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 6 February 2025 – submitted for approval as a correct record

The City of Edinburgh Council of 20 February 2025 – submitted for approval as a correct record

Leader’s report

Arm's Length External Organisation (ALEO) Governance Framework - referral from the Governance, Risk and Best Value Committee

City Plan 2030 - Delivery Programme  - referral from the Planning Committee

Firework Control Zones – referral from the Culture and Communities Committee

UK Shared Prosperity Fund Update - referral from the Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work Committee

British Sign Language Implementation Plan for 2025-2030 – referral from the Policy and Sustainability Committee

Annual Treasury Management Strategy 2025/26 - referral from the Finance and Resources Committee

Capital Strategy 2025-35 - Annual Report - referral from the Finance and Resources Committee

By Councillor Kumar - Condemning Ethnic Cleansing of Palestinians

“Council Notes:

1)         Recent comments by U.S. President Donald Trump advocating for the forced expulsion of Palestinians from Gaza amount to support for ethnic cleansing.

2)         Foreign Secretary David Lammy failed to unequivocally condemn these remarks, instead stating that Donald Trump is right, while avoiding direct criticism.

3)         Leaders across Europe, including in Ireland, Spain, and France, have strongly rejected any forced displacement of Palestinians, calling it a violation of international law and a threat to regional stability.

4)         First Minister John Swinney has clearly stated that any suggestion Palestinians should be removed from their home is unacceptable and dangerous.

Council Believes:

5)         The forced displacement of Palestinians from Gaza or any part of Palestine is a grave violation of international law and constitutes ethnic cleansing.

6)         The City of Edinburgh has a moral obligation to stand against all forms of ethnic cleansing and forced displacement, in line with its commitment to human rights and justice.

7)         The UK Government must take a clear and principled stance against any proposals that support or enable the ethnic cleansing of Palestinians.

Council Agrees:

8)         To condemn, in the strongest and most unequivocal terms, any advocacy for the forced expulsion of Palestinians from their homeland.

9)         To call on the UK Government to issue an explicit rejection of Donald Trump's remarks and to reaffirm its commitment to upholding international law.

10)       To instruct the Council Leader to write to Keir Starmer, urging her to make clear that the UK government must condemn any form of ethnic cleansing and forced displacement of Palestinians in the strictest possible terms.

11)       To reaffirm Edinburgh's solidarity with the Palestinian people and support efforts towards a just and lasting peace based on international law and the right to self-determination.”

By Councillor Parker - Al Dawayima Stone

“Council:

1)         Notes that commemorative stones are located at Bruntsfield Links and Regent Road Gardens which mark the massacre which took place at Al Dawayima.

2)         Recognises that during times of violence and conflict in Palestine, including the ongoing onslaught we continue to witness in Gaza and across the region, it has been comforting and beneficial for people in Edinburgh to be able to turn to such monuments as places to gather in solidarity or for quiet reflection.

3)         Expresses thanks to the Friends of the Meadows and Bruntsfield Links for their approach to councillors and their suggestion that a bench next to the commemorative stone at Bruntsfield Links would be welcomed to enable more vulnerable residents to make use of this space for reflection.

4)         Asks officers to consider providing such a bench adjacent to the Al Dawayima commemorative stones, in collaboration with Morningside and City Centre ward members and the Friends of the Meadows and Bruntsfield Links.”

By Councillor Lang - Three Year Anniversary of the Invasion of Ukraine

“Council

1)         Recognises and values the strong ties which exist between Edinburgh and our sister city of Kyiv, with 2025 marking 36 years since these two cities were twinned.

2)         Notes that 24 February 2025 marked the three-year anniversary of the illegal and unjustified invasion of Ukraine by Russia and recognises the profound impact the war has had on the Ukrainian people, including the death of over 10,0000 and the displacement of millions, as well as the devastating impact on the country’s infrastructure.

3)         Repeats its solidarity with the people of Kyiv and wider Ukraine, and commends their strength, bravery and resilience in the face of sustained Russian aggression.

4)         Agrees the Lord Provost should write to Vitali Klitschko, Mayor of Kyiv to express this Council’s continued and unwavering support to those living in our sister city and to the wider Ukrainian people.

5)         Believes all efforts at a UK, European and NATO level must remain focused on securing a lasting peace which respects the sovereignty of Ukraine and the rights of its people.”

By Councillor Parker - Arms Company Use of Braid Hills

“Council:

1)         Notes that, in December 2024, arms company Leonardo were granted permission to access the Braid Hills to test “communication equipment”.

2)         Does not consider it appropriate for the Council to facilitate the activities of arms companies on Council land in this way.

3)         Therefore, agrees that, as part of the review of Park Management Rules, information is included in the report on how it could be set out in the Rules that no further licenses will be granted to Leonardo – or any other arms manufacturer – to permit the testing of any equipment on the Braid Hills or any other Council owned land.

4)         Requests that future updates on the Park Management Rules considered at Culture and Communities committee will contain an update on how the proposed new rules observe this request.”

By Councillor Staniforth - Edinburgh Women’s Aid and Support for Trans Women

“Council:

1)         Notes with concern that Edinburgh Women’s Aid have confirmed that they do not allow trans women - even those with a Gender Recognition Certificate - into their group therapy or refuge spaces.

2)         Notes that Edinburgh council has repeatedly reasserted that Edinburgh is an inclusive and welcoming city to LGBTQ+ people, and that this must include supporting people facing violence and abuse.

3)         Therefore resolves that Edinburgh council shall review its future SLAs and contracts with service providers offering support to people facing domestic abuse and sexual violence to make it clear that we expect services to be fully trans inclusive, in line with our position on LGBTQ+ equality, but always accepting that they must act within the law.

4)         Resolves that the leader of the council should write to Edinburgh Women’s Aid encouraging them to reverse their policy position and provide comprehensive services to trans women.

5)         Additionally, requests a briefing note for all Elected Members within one cycle setting out the current support that is available for trans and non-binary people facing domestic abuse in Edinburgh, and any identified gaps in this provision.”

By Councillor Staniforth - Edinburgh Does Not Welcome Donald Trump

“Council:

1)         Notes that Donald Trump attempted to overturn the democratic result of the US election on 6^th January 2021.

2)         Notes that since returning to the presidency Trump has used the power of the executive to prosecute crimes to influence Eric Adams, the mayor of New York; sacked federal workers simply for not being cis white men; pardoned those involved in the attempted Jan 6^th coup; removed protections for trans people; cut USAID despite not having approval from Congress; held talks over Ukraine with Putin without inviting a representative from Ukraine; raised tariffs on Mexico and Canada and threatened the sovereignty of Canada and Greenland.

3)         Notes that there is every sign that Trump’s administration is an emerging fascist state with his special advisor Elon Musk performing Nazi salutes at his inauguration.

4)         Therefore resolves that Edinburgh Council – its officers and members – will not, in any official capacity, be involved in a Donald Trump or JD Vance visit to Edinburgh and will not use its resources to support such a visit in any way.”

By Councillor Lezley Marion Cameron - Afghanistan Women and Girls

“Council notes with concern:

That since the Taliban returned to power in 2021, women and girls in Afghanistan have been and are continuing to be stripped of their human rights.

Peace negotiations excluded women, and the safeguarding of the rights of women and girls were not part of the discussion.

Multiple decrees and directives directly target their autonomy, rights and daily life as well as their social and political status.

Women are being excluded from public life and are being condemned to a life of dependency.  Women are also being denied access to education, to working in many sectors of society, to gyms and parks.

They are restricted from working from outside the home except for a few sectors and particular roles and are required by law to cover themselves from head to toe. 

The impact of Taliban rule on the physical and mental welfare and wellbeing of women and girls includes social isolation and reported increases in female suicide and attempted suicide.

Afghanistan now ranks amongst the world’s countries with the highest rates of gender-based violence with the judicial system which once allowed female judges and lawyers dismantled.

Amnesty International has reported surges in child marriage, arbitrary detention and torture.

Woman are required to be accompanied by a male chaperone (mahram) when travelling further from home.  In many parts of the country women are interrogated and harassed if travelling without a chaperone even close to home.

The UN reports that by April 2023, 80% of school age girls were out of school and their analysis on the generational impact of more that 1 million girls out of school and 100k out of university is that by 2026 there will be a 45% increased rate of early childbearing and a 50% rate of maternal mortality. In 2023 data revealed that 28.7% of Afghan girls under 18 were married and 9.6% under the age of 15.

Reduction in foreign aid delivered by women workers will have a detrimental impact on women’s educational levels, health and opportunities.

Women human rights defenders have been and continue to be targeted and arrested.

The growing risk of the Taliban’s discrimination against women becoming normalised through international sporting events.

Council also notes with regret the recent decision by the UK government to cut international aid.

Council welcomes and supports:

The joint working of the UK and Scottish Governments which is enabling 19 medical students to complete their studies in Scotland, thanks to the tireless work of the Linda Norgrove Foundation; and

The provision of £1milion per annum by Scottish Government in providing through the Humanitarian Emergency Fund to international humanitarian crises, including in Afghanistan;

The monthly Silent Vigils for the Women and Girls of Afghanistan being held in Edinburgh and organised by the Women’s Rights Network Scotland.

The determination of women and girls in Afghanistan seeking to assert their human rights and their calling of their restoration.

Council agrees:

Cuts to UK international aid will disproportionately  ...  view the full agenda text for item 8.7

By Councillor Graham - Community Councils

“Council

Acknowledges, with thanks to officers, the completion of the Community Council Elections process that took place across the City, last month.  

Notes that due to a late surge in applications during the last two days of the allotted nomination period the election results were delayed.

Recognises that 39 out of 47 Community Councils will be able to go forward and continue their good work over the next 4 years. Is disappointed that 8 Community Councils did not manage to attract enough members from their local communities to be convened or re-convened.

Further notes that there will be a further opportunity for those 8 Community Councils to be established, with another round of nominations. The period for these nominations is the 31^st of March 2025 to the 21^{st of} April 2025.

Therefore, requests a report be brought forward to the appropriate committee in three cycles that

1)         engages with Community Councillors and Elected Members to capture their views on how the election process unfolded in their areas and collate any lessons learned for the future.

2)         investigates the potential of how the role of participatory budgeting can be integrated into the work of Community Councils, especially with the Transient Visitor Levy funding that will be allocated to each ward from 2026.”

By Councillor Caldwell - Tactile Pavements on Continuous Footways

Council notes;

1)         The installation of continuous footways (ESDG G7) along major projects such as City Centre West-East Link and Trams to Newhaven.

2)         Several residents and representations from accessibility groups such as the Edinburgh Access Panel and sight loss charities have raised serious concerns about the current locations of tactiles, if present, at the edge of the building line.

3)         The principle of pedestrians having greater priority but recognises some confusing and conflicting information on Council web publications. However, notes that the majority of drivers in the monitoring period gave way to pedestrians, and that tactile pavements are a foundational part of street design; warning pedestrians with sight loss, and guide dogs, of potential hazards.

4)         Anecdotal evidence of vehicles parking on the continuous footway without sanction.

5)         In answer to Cllr Dijkstra-Downie’s question at Transport and Environment committee on 30^th January 2025, the Council is not seeking to change the layout in the next iteration of Edinburgh Street Design Guidance closer to the carriageway citing concerns that demarking the edge of the carriageway ‘may send a message to drivers that pedestrians don’t have priority and would be expected to wait for motorists to pass’.

6)         This concern has not been tested.

Therefore requests;

7)         That officers consider trialling tactile paving closer to the carriageway at a continuous footway location/or locations as part of ongoing monitoring.

8)         The draft results are reported to the Edinburgh Accessibility Commission.

9)         Officers establish the legal position of parking on continuous footways and whether there is need for change or redetermination to keep continuous footways clear.

10)       These actions are reported back to Transport and Environment committee along with recommendations of the new Edinburgh Street Design Guidance.”

By Councillor Booth - Audit Scotland Report - Reducing Car Use

Council:

1)         Notes the publication by Audit Scotland of their report ‘Sustainable Transport – Reducing car use’ on 30 January 2025, examining efforts by the Scottish Government and Scottish local authorities to reduce car use in line with targets;

2)         Notes the report found “a lack of leadership has resulted in minimal progress against the demanding policy intention” (p.3), that “The Scottish Government and councils will find it hard to significantly reduce transport emissions unless they make difficult and potentially unpopular decisions to discourage car use” and that “without demand management the car kilometres target will not be achieved” (p.35)

3)         Notes the report recommendations that councils and RTPs should:

“- As part of their Local Transport Strategies and Regional Transport Strategies, set out to what extent they will contribute to the [national] 20 per cent car kilometre target. This should include measurable key performance indicators, costs and timescales.”

“- Regularly share good practise and learning, including their detailed analysis of how to achieve the target in their local area.”

4)         Notes that although a carbon assessment of transport policies was undertaken for the first review of the City Mobility Plan in February 2024, the council currently has no modelling or measurable routemap on how its 30% car km target will be achieved;

5)         Therefore agrees to receive a report to Transport and Environment Committee within 3 cycles responding to the Audit Scotland report and in particular to the recommendation on measurable KPIs, costs and timescales.”

By Councillor Kumar - Leader's Questions

“Council notes that elected members have the opportunity to question the Council Leader at Full Council meetings. This is a vital component of good governance, transparency, and public accountability.

Council further acknowledges the unique scale and complexity of Edinburgh as Scotland’s capital city, with significant responsibilities that require effective scrutiny and debate.

To ensure elected members can fully engage in this process, Council agrees that:

1)         Questions to the Council Leader should not be restricted solely to the content of the Leader’s Report but should allow for broader issues relating to Edinburgh as the capital city.

2)         The Council Leader’s responses should be limited to two minutes per question to maximise the number of questions that can be addressed, ensuring all members have a fair opportunity to participate.

3)         Agrees to delegate authority to the Chief Executive to make necessary changes to the Standing Orders.

Council reaffirms its commitment to openness, accountability, and robust democratic scrutiny in the governance of Edinburgh.”

By Councillor Nicolson - Proposed Benefit Cuts and Protecting Public Services from Austerity

“Council notes with deep concern the UK Government’s proposed cuts to welfare benefits, including reductions to disability benefits and reforms to the Work Capability Assessment. These cuts threaten to push some of the most vulnerable members of our society further into hardship, increasing poverty and inequality at a time when many are already struggling with the cost-of-living crisis.

Council believes that any cuts to Social Security will have detrimental impact on Edinburgh and Scotland due to reduced funding through the Barnett formula.

Council further recognises that austerity measures not only harm individuals reliant on social security but also place immense strain on public services, including local government, the NHS, social care, and other essential services. Continued austerity have led to severe underfunding, job losses, and diminished service quality.

Council believes that economic challenges should not be met with austerity-driven cuts that disproportionately impact the most vulnerable and weaken essential public services. Instead, the UK Government must adopt policies that prioritise fairness, investment, and long-term economic and social stability.

Council therefore:

1)         Condemns the UK Government’s plans to cut welfare benefits, particularly those that impact people with disabilities and those unable to work due to health conditions.

2)         Rejects any return to austerity and calls on the UK Government to ensure that public services, including local government, healthcare, education, and social care, are properly funded to meet the needs of communities.

3)         Calls for urgent protections for vulnerable people, ensuring that welfare reforms do not lead to further poverty, inequality, or hardship.

4)         Urges the Council Leader to write to the Chancellor and relevant UK Government ministers to express strong opposition to welfare cuts and demand sustainable investment in both social security and public services.

5)         Reaffirms its commitment to supporting residents impacted by welfare reforms and protecting the vital public sector services that communities rely on.”

By Councillor Macinnes - Condemn State Visit Invitation to Trump

“Council:

Notes the recent Oval Office conversation between President Trump and Vice President Vance of the United States and, President Zelenskyy of Ukraine, was primarily one of shock and great concern. The comments of the Trump administration broke accepted and expected rules of international diplomatic engagement.

Notes that the subsequent removal of US military aid from Ukraine has only deepened concern about the nature of the current US support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and the impetus this may give to Russia’s expansionists.

Notes the offer made, only the day before, by the UK Prime Minister to host a second state visit to the UK by the US President.

Believes that this visit should now be reconsidered in light of the actions by the US administration.

Agrees that the First Minister’s statement to the Scottish Parliament clearly illustrates the difficulty in regarding the current US administration as a steadfast ally in the defence of Ukraine’s sovereignty and the integrity of its borders, and of European democracy.

Requests that the Council Leader and the Lord Provost jointly write to all relevant UK government ministers, the Royal Household, and relevant ministers of the Scottish Government indicating that the Edinburgh, as Scotland’s capital city, will not engage in any civic or leadership activity which might be requested, if this visit goes ahead. That this letter should include the content of this motion and be circulated to all elected members for information.

Notes the ongoing welcome given by Scotland’s government and communities to those who have sought sanctuary from this ongoing war, which has already cost the lives of thousands of men, women and children.”

By Councillor Dobbin - Condemning the Loss of International Aid

“Council notes with deep concern the UK Government’s decision to reduce international aid, which will have devastating consequences for some of the world’s most vulnerable communities. The loss of funding has undermined vital humanitarian projects, including those supporting education, healthcare, and disaster relief, at a time when global challenges require greater, not lesser, cooperation and solidarity.

Council further recognises and commends the leadership of Anneliese Dodds MP in championing the cause of international aid and standing up for the UK’s role as a responsible global partner. Her commitment to supporting the world’s poorest and most vulnerable people reflects the values of compassion and international responsibility that this Council upholds.

Council believes that maintaining a strong commitment to international development is not only a moral duty but also in the best interests of global stability and prosperity.

Council therefore resolves that Council Leader writes to UK Prime Minister and Chancellor of Exchequer to:

1)         Condemn the UK Government’s cuts to international aid and call for their immediate reversal.

2)         Recognise and express gratitude for the leadership shown by Anneliese Dodds in advocating for the restoration of aid and highlighting its importance.

3)         Formally express this Council’s opposition to the aid cuts and urge a commitment to reinstating funding for crucial international programmes.”

By Councillor Munro - Establishment of an Infrastructure Forum for Better Coordination of Infrastructure Works

“Council notes:

The closure of the Cameron Toll roundabout between Peffermill Road and Old Dalkeith Road from 4th to 14th March to allow Network Rail to replace the bridge deck over Old Dalkeith Road. While these works are necessary, the repeated closures over the past year have caused significant inconvenience to residents. These disruptions reflect a concerning lack of co-ordination between the Council and key agencies, including Network Rail, SGN, and Scottish Water. The City of Edinburgh Council is responsible for co-ordinating infrastructure works within its jurisdiction, ensuring effective collaboration with external agencies to minimise disruption to residents.

And requests that Council:

1)         Notes the closure of the Cameron Toll roundabout between Peffermill Road and Old Dalkeith Road from 4th to 14th March to allow Network Rail to replace the bridge deck over Old Dalkeith Road.

2)         Recognises this closure, in addition to the repeated closures over the last year, has caused significant inconvenience to residents, businesses, the Royal Infirmary and general traffic flow.

3)         Understands these repeated disruptions reflect a lack of co-ordination between the Council and key agencies, including Network Rail, SGN, and Scottish Water.

4)         Requests a report from the Executive Director of Place to the Transport and Environment Committee within three cycles, which would consider:

a)         The feasibility of establishing a Council chaired Infrastructure Forum to improve collaboration and co-ordination between the Council and key agencies involved in infrastructure works;

            b)         The potential structure, role, and responsibilities of such a forum;

c)         Recommendations for any immediate actions the Council could take to strengthen co-ordination of infrastructure works and minimise disruptions for residents.”

By Councillor Munro - Misuse of Quad Bikes and Dirt Bikes in Public Spaces

“Council Notes:

The misuse of quad bikes and off-road vehicles in Edinburgh’s public spaces, including parks, green spaces, and pedestrian areas, is an escalating problem that undermines the safety and enjoyment of these spaces for residents and visitors alike. This behaviour causes substantial environmental harm, noise pollution, and creates significant safety risks for families, children, the elderly, and other vulnerable members of the community. Despite existing regulations, enforcement measures have proven inadequate in addressing this persistent issue, resulting in ongoing incidents, and growing concern among the public about the effectiveness of current policies.

Therefore, Requests officers report back to Full Council in three cycles on:

1)         Numbers of incidents involving quad bikes and off road vehicles being misused in parks, green spaces and on pavements over the last three years;

2)         What enforcement measures and being used, and whether there are others including the use of Community Protection   Notices (CPNs) under the Antisocial Behaviour etc. (Scotland) Act 2004 which could be used to ensure those carrying out this behaviour are dealt with appropriately;

3)         Consideration of how a coordinated, multi-agency approach involving Police Scotland, local enforcement teams, and community groups to ensure that enforcement efforts are targeted, consistent, and visible, fostering greater public confidence in the safety of our parks and public spaces could be delivered and any associated costs;

4)         Officers detail whether any physical deterrents, such as barriers or signage, in areas frequently impacted by quad bike misuse have been put in place or have been considered to prevent such misuse;

5)         Officers report on CCTV in parks and public spaces and whether there are areas that currently lack surveillance which may benefit from installation of CCTV to assist in identifying and deterring offenders and improving enforcement capabilities and the associated costs of any installation;

6)         Details the costs of a public awareness campaign to deter perpetrators and to raise awareness of how to report incidents.”

By Councillor Munro - Commercial E-Bike Deliveries

“Council Notes:

The increasing use of e-bikes for commercial deliveries in Edinburgh and growing concerns over unsafe riding, including red-light running, pavement use, and reckless weaving through traffic; recent incidents, which have included collisions with pedestrians, illegal road use, and anti-social behaviour, are creating risks for vulnerable groups.

Council Recognises:

The concerns of residents over the increasing incidents and that reports by Police to Community Councils highlight the limited powers they have to respond and therefore:

Council Calls for a Report to be presented to the Transport and Environment and Regulatory Committees in two cycles which:

1)         Reviews the legal powers presently available to the Council regarding the regulation of commercial e-bike delivery riders and operators and existing options for regulation.

2)         Requests Police Scotland provide data on e-bike-related incidents and details options for targeted enforcement in problem areas.

3)         Details any engagement with major e-bike delivery platforms (e.g., Uber Eats, Deliveroo, Just Eat) raising the concerns expressed above and considering how we could work with them to address them.

4)         Details of any non-legislative measures available to the Council, such as designated e-bike delivery zones and public awareness campaigns on safe riding.”

By Councillor Cuthbert – Edinburgh’s Defence Sector and Economic Growth Opportunities

“Council notes:

1)         The UK Government has announced plans to increase defence spending to 2.5% of GDP from April 2027, representing the largest sustained increase in defence spending since the Cold War.

2)         The UK Government announced on 3 March 2025 the launch of a new defence innovation body to harness UK ingenuity and boost military technology

3)         Edinburgh is home to significant defence sector employers, including Leonardo UK, which added 170 new jobs in Edinburgh during 2024 as part of its expansion that created 1,400 jobs across its nine UK sites.

4)         Leonardo's Edinburgh site at Crewe Toll employs approximately 1,800 staff, specialising in surveillance radars and countermeasure systems, making it a substantial employer in the city.

5)         The defence sector provides high-skilled, well-paid jobs and apprenticeship opportunities, with significant potential for growth given the increased government investment in defence.

6)         Council believes: Edinburgh is well-positioned to benefit from increased defence spending due to the existing presence of major defence companies and the city's strong technological and engineering skills base.

7)         Increased defence spending presents a significant economic opportunity for Edinburgh in terms of job creation, high-value continuing employment, and apprenticeship opportunities.

8)         It has a role to play in supporting this sector's growth and ensuring Edinburgh residents can access the employment and training opportunities created.

9)         Edinburgh's universities and colleges could further strengthen their links with the defence sector to develop relevant skills pathways and research partnerships.

Council:

Requests the Head of Paid Service to prepare a report in three cycles for the Policy and Sustainability Committee setting out:

a)         The current contribution of the defence sector to Edinburgh's economy, including employment, apprenticeships, and supply chain impacts.

b)         Opportunities for Edinburgh to benefit from increased UK defence spending.”

By Councillor Munro - Black Ivy - Restaurant and Hotel

“Council:

Recognises and congratulates Black Ivy on their outstanding success at the National Hotel of the Year Awards 2025, where they were named City Boutique Hotel of the Year and received the Best Interior Design Award.

Commends the dedication and innovation of Black Ivy’s leadership and staff, particularly celebrating Calum Anderson on winning the Rising Star Award 2025, and Billy Lowe for being honoured with The Fellowship 2025 for his dedication to Scottish hospitality.

Acknowledges the hard work and commitment of the entire Black Ivy team in creating a welcoming and high-quality hospitality experience that enhances Edinburgh’s reputation as a premier destination for visitors.

Notes that thriving local businesses such as Black Ivy contribute significantly to the city’s economy, employment opportunities, supporting enterprise, economic growth, and local investment.

Commits to continuing to foster a business-friendly environment in Edinburgh that allows independent hotels, restaurants, and hospitality venues to flourish, ensuring that the capital remains a hub of excellence in tourism and hospitality

Further congratulates Black Ivy on this remarkable achievement and wishes them continued success in the future.”

By Councillor Munro - Congratulating Boroughmuir Blaze U18 Womens Basketball Team on Historic Scottish Cup Victory

“Council congratulates the Boroughmuir Blaze under-18 women’s basketball team on their outstanding achievement in winning the Scottish Cup for the first time in the club’s history. The team delivered an exceptional performance in the final at the Regional Performance Centre in Dundee, securing a decisive 91-41 victory over the Gladiators.

Council recognises the dedication and skill of the players, as well as the hard work of their coaches, Bart Sengers and Eden Simpson, in guiding the team to success. Commendation is given to Noura Saleh, who was named Most Valuable Player after an impressive individual performance.

Council further acknowledges the vital role of sport in promoting physical and mental well-being, fostering teamwork, discipline, and resilience, and strengthening communities. The success of Boroughmuir Blaze serves as an inspiration to young athletes across Edinburgh and highlights the benefits of participation in grassroots sport.

The Boroughmuir Blaze Basketball Club, established in 1961, has a long and proud history in Edinburgh, originally founded by a group of basketball enthusiasts from Boroughmuir High School. Over the years, the club has grown and now offers an extensive development program with teams across various age groups and skill levels.

The club is committed to providing opportunities for young people to engage in the sport and develop their skills, with initiatives that include youth drop-in classes, basketball camps, and inclusive programs for children with additional support needs.

The club also runs morning skills sessions and has partnered with strength and conditioning coaches to ensure the physical and mental well-being of young players. These efforts, alongside the club’s welcoming and supportive atmosphere, are central to its mission of fostering the next generation of basketball talent in Edinburgh.

Council wishes the Boroughmuir Blaze under-18 women’s basketball team continued success in future competitions and extends its best wishes to the players, coaches, and all involved in the club.”

By Councillor Munro - Recognising Greenbank Pre-School's Green Flag Achievement

“Council:

Congratulates Greenbank Pre School on being awarded its seventh Green Flag, recognising its commitment to sustainability and high-quality outdoor learning.

Acknowledges that the Green Flag Award, originally developed for public parks, is a prestigious accreditation for excellence in managing green spaces. It highlights the importance of safe, well-maintained, and stimulating outdoor environments.

Commends Greenbank Pre School for its dedication to enriching outdoor learning through initiatives like nature trails, vegetable gardens, and wildlife habitats. Achieving the Green Flag Award demonstrates its strong commitment to sustainability, biodiversity, and environmental responsibility.

Further notes the Pre School’s long history, originally established by Greenbank Church in the 1970s, forming a partnership with the City of Edinburgh in 1999, and adopting its current name in 2003. The school is overseen by the Kirk Session of Greenbank Church, with a Management Committee of church members and parents.

Council extends its best wishes to the pupils, staff, and wider school community as they continue their work in environmental education.”

By Councillor Munro - Lothian Buses Named Large Business of the Year

“The Council congratulates Lothian Buses on being named Large Business of the Year at the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce Business Awards on Thursday, 27 February. This award, open to all Edinburgh businesses with over 100 employees, recognises Lothian’s strong performance over the past 12 months and its vital contribution to the city’s public transport network.

The Council acknowledges the hard work and dedication of Lothian Buses 2,600+ employees, from frontline staff to those working behind the scenes, who ensure the delivery of reliable public transport services across Edinburgh and the Lothians.

In 2024, Lothian Buses transported 116 million passengers, representing a 5% increase on 2023, demonstrating its essential role in keeping Edinburgh moving. The company also won the UK Bus Operator of the Year at the National Transport Awards in London last October. The judging panel of the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce commended Lothian Buses for its commitment to its people, business growth, and community service, as well as its investment indigital innovation and sustainability.

The Council further recognises Lothian Buses continued investment in workforce development, having trained over 450 new drivers at its dedicated training school, achieving an impressive 94.6% pass rate, compared to the industry average of 61.5%. The Council also notes the success of Lothian Buses driver Thomas Gilhooley, who won first place at the UK Bus Driver of the Year Finals in Blackpool.

The Council expresses its appreciation for Lothian Buses drivers, who not only provide a vital public service but also, on occasion, face challenging conditions, including instances of abuse while carrying out their duties.

Their commitment ensures that residents can travel safely and reliably across the city, making public transport an essential part of Edinburgh’s daily life.”

By Councillor Macinnes - Behaviours of the Previous Labour Leader – for answer by the Leader of the Council

By Councillor Aston – Hovercraft - for answer by the Convener of the Transport and Environment Committee

By Councillor Aston - Grangemouth Refinery and the Forth Freeport – for answer by the Leader of the Council

By Councillor Heap - Lie Detection Software and AI – for answer by the Leader of the Council

By Councillor Thornley - Flooding Mitigations in North Gyle – for answer by the Convener of the Transport and Environment Committee

By Councillor Lang - Queensferry Road Speed Limit Reduction – for answer by the Convener of the Transport and Environment Committee

By Councillor Lang - Davidson's Mains Roundabout – for answer by the Convener of the Transport and Environment Committee

By Councillor Davidson - Child Poverty Index Model – for answer by the Leader of the Council

By Councillor Caldwell - Sports Pitches Strategy 2025-2030 vs. PFI, PPP and Planning Restraints – for answer by the Convener of the Culture and Communities Committee

By Councillor Parker - Greenbank-Meadows Quiet Route – for answer by the Convener of the Transport and Environment Committee

By Councillor Parker - Community Gardens Framework – for answer by the Convener of the Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work Committee

By Councillor Parker - Community Heating Charges – for answer by the Convener of the Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work Committee

By Councillor Ross - Parking on Melville Drive – for answer by the Convener of the Transport and Environment Committee

By Councillor Hyslop - Holiday Hubs – for answer by the Convener of the Education, Children and Families Committee

By Councillor Hyslop – Greenbelt – for answer by the Convener of the Development Management Sub-Committee

By Councillor McFarlane - Perished Trees at Picardy Place and Hunter Square – for answer by the Convener of the Transport and Environment Committee

By Councillor Whyte - Implementation of Full Cost Charges in Care Homes – for answer by the Leader of the Council

By Councillor McKenzie - Landlord Registration – for answer by the Convener of the Regulatory Committee

Tram Litigation - CEC v DLA Piper Scotland LLP

(a)        Report by the Executive Director of Corporate Services

(b)        Referral from the Finance and Resources Committee