The Scottish Government must take responsibility for the funding it provides to Edinburgh’s Christmas and New Year celebrations and ensure that communities and public assets are protected, according to Lothian MSP Alison Johnstone.
Ms Johnstone raised the matter at Culture Questions in the Scottish Parliament yesterday, highlighting local controversy and damage to parks and public assets caused by various events in the city, and received confirmation from the Scottish Government that it provided hundreds of thousands to support these festivities.
Alison Johnstone MSP said: “The Scottish Government must take responsibility for the funding it provides and ensure this supports our communities. Serious community concerns have been repeatedly raised about the impact of Christmas and New Year events, and we must guarantee that these issues are addressed in future.
“Clearly the primary responsibility for these events lies with the City of Edinburgh Council, but Ministers must also use their influence to ensure these events don’t negatively impact our communities.
“Princes Street Gardens’ parks are much loved and sit at the heart of a world heritage site.
“We must make sure this precious community asset is protected so that local people and visitors alike are able to enjoy these celebrations.
“The First Minister recently reminded us that wellbeing should be at the heart of our economy. If government are to live up to this, they must ensure that important public places are adequately valued.”
