Edinburgh’s travelling public have been urged to plan ahead during the COP26 conference, as part of a new communications campaign launched today by the City of Edinburgh Council and its partners.
The Council has joined with Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce, with support from Police Scotland and local transport providers, to share the ‘plan ahead and stay informed’ message, as the major event approaches.
Around 140 world leaders and 25,000 delegates are expected to gather in Glasgow between 31 October and 12 November to agree next steps in tackling the climate crisis. As a result, roads and public transport services across the central belt, including in Edinburgh, are anticipated to be busier than usual and journeys are likely to take longer during this time.
From today, and throughout the coming weeks, messages will be shared through the media, social media and digital and on-street advertising suggesting people plan any travel ahead to minimise disruption, avoid peak times and work from home if possible.
The Council has worked closely with the Chamber of Commerce to create a new dedicated website, highlighting the latest travel information and to provide support and advice for local businesses. It also highlights some of the fantastic work going on around Edinburgh helping to achieve its 2030 net zero target.
Council Leader Adam McVey said: “COP26 is a major event for Scotland and we’ve been gearing up to support it for many months, along with partners like the Scottish and UK Governments, Police Scotland and transport providers.
“While most of the events will take place in the host city of Glasgow, it’s going be extremely busy in Edinburgh. A huge number of people will be staying in the Capital and our own programme of events means Edinburgh will share some of the hosting responsibilities.
“That’s why, today, we’re launching a campaign urging people to take stock if they’re planning to travel during the two-week conference, whether it’s between Edinburgh and Glasgow or here in the Capital. We know there’s going to be more traffic on the roads so please plan any journeys ahead, avoid peak times and work from home if you can.
“It’s also an opportunity to think about how we get from A to B in our compact, walkable city. As leaders from around the world prepare to tackle the urgent issue of climate change, we’re encouraging everyone to think about how they can lower their own carbon footprints where possible to embrace the spirit of COP, considering swapping car trips for walking, wheeling, cycling or taking our outstanding public transport.”
Depute Leader Cammy Day said: “We want to make sure the city keeps moving and remains open for business throughout COP26. Officers from public safety, traffic information and resilience teams, amongst others, have been hard at work planning, in collaboration with partners, to make sure this will be the case.
“As part of the campaign we’re also encouraging the public to consider their travel choices and the impact these have on the world around us. With road traffic accounting for almost a third of greenhouse gas emissions in the city, swapping the car for a journey by foot, wheel, bike or public transport both supports our net zero goals and can avoid disruption during this busy period.”
Nicola Blaney, Head of Events Resilience for Transport Scotland, added: “While the main event is in Glasgow, the demand on our public transport and wider network is expected to be unprecedented and will have a severe knock-on impact on journey times in surrounding areas, stretching across the central belt and possibly beyond.
“There are also a number of additional factors from protest activity, planned and unplanned, as well as non-COP26-related activities such as major sporting events and marches.
“I would urge people to plan ahead and consider whether any journeys they make are necessary. Certain days are going to be much busier than others – the 1, 2, 5 and 6 of November in particular – so consider your travel needs. Work remotely if you can or make alternative arrangements. Avoid peak hours if possible, and retime and reroute if you want to avoid congested areas.”
The new dedicated web pages will include the most up-to-date travel information while the @edintravel traffic information team will be carefully monitoring the city’s roads seven days a week, sharing the latest information on disruption and diversions on Twitter. We’ll also be liaising with Lothian Buses and Edinburgh Trams to keep people informed about their services.
A second strand of the campaign will focus on Edinburgh’s own sustainability targets, and the part individuals, businesses and organisations across the city can play. This will showcase some of the ground-breaking innovations underway to deliver a climate-ready, resilient city, and highlight the change that is needed to achieve our net zero by 2030 goal.
Assistant Chief Constable Bernard Higgins, Police Scotland, said: “A considerable part of our planning for COP26 has been to ensure that there is minimal disruption to communities of Scotland as a result of the policing operation.
“However, some disruption is inevitable with an event of this significance and the increased number of visitors to Edinburgh and Glasgow, in particular. The road network across the central belt will be busier than normal and people should allow extra time for their journeys.”
A spokesperson from the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce said: “With the projected increases in traffic and journeys, and with potential disruptions because this global and essential event is taking place in Scotland, it makes perfect sense for us all to plan our journeys carefully and – wherever possible – use an alternative to the car.
“It helps the environment and it may well get you to your destination faster.”
The Council has set out a city-wide approach to reducing Edinburgh’s greenhouse gas emissions as part of new plans being considered by Councillors to tackle climate change in the Capital.
It will call on residents, community groups and private, public and third sector organisations to work collaboratively to achieve the city’s ambitious climate goals.
Published yesterday, ahead of World Environment Day (June 5th), the Draft 2030 Climate Strategy sets a series of clear and practical steps Edinburgh will take to combat and adapt to climate change and reach its target of net zero emissions by 2030.
If the draft strategy is approved, a twelve-week online public consultation will kick off on Monday 14 June, seeking views from people and organisations all over the city on the draft strategy and on actions residents and businesses can take to tackle climate change.
The Climate Strategy, which follows on from the Council declaring a climate emergency in 2019, focuses on creating the right policy, regulatory and infrastructure conditions in the city to support net zero behaviour change.
It also lays out key areas where collaboration and partnership will be supported to deliver on Edinburgh’s climate targets.
And it further outlines how people, communities, businesses and organisations in Edinburgh can be supported and encouraged to take climate action – and stresses the need for everyone to work together to invest in a better future for the city.
The draft strategy, which will be discussed by members of the Policy and Sustainability Committee on Thursday 10 June, includes commitments to:
Establishing a powerful Climate Delivery Group of the city’s most influential Chief Executives to unlock collective action and develop a pipeline of net zero projects across the city.
Delivering a city-wide heat and energy masterplan by 2022 supported by a new strategic partnership with SP Energy Networks which will maximise the benefit of grid investment for the city and its citizens.
Bringing public sector organisations together to plan and coordinate the retrofit of the cities buildings.
Expanding the City Climate Compact to support small and medium sized business to transition to sustainable businesses practices.
Running a series of citizen awareness campaigns on sustainability and working with young people to embed a legacy of change from COP26 later this year.
Creating EV charging hubs for public service vehicles, making them available to residents, where possible, at key times and in key locations.
Test approaches to retrofit in challenging mixed-tenure and heritage settings, including Edinburgh’s World Heritage site.
Within the strategy, the Council is leading by example by committing to:
Deliver an ambitious new net zero development at Granton Waterfront and around 200 hectares of new and enhanced coastal park in North West Edinburgh.
Deliver an ‘Edinburgh Homes Demonstrator’, using new materials and on-site building techniques to deliver net zero, energy efficient buildings.
Prioritise investment in expanding Edinburgh’s walking and cycling routes to connect local services and amenities.
Scope pilot proposals for creating net zero communities in two neighbourhoods within the city.
Exploring the potential for ‘Nature Climate Bonds’ and a ‘Green Innovation Challenge’ finance scheme to support investment in the city’s natural environment and business transition.
Leader of the Council, Councillor Adam McVey said: “In the year that Scotland hosts COP26, the world’s eyes will be on Scotland, and on Edinburgh as its capital and we want to ensure this leaves a legacy of action to address the climate emergency.
“This strategy will help our businesses, public sector and organisations and residents across our communities reduce or remove their carbon footprint.
“Importantly it also lays out how will come together as a city to collaborate on action at the scale and pace we need to get to net zero by 2030.
“This includes our strategic partnership with SP Energy Networks which will ensure investment in the city’s grid has maximum benefit for our infrastructure plans and for businesses and residents alike.
“It’s only by working together as Team Edinburgh and with partners beyond that we can achieve the green future we need.
“This strategy aims to create the right conditions to unlock the opportunities that climate action presents, creating jobs and a more sustainable economy while we preserve our amazing Capital City for future generations.”
Depute Lead of City of Edinburgh Council, Councillor Cammy Day said: “Research shows that we could get over 60% of the way to net zero with actions that pay for themselves within seven to twelve years. And while we don’t have all the answers today, we will be relentless as a city in our pursuit of a better greener net zero future for this city and its people.
“It is great to see that organisations across the city have their own sustainability plans and programmes of activity that are reducing the city’s emissions and that Edinburgh’s communities and citizens, and especially our young people, have a strong track record of climate action.
“But we must all go further and faster – and we can only do that through a joined-up collective effort.
“I encourage everyone in the city to take part in the consultation and to have their say in the proposals. Every positive action we take now will have a 10 times greater positive impact than if we waited to take these actions in 2030.”
Next steps for the draft 2030 Climate Strategy
If approved by the Policy and Sustainability Committee next week, a 12-week public consultation on the draft strategy will begin on Monday 14 June.
This will form the basis of a finalised strategy which would be brought to Committee later in the year alongside an implementation plan and initial cost analysis.
Alex Hilliam, Commissioner for the Edinburgh Climate Commission said: “The launch of the City of Edinburgh Council’s draft 2030 Climate Strategy is the start of an exciting conversation for the city as it maps out the decisions we need to take to help tackle climate change in the capital.
“We know this topic is of huge concern to the people who live, work and visit this city and, with the eyes of the world upon Scotland later this year with COP26, this strategy is an opportunity for Edinburgh to lead the way in taking bold action to tackle climate change and reducing the impact of harmful greenhouse gas emissions for future generations.
“We’re pleased that this ambitious and long-term plan also recognises the role that tackling climate change has in improving people’s quality of life – from creating new jobs and boosting the economy, to helping reduce fuel poverty and inequalities in the city. It is critical that the final strategy and the supporting implementation plan gives meaning to this ambition and turns it into a reality.
“We look forward to responding to the consultation and urge everyone to have a say on Edinburgh’s plans.”
Guy Jefferson, Chief Operating Officer for SP Energy Networks, said: “We fully support Edinburgh’s ambition to become a Net Zero city by 2030 and today’s publication of the 2030 Climate Strategy is to be welcomed as it outlines what is required of government, industry and communities to bring about the significant change that is required in this decade.
“As the electricity distribution and transmission operator for Central and Southern Scotland, we take our responsibilities seriously and recognise that we have a key role to play in helping the city of Edinburgh deliver on its ambitious, but achievable, Net Zero target.
“We will be delighted to develop proposals for a strategic partnership with Edinburgh City Council as it is only through collaboration between government and industry that we can harness the knowledge, skills and resources we need to tackle climate change.
“Net Zero is now the prism through which we take all our business decisions, and that has been a profound change for us. It’s one of the key drivers of our decision to become a Principal Partner of the COP26 global climate change conference, which is taking place in Scotland later this year. By working with our city partners in Edinburgh we can deliver the cleaner, greener and better future we all want, quicker.
Chamber of Commerce Chief Executive Liz Mcareavey said: “The City of Edinburgh Council is taking a leadership role in tackling the climate challenge.
“Not only have we set an ambitious target to achieve net zero carbon by 2030 but the draft Climate Strategy is a clear and detailed document that outlines what needs to be done and how we all have to play our part.
“Not one sector of the city can do this alone and this strategy creates the pathway to success. I commend the work done and look forward to engaging with the City of Edinburgh Council and the business community to ensure business makes a significant contribution to our net zero ambitions but also to take advantage of the opportunities to develop our green economy.”
Bridie Ashrowan, Chief Executive of Edinburgh Voluntary Organisations Council (EVOC) said: “At EVOC, Edinburgh Voluntary Organisations Council, we welcome the publication of City of Edinburgh Council’s Draft 2030 Climate Strategy, not only a key milestone in Edinburgh’s journey to net zero, by 2030, while also a commitment to supporting the development of thriving local communities across the city.
“There is a recognition that every citizen, community, community or third sector organisation, and company, have a role to play in achieving Edinburgh’s ambitious climate goals is hugely important.
“We welcome the opportunity for the voluntary and community sector to collaborate in the development and delivery of the strategy as well as empowering the people and communities they support to get involved, and champion where its citizens are already taking positive action.
“We hope that the goals of the strategy will connect with other landmark initiatives, such as the actions and cultural change outlined in the Edinburgh Poverty Commission’s report, working to end poverty by 2030, while also enabling the developments in green skills and jobs, that are part of a recovery with wellbeing of people and nature at the heart of it.”
“we are now in a position to relax more restrictions and restore much more normality to our everyday lives”
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon
People will be able to hug their loved ones and meet in private homes as most of mainland Scotland moves to Level 2, with eased restrictions on hospitality, entertainment, education and sport.
In an acceleration of previous plans, the number of people and households that can meet inside homes in Level 2 has been increased to six people from three households.
The new rules, which come into effect on Monday 17 May, will apply to all mainland local authority areas with the exception of Moray, which is experiencing a high and increasing number of Coronavirus (COVID-19) cases.
As a result Moray is likely to remain in Level 3 for a further period, with travel in and out of the area prohibited other than for permitted purposes. A final decision on this will be made at the end of this week.
The Scottish Government is working with Moray Council and Grampian Health Board to reduce case numbers, and will provide financial support for affected hospitality and leisure businesses if Level 3 restrictions do remain in place.
As the virus is now sufficiently under control in the Western Isles, Orkney, Shetland and remote Highland and Argyll islands, these communities are expected to move straight to Level 1.
From Monday 17 May, anyone entering Scotland from countries on a new international travel ‘Green List’ will not be required to quarantine on arrival, but will have to take a PCR test for COVID-19.
The Green List will initially be the same as that in place for England but will be subject to review based on Scotland’s specific needs.
Under Level 2 restrictions:
up to six people from three households will be able to meet in each other’s homes or gardens without physical distancing – this was the limit previously planned for Level 1 but has now been accelerated for areas in Level 2. People will be encouraged to use their judgment about close physical contact with others
up to six people from three households will be able to meet indoors in places such as pubs, cafes and restaurants, while up to eight people from eight households will be able to meet outdoors
pubs and restaurants will be able to serve alcohol indoors until 10:30pm in two-hour booked slots
venues including cinemas, theatres, concert halls, music venues, comedy clubs, amusement arcades, casinos, snooker halls and bingo halls will be able to reopen
events will resume with a maximum capacity of 100 people indoors, 250 outdoors where there is unrestricted standing and 500 for events with seating. Organisers will be allowed to apply to hold bigger events
outdoor contact sports and indoor group exercise classes will be able to restart
more than one person will be able to sing during religious services
amateur performing arts groups will be able to perform outdoors
colleges and universities will have more flexibility to resume in-person learning
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: “The success of the vaccination programme, and continued high compliance with the various rules and restrictions, means that we have seen continued suppression of the virus in the last three weeks.
“As a result the situation overall is a very positive one, and we are now in a position to relax more restrictions and restore much more normality to our everyday lives.
“I know just how unwelcome the likelihood of a further period in Level 3 must be to people in Moray, and we are doing everything possible to ensure that any extension of Level 3 is for as short a period as possible.
“I would appeal to everyone living in the region to follow all the public health advice so that we can get the situation back under control and allow Moray to get back on a positive track just as quickly as possible.
“It is almost eight months since most of us have been able to meet in each other’s homes. While I know all of us have been looking forward to being able to do that again, I would encourage everyone to please use judgement – close physical contact still carries risk, so if you have loved ones who are vulnerable for any reason, you should still be careful. And you should perhaps limit the overall number of people that you choose to have close physical contact with.
“We still intend to be highly cautious on international travel, given the risk of new variants, but we consider that the situation now allows us to begin a careful move away from blanket restrictions on non-essential travel.
“Everyone should think seriously about whether they really need to travel abroad this summer. I know for many people international travel is about family connections. But when it comes to holidays abroad, my advice continues to be to err on the side of caution and to staycation this summer.”
Marc Crothall, CEO Scottish Tourism Alliance said: “The First Minister’s announcement today that mainland Scotland, with the possible exception of Moray, will move to level 2 on Monday will be a welcome boost for our tourism sector, particularly businesses in our island communities which I know will be delighted at the news that they will move to Level 1, albeit with the capacity restrictions on ferries limiting the number of people who can travel there.
“The return of indoor hospitality with alcohol will allow our hospitality businesses to hopefully start to recoup some of the significant losses incurred by being able to offer the very essence of the experience that has been missing for so long and to trade more viably despite the physical distancing restrictions which remain in place, however, I am sure that many will be heartened to learn today that this is currently under review and that the conclusions will be shared at the next review point.
“Good news also for events, particularly for event organisers who will be able to apply to host more than a hundred people. Our events sector has been decimated over the last year with limited information or support in relation to opening up and guidance for doing so; it’s extremely encouraging to know that the ball is finally rolling for such an important sector within our industry.
“I know both customers and operators will be awaiting to see what can be delivered; hosting the types of events many will want to enjoy in a viable way will however be dependent on social distancing measures being relaxed.
“The news that Scotland has adopted a four nations approach to travel is an important step in the right direction; the loss of inbound travel has had a critical impact on so many businesses across different sectors within Scotland’s tourism industry and I know that there will be some relief for many today, however, we must now move forward with a plan for more affordable testing for those coming into the country and a timescale for the introduction of digital vaccine passports for other countries and indeed, a robust plan for encouraging inbound travel.
“43% of overnight tourism spend in Scotland comes from our international market; it would require around 7 million domestic overnight stays to replace that lost income. From the research the STA has undertaken which we will be releasing this week, we can see that we are quite some way from the staycation tourism boom that has been referenced in various media reports and by other commentators recently.
“The STA looks forward to our continued discussion with the Scottish Government and officials and in shaping the guidance to support these welcome changes as announced by the First Minister today.”
City of Edinburgh Leaders have welcomed the further easing of restrictions as the Scottish Government announced that most of Scotland will move to level two from next week.
Following the update Council and city leaders reaffirmed their commitment to continue supporting for businesses to help them recover safely and sustainably.
Council Leader, Adam McVey said: “This announcement is great news for our residents and businesses. The sacrifices we’ve had to make over the last year have protected our communities and meant we’re able to loosen restrictions safely – while we continue to suppress the virus and protect our NHS and frontline workers.
“It gives us further hope that we’re moving in the right direction thanks to the continued success of the vaccine rollout, universal testing and making sure we’re still sticking to the guidelines.
“I know being able to hug our loved ones will mean the world to people and families across our City.
“We’re also looking to inspire and encourage our residents to get back out safely and enjoy all that our Capital has to offer through our ForeverEdinburgh campaign’s The Story Never Ends and Shop Here This Year.
“Both initiatives are inspiring people to rediscover our City and share our experiences of the things we do and places we go to in enjoying all Edinburgh has to offer.
“Our city centre attractions, retailers and restaurants and cafes have done an amazing job making our city centre feel like the city centre again, and I hope as many people as possible will get behind our businesses and share their love for our Capital.“
Depute Leader, Cammy Day, said: “We continue to listen to and work with businesses to help them bounce back as quickly as possible from what has been an incredibly tough year.
“We’re collaborating closely with organisations such as Essential Edinburgh, Edinburgh’s Tourism Action Group (ETAG), VisitScotland, the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce and the Federation of Small Businesses to ensure we’re working with the different sectors to understand where the pressure points are while inviting people back into our unique neighbourhoods, buzzing city centre and beautiful outdoor spaces.
“Edinburgh really does have something for everyone and we’re so excited to be able to share that once again.
“I also welcome the news that we will be able to invite more friends and family into our homes and gardens. After so long keeping our distance from those we love, giving them a well-deserved hug or simply holding a hand will be a very emotional moment for many. We still need to take care, though, so it’s crucial we all use our own careful judgement.
Liz McAreavey, Chief Executive of the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce, said: “The continued return to something closer to normality is highly encouraging, and we are delighted that the city’s hard-hit hospitality sector can once again welcome customers indoors and out.
“In particular, it is also pleasing to note the city council’s determination to promote the city centre, which has been hardest hit by the pandemic. The recovery of our city centre is vital to the economic, social and emotional recovery of the Capital.
“Edinburgh Chamber is keen to work with both the incoming Scottish Government and the City of Edinburgh Council to ensure together we achieve the fairest, most sustainable recovery as quickly as possible.”
Donald Emslie, Chair of ETAG, said: “The latest easing of restrictions is very welcome news indeed for our tourism and hospitality businesses and marks another key milestone on the road to recovery. Businesses have worked extremely hard over the last few weeks and months and have invested lots of time and money to create safe and welcoming spaces for everyone.
“ETAG continue to work in partnership with the City of Edinburgh Council, VisitScotland and others to support the ForeverEdinburgh initiative and hope that through that we are able to encourage people to venture back out to meet with friends and family and to enjoy all that Edinburgh has to offer while supporting the sector through the reopening period.”
Community projects and third sector organisations have been short-listed for awards at next month’s Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce Business awards.
North Edinburgh’s COVID 19 Response and Recovery Group has been nominated for the Inspiring Partnership Award, with Citadel Youth Centre and Leith Rugby Club and Cyrenians and Natwest partnerships also in the running in that category.
The North Edinburgh COVID-19 Response and Recovery Group was formed at the outset of the coronavirus pandemic. Local projects and community organisations joined together in an informal coalition and have been working together ever since to ensure that the community’s most vulnerable people are being supported and protected during the pandemic.
Cyrenians is also nominated in the Local Business Hero, Employer of the Year and and Young Leader of the Year categories.
A Chamber spokesperson explained: “Each year, the Edinburgh Chamber looks forward to hosting its much loved Business Awards ceremony to recognise the successes and achievements of our vibrant business community.
“2020 has been a tough year for all. However, despite the ongoing challenges caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, we have watched businesses across the city come together to lead, innovate, collaborate and support those in need.
“We feel it is important to recognise the efforts and dedication shown by organisations over the past year, and so we’re delighted to announce the launch of our first ever virtual business awards.
“Our virtual awards will bring the business community together to showcase the resilience, adaptability and outstanding contribution of our local businesses and professionals, in the most challenging of years.”
Award Categories 2021:
Responsible Business – sponsored by City of Edinburgh Council
Innovation in Business – sponsored by CityFibre
Director of the Year – sponsored by Royal Bank of Scotland
Developing the Young Workforce – sponsored by Developing the Young Workforce
Employer of the Year – sponsored by Wright, Johnston & Mackenzie LLP
Young Leader of the Year – sponsored by Thorntons Law LLP
Inspiring Partnership Award – sponsored by Openreach
Excellence in Circular Economy – sponsored by Circular Edinburgh
Export Business of the Year – sponsored by Forth Ports
Service Excellence – sponsored by Heehaw
Local Business Hero – sponsored by TLT LLP
Lifetime Achievement – sponsored by Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce
The virtual festival, taking place from 1-5th March, offers 18 events over the 5 days, ranging from keynote speakers and panel discussions to networking events and practical workshops. The Chamber will also host its annual Business Awards, to recognise and showcase the resilience, adaptability and outstanding contribution of local businesses and professionals, in the most challenging of years.
The headline sponsor for this year’s Business Festival is St James Quarter.
Martin Perry, Director of Development for St James Quarter, said: “At St James Quarter we’re passionate about doing our part to support the local Edinburgh community – and the businesses within it.
“We’re delighted to partner with the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce and look forward to connecting with our peers and neighbours throughout the event.”
The framework will guide the Council in distributing £2,796,150 from the Scottish Government for discretionary business grant funding.
To date, the Council has provided financial support to over 15,000 Edinburgh businesses in response to COVID-19, with funding in excess of £156 million since March 2020.
This newly approved ‘Discretionary Grant Fund’ will aim to assist businesses that have been without financial support since the introduction of Brake Restrictions and latterly Strategic Framework Restrictions in October and November 2020. Businesses will receive one off payment of £2,000. This will equate to approximately 1,400 businesses being supported.
Applications to the fund will open on a first come, first served basis on Wednesday 3 February 2021 at 8am.
The eligibility criteria have been designed to especially support applications from suppliers to those businesses that have been forced to close, businesses operating without rateable premises, and businesses that are deemed essential but who have lost their customers due to the restrictions imposed since October 2020.
Businesses can review the required here: full eligibility criteria and mandatory evidence . Due to the limited funding available, applications will be handled on a strictly first come, first served basis.
The fund will close when 1,500 applications have been received and reopen (with advance notice) once those applications have been assessed, assuming that they do not all meet the eligibility criteria.
Councillor Kate Campbell, Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work Convener, said: “We know how important this fund is to businesses – in many instances it will be lifeline and as a committee we take that responsibility very seriously.
“It’s a finite pot of money so we’ve worked hard to make sure we get this right – targeting the fund towards the businesses that need it the most and trying to reach as many as possible.
“The fund is aimed at businesses who have been ineligible for other Scottish Government support and who’ve suffered significant losses as a result of restrictions brought in since October.
“We’ve consulted with partners like the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) and the Chamber of Commerce who have been amazing at helping us to sense check our approach.
“They’ve shared their valuable knowledge and understanding of their members’ experiences to help us draft the best framework we think is possible in the circumstances. And we’ve had very useful consultations and input from other elected members.
Councillor Mandy Watt, Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work Vice Convener said: “We’ve taken this report to a special committee so that we can start supporting those businesses in need as soon as possible. Sadly, there will still be small enterprises facing hardship who won’t get one of these grants.
“Further government discretionary grant funding for businesses, as announced yesterday by the Finance Secretary, should be released as quickly as possible so we can give them the assistance that they desperately need.”
“From Wednesday 3 February, businesses that fit the criteria agreed today can start to apply and we hope to be able to start making the first payments within a few days of that. We must stress that businesses will be allocated funding on a first come, first served basis.”
School pupils across Edinburgh will be challenged to come up with creative ways of using new technologies to tackle local issues and help transform their hometown into a Smart City as part of a unique partnership with local businesses and organisations.
CityFibre, the City of Edinburgh Council, and the University of Edinburgh’s Data Education in Schools programme – part of the Edinburgh and South East Scotland City Region Deal – will deliver the Smart City-focused Internet of Things (IoT) pilot to primary and secondary school year groups across Edinburgh.
Aiming to enhance the number of children using data science education in schools, pupils will develop their understanding of data-driven solutions for a range of issues both inside and outside of the school environment.
This could see pupils develop ways of monitoring air-quality in playgrounds, improve the use of digital technology in classrooms or examine digital methods for managing traffic flow across the city.
The project will kick off in schools in spring and a number of pupils will be invited to attend a Smart Cities event in Edinburgh in May to showcase their solutions.
As part of the initiative, CityFibre will also provide schools in Edinburgh with IoT technology kits over the next 12 months. This will enable pupils to practice solving challenges using sensors and data analysis, with some of the data they’ll be collecting travelling over the CityFibre network.
The announcement was made at an event in Edinburgh’s Royal Scots Club which brought civic and business communities together to discuss how improved digital connectivity will soon transform everyday life for people across the city.
Work is currently underway on a city-wide full fibre network which will deliver significant benefits to communities across Edinburgh. CityFibre is investing more than £100m to deliver the project, which will give almost every home and business access to next-generation full fibre connectivity.
Elaine Doherty, CityFibre’s City Manager for Edinburgh, said:“We can’t wait to hear about the creative ideas school pupils have to use IoT technology and make the most of Edinburgh’s new full fibre infrastructure.
“While most schools and City of Edinburgh Council buildings have been connected to full fibre, construction is well underway to extend the benefits of a full fibre network to almost every home and business across the city with the first homes to be connected next month.”
Professor Judy Robertson, Chair in Digital Learning, at the University of Edinburgh’s Institute for Education, Community and Society, said: “We are delighted to be working with CityFibre to deliver this exciting IoT project to schools across the region.
“The project will encourage young people to think about how they can use sensors and data to understand their environment and to develop tools that can improve their local communities, learning how data can be used for good. The project is a fantastic addition to our Data Education for Schools project.
“By bringing business, schools and the university together we can ensure that we are providing young people with skills and confidence to take full advantage of the opportunities provided within our data driven society.”
Council Leader Adam McVey said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for young people across Edinburgh to explore how digital technology can change the way we live our lives – and to help us come up with data-driven solutions for some of the challenges facing the Capital.
“Thanks to this partnership with CityFibre and the University of Edinburgh, the next generation of problem-solvers will gain the skills needed to deliver a truly smart city for the future.”
Pictured: L – R Phil Cragg, Deloitte Smart City Specialist; Andy Starnes, Head of City Development at CityFibre; Frank Airth, City Manager at Vodafone; Elaine Doherty, CityFibre’s City Manager for Edinburgh; Jenni Doonan, Business Developer at the University of Edinburgh’s Institute for Education, Community and Society;Liz McAreavey, Chief Executive, Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce; Andrew Kerr, Chief Executive, The City of Edinburgh Council
The potential impact of a no-deal Brexit for Edinburgh businesses has been revealed in a survey of members carried out by the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce. The responses came from over ten sectors, with the outlook for a no-deal Brexit being overwhelmingly negative.
76% of respondents confirmed that a no-deal Brexit would have a negative impact on their business and only 4% suggested it would have positive implications. Despite this reality, only 14% have a specific plan to deal with the likely impact on their business. The chamber surveyed 102 members in September and October 2019.
In order to address the concerns raised, the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce has launched a series of workshops in partnership with Shepherd and Wedderburn LLP to help businesses to prepare should the UK leave the EU without a deal on 31 October.
The workshops are available to all interested businesses, whether they are a member of the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce or not.
They will commence this week, with two targeted at potential issues for the food and drink and hospitality sectors. Guidance around the future supply chain and the ability to recruit EU staff will be among the issues covered.
There will also be further workshops starting next week, to consider the impacts on the digital and creative sectors and professional services. Issues such as the impact of no-deal on intellectual property and data protection will be touched on.
Commenting, Liz McAreavey, Chief Executive of the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce, said: “While we are encouraged that talks to avert a no-deal Brexit are ongoing, the results of this survey indicate the stark reality facing both our members and the city of Edinburgh if the UK leaves the EU without a deal. Whatever your views on Brexit, we are very clear that a no-deal scenario is the worst of all outcomes.
“So that we can support Edinburgh businesses to deal with the implications of this, we will be running a number of workshops in the coming weeks. These are available to everyone and will help ensure businesses are as prepared as possible for any scenario. Our hope is that the practical advice on offer does not need to be implemented, which is why we would urge the UK government and the European Union to reach a deal.
“Business continuity and growth is vital for the health of the economy – our survey makes clear a no-deal Brexit will have severe consequences not only for the vast majority of businesses but also the communities in which they operate.”
Further information on the workshops
Food and Drink: (17th & 23rd October)
What does a No Deal Brexit mean for the Food and Drink Sector? Find out how legal changes caused by a No Deal Brexit impact on your business and what steps you can take in order to prepare. Our No Deal Brexit workshops delivered in partnership with Shepherd and Wedderburn LLP will cover the following issues:-
EU Staff – how a No Deal Brexit will impact EU staff already working in the UK.
EU Staff – how a No Deal Brexit will impact on businesses ability to recruit and retain EU national staff who arrive after 31 October 2019
Guidance on supply chain vulnerabilities in the event of a No Deal Brexit.
Guidance on compliance with EU food law if a third party exporter.
Hospitality: (17th & 23rd October)
What does a No Deal Brexit mean for the Hospitality Sector? Find out how legal changes caused by a No Deal Brexit impact on your business and what steps you can take in order to prepare. Our No Deal Brexit workshops delivered in partnership with Shepherd and Wedderburn LLP will cover the following issues:-
EU Staff – how No Deal Brexit will impact EU staff already working in the UK.
EU Staff – how a No Deal Brexit will impact on businesses ability to recruit and retain EU national staff who arrive after 31 October 2019
Is a No Deal Brexit the beginning of the end for European owned deli’s and restaurants and an opportunity for British restauranteurs?
Guidance on supply chain vulnerabilities in the event of a No Deal Brexit.
These issues will be tailored towards the hospitality sector.
Digital and Creative (22nd October & 29th October)
What does a No Deal Brexit mean for the Digital and Creative Sector? Find out how legal changes caused by a No Deal Brexit impact on your business and what steps you can take in order to prepare. Our No Deal Brexit workshops delivered in partnership with Shepherd and Wedderburn LLP will focus on the following issues:-
Labour Supply Chain
EU Staff – how No Deal Brexit will impact EU staff already working in the UK.
EU Staff – how No Deal Brexit will impact future EU staff arriving in the UK after 31 December 2019.
Recruiting Non EU Staff after a No Deal Brexit –when and how will this get easier after No Deal?
Business travel and work to the EU after a No Deal
Information and Data Management
Data Protection – how No Deal Brexit impacts on GDPR and its applicability.
Transferring personal data between the UK and EEA in a No Deal Brexit: the implications and practical steps to take.
A look at data protection policies and data management practices and practical steps to take.
Intellectual Property – A look at the various intellectual property issues that may arise in a No Deal Brexit in relation to trademarks, copyright and patents.
Professional Services (22nd October & 29th October)
What does a No Deal Brexit mean for the Professional Services Sector? Find out how legal changes caused by a No Deal Brexit impact on your business and what steps you can take in order to prepare. Our No Deal Brexit workshops delivered in partnership with Shepherd and Wedderburn LLP will focus on the following issues:-
EU Staff – how No Deal Brexit will impact EU staff already working in the UK.
EU Staff – how No Deal Brexit will impact future EU staff arriving in the UK after 31 December 2019.
The impact of No Deal Brexit on re-qualification and consultancy.
Establishing a legal entity elsewhere in the EU
Working in other EU member states after No Deal – case studies on how this will operate in other member states
Fly in/fly out business travel
Information and Data Management
Data Protection – how No Deal Brexit impacts on GDPR and its applicability.
Transferring personal data between the UK and EEA in a No Deal Brexit: the implications and practical steps to take.
A look at data protection policies and data management practices and practical steps to take.
The First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has announced £100,000 of new funding for an initiative aimed at driving entrepreneurship among females in Scotland.
The Scottish Chamber of Commerce will partner with the Scottish Association of Business Women to deliver the ‘Future Female Business Leaders’ programme.
The programme draws on Chambers’ skill and experience in connecting entrepreneurs with established business mentors who will provide them with direct support.
It will offer women help as they move into leadership roles, and includes an element to help to stimulate ‘internationalisation’of Scottish business.
Speaking at the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce ‘Women in Business’ lunch, the First Minister said: “Helping more women to set up and succeed in business is both an economic and a moral imperative. By encouraging and supporting women to create and grow businesses, we can create greater equality which in turn builds a stronger and fairer economy.
“The Scottish Chambers represent more than 11,000 companies across the country with a pool of over 1,000 mentors dispersed widely across Scotland. We have invested nearly £400,000 this year on projects to support female entrepreneurship, which includes the Chambers’ Future Female Business Leaders programme.
“It is a scheme which will help some of the next generation of women business leaders as they start their careers. And it will also – if my experiences are anything to go by – provide enlightenment and inspiration for the mentors.
“One of the things that I decided to do as an individual two years ago was to become a mentor to a young woman. It is incredibly valuable to share experiences and insights with people from different backgrounds and with different perspectives.”
Dr Liz Cameron, OBE, Chief Executive of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce, welcomed the announcement. “This is a perfect example of playing to the strengths and connectivity of both the public and private sector.
“It is an economic priority to ensure that we create an infrastructure which will unlock the outstanding opportunities which exist for females in the workplace enabling more of us to progress to the very top. It will also be a beacon for others to follow, and at the same time, increase the number of successful businesses run by women to grow and expand their businesses.
“Mentoring will be integral to our focus, but it will be in wider terms of bringing together business leaders and other organisations who want to play a role in this development. We are also excited at bringing in an international dimension, identifying potentially new connections and new orders.”
Liz McAreavey, chief executive of Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce, said: “A drive to support more women to succeed in business is not just morally right, but also proven to generate better performance for businesses.
“More women on boards and in senior positions leads to better innovation, improved sales revenues and margins and increased satisfaction and productivity. For example, McKinsey reports that gender diverse companies are 15 per cent more likely to have financial returns above their national median.
“There is no doubt workplace equality and fairness equals improved business performance. I am delighted with the extra measures announced by the First Minister today and we will work with all engaged parties to ensure they benefit as many women as possible.”
A major new initiative, to help small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Edinburgh identify and capitalise on circular economy opportunities, has been launched. Circular Edinburgh is a joint initiative delivered by Zero Waste Scotland and Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce.
The capital is one of four Scottish regions selected in 2018 to receive free support and project funding for local businesses. The Chambers will deliver a range of local activities to help identify opportunities for local business, and direct them towards available support and funding. The initiative is backed by the Scottish Government and European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).
A circular economy is one in which we eradicate waste by keeping resources and products in use for as long as possible. It offers opportunities to Scottish business to develop new products and services which promote repeated use, not single-use – for example: leasing, repair, or take-back services, or designing new products from another industry’s ‘waste’ through effective collaboration.
Iain Gulland, Chief Executive, Zero Waste Scotland, said: “I’m delighted today to announce Zero Waste Scotland is joining forces with Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce to launch Circular Edinburgh, an ambitious initiative to unlock the potential for SMEs in the region, by thinking innovatively about business models.
“Circular Edinburgh is a terrific opportunity to help local businesses in making the transition to a circular economy, that has the potential to create jobs, support sustainable business models and help the environment and the economy. Across Scotland, a circular economy could generate £3 billion of annual benefits.
“Scotland is at the cutting edge of developing a more circular economy, and was recently chosen to host the Circular Economy Hotspot Scotland, a major international trade mission, taking place later this year. Businesses are already capitalising on the vast benefits of being circular and, through new business models, are finding untapped opportunities for innovation and increased profitability, whilst addressing the issue of resource pressures.”
Liz McAreavey, Chief Executive, Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce, said: “The Circular Economy will provide business with tremendous opportunities, in creating efficiencies, reducing waste, and in creating new products, services, wealth and jobs.
“The Chamber is delighted to be working with Zero Waste Scotland on a project to engage the Capital’s business community with these opportunities, and making a big contribution to future growth and sustainability.”
The initiative is part of the Resource Efficient Circular Economy Accelerator Programme, which will invest £27million in Scotland in circular economy projects until December 2019, thanks to support from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).
Zero Waste Scotland leads on delivery of the £73million Resource Efficient Circular Economy Accelerator Programme, which aims to improve the economic performance of SMEs while at the same time reducing the impact of economic activity on the natural environment, supporting Scottish Government and EU policies.
