Agenda

Including any notices of motion and any other items of business submitted as urgent for consideration at the meeting.

Members should declare any financial and non-financial interests they have in the items of business for consideration, identifying the relevant agenda item and the nature of their interest.

If any

The City of Edinburgh Council of 9 May 2024 – submitted for approval as a correct record

Leader’s report

Friendship Arrangement with the City of Kaohsiung, Taiwan – Report by the Chief Executive

(Note: Please note that this report has been withdrawn)

City Strategic Investment Fund – Strategic Programmes - referral from the Policy and Sustainability Committee

City Plan 2030 Report of Examination and Resolution to Adopt - referral from the Planning Committee

By Councillor Nols-McVey - Suspending Councillors Facing Arrest

“1)        Notes the UK Parliament has voted to ban MPs from attending Parliament in cases when the MP has been arrested for specific violent or sexual offences.

2)         Council welcomes this move and agrees that the Ethical Standards Commissioner should follow suite, with a clear adopted policy that sitting Councillors who are arrested for the same offences as those listed by the UK Parliament will be immediately suspended as Councillors until a decision can made on the suitability to remain in office- overturning a previous approach to allow Councillors to remain working while Police and criminal processes were ongoing.

3)         Council agrees that the Monitoring Officer will write to the Ethical Standards Commissioner to encourage such a policy change and report back to Full Council no later than 4 cycles with the Commissioners' response and providing an update on progress.

4)         Council additionally agrees that the update report should include options and proposals to proactively remove any Edinburgh Councillor from as many duties as possible should the standards commission fail to act. Should a member be arrested for those offences mentioned above, Council should consider a mechanism to immediately remove the member from all committees, protect Council staff (including support staff following the precautionary principle) and remove any senior Councillor from any position they hold upon arrest.”

By Councillor McFarlane - Safer Ageing in Edinburgh

“1)        Council understands around 2.6 million people over the age of 65 are victims of abuse each year in the UK and that this figure is estimated to be under-reported.

2)         Council further understands that attitudes and perceptions of wider society can negatively impact the above statistic with:

·        1 in 3 people not seeing taking money from an older relative’s bank account as abuse.

·        1 in 4 people not seeing unwanted physical contact towards an older person as abuse.

·        1 in 5 people not seeing pushing, hitting, or beating an older person as abuse.

3)         Council notes that safer ageing is about creating environments and procedures so that older people are not put at risk of abuse or neglect or violence.

4)         Council agrees that older people should be empowered, where suitable, to live their lives independently and fully trusting those people around them and that as an organisation the council is well placed to raise awareness, facilitate training opportunities, and promote support services across public facing council departments to help achieve this goal.

5)         Council acknowledges the national charity Hourglass in their mission to end the harm, abuse and exploitation of older people and notes their provision of the only 24/7 helpline which provides free support for older men, women and their families suffering from the five forms of abuse: physical, psychological, economic, sexual or neglect.

6)         Noting the above council requests a report to Policy and Sustainability in three cycles setting out the possible opportunities of:

a)         Promoting Hourglass services such as their helpline across all internal and public facing council areas and departments in addition to other key third sector partners.

b)         Provide, facilitate or signpost training opportunities regarding safeguarding and awareness raising on the signs to look out for regarding the abuse of older people.

c)         Invite Hourglass to present their research and policy work to appropriate committees and councillors / officer groups.

d)         Join the OATH (Older Age Tomorrow’s Hope) to commit as a Local Authority to work towards a Safer Ageing Society in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales by 2050.”

By Councillor Kumar - Civility in Public Life

“Council notes:

The Jo Cox Civility Commission launched in February 2023. The Commission believes that abuse and intimidation of elected politicians is having a detrimental impact on democracy across the UK.

Elected Members should be able to have robust political debates no matter what political paths and particularly those in leadership roles should model good behaviour.

Agrees that Council should sign up to The Jo Cox Foundation’s Civility Pledge, endorse the recommendations presented in this call to action and bring about significant changes on this issue, supporting a healthy democracy and improved public life into the future. 

Requests a Business Bulletin or report to Policy and Sustainability Committee to detail how this can be achieved effectively.”

By Councillor Nicolson - UNISON's End Violence at Work Charter

“Notes that there have been 51 violent incidents at work in the city of Edinburgh, with as many as twenty incidents recorded in one single year.

Notes there have been thousands of violent incidents against council and school workers in the UK since 2015 and according to Freedom of Information data obtained by UNISON, 1 in 40 local government workers were the victims of violent incidents in a single year. Workers in our councils or schools are 75% more likely to be a victim of violence at work than other workers.

Agrees this is unacceptable and all steps must be taken to protect council workers from workplace violence.

Agrees a report to Policy and Sustainability Committee on the what steps Edinburgh Council would need to take in order to sign up to UNISON's End Violence at Work Charter (URL: https://www.unison.org.uk/unison-health-and-safety/violence-at-work/) which sets out standards for local government employers to put in place, including monitoring, support, safeguarding and training.”

By Councillor McNeese-Mechan - Supporting the Sikh Community

“Council notes that recently the charity Sikh Sanjog celebrated a significant milestone in achieving a successful 35 years of supporting the city’s Sikh community, an occasion which was recognised with a reception in City Chambers hosted by the Lord Provost.

Council notes that despite this achievement, Sikh Sanjog currently find themselves in a precarious position due to lacking a secure long term home for their charitable activities.

Council further notes that despite significant awards and recognition from the city, Scottish and UK government, and extensive engagement with both council officers and elected members, the charity has thus far been unable to obtain a property from which to continue to offer their services to the community.

Council therefore requests officers to arrange a meeting with the board of Sikh Sanjog at the earliest opportunity to discuss what supports can be offered to facilitate premises, including exploring co-location with other local authority and third sector organisations, so that they can continue to offer their valuable services to the city for the next 35 years.”

By Councillor Kumar - State of Palestine

“Council agrees that the City of Edinburgh recognise the State of Palestine.”

By Councillor Campbell - Haystax Nursery Closure

“Council,

Regrets the sad announcement that Haystax Nursery in Craigmillar will close, noting this is the only non-council nursery provision available in the local area.

Further notes that the Niddrie and Craigmillar area constitutes one of the largest areas of multiple deprivation in Edinburgh on the SIMD scale, and that the need for affordable and flexible childcare is critical to preventing children growing up in poverty.

Thanks officers for their briefing to local elected members and for their reassurance that there would be enough spaces in council-run provision in the area to absorb children displaced by this closure

However, Council notes concerns raised by parents that the council’s own provision is currently not flexible, alongside a lack of spaces for two-year-olds and a lack of subsidised, affordable provision.

Agrees that officers will engage with the management team at Haystax to establish what support the council could provide to enable the nursery to continue providing childcare for the next academic year, and that a report will be prepared for the next Education, Children and Families committee detailing this work.

Further agrees that officers in the Early Years Team will engage with all affected parents to ascertain the current provision, and ensure that all children are able to be offered spaces in council run nursery provision, including two-year-olds and those currently accessing flexible and affordable spaces, should the above actions not be able to prevent the closure of the nursery.

Agrees the Early Years Team should provide a written briefing note of this work, which should be circulated to local elected members ahead of the summer recess.”

By Councillor Dobbin - Fixing Waste Collections

“Council notes the huge numbers of missed bin collections over the last few weeks, with many areas suffering from multiple bins being missed over multiple weeks.

Notes that this has been a serious service failure which has resulted in overflowing bins, litter and debris accumulating along our streets and impediments to pedestrians and other pavement users creating city wide accessibility issues.

Welcomes the briefing note circulated by officers but nonetheless agrees that this is an unacceptable service standard.

Agrees to a report to Transport and Environment Committee in two cycles which sets out the reasons for the service failure, the lessons learned and any actions that need to be taken forward to ensure that the service does not fall short again.”

By Councillor McKenzie - Westfield Court

“Council:

Notes:

·                Westfield Court is a mixed tenure block of 92 flats in which the Council is a minority owner.

·                The Council is the Property Factor for the entire block.

·                The estimated communal heating charge paid to the Council by owners and private tenants of Westfield Court has risen substantially* in 2024/25 compared to the rate charged in 2023/24. 

·                A substantial charge* was issued on 05/10/23 to “balance off Common Charges” from 2022/23.

·                Residents have not received any information on how the energy is procured by the Council, such as: the name of the energy supplier, the rate charged in Kilowatt hours and the standing charge.

·                Commercial gas and electricity used by heat networks was capped in 2023/24 under the UK government’s Energy Bills Discount Scheme (EBDS), but this price ceiling was abolished on 31 March 2024.

·                The poor condition of the communal heating system means that residents experience frequent loss of heating and hot water, particularly during winter months.

·                Reports of declining standards of maintenance of the building and its surrounding areas, and a decline in standards of communication with residents.

·                The Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Capital Programme 2021/22 states:

“A full building condition survey has been commissioned for Westfield Court; to inform the long-term asset management strategy of the block. The partial replacement of the heating system is due to complete in early 2021/22.”

·                It has been reported to Finance and Resources Committee on 3 March 2022 that the condition survey has been completed and an update on proposed works was provided to ward councillors on 09/06/22. However, no further details have been reported, no heating system replacement has occurred, and there has been no reference to Westfield Court in subsequent HRA capital programmes.

·                The Fees and Charges agreed in the Council’s budget for 2024/25 state, both for “Communal Heating - Westfield Court - Gas fired heating and hot water” and “Communal Heating - Westfield Court - Owner occupiers' boiler maintenance”:

“Freeze charges: ongoing issues with systems providing heat and determining the appropriate charging tariff for energy use”.

Believes:

·                That the Council should not automatically pass on increases in commercial energy prices to residents without due consideration of the implications.

·                That the Council, acting as Property Factor, has a duty to be open, transparent and fair in dealings with residents, and must provide information in a clear and easily accessible way.

 Requests, in relation to Westfield Court:

1)         That the increase in the communal heating charge for 2024/25 and the bill issued to “balance off Common Charges” from 2022/23 should be reviewed urgently. The review should include, but not be limited to:

a)         A clear breakdown of all service charges issued from 2021/22 until 2024/25.

b)         Details of how the energy is procured by the Council, including, but not limited to: the name of the energy supplier, the rate charged in Kilowatt hours and the standing charge.

c)         An explanation of why the agreed Fees and Charges are not being applied in  ...  view the full agenda text for item 8.9

By Councillor Lezley Marion Cameron - Organ and Tissue Donation Week

“Council:

Notes that Organ and Tissue Donation Week 2024 is taking place from 18-24 September.

Understands that everyone aged 16 and over has a choice to be an organ and tissue donor, or to opt out.  Registering our decision and sharing it with loved ones makes it easier for friends and family to honour it.

Council further notes: 

To date, only just over half of people in Scotland have formally registered their decision re: donation of their organs and tissue;

That circa 500 people in Scotland are currently awaiting an organ transplant; and 

Only 1% of people die in a way which makes organ donation possible, making every opportunity for donation precious.

Council agrees to work with NHS Lothian, Council ALEOs and other city partners to promote and support Organ and Tissue Donation Week 2024, by raising awareness of the need for organ and donor donors in Scotland and encouraging staff and citizens to make and register organ and tissue donation decisions."

By Councillor Faccenda - Cables Wynd House

“Council recognises:

1)         The ambitious project to retrofit Cables Wynd House and Linksview House to create safe and warm houses for the future.

2)         Notes the role of the Cables Wynd Community Forum, supported by Inspiring Leith in bringing the voice of residents into the design process, as well as conducting surveys to identify the current maintenance priorities of residents and specifically the unreliable lifts, which due to frequent breakdowns and unreliability mean some residents no longer use them and that residents prefer to prioritise complete replacement of lifts in the retrofit project.

Council resolves to:

Present an additional report to Finance and Resources Committee to identify costs to renew all lifts as part of the retrofit project.”

By Councillor Meagher - Tenanted Acquisition

“Council:

·                Notes the importance of the Mixed tenure improvement service and the work that is being carried out to retrofit homes

·                Notes the Scheme of Assistance within the June 2018 report into the MTIS which stipulated that:

o       An owner occupier could voluntarily sell their home to the Council while allowing them to stay in their home, becoming a tenant.

o       Tenants of the Council are granted a Scottish Secure Tenancy (SST). Under the SST, the Council would then be responsible for the costs of future repairs and maintenance to the property.  

·                Notes the importance of the consolidation of council properties in blocks, in order to carry out retrofitting work, improving the lives of tenants, and also to increase the overall council housing stock

·                Notes the centrality of limiting homeless presentations as part of the ‘Housing Emergency Action Plan’

·                Notes the importance of preventative homelessness teams, including the Family and Household support team, and Private rental sector teams

o        Further notes that these teams would still be the principal point of contact for Tenants, across multiple tenures, who are at risk of homelessness

·                Notes that legislative changes risk putting pressure on homeless presentations from the Private Rental Sector

·                Notes that it is not the City of Edinburgh council that is evicting private tenants

·                Recognises the challenges associated with tenanted acquisitions and the motion brought to the Housing Homelessness and Fair Work Committee in May, and the upcoming report.

Therefore, Council agree, prior to approval of an amended Acquisitions and Disposal Policy, to include:

In the cases of last resort where, during council housing consolidation work, private tenants, who have been served notice to leave by private owners selling to the Local Authority, are at risk of presenting as homeless due to eviction, the council, and officers, will consider requests to stay in the property where exceptional circumstances are evidenced by the private tenant and where the tenant has no other housing options. In the event that stay is granted, tenants would transfer from their previous private tenancy to a SST in the same way that the policy covers owner occupiers.”

Owners selling to the council would still sell their property to the council as empty, and a tenant given leave to stay would end the private tenancy on the day on which the new SST begins.”

By Councillor Parker - Community Planning and Climate Adaptation

“Council:

1)         Welcomes funding secured by the Edinburgh Community Climate Action Network (ECCAN) from the Scottish Government to support the formation and development of the Community Climate Hub and associated activities in the city, and thanks officers for the in-kind support offered towards ECCAN through this process.

2)         Welcomes funding for the Climate Forum Coordinator within the Council budget for 2024-2025.

3)         Notes the potential overlap between the activities of the Community Climate Hub and Climate Forum and therefore recognises the need for clarity around the role of the Climate Forum and Community Climate Hub, and the Council’s relationship with each.

Further:

4)         Notes that support for net zero communities is included in the Council’s 2030 Climate Strategy.

5)         Notes that the Council’s (draft) Climate Ready Edinburgh plan references the need for sustained and meaningful community engagement as the city is adapted in response to the changing climate, including the need for specific support for marginalised groups who will be disproportionately impacted by the climate and nature emergencies.

Additionally:

6)         Notes opportunities within work ongoing at the Edinburgh Partnership to review the community planning process, including consideration of how communities are engaged on issues relating to the climate and nature emergencies.

7)         Recognises the need for any proposed reform to community planning to pay particular attention to how we can build resilience within communities in the face of the climate and nature emergencies, including what support will be in place for marginalised groups, in line with a climate justice approach.

Therefore:

8)         Requests a report to Policy and Sustainability Committee in two cycles to outline:

a)         The relationships which exist between the Community Climate Hub, Climate Forum and the Council.

b)         Details about how the implementation phase of the Council’s adaptation strategy will engage with communities, including opportunities to build on existing conversations around community planning reform.

c)         Ideas about what role community organisers could play in supporting and coordinating community action for climate and nature, including information about any budgetary requirements to take this work forward.”

By Councillor Davidson - Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA)

“Council:

1)         Is disappointed that despite the new academic year starting in less than a month and a half, there is no clarity from the Scottish Government regarding the size or nature of the funding for Educational Maintenance allowance for the academic year 2024/25.

2)         Believes this funding is an important tool in the council’s aims to reduce attainment and attendance gaps in Edinburgh’s schools.

3)         Agrees that the Scottish Government's failure to provide sufficient clarity on the situation makes it extremely difficult for officers to plan for the next year.

4)         Furthermore, it believes that the council should be able to provide eligible pupils and their families with reassurance at this point in the cycle, but the lack of information from the Scottish Government is preventing that from happening.

5)         Therefore, calls for the Council Leader to write to the Scottish Government calling for urgent clarity on the funding, eligibility criteria and delivery mechanism for the academic year 2024/25 and for a commitment to a multi-year plan so the council is not left in this situation in future years.”

By Councillor Thornley - Salvesen Community Football Club

“Council notes;

1)         That the Council has recently completed consultation on a New Physical Activity and Sport Strategy, in which special emphasis is placed on the importance of removing barriers to sport and equality of access for all.

2)         That Salvesen Community Football Club are currently ‘homeless’ without a club base. This necessitates using sites across the city, one of which is the Forrester High Campus.

3)         That this results in challenges to club cohesion, consistency and timetabling.

4)         That both the Council and SFA have identified a chronic shortage of access to suitable pitches in the local area, restricting the number of children who want to play for Salveson CFC and other local clubs.

5)         The poor state of repair of the 2G pitch, leading to a lack of desire to play on the pitch.

6)         The mission of Salvesen CFC to foster a sense of community in addition to a passion for football, the success they have achieved in that mission to date, and that Salvesen CFC is one of only two clubs covering Edinburgh who provide teams and games for children with neurodivergence.

Council also notes:

7)         That conversations are ongoing between Salvesen CFC and the Council regarding the 2G pitch space at Forrester High Campus, but that these have encountered severe delays.

8)         That Salvesen CFC have had positive discussions with the SFA concerning funding to upgrade the pitch to 3G, but that any support is contingent upon acquisition of a long-term lease.

Council therefore agrees;

9)         That Salvesen CFC, being a club rooted in their community, are exactly the kind of group that the Council should be supporting in their efforts to equalise access to sport and break down barriers to participation.

10)       That officers will, working alongside Salvesen CFC, begin the process of establishing a long-term lease and work in partnership with Salvesen CFC to facilitate the 3G replacement of the pitch.

11)       That an update on progress of this work will be provided in the Business Bulletin of next meeting of the Culture and Communities Committee.”

By Councillor Younie - Dalmeny Primary School

“Council notes;

1)         The financial pressure the Council is experiencing is impacting upon all service delivery, including education provision.

2)         A ramification of these pressures is the reduction at Dalmeny Primary School of the number of class streams, despite there being a classroom empty and available for use in the building.

3)         Dalmeny Primary School has acted in previous years, through placing out of catchment requests from nearby South Queensferry, to relieve the pressure on the overcapacity Queensferry Primary School and that these requests were accommodated without difficulty to the benefit of both schools.

4)         That Dalmeny’s Parent Forum has noted its significant concern that there will be an extremely negative impact upon the school’s viability, due to the decreasing capacity and roll.

5)         The specific and unique context Dalmeny Primary is in due to its rurality and provision of relief to the oversubscribed Queensferry Primary.

Council agrees to request a report to the next Education, Children and Families Committee which outlines options which would address the concerns of families impacted and ensure the ongoing viability of Dalmeny Primary School.”

By Councillor Mumford - Edinburgh Council's Support for Peace and Justice in Palestine

“Council:

1)         Notes that since the Council first declared its support for an immediate, bilateral ceasefire in December 2023;

            a)         The International Court of Justice has ordered Israel to refrain from any acts that could fall under the Genocide Convention and to ensure its troops commit no genocidal acts against Palestinians;

            b)         The Chief Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court has filed for arrest warrants for senior figures in both Hamas and the Israeli Government including prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu;

            c)         Eight more UN member states have recognised the State of Palestine including Spain and Ireland, bringing the total number to 144;

2)         Further notes

            a)         Public campaigns against corporations funding or supporting the ongoing military attacks on Palestine have successfully led to major cultural institutions cutting ties with these corporations, including The Edinburgh book festival, Edinburgh Pride, and music festivals across the UK;

            b)         In May, Edinburgh Council adopted an ethical advertising and sponsorship policy which precludes accepting advertising or sponsorship deals with arms manufacturers;

3)         Finally:

            a)         notes recent research by Hope Not Hate suggesting that one in five teachers are seeing a negative impact on pupil wellbeing arising from issues related to the conflict, including a significant increase in antisemitic and Islamophobic incidents;

            b)         notes that a recent visit by the Israeli Ambassador to Edinburgh was cancelled after strong objections from members of the Jewish Community in Edinburgh;

Therefore, Council: 

4)         Reaffirms its call for an immediate ceasefire and unconditional release of all hostages held in Israel and Palestine;

5)         Recognises our responsibility under the Genocide Convention to take all possible measures to ensure the Council is not providing support for states or corporations carrying out, legitimising or benefiting from acts of genocide;

6)         Requests that this responsibility forms a core part of the discussions around the Council’s new procurement strategy, in addition to the previous decision of council that this should also include consideration of ethical procurement more generally;

7)         Writes to the UK and Scottish Governments expressing:

a)         Support for recognition of the State of Palestine and calling on the UK Government to recognise the State of Palestine, as our representative at the UN;

b)         Support for the cases at the ICJ and ICC and calling on the UK government to provide support for them at the UN;

c)         Support for an arms embargo, believing that neither government – being bound by the UK’s signature to the International Arms Trade Treaty - should be providing arms to Israel or financing arms manufacturers;

d)         Support for all practical help that can be extended to Palestinians travelling to the UK and Scotland including visa schemes and financial support;

e)         Our request that the Israeli Ambassador not be invited to Edinburgh until such time as the Jewish Community in Scotland withdraw their objections to her visits.

8)         Writes to the Lothian Pension Fund requesting that they consider removing their investments from companies complicit in the  ...  view the full agenda text for item 8.17

By Councillor Caldwell - Sustainable Urban Drainage and Edinburgh Street Design Guidance

“Council

Recognises;

1)         The Scottish Government’s ‘Water, Wastewater and Drainage’ policy (2003) banning the construction of new drains into Combined Sewers, and that new gullies can only typically be installed as part of wider works.

2)         The Climate Crisis and Biodiversity crisis, the former of which has led to higher ‘exceedance events’ than in previous decades and can cause both accessibility issues for walkers and wheelers, and in serious cases cause both public and private infrastructure damage.

3)         That the Planning department produces regular iterations of the ‘Edinburgh Street Design Guidance’, the last revision of which predates National Planning Framework 4 (NPF4).

Affirms;

4)         That alternative drainage and water capture systems on public land will be key to collecting rainwater.

5)         Some alternative sustainable urban drainage and water capture systems, such as rain gardens, can also play a role in enhancing the biodiversity and nature of our city.

6)         It’s essential that all five Place departments which may have a role to play (Gullys, Flood Prevention, Roads & Pavements, Greenspace, and Major Infrastructure Projects) are able to easily liaise and share appropriate resource to strengthen mitigations against more frequent exceedance events.

Requests;

7)         A Report to Planning Committee in two cycles which outlines;

a)         The role of gullies alongside alternative drainage/water capture systems in future revisions of the Edinburgh Street Design Guidance advisory notes and examples, if possible, where on the public realm this best practice has been utilised.

b)         What ongoing steps the Planning Department and the Council as a whole are taking to liaise with SEPA, Scottish Water and the Scottish government to ensure every community in the city can be treated equitably against flooding on both private and public surfaces.

c)         What steps the Planning Department take and could take to liaise with other Council Place departments (such as listed in Point 6) to ensure public realm infrastructure projects can also meet NPF4 Policy 22 and LDP 18 and 43 as best practice, as well as 2020 Edinburgh Street Design Guidance Section 3.1.

d)         How Section 75 contributions (specifically) have traditionally been leveraged to mitigate flooding and enhance local biodiversity using drainage systems and blue-green infrastructure on public spaces.

8)         This report is subsequently referred to Governance, Risk and Best Value Committee for cross-departmental risk resilience scrutiny.”

By Councillor Heap - Pride Month

“Council:

1)         Welcomes the celebration of Pride in Edinburgh this month;

2)         Understands that pride is a celebration of the diversity, history, achievements and equal status and dignity of the LGBTIQ+ community;

3)         Celebrates the significant strides made in LGBTIQ+ equality in recent decades, but

4)         Further understands that Pride is also a protest against the continuing, and in some cases, increasing, inequalities faced by this community;

5)         Notes with regret the 26% and 2% yearly increases in, respectively, sexual orientation and transgender hate crimes in Scotland in 2022/23, with transgender hate crimes being the highest on record;

6)         Notes with regret no UK city is a member of the Rainbow Cities Network

7)         Welcomes the flying of the Progress Flag from the City Chambers for the entirety of Pride Month.

8)         Resolves that the forthcoming updated Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Strategy should redouble efforts to remove homophobia, biphobia, transphobia and other forms of anti-LGBTIQ+ discrimination in the city and promote full equality and inclusion of LGBTIQ+ people in Edinburgh.”

By Councillor Kumar - School Road Safety - James Gillespies High School

“Council:

Noted concerns from parents at James Gillespie’s High School in relation to deficiencies to road safety measures around the school.

Notes that despite speed humps and a 20-mph limit, cars are often observed at high speeds, most particularly on Warrender Park Road.

Notes that placement of bins around junctions and double parking by cars at school pick up and drop off times has significantly reduced visibility for safe crossing by pupils. This includes observations of pupils crossing behind bin lorries at peak times.

Council notes further concerns from residents:

a)         there is a lack of clear signage that there is a school ahead.

b)         there is no crossing assistance at the high school end of JGHS.

c)         observes that with the closure of white House loan near JGPS cars treat White House Loan and Warrender Park Road as one road making it unclear if the junction is still functional.

Notes with sadness and regret on previous incidents relating to pupil safety and driver behaviour.

Agrees to explore further traffic calming measures around James Gillespie’s High School and brings findings as part of the School Travel Plan Review at a meeting of the Transport and Environment Committee.”

By Councillor McFarlane - Edinburgh Park Arena

“Council:

1)         Welcomes the plans for a new 8,500 capacity arena by AEG at Edinburgh Park that were recently unanimously approved and recognises the significant cultural, economic and employment opportunities that this will bring to the city.

2)         Notes the site is incredibly well connected to public transport options and agrees that private vehicle traffic to and from the arena will need to be minimised to protect nearby residential amenity and comply with our strategic climate and emissions targets.

3)         Therefore requests officers

a)         work with Edinburgh Tram / Lothian Buses and AEG to investigate the scope for integrated event / public transport ticketing to encourage sustainable travel reporting back to Transport and Environment Committee via the Business Bulletin.

b)         engage with local schools and charities to explore community links, cultural outreach, and potential employment opportunities.

4)         Further requests that council officers meet engage with AEG to encourage a good working relationship from the offset and use early opportunities to encourage their support for key CEC Business Plan and Culture Strategy outcomes inclusive of Real Living Wage accreditation, use of local suppliers and widening access to culture.”

By Councillor Jones - Coastal Defences and Flood Management Strategy

“Council notes –

1)         That the Scottish Government published the “Dynamic Coast 2 project” in 2021, to assist local authorities and other stakeholders identify where the greatest risks are from coastal erosion this decade and into the future and that significant sums of money area available to assist local authorities with this work.

2)         At present, the City of Edinburgh Council has no clear strategy for an integrated plan for Coastal Defence and Flood Management Resilience.

3)         Council therefore requests a report to the Planning Committee, within three cycles, setting out a strategy for Coastal Defences and Flood Management Resilience to include proposed consultations with the Scottish Government and key stakeholders and fully costed solutions for environmental projects.

4)         Further, Council agrees the report should indicate what work has taken place to date, what monies have been received by the Scottish Government since 2020 and how have these monies been spent.”

By Councillor Flannery - The Causey Development and Active Travel

“1)        Council regrets that -

‘The Causey project is not part of the Council’s current Active Travel Investment Programme (ATInP) 2021-26. A review of the ATInP is currently underway and this will include assessing and prioritising potential new projects from across the city for inclusion in a new ATInP 2024-29. The potential to incorporate The Causey project into the new ATInP will be considered as part of the process. The outcomes of the review will be reported to the Transport and Environment Committee in autumn 2024.’

2)         The Causey Development, Southside Newington, is ‘the creation of a public square, widening pavement, and traffic calming measures in West Causewayside.’ The Health Foundation promotes the benefits of Active Travel in ‘increasing community safety and cohesion.’ While Active Travel Paths for All promotes ‘increased physical, mental and social health’ benefits.

3)         Further, the Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work Committee 8/23 states at 3.5 -

‘The Causey was put forward as a viable candidate and the traffic regulation order and Roads Determination order were confirmed in June ’22.’ At 4.5, and Appendices 3 & 4, this recommendation is repeated as part of the Place-Based Investment Programme.

Communication from The Causey Trust has been with Sustrans, the anticipated funder, and accommodated Sustrans' required, extensive outcomes. The Trust learned in late 2023 that capital works funding would now come directly from Transport Scotland Active Travel Infrastructure fund.

4)         Next Steps

Officers to circulate a briefing by the next Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work Committee in August regarding the Causey’s non-inclusion in current ATInP, despite recommendations from Place-Based Investment Programme agreed at this Committee.

Identify other projects potentially affected by the absorption of capital works directly into ATInP.”

By Councillor McNeese-Mechan - Dalai Lama

“Council notes that the last visit of His Holiness the 14^th Dalai Lama to Edinburgh took place in 2004, when he was welcomed by the then Lord Provost.

Also notes that the Dalai Lama, also known as Tenzin Gyatso, is approaching his 89^th birthday on 6^th July.

Notes that in addition to being the spiritual leader of the Tibetan Buddhist faith, the Dalai Lama is an internationally recognised figure for his work in supporting efforts towards peace and reconciliation, and he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989.

Council therefore asks the Lord Provost to write to the office of the Dalai Lama and extend the city’s wishes for his good health on the occasion of his birthday.

Council further asks that the Lord Provost liaise with the Edinburgh Interfaith Association and the Edinburgh International Centre for Spirituality and Peace to explore the feasibility of inviting the Dalai Lama to make a return visit to the city for events centred on striving for peace in turbulent times.

Such events may include but are not limited to offering opportunities for schoolchildren to meet and ask questions of the Dalai Lama, and a public talk at the Usher Hall on the spiritual leader’s visions for peace as we approach the end of the first quarter of the 21^st century.”

By Councillor Dalgleish - Out of the Blue 30th Anniversary

“Council:

Notes that 2024 is the 30th Anniversary of the opening of Out of the Blue Arts and Education Trust in Edinburgh.

Recognises Out of the Blue’s core mission to create affordable and appropriate spaces, resources, projects and opportunities for the residents of Edinburgh to be creative, and to make diversity of creativity more visible.

Notes the important and positive impact Out of the Blue has had on Edinburgh and its residents, particularly in Leith and North Edinburgh.

Extends its congratulations to the staff, volunteers and users of Out of the Blue who have provided a high level of commitment and service to the community of North Edinburgh for 30 years.

Asks the Lord Provost to recognise this achievement in an appropriate manner.”

By Councillor Faccenda - Citadel Youth Centre

“Council congratulates Willy Barr, Manager of Citadel Youth Centre on winning the Inspirational Leader Award at the YouthLink Scotland National Youth Work Awards on 12^th June 2024.

Understands that since 1980, the Citadel has been a safe and supportive place for young people in Leith organising youth clubs, trips, life lessons working with families, young mums and older people as well as offering one-to-one supports to young people who need extra help.

Notes that in a climate of funding challenges Willie Barr leads a team of committed youth workers and volunteers who make life better for many.

Commends the work of Willie Barr and asks the Lord provost to recognise this in an appropriate manner.”

By Councillor Day - Jim McFarlane, Chairman of Lothian Buses

“Council,

Acknowledges the almost 10 years of service of Jim McFarlane, Chairman of Lothian Buses.

Understands Jim was appointed Chair in July 2015 after a distinguished career with Scottish Enterprise and its predecessor The Scottish Development Agency where he held a number of senior positions, including Managing Director Operations, Chief Executive Edinburgh and Lothians and Chief Executive Borders.

Notes that in recognition of his contribution to Scotland’s economic development he was awarded an honorary doctorate by the University of Edinburgh in 2010.

Gathers that Jim has shepherded Lothian Buses through the challenges of the covid pandemic and reform.

Congratulates Jim on this milestone and asks the Lord Provost to celebrate this in the most appropriate manner.”

By Councillor Day - MBE for LIFT’S Pauline Bowie

“Council:

Congratulates Pauline Bowie, Founder and Director of Low Income Families Together (LIFT) for receiving a MBE for services to the community in Muirhouse.

Notes Pauline set up LIFT in 2017, and has worked tirelessly ever since to ensure local families in need can access vital support through advocacy, advice, skills and training. Services include support applying for benefits, finding temporary accommodation, provision of baby hampers for new parents, supplying food vouchers, and many more.

Commends the work of Pauline Bowie and asks the Lord Provost to recognise this in an appropriate manner.”

By Councillor Day - Celebrating 150 years of the Cockburn Association

“Council:

Congratulates the Cockburn Association which in 2025 will be celebrating 150 years as a civic organisation. 

Notes the Association was founded in 1875, making it one of the oldest conservation, planning and architectural advocacy organisations in the world, named after Lord Cockburn - one of Scotland’s first conservationists.

Notes as part of the 150^th anniversary celebrations, the Association is publishing a review of activities between 1875 and 2025, reflecting on Cockburn’s legacy and considering what prospects might be in store for the city towards 2049.

Commends the work of the Cockburn Association and asks the Lord Provost to recognise this in an appropriate manner.”

By Councillor Bruce - Currie Chieftains Winning Premiership SRU Title 2023-24

“Council congratulates Currie Chieftains on becoming the SRU Premiership Champions for season 2023-24.

Council also recognises that Currie Chieftains are now the current holders of the Bill McLaren Shield

Council also recognises that the club that was founded in 1970 does a huge amount of work in this sport at grassroots level to promote and develop the game of rugby in the local area for the benefit of the sport and the community which caters for males and females in all different age groups.

Council therefore asks the Lord Provost to mark the success of winning the SRU Premiership by holding a civic reception in honour of all the players and backroom staff of Currie Chieftains on this fantastic achievement".

By Councillor Heap - Lord Provost's Budget– for answer by the Leader of the Council

By Councillor Heap - Military Jet Flypasts during the Edinburgh Royal Military Tattoo – for answer by the Convener of the Culture and Communities Committee

By Councillor Aston - Garden Waste Permits – for answer by the Convener of the Transport and Environment Committee

By Councillor Nicolson - Blackhall Library – for answer by the Convener of the Culture and Communities Committee

By Councillor Lang - Fixed Penalty Notices - Public Littering – for answer by the Convener of the Transport and Environment Committee

By Councillor Thornley - Utility Works and Restoration in Parks – for answer by the Convener of the Culture and Communities Committee

By Councillor Parker - Adaptations in Council Homes – for answer by the Convener of the Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work Committee

By Councillor Osler - Communal Bin Hub Location Criteria Workshop – for answer by the Convener of the Transport and Environment Committee

By Councillor Osler - Consultation on the Use of West Princes Street Gardens and the Ross Bandstand – for answer by the Convener of the Culture and Communities Committee

By Councillor Mumford - Council Financial Links – for answer by the Convener of the Finance and Resources Committee

By Councillor Mumford - Visit of the Israeli Ambassador – for answer by the Convener of the Culture and Communities Committee

By Councillor Parker - Mixed Tenure Improvement Service – for answer by the Convener of the Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work Committee

By Councillor Mumford - Accessible Temporary Toilet Facilities for Portobello – for answer by the Convener of the Culture and Communites Committee

By Councillor Caldwell - Teacher Contracts – for answer by the Convener of the Education, Children and Familites Committee

By Councillor Cowdy - Rising Rolls Planning – for answer by the Convener of the Education, Children and Families Committee

By Councillor Whyte - Public Toilets – for answer by the Convener of the Transport and Environment Committee

By Councillor Work - Section 75 Agreement – for answer by the Convener of the Development Management Sub-Committee

By Councillor Aston - Member Waste Mailbox – for answer by the Convener of the Transport and Environment Committee

By Councillor Campbell – Waste – for answer by the Convener of the Transport and Environment Committee

By Councillor McFarlane - Charities and Third Sector Organisations – for answer by the Convener of the Culture and Communities Committee

By Councillor Kumar - Missed Collections – for answer by the Convener of the Transport and Environment Committee

By Councillor Macinnes – Waste – for answer by the Convener of the Transport and Environment Committee

By Councillor McFarlane - Charities and Third Sector Organisations – for answer by the Convener of the Culture and Communities Committee

By Councillor McNeese-Mechan - Edinburgh Trams – for answer by the Convener of the Transport and Environment Committee

By Councillor McNeese-Mechan - Service Failure - Waste Collection – for answer by the Convener of the Transport and Environment Committee

By Councillor Nols-McVey – Recycling – for answer by the Convener of the Transport and Environment Committee

By Councillor Work - Section 75 Agreement – Queensferry – for answer by the Convener of the Planning Committee

By Councillor Kumar - His Majesty's Inspectors – for answer by the Convener of the Education, Children and Families Committee

The Council, is requested under Section 50(A)(4) of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973, to exclude the public from the meeting for the following items of business on the grounds that they would involve the disclosure of exempt information as defined in Paragraph 8 and 9 of Part 1 of Schedule 7A of the Act.

Proposed Acquisition of Completed Homes Across Edinburgh - referral from the Finance and Resources Committee

Proposed Acquisition of Completed Homes Across Edinburgh – Phase 2 - referral from the Finance and Resources Committee

Replacement HR and Payroll System (Oracle Fusion) - referral from the Finance and Resources Committee

By Councillor Davidson - Pupil Teacher Ratios – for answer by the Convener of the Education, Children and Families Committee