in place to deal with this weather, in order to protect our countryside and town and city infrastructure.

“It was only last week that I held a meeting with Scottish Water and local elected representatives to discuss how impactful rain and flooding can be on constituents, and to urge them to provide an easily accessible helpline for constituents affected by flooding.

“Unfortunately, we have seen today just why this helpline is so necessary.

“As a result of my meeting with Scottish Water, I also lodged two parliamentary questions to ask the Scottish Government about whether it would allocate more funding to Scottish Water to prevent and tackle flooding and heavy rainfall.

“I understand the impact that today’s weather will have on my constituents and I want you all to know that I understand the difficulties you will be facing this weekend and I am here to help.

“I’ve already urged The City of Edinburgh Council to help unblock drains which are causing extreme flooding at the junction between Ferry Road and West Granton Access in Edinburgh (pictured top).

“If you have any issues with flooding over the weekend, I’d urge you to contact your local council to get urgent help.

“Going into the future, I will be continuing to take action on this issue – today has only strengthened my resolve that action is needed, now.”

The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) issues flood alerts and warnings for Scotland. View the latest updates on their website.

Updates on ScotRail services and road conditions are available online.

Advice on preparing for severe weather can be found on the Ready Scotland website.

London Road clock makes welcome return

The historic London Road clock has returned home after 15 years in storage and following its full restoration, as part of the Trams to Newhaven project.

The clock, which began life on Waverley Bridge in 1857 before being moved to the West End in 1896, was eventually placed at the roundabout on London Road in 1955. It was removed in 2007 during the original tram project and is now being replaced as Trams to Newhaven nears completion.

Specialist clockmakers Smith of Derby have carefully restored the clock, which has involved dismantling it, priming and repainting all parts, hand painting ornate features in gold and repairing the Coat of Arms of Edinburgh, including casting a new deer from aluminium.

The timepiece was returned to Elm Row on Tuesday (16 August) as part of improvements to the public space at Elm Row.

Councillor Scott Arthur, Transport and Environment Convener, said: “I’m sure the return of the London Road clock will be welcome news to many, and thanks to its full restoration it will add a striking finishing touch to the area’s transformation.

“It has a rich history, and I’m sure the clock has witnessed many amazing scenes in Edinburgh.”

John Lawson, City Archaeologist, said: “It has been fascinating to work with Smith of Derby in restoring this iconic clock back to its original condition and with a new striking paint scheme reflecting what we believe to be close to its original Victorian look.

The process has proved more complex than first thought. What was thought to be a simple iron casting in four parts has been revealed by Smith’s conservation work to be a more intricate design, with individual detailed castings added separately to the main column. Along with the Elm Row pigeons, we hope the historic London Road Clock will be enjoyed by all and add to the area’s history.”

Trams to Newhaven remains on schedule for completion by spring 2023 and within the £207.3m budget, with all major construction anticipated to be complete by the end of 2022 ahead of a testing and commissioning period.

The main construction works between Montgomery Street/Annandale Street and Pilrig Street were completed last month (July). Main construction works are also complete on several other sections, including Ocean Terminal to Rennie’s Isle and between Tower Street and Constitution Place and Tower Street and Baltic Street.

Amongst the progress made to date, 93% of track slab has been laid (over 4km), all the necessary utility diversions have been carried out and main construction work is complete on four new tram stops at Constitution Street, McDonald Road, Ocean Terminal and Foot of the Walk, with works progressing well on the Balfour Street and Port of Leith stops.

Several other monuments and public artwork pieces have been refurbished and replaced as part of the project, including the Robert Burns statute at Bernard Street, which was restored and unveiled earlier this year.

In addition, the eight bronze pigeons will be returned to Elm Row this autumn, while work is ongoing to identify an appropriate location for Pilrig Cable Wheels discovered on Leith Walk.

Find out more about Trams to Newhaven online.

Scottish ministers discuss rail strike contingency plans

UK Government urged to resolve pay dispute

A meeting of the Scottish Government Resilience Room (SGoRR) has been told of the impact of UK-wide rail strikes on Scotland.

Deputy First Minister John Swinney was joined by Ministers including Transport Secretary Michael Matheson and Transport Minister Jenny Gilruth to hear of the latest situation.

The Transport Minister yesterday wrote to the UK Government calling for a swift resolution to the dispute.

Tuesday marked the first of three days of strike action this week, with more planned for Thursday and Saturday with the possibility of further action over the summer. Due to shift patterns the entire week is being disrupted, rather than just the three selected dates.

SGoRR has been up and running since this morning and will be in operation until Sunday evening to monitor impacts and oversee and co-ordinate the response from Ministers.

The meeting also heard about extra preparedness around major events such as the Royal Highland Show, freight mitigation plans from major retailers to keep supermarkets stocked as much as possible, and wider resilience plans.

Speaking after chairing the meeting, Mr Swinney said: “With a busy summer upon us, there needs to be more urgency from UK Ministers and the Department for Transport to get this situation fixed – and fast.  The lack of action being taken by the UK Government is a dereliction of duty.

“We have had our own issues in Scotland but the difference between our approach and that of the UK Government could not be more stark. We have sought dialogue, compromise and agreement, whereas the UK Government has deliberately inflamed the situation causing misery for the travelling public.

“This afternoon’s meeting was an opportunity to hear from agencies and responders about the plans that are in place, and I am confident that the mitigations we can take are being taken, but we heard of the serious impact it is having on many areas and sectors of Scotland such as tourism, freight and major events.

“I am grateful to the travelling public for their considerable patience and for checking ahead, seeking alternatives, and working flexibly, where possible. Our resilience arrangements will remain in place for the rest of the week, however I am in no doubt that this situation can and should be addressed by the UK Government.

“The public have suffered enough and our major events organisers need to be able to look and plan ahead with certainty.”

Telford Road resurfacing to take TWENTY weeks

Resurfacing work on Telford Road starts today as part of the city council’s roads maintenance programme.

The work is expected to last for for TWENTY weeks.

Follow @edintravel on twitter or Facebook for regular updates on roadworks, or download the regularly updated list on website http://edinburgh.gov.uk/edintravel

Police Scotland ready to deliver one of Britain’s biggest ever policing operations during COP26 climate conference

Police Scotland is ready to deliver one of the largest policing operations undertaken in Britain as extensive planning for the COP26 climate conference reaches the final stages.

Around 10,000 officers will be deployed each day to support the safety and security of the event in Glasgow next month, at which around 120 world leaders and heads of state are expected to attend.

The planning operation, which has been under way for almost two years, has been the largest undertaken by Police Scotland.

Officers will be drafted from every division and department in Police Scotland, supported by a substantial number of colleagues from other UK police services as part of mutual aid arrangements. Deployments will include specialist resources such as firearms officers, dog handlers, mounted branch, search teams and the marine unit.

COP26, the United Nations 26th Conference of the Parties, is an annual summit organised by the UN where world leaders and thousands of delegates come together to tackle climate change issues.

This year’s event takes place from 31 October to 12 November at the Scottish Event Campus in Glasgow.

Deputy Chief Constable Will Kerr said: “Police Scotland is ready and well prepared to deliver this operation which will involve one of the biggest mobilisation of police assets the UK has ever seen.

“With around 120 world leaders and heads of state attending, along with thousands of delegates and those who wish to protest, the scale of the security operation cannot be overstated. It is a huge challenge but one we are ready to deal with.

“Police Scotland has an enviable reputation throughout the world for the policing of major events and I am confident that we will once again deliver a response which helps deliver a safe and secure conference.”

Police Scotland’s style and tone of policing will be friendly, fair and accommodating for anyone wishing to protest during the event.

All mutual aid officers will be under the command and control of the Chief Constable of Police Scotland and will receive detailed briefings on the style and tone of policing ahead of being deployed.

DCC Kerr said: “Police Scotland is a rights-based organisation and has a duty under the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) to protect the rights of people who wish to peacefully protest or counter-protest, balanced against the rights of the wider community.

“We will provide a proportionate policing response to any protests and have been engaging with known protest groups for some time to ensure their rights to peaceful assembly and protest are met.

“Those wishing to protest have a responsibility to do so within the law and I would remind the small minority of people who may be intent on violent disorder or causing damage that we will deal with them swiftly and robustly.

“The policing of protests is a particularly difficult balancing act when they are non-violent and peaceful but highly disruptive or unlawful.

“People at protests sometimes break the law in a number of ways that aren’t linked to violence or disorder, such as blocking roads.

“Some disruption is inevitable during the event, if someone is causing significant disruption by wilfully obstructing a main traffic route then officers may move through the various stages of our graduated response more quickly than they would during instances which are causing minimum disruption.

“A considerable part of our planning for COP26 has been to ensure that the communities of Scotland continue to receive the same high standard of service from policing that they have come to expect.

“Policing, so often the service of first and last resort, will never step away from people in crisis.

“There are pressures which exist across many other services, agencies and sectors, and when the health service, local authorities and other key partners come under significant strain, demand is diverted to policing.

“However, Police Scotland prioritises emergency 999 calls and these are answered within less than 10 seconds, on average. Our non-emergency response times continue to be affected by high demand.

“While an event the size of COP26 places considerable demands on policing, we already have contingencies in place and are taking steps to boost those over the coming weeks.

“Although there is potential for further disruption should pressure on other agencies and services persist and become more acute, particularly as the country prepares for COP26, I can reassure the public that if they need an emergency response from us they will get it.”