3 March 2020

Fairmilehead Community Council Ordinary Meeting held on Tuesday 3rd March 2020 in Fairmilehead Parish Church

Present: Colin Anderson (Vice Chair); Norman Tinlin (Secretary); Fiona Simon (Treasurer); Barbara Dick (Buckstone Association); Gillian Holmes (Winton Loan Woodland Trust); Fraser Simon; Stella Thomson;

Ex Officio: Councillor Arthur; PC Oliver Ford

17 members of the public

Apologies: Dennis Williams (Chair); Johanna Carrie; Councillors Doggart and Rust; George Symonds.

The Secretary opened the meeting by explaining that Dennis Williams (Chair) was unable to attend due to business commitments and that Councillors Doggart and Rust were unable to attend due to attendance at Council meetings. The meeting would be chaired by Colin Anderson (Vice Chair).

1. Police Report PC Ford from Ward 2 presented the report which had been prepared by PC David Crow. The report can be found at Appendix A.

PC Ford noted that there had been 6 housebreakings and 4 thefts from cars. He reminded the meeting that it is best to keep all things of value, such as bikes, out of sight. Make sure doors, cars and sheds are all securely locked.

Questions/Discussion a) In response to a question as to whether the housebreakings and car thefts might be related, PC Ford agreed that as the offences had been committed within a small geographical area it was likely that the crimes are linked. Possibly the same opportunist thieves operating during the period from 04th February to 19th February. b) In light of the recent comments by Chief Constable Ian Livingstone that the number of police officers in Scotland could be cut, he was asked whether this would affect community policing? PC Ford said he did not know whether there would be a cut to the current level but perhaps it would be clearer by the end of summer. c) PC Ford was asked to check up on a specific car which had been seen in the local area. d) PC Ford was asked who is now in charge of the community policing in Ward 8. The new Sergeant is Tricia Clarke. e) The question of credit card fraud was raised. The monetary level at which banks pursue fraudsters was thought to be £10000. f) The Secretary advised that further to the letter distributed at the January FCC which outlined changes to the police call handling system (Contact Assessment Model – CAM) these changes have now been implemented within Lothian. In the call centres responding to 101 calls, staff and police officers have been trained to make an enhanced assessment of threat, risk, harm and vulnerability for everyone who contacts the service. This requires those calling to give far greater detail of incidents when calling. In providing greater depth of detail it is hoped that a more appropriate and tailored response by police can be provided to each individual caller and that scarce police resources can be better utilised.

2. HcL Transport – Dial-a-bus & Dial-a-ride services Laura Kearney from HcL Transport, previously known as Handicabs, started by saying that she had contacted Community Councils within the Edinburgh, Midlothian, East Lothian and West Lothian areas to offer to do a presentation in order to expand awareness of the services provided.

She explained that HcL is a charity providing an assisted transport service for people with mobility challenges. It is a door-to-door service for people with limited mobility who are unable to use

1 © Fairmilehead Community Council conventional public transport due to age, illness, health condition (both long and short term), disability or geographical remoteness. The service takes two forms; Dial-a-bus and Dial-a-ride.

Dial-a-bus: This service operates at least once per week from most areas in Edinburgh and the Lothians. It collects people from their home and takes them to local shopping centres and supermarkets. Within this area it is a Thursday service going to Hunters Tryst. The buses can take two forward facing wheelchairs and drivers give any assistance needed to aid people on the journey from helping with putting coats on to carrying groceries into the home. However, they do not unpack. A system is in place on the bus to ensure the correct shopping goes with each person. Outings last around 1-1.5 hours and cost £1.90 each way. Payment is in cash although HCL are trying to raise finance to introduce a card payment facility. First journey is free. Journeys need to be booked in advance.

Dial-a-ride: subject to driver availability this system operates seven days a week including evenings. Most journeys are within the Edinburgh and Lothians area, but they can go further afield. Approximately 25% of journeys are medical related although it is also used for shopping trips, theatre visits, cinema outings etc. The service is cheaper than taxis being charged on a mileage basis of £4.75 for the first mile plus 40p per mile thereafter. It is used by both individuals and small groups. All drivers are paid, and the aim is to offer a 365 day a year service. During Christmas 2019 8 drivers volunteered to work in order that people could reach families. There is £5.00 off the first journey. Advance booking is advisable.

Clients must register to use the services. Once registered full details of local dial-a-bus services will be sent. The cost of each dial-a-ride journey will be given at time of booking.

The service is people centred. It is not just transport. It is a great way of socialising, meeting new people, making new friends. There is a great deal of continuity in the service as drivers tend to remain with the service long term and cover specific routes. Clients and drivers get to know one another something of particular importance for those suffering from progressive dementia.

Questions a) The question of the use of concession bus passes on the service was raised. Laura said that as over 78% of passengers are over the age of 60 and therefore in possession of a concession pass HcL hope to obtain the technology to trial the use of passes this year. b) In response to the question of the number of vehicles it was explained that 10 vehicles are based in West Lothian and 20, plus 2 back up vehicles, at Bilston. c) Asked if similar services exist elsewhere, Laura said she knew of the dial-a-journey service within the Stirling and Falkirk area. This service is not related to HcL Transport

Laura ended the presentation by saying that posts from HcL can be followed on Facebook

3. Minute of Meeting Held On 4 February 2020 These were approved by the meeting.

4. Matters Arising a) Noticeboard The Secretary advised the meeting that he was still trying to find a suitable contractor. He intends to contact some of the other local community councils to ask for suggestions. b) Swanston to Portobello Cycling Path Following on from the presentation given by Ross Woodside of the Edinburgh and Lothians Greenspace Trust (ELGT) at the previous meeting, Stella Thomson reiterated the concern that the section of the proposed path located within this area had been devised without any consultation with those who live in the area and use cycle paths. Stella, as a member of the community council, agreed to contact Mr Woodside to discuss this issue further.

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5. Correspondence a) Date for comment on both the Choices for Edinburgh City Plan 2030 and City Mobility Plan has been extended to 31st March 2020. Closing date subsequently changed to 30 April. b) Scottish Government Community Land Team Event – Community Rights to Buy. To be held 7 April 2020 Eric Liddell Centre, 15 Morningside Road, EH10 4DP. The Secretary is to attend. Subsequently cancelled.

6. Councillors’ Reports Councillor Arthur distributed copies of his report:

Safer Streets At the Transport committee last week I voted to reduce the speed limit on all 40mph roads in my Ward to 30mph - this is a great result for all the local people who have been asking for these roads to be made safer. The Conservatives opposed the plan for safer streets, and argued in particular that the Biggar Road should remain at 40mph. As a reminder, this road: 1. Is only 540m long; 2. Has 3 junctions along its length; 3. Is lined with houses; 4. Has 2 shops and a cafe on it; 5. It has traffic lights at one end, and a roundabout at the other; 6. Is crossed by children on the way to school; and, 7. Has one of the worse accident rates of any 40mph road in Edinburgh.

I know not everyone will agree with this change, but I hope we can agree that it will make my Ward safer for us all. The streets included are: 1. Biggar Road 2. Buckstone Terrace 3. Lanark Road 4. Frogston Road

The consultation will soon begin, and if approved the limit will change in 18 months. The text below are the responses to a web survey I set up last year to understand the desire to reduce the speed limit on 40mph roads in my Ward to 30mph. I don’t claim my survey is “scientific” or conclusive, but it does show that locally there is a desire for safer roads.

For Change 1. I don’t see the need for 40mph speed limit within residential areas. Would love the limit to be reduced on biggar road so I can more easily take the bus to school (Pentland) with my children. 2. Cars come off the bypass and still go to fast down this road especially with all the new housing 30 would be plenty please also included the slow down sign and also the cost of policing (speed checks) on a regular bases without this people will remain going to fast 3. This is essential! 4. Volume of traffic, day car parking, extra houses and junctions and shops, mean this road is becoming more and more dangerous. A 30 limit would help take some of the heat out the traffic 5. The road is too fast. It’s in a fairly built-up area with lots of parked cars. There’s no need for it to be so fast there -30mph would be more appropriate. I’m really worried about my son and his friends crossing the road when they start at Boroughmuir next year. 6. The area around the shops at Buckstone is particularly dangerous as the bend in the road means that people do not have good sight lines when crossing, particularly outside the shops where people double park. 7. There is no need to travel above 30mph in Edinburgh 8. There have been two fatalities near our house within the last 5 years and many near misses that we have seen, it is against the spirit of road safety to drop the limit to 20 on tiny streets with no traffic and leave thousands of people to cross 40mph roads with loads of traffic, whilst going about their daily business to catch buses etc. 9. We live on Pentland View, and regularly struggle to pull out of our road safely given the speed of oncoming traffic and difficulty seeing past parked cars outside the Buckstone shops. I also feel vulnerable (especially with my two young children) crossing the main road here due to the speed of the traffic.

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10. The section of road from Fairmilehead to the top of braidburn is residential and as traffic volume has risen so have the incidents of careless driving putting both residents and motorist in greatear danger there is no need for a residential street to be 40 mph 11. Extremely dangerous roads – especially the charwood grill junction. 12. As a resident of Winton who has to cross Biggar Road on a daily basis with my children to get the bus, I believe reducing the speed on that road is absolutely necessary to make the passage safer 13. I fully agree. These roads pass through residential areas, and it would be much safer for everyone if the speed limit was reduced. 14. I’m a car driver, but I also regularly cycle on the 702 to Fairmilehead, as do many others. It’s a busy bus route, and many school kids getting off the buses and crossing, and a lot of older folks living in the area. 40mph limit here is not appropriate, and it’s common to see cars travelling a lot faster than 40mph. 15. Recent accidents demonstrate the need to bring the limit down on these roads. It’s also a great opportunity to put some meaningful provision for cyclists. 16. These Highly residential areas should limited to 30mph 17. These are far to fast for residential areas of Edinburgh with very close proximity to local schools. All of these roads are used daily by children and families to get to school, 40mph is unsafe and leaves me very nervous to cross . I have lived in the area for under 5 years and in that time I have been aware of at least 5 quite serious road traffic incidents on Buckstone Road alone, most including pedestrians. This urgently requires review. 18. Yes please. As a cyclist And bus user/walker who lives just off this road we need this badly for safety. Crossings are too infrequent for bus users carrying shopping etc and hard as a cyclist to safely navigate pinch points ( islands) and exit right over 3 lanes of traffic. 19. I lived on Biggar Road for 21 years, witnessing the speed of cars, still driven at bypass levels or drivers heading south from crossroads accelerating with the down hill & 2 lanes. It is a lethal & frightening road to cross, pedestrians avoid the area, local people use their cars to move around, especially when transporting their children. Reducing speeds would reduce car use, road safety, traffic density & improve local residents quality of life, health & air quality. 20. Should have been 30 limit years ago (F’head lights to Braid H Hotel). Especially at B’stone shops. 21. I cycle past the Buckstone shops almost daily and it’s an accident waiting to happen. Vehicles are double parked outside the shops making it even more unsafe for cyclists and other roads users not to mention all the school kids crossing to wait for buses into town. And the cycle lane is a joke, avoid at all costs unless you wanted floored by a opening car door. 22. I assume the City of Edinburgh accepts that we have a climate emergency? It really is time that pedestrians, cyclists and local bus services are given priority over motorists. The pedestrian crossing helps but as a cyclist you take your life in your hands trying to turn right out of the waterboard estate. Although the speed limit is 40mph many cars/vans/lorries are travelling faster. Please, in the interests of safety, reduce the speed limit to 30mph. 23. The road from Greenbank to the bypass has no business being 40mph. On-street parking is already a problem and is a significant hazard to cyclists. Parking should be forbidden from Riselaw Place southwards as far as the bypass. Or, create a bus lane. Speed reduction is needed in tandem with removal of hazards. 24. Please also consider safe pedestrian crossings near Craigdon Mountain Sports, ie of the Biggar Road and of the of the bypass slip roads. There’s a great walking path eastwards from Swanson village and onto the Mortonhall estate but it involves risking life and limb crossing the slip roads and then the A702. 25. Please – put the safety of vulnerable road users first. Thank you 26. Traffic volumes and on-street parking (with respect to the the A70) are probably the most significant, but sure: whatever it takes to start a process of making these roads safer. 27. Crossing this road is a danger cars do not just do 40mph they drive 45mph. There are houses on both sides of the roads and in such a residential area I have no idea why the speed limit is 40. 28. I would also like to see some traffic calming in Swanston Avenue as it is commonly used as a rat run when traffic builds up around the fairmilehead crossroads – driver speed to make up for their perceived lost time ? 29. Streets need to made safer for residents. 30. My main concern is Biggar Road as cars speed up this road after exiting the City Bypass. It’s almost impossible to get out of Swanston Avenue safely! But all the roads mentioned above require the speed to be reduced to 30 mph. 31. I still think there is a requirement for a Park and Ride at Lothianburn as the volume of traffic is increasing. You just need to look at the volume of cars parked on Comiston Road and side streets to confirm people are driving into that area then taking the bus into town. 32. This reduction in speed should have been implemented YEARS ago. All secondary school children living in Buckstone have had to cross that road to get to the bus stops, putting their lives in danger every day. Since our boys were at high school when we worried every day for their safety, the situation has been improved somewhat by the introduction of two crossing points but we all know that if a bus is coming the children will run. As long as the limit is forty many drivers feel safe to drive at fifty. I used to walk from my house to work at South Morningside primary and I found that quite a number of drivers actually didn’t always notice the

4 © Fairmilehead Community Council crossings anyway! There is also a problem with the twenty mph on Braid Road,where almost no drivers actually stick to the limit. There is a big 20 written on the road but JUST as they come off Comiston Road but it is a very sharp turn and drivers are too busy at that exact point to notice the 20. I think it might help a lot if we could have another big 20 painted on the road maybe twenty metres down Braid Road once drivers have negotiated the corner. 33. Thank you – we so need speed to reduce as volume and speed of cars is increasing. As residents of Pentland view we need a reduced limit all way to green bank to prevent cars from accelerating away from the shops going downhill to green bank. Coming out of PV already is unsafe when driving due to obscured view of traffic from double parked cars, commercial bins etc. Reducing speed would allow my daughter to safely cross the road from taking bus from town without taking her life in her hands. Parking also needs to be enforced in the area and near bus stops so that pedestrians can see when getting off bus and to allow safe crossings of road. I feel particularly for young and old people with current speed limits ( and our area has a very high proportion of families and elderly people). 34. The Buckstone shops area is an accident waiting to happen and someones child is going to be killed. It is the junction to Pentland primary, a busy nursery at Cranley, playgroup and after school club at St Fillan’s and access across the road for both commuters and high school kids. It needs to be considered urgently for reduction in speed 35. The current speed limit of 40mph is dangerously high given the numbers of pedestrians crossing, vehicles changing lanes or turning into and out of side roads, and bikes using the road. It gives the wrong signals to cars joining the road from the bypass, that they are still on a ‘fast road’ and that they should drive accordingly and expect others to do so; in practice this means less patience, tolerance and accommodation of other vehicles making manoeuvres, and greater danger for all road users. 36. A 30mph limit would be more appropriate to the usage of the road, more consistent with the surrounding 20mph roads, and would significantly reduce the risk of accidents. 37. There is no NEED for a 40 mph limit as at present. It doesn’t serve any purpose and drivers need to be calmed down immediately they come off or cross the by-pass and be aware they are in a residential area and in the City of Edinburgh. I’ve driven for over 40 years and the Fairmilehead cross roads and approaches make me very nervous as everyone seems intent on doing 50mph ‘attitudinally’. Hell for leather is the phrase that comes to mind. If the limit was reduced it would be well served by the illuminated signs that record speed and state the need to slow down to 30 mph. 38. Every high school aged child in the Buckstone and new Waterfield estate on the previous waterboard ground have to cross the road on Buckstone Terrace on their journey to Boroughmuir or other schools. It is insane given the number of RTA’s in the past that this road remains a 40 (meaning many do above this). The addition of the crossing may have helped a bit but in my opinion should have been lights for the junction rather than just a crossing and would have positioned the crossing point nearer to where Waterfield kids cross. Many kids continue to cross at the islands. The crossroads at Fairmilehead should also be reviewed. Turning right from Buckstone Terrace to Hunters Tryst which is a near blind junction, especially if cars queuing to turn right from the bypass, and is the only approach without a dedicated filter. Lane marking should also be reviewed to make left lane turn left and straight on, and right hand lane turn right only. Same coming from the bypass – 3 lanes should be left only, straight ahead and right only. 39. commuting by bike on this stretch would be a lot nicer 40. Parking outside shops at Buckstone Terrace, sometimes vehicles double parked, make it hard to see oncoming traffic travelling south when turning right from Pentland View. Parking restrictions on junction both in Buckstone terrace and Pentland View aren’t enforced. Have lived in Pentland View for 13 years and have never seen parking attendants here. 41. These are busy cyclist commuter routes with a dangerous pinch points at Buckstone shops. 42. The safety of vulnerable road users is more important than someone getting to the back of the next traffic queue a minute quicker than they otherwise would. 43. And A702 Biggar Road (Damhead to City Bypass) 44. I believe that the Council can not justify a 40mph limit in any residential area where housing is directly on to the road. 45. As a resident of Lanark Rd the speed of the traffic continues to increase as drivers are freed from the restrictions on the surrounding roads. This can only be addressed by reducing the speed on Lanark Road itself. It is a residential street with family homes on both sides and in my time here I have witnessed accidents involving people (thankfully no serious injuries) and many animal fatalities. The bottleneck on Lanark Road heading into town is created by increased housing in Currie and Balerno and reducing the speed after Gillespie crossroads towards Kingknowe to 30 would have little or no effect on journey time and make a significant difference to the safety of Lanark Road. 46. Speed limits change from 20mph to 40mph at Buckstone shops. 47. Large numbers of children need to cross this road to get to school. I’m sure you’re aware of the chances of survival if struck by a car at 40mph, compared to 30 or 20. People driving through see the 40 limit so don’t

5 © Fairmilehead Community Council realise it’s a highly built up area, so very often treat the road as a continuation of the bypass and go even faster. I think it’s unprecedented in the city for a 40mph road to traverse such a densley populated area. 48. Regular speeding on Buckstone Terrace. 30mph would make a big difference when reversing out into traffic with small children in car. 49. We have had our vehicles hit twice in the past year, I feel reducing the speed limit to 30moh would make our road much safer for pedestrians and cyclists. 50. The current speed limits are excessively abused and need to be reduced for safety reasons. 51. cars travel too fast on this section 52. Lanark Road traffic has become much faster recently and unless you use it , you are probably not aware of the danger , particularly to children and the elderly. 53. Essential with so bent youngsters and a nursery in the vicinity 54. These areas are all very residential and i use Lanark Road in particular for nursery pick up. Drivers go way to fast and am always concerned for the little ones coming out onto such a busy road,40 speed limit is too fast for such a built up area. . Against Change 1. None of them, just leave them as is….. 2. Given that the set limit is completely and utterly ignored minute by minute hour by hour and day by day on Braid Road for its entire length and you know this to be a fact due to you living in Buckstone. All reducing the speed does is enable you and others like the invisible Cllr [names removed] etc to say you have done something when in fact you have achieved nothing, see Braid Road any day any time. Thanks for the opportunity to vent , we have given up on everything else. 20mph a complete joke. 3. Nothing wrong with existing speed limits. Difficult to do 40mph most times in any case and accident figures don’t justify a cut in the limit. 4. I would like all roads to stay 40mph

Draft City Budget 2020/21 The City of Edinburgh Council faces unprecedented cuts, but I am happy to confirm that the cuts to library opening hours has been blocked by my Labour Group. Many thanks to Unison Edinburgh and all the local residents that got in touch about this - their comments helped us win the argument with the SNP. Nonetheless, significant cuts are still needed: 1. Thousands of pounds slashed from school budgets; 2. A threat to nursery teacher posts; 3. Community policing cut; and, 4. The unfair Council Tax will rise by almost 5%.

The cuts in schools that kids in my Ward attend are roughly as follows: 1. Bonaly Primary - £17,000 2. Buckstone Primary - £18,000 3. Colinton Primary - £7,000 4. Juniper Green Primary - £13,000 5. Oxgangs Primary - £10,000 6. Pentland Primary - £14,000 7. St Mark's Primary - £4,000 8. St Peter's Primary - £15,000 9. Boroughmuir High School - £75,000 10. Currie High School - £45,000 11. Balerno High School - £45,000 12. Firrhill High School - £70,000 13. St. Thomas of Aquin's High School - £45,000

School Catchments The latest School Roll Projection data has been published. Key changes for kids & parents (current and future!) in my Ward: 1. Buckstone PS - The rise in births has proved to be a "Buckstone Blip", so there are no issues at Buckstone PS. 2. Boroughmuir HS - The correction to Buckstone PS means some of the pressures are now reduced at Boroughmuir High School. When completed, the extension will lift capacity to 1,560 6 © Fairmilehead Community Council which should be ok at least until 2025 - nonetheless, the report says "The intakes and roll at Boroughmuir will be closely monitored. If the extension proves, in the long-term, to be insufficient to accommodate catchment demand then catchment change will be required. There is no scope to extend Boroughmuir High School further. Should catchment change ultimately be required, proposals would be developed to take account of CityPlan 2030 as part of the Council’s Education Appraisal." 3. Firrhill HS - This is slightly over capacity right now. The report says "Initial conversations with School Management have taken place and the first Working Group meetings are being scheduled. The latest S1 registration data from January 2020 (208 S1 pupils) is in line with projections (206 S1 pupils). However, should future S1 intakes rise beyond those projected the high starting roll could cause issues. Accordingly, actions to address unexpected increases should be identified."

The full data set is in the report: https://democracy.edinburgh.gov.uk/documents/s14764/7.7%20School%20Roll%20Projections%20 and%20Rising%20School%20Rolls.pdf **IMPORTANT** If you are concerned about school catchments and the impact new developments have on this, please ensure you complete Question 5 of the CityPlan 2030 Consultation - it is so important! Choice 5 - Education, Transport and Healthcare Infrastructure https://consultationhub.edinburgh.gov.uk/sfc/choicesforcityplan2030/consultation/ Fairmilehead Area News Fairmilehead Energy Hub Family Event - It was great to spend the afternoon of the 1st of March at Fairmilehead Parish Church with Fairmilehead Energy Hub. They gave local kids the chance to save their parents some money by making draught excluders and radiator reflectors. Mortonhall Tree Work - Mortonhall Golf Course plan tree work to the north of Buckstone Crescent. These trees are protected, so permission is being sought from the Council (19/05894/TPO) before any work gets underway. No work can be undertaken in the bird nesting season, so it is likely to take up to 5 years to complete. Richard Hall Stands Down as Lothian Buses MD - I'm sad he stood down rather than fix the accessibility problems he introduced. His resignation, however, offers an opportunity to review how Lothian Buses are managed. A publicly owned company must be publicly accountable - Councillors & passengers must have a greater say. Comiston Farmhouse -The developer has withdrawn their application (19/02636/FUL) to build on the Comiston Farmhouse site. I understand this is because an impasse has been reached with the planning department and the developer wanted to avoid a formal rejection. A fresh application will be submitted ASAP. I have discussed the issue with Ian Murray MP. Colinton Area News Spylaw Park Shed - For some time Colinton Village Enterprise - CVE have been using "The Shed" in Spylaw Park as the focus of some fantastic community events. In order to protect the building and use it to its full for community benefit, CVE hope to take full ownership of it from the Council using a mechanism called "Community Asset Transfer". I chaired a meeting a few weeks ago where CVE shared their plans, and it was agreed that the community benefit was clear and the business case was strong enough for the application to proceed to formal approval at a meeting this week. CVE will pay £40,000 plus legal fees and property administration fees. The formal paper is here: https://democracy.edinburgh.gov.uk/documents/s14832/8.9%20- %20Former%20Coachhouse%20Spylaw%20Park%20-%20Community%20Asset%20Transfer.pdf The plans will take time to be delivered, but I am in no doubt that the combination of the park, the Shed and The Colinton Tunnel will make this area the envy of many in Edinburgh. I am so proud to see all this happening in my Ward. Life Savers – Well done to the Colinton Inn, Edinburgh - They arranged CPR / Defibrillator training for around 30 local people last month. My Ward just got a little safer. Oxgangs Area News Polite Warning - The Council are picking up regular complaints about dangerous parking around Firrhill Crescent and are trying to be more responsive. The Wardens will be out again over the next few days... including in the evenings.

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Ward News Tram Works impact on Buses - Below is a press release from Lothian Buses on changes to their service from March 28th due to the tram works on Leith Walk. This will impact on the 10, 11 & 16. From Lothian Buses: Lothian has announced changes to its network as work is set to begin on Leith Walk for the next stage of the Trams to Newhaven project. The Leith Walk corridor will see significant traffic management put in place from Saturday 28 March 2020 for 18 months, resulting in major diversions to all bus services in this area. The company is urging all customers, not just regular commuters, to find out and plan in advance how this might impact on their journey. The main daytime services affected include the 7, 10, 11, 12, 14, 16, 22, 25 and 49, which will follow different routes on journeys towards Leith. Night buses will be similarly affected. Nigel Serafini, Commercial Director at Lothian, said: “With less than six weeks to go before the diversions begin, we would like to take this opportunity to strongly encourage as many people as possible to leave the car at home and consider all the active travel options including public transport to minimise the impact of congestion in this area. There is no doubt that this will have a significant impact on our customers but we’ve worked extremely hard to minimise disruption. Information on all services affected is also available on bus, on our website and through our social media channels and customers should plan their journey in advance using our mobile app. We thank our customers for their understanding and patience during these works.” City News City Transport Plan - The Council has published its draft "City Mobility Plan" - this details how the transport system must change over the coming decade to meet the needs of the people that live here. As well as looking at transport inside the Edinburgh, it also looks at how people travel here to work from East/West/Mid-Lothian & Fife. Please think about taking part in the consultation: https://consultationhub.edinburgh.gov.uk/sfc/city-mobility-plan/ Period Poverty - I popped down to Holyrood today for a rally just ahead of the vote for Monica Lennon MSP's bill on Period Poverty - it was more of a celebration with everyone from trade unions to the Girl Guides taking part. Monica deserves great credit for not giving up in her fight to ensure free universal access to period products. She won unanimous support apart from one MSP... who happened to be a man! True Grit - This is a reminder that the Council focuses its gritting activity on "Priority 1" routes. I am not a fan of this approach, but there is no funding to do more due to cuts. 1. The Priority 1 routes can be viewed here: https://tinyurl.com/GritRoute 2. If your grit bin needs filled, please use this link to report it: https://tinyurl.com/NaeGrit Report Illegally Parked Vehicles - Residents may be interested to know that they can now submit any parking "enforcement requests" via the Council's website. All requests are sent directly to the parking wardens to be actioned. www.edinburgh.gov.uk/parking/reporting-vehicles-parked- illegally?documentId=12712&categoryId=20275. Care & Repair - This is a wee reminder that Care & Repair Edinburgh offer affordable DIY and repairs for older and disabled residents. Full details: https://www.cre.scot/

Councillor Arthur made a number of brief comments: Firstly, he had recently voted at the Transport Committee for a reduction in the speed limit within the ward from 40mph to 30mph. Consultation on the issue will begin shortly and if approved the limit reduced in approximately 18 months. With reference to the setting of the City of Edinburgh Council Budget, in the face of substantive cuts, he was happy to confirm that the labour group had stopped cuts to library opening hours. In response to a question regarding the education budget he confirmed that the cuts amounted to roughly 1% of the main budget. With regard to school catchments he noted that projections look to indicate that there will be less pressure on Boroughmuir High School than previously thought. He encouraged anyone concerned about catchment issues to ensure they complete the consultation regarding the City Plan 2030, especially question 5. Lothian Buses. He noted the recent resignation of the Managing Director but hoped that it will be taken as an opportunity to review how it is run and increase accountability. In reply to questions regarding the running of the bus, tram, cycle hire systems he advised that they are essentially run

8 © Fairmilehead Community Council as separate, sometimes, competing, companies. When asked why the buses are an “arm’s length company” he responded that legislation makes it difficult for local authorities to run bus services. He noted that Edinburgh Council had recently agreed a partnership with the Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC) involving a 365 roomed hotel. It is likely that in future the main revenue of the EICC would come from this proposed hotel. Illegally parked vehicles can now be reported via the council’s website.

In the absence of Councillor Rust the Secretary circulated his report:

1. I have submitted written questions for next week’s Full Council in relation to Comiston Farmhouse:

1) Pentland View Close Support Unit/ Comiston Farmhouse was closed in January 2015 and “for sale” boards were subsequently put up that year. As of today’s date the property remains in Council ownership. What is the status of the “current sale”?

2) Please detail costs incurred by the Council to date since the closure and initial marketing in 2015, including: (a) officer time in Estates, Planning, Housing (HRA) and other service areas; (b) all legal fees; (c) all estate agency/marketing fees; (d) buildings insurance; (e) securing the building and grounds; (f) any other internal or external upkeep costs; (g) third party costs met; and (h) any other costs.

2. I have also submitted written questions in relation to the conflict between the new LED street lighting and household security systems following numerous complaints locally: 1) How many complaints / concerns have been received by the Council in respect of the installation and operation of new LED street lighting? 2) How many of these complaints/ concerns have been in connection with household alarm/intruder/safety/lighting systems? 3) What checks were undertaken or experience gathered from other local authorities prior to award of contract/successful tendering in connection with such systems? 4) What is the contractual position where householders have experienced costs in endeavouring to rectify issues with system conflict?

3. At today’s Education Committee I successfully moved an addendum in relation to Early Years and sustainability of nursery provision given national targets. This received cross party support and the Scottish Government will now be approached.

1) Committee notes that in addition to local authority provision, Partner providers: (a) currently provide around 40% of the 1140 hours places in Edinburgh making an invaluable contribution; (b) have serious concerns, as expressed by the National Day Nurseries Association, regarding the sustainability of future provision given that the hourly rate being paid to partner providers from August 2020 was set in 2016 and has not been increased since then. (c) seek continued thorough meaningful engagement with the Council through the Partners’ Monitoring Group and other available means. 2) Committee therefore welcomes the “independent review” of rates of Partner providers anticipated to start in August 2020 and requests a report to the next Education, Children and Families Committee regarding the scope of this review and timescales. Timescale should be advanced to ASAP in light of sustainability concerns raised by Partner providers. 3) In advance of the review, Committee agrees that the Council ought to approach Scottish Government regarding the ability of partner providers to charge in excess of the current hourly rate pending the outcome of the review.

9 © Fairmilehead Community Council

4) Committee requests to know the amount allocated to each child (on an hourly basis) in Local Authority nurseries.

4. I attended the ‘Italian Lunch’ at Oxgangs Neighbourhood last week.

5. In terms of Bailie duties, I have a Citizenship Ceremony next week and am presenting an award at the British Banjo Mandolin and Guitar Festival at the end of the month!

7. Pentlands and Morningside Neighbourhood Networks The funding panel of the Pentlands Neighbourhood Network had recently convened to distribute grants and funding. The opening balance had been £25,015 and the closing balance was £1,199.

8. Planning and Environment Colin Anderson distributed copies of his report which can be found at Appendix B.

Colin highlighted a few areas: Item 3 – planning application for 3 additional holes at Swanston Golf Course. Proximity to the bypass might prove problematic with straying golf balls. Item No 5 – Comiston Farmhouse, a new planning application will be lodged in March. Item 9 – application for redevelopment of the existing Snowsports Centre. Might go before the Planning Committee in May. Item 10 – An application by Goldcrest Communities Limited to build a substantive retirement village in North Berwick. This is the same developer who wants to build at Winton East. The application has met with opposition from both locals and North Berwick Community Council due to its scale and location. The result will be of interest if an application to build at Winton is made. Item 11 – Demolition of nursery at 64-68 Morningside Drive and construction of 3 townhouses. Despite amendments to the original application local opposition is still strong with 14 objections on the planning portal. Item 12 – Application to convert Overseas House, 100 Princes Street, into a luxury hotel was approved on 26th February. Item 16 – planning permission was refused by Aberdeenshire Council for the erection of a glamping site on land to the south east of Scolty House, Strachan, Banchory. On 24 February the Reporter dismissed an appeal by the developer. This is of interest in light of applications for similar at Hillend. Choices for City Plan 2030 Colin is hoping to prepare a summary of the plan. He drew attention to Choice 12 regarding housing. The council is committed to building over 20,000 affordable homes in the next 10 years. They favour a policy of building high density, quality housing. The use of brownfield sites such as Liberton Hospital and Saughton House is preferred although a number of greenfield sites including Riccarton and Kirkliston have been identified should that become necessary. Morton Mains was one area identified as not suitable for development. Other items included are restricting the building and running of student accommodation to Universities alone. All such accommodation should be built in such a way that it can easily be converted for normal residential use. In order to prioritise people over cars the idea of new developments being designed without car parking is also considered. Larger sites under consideration are to benefit from the preparation of a master plan. These include Astley Ainsley, Redford Barracks, Powderhall and Meadowbank.

9. Transport Braidburn Terrace – The Secretary referenced an email he sent on 29/2/2020 containing links to proposals to introduce a one-way system at Braid Road and the west end of Braid Crescent. Comments on the proposed scheme closes on 6th March. With regard to the proposed changes comments were made to the effect that they would improve safety especially for cyclists using the area. Braid Road closures – on-going programme of closure in the area during the period 13/01/20 - 01/05/20. A702/A703 Hillend Study – Colin Anderson drew attention to a report published by Transport Scotland regarding the Hillend junction. The report can be found at https://www.gov.scot/publications/foi-20-00076/

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10. AOCB Community Engagement and use of social media The Secretary and the community Engagement Officer (Stella Thomson) had met to discuss developing a larger social media presence for the community council. They hope to present a paper at the next meeting but in brief proposals include - Updating the website - Developing a twitter feed - Developing a Facebook presence All social media would involve an acceptable use policy and postings would be restricted.

Cycling A short discussion took place regarding cycling provision. In light of the council’s active travel policy it was asked whether the council had considered introducing a “cyclists” charge for all the new routes being proposed and also whether cyclists should have compulsory insurance. In response the meeting was advised that nothing has been spent on cycling provision in this area. Although cycle lanes are marked on some roads these are not for mandatory cycle use only and can be used for parking. The council was accused of “tokenism”.

Pavements The poor condition of local pavements and pathways was also raised. Many pedestrians feel the condition of pavements is now hazardous. This situation is not helped by delivery vehicles parking on payments which are structurally weaker than roads. The meeting was told that as part of the Transport (Scotland) Bill as of 2021 it will be illegal for drivers to park on the pavement but there were exceptions.

Local Place Plan It was asked whether any further information had been gained about Local Place Plans. Colin Anderson advised that he hopes to get someone along to give a presentation on the subject by the June meeting.

11. Date of Next Meeting

This was arranged for Tuesday 7 April 2020 in Fairmilehead Parish Church This was subsequently postponed.

Forthcoming Meetings:

Tuesday 5 May 2020 Tuesday 2 June 2020 Tuesday 1 September 2020

Contacts: e-mail: [email protected] Website: www.fairmileheadcc.org.uk

11 © Fairmilehead Community Council

Appendix A

The data provided in this report is for information purposes only to inform community councils in relation to relevant information for their area and enable them to carry out their responsibilities. It should be noted that the timing of this community council meeting is in advance of the ratification of any statistics or the completion of the procedures and reconciliation processes that are undertaken in association with the publication of official statistics. Given this there June be minor amendments between the information in this report and any finally reported statistics - for example due to delayed reporting or recording of crimes, road crashes or incidents. It would not therefore be accurate or appropriate to refer to, quote or use the data in this report as official statistics.

Fairmilehead Community Council Meeting Meeting Date of Meeting – Tuesday 3rd March Time – 1900 End of Month – February 2020 2020. Information (this month / local priorities / incidents) PC in attendance PC Oliver Ford Community Police Station Two funded Ward 8 officers, PC Eric Jones and PC David Crow and 3 non-funded Ward 8 community officers based at Oxgangs Police Station. E Division Priorities Tackling crime reports with named suspects. Hate Crimes and meeting call attendance times. PSOS Priorities and values Serious and Organised Crime, Counter Terrorism, Acquisitive Crime, Road Safety, Violence and Anti-Social Behaviour

12. Good News

Police surgery running every 3rd Friday at the new café in Morrison’s, Hunters Tryst.

13. Ward Priorities

Priority 1 THEFT HOUSEBREAKING Priority 2 ASSAULT / VIOLENT CRIME Priority 3 ROAD SAFETY Priority 4 THEFT OF PERSONAL PROPERTY Priority 5 HATE CRIME

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14. Housebreakings

HB Braid Road, 5th February, enquiry ongoing.

HB Swanston Avenue between 4th and 6th February, enquiry ongoing.

HB Buckstone Crescent between 5th and 6th February, enquiry ongoing.

HB Swanston Loan between 13th and 14th February, enquiry ongoing.

HB Fox Spring Rise 20th February, enquiry ongoing.

HB Swanston Avenue between 18th and 19th February, enquiry ongoing.

15. Assault

No assaults reported in February.

16. Road Safety / Initiatives

There were no incidents of note during February.

17. Theft

Theft OLP from a car Buckstone Way between 9th and 10th February, enquiry ongoing.

Theft OLP from a car Buckstone Loan between 14th and 15th February, enquiry ongoing.

Theft OLP from a car Galachlawside between 14th and 15th February, enquiry ongoing.

Theft OLP from a car Swanston Gardens between 15th and 17th February, enquiry ongoing.

18. Hate Crime

No Hate Crimes reported in February.

19. ASB / NPS / incidents of note

Nothing of note to report in February.

20. Actions Update From Previous Meeting

There were 107 calls made from PF56 beat during February 2020.

With 21 crime reports being reported.

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21. Some commonly used police acronyms explained : -

HBWI – Housebreakings With Intent (to steal) – The fabric of the building has been compromised by culprit with the intention to steal from building but nothing actually stolen.

Att HBWI – Attempt Housebreaking With Intent (to steal) – An attempt made by culprit to overcome fabric of building with intention to steal from within but security has held and no entry gained.

Theft HB – Theft Housebreaking – The fabric of the building has been overcome, entry gained by culprit and property has been stolen.

Theft OLP MV – Theft Opening Lockfast Place Motor Vehicle – The security of a locked vehicle has been overcome and culprit has stolen property from within.

Att Theft OLP – Attempt Theft Opening Lockfast Place – An attempt by culprit to steal items by overcoming locked property, other than buildings but security has held and no entry gained.

Section 57 – Being within curtilage (surrounds) of property with intention of committing theft.

Theft MV – Stealing a motor vehicle.

22. Miscellaneous Information Ward 8

Comprises of 3 Policing Beats, with 2 City of Edinburgh Council Funded Officers,

Police Constable 12474 E Eric Jones and Police Constable 11832 E David Crow

PF56 (Fairmilehead, Buckstone and Swanston)

PF57 (Oxgangs and Firrhill)

PF58 (Colinton and Bonaly)

The Community Policing Team Inspector covering Wards is Police Inspector 11495 E Scott Richardson

The CPT Sergeant covering ward 8 is Police Sergeant 11480 E Kieran Dougal

The CPT consists of 3 teams of community-facing Constables, and the emphasis will be on community working, in a bid to solve local issues.

In non-emergencies, should you wish to contact us, please do not hesitate to do so.

You can contact us by email at

[email protected] or by telephoning the national non-emergency number 101.

You can also follow us on Twitter @PoliceScotland or locally @EdinburghPolice

Police Surgery

Oxgangs Library, Oxgangs Road North, Wednesdays 1700 - 1800 hours. This is currently under review with a plan to hold the Surgery at the library every 3 weeks. An update will be provided soon.

Morrisons Hunters Tryst every 3rd Friday 1100 – 1230 hours, upcoming surgeries:

Appendix B

Planning Report – Tuesday 3 March 2020

A. FAIRMILEHEAD CC – LIVE

1. Development for mountain bike trail centre, indoor and outdoor leisure, food and beverage, professional services suites, offices, retailing, short stay visitor accommodation and associated site access, parking, landscaping and other works at the former Lothianburn Golf Club, 106 Biggar Road Reference :- 19/00764/PAN (CEC) and 19/00126/PAC (Midlothian) On 13 February 2019 this PAN was lodged by Hillend Leisure Limited. There was a previous PAN under Reference 15/00169/PAN (CEC). There was a public consultation event on Tuesday 5 March 2019 in the Swanston Golf Club. Part of the site lies within Midlothian Council. The PAN was served on both local authorities, but it is understood that Edinburgh Council will be the lead determining authority of any future planning application. Alastair McClung attended the FCC meeting on 3 September 2019 and gave an update on the proposals. I attended a meeting of the Damhead and District Community Council on 3 December 2019 at which Alastair McClung and his planning agent, Richard Slipper outlined their proposals and the issues they are currently working on. No update.

2. Application to vary existing Planning Consent Ref. 17/04606/FUL to reflect minor ground floor plan and elevation changes and changes to car park configuration externally at Swanston Golf Club, 111 Swanston Road Reference:- 20/00356/FUL This is an application to form an enclosed studio space within the existing building, and to form a new car park with a new roadway access, the base to be hardcore and compacted gravel.

3. Proposal by Swanston Farm Limited is for Change of Use from area of land currently used as an agricultural field to 3 additional holes for existing (adjacent) Swanston Golf Course (partly within the Swanston Conservation Area) at Swanston Farm, 106 Swanston Road Reference :- 20/00091/FUL This is a new application just lodged by Swanston Farms Limited. The deadline for comments is 6 March.

B. FAIRMILEHEAD CC – PENDING

4. Numerous Tree works at 231 Braid Road Reference :- 19/05894/TPO Mortonhall Golf Club are seeking approval for numerous Tree works. The Trees are covered by a TPO dating back to 1954. In a report accompanying the application, the agent states the “aim is to improve safety and amenity value of the woods while bringing them back into active management.” The works will be staged over the next 5 years. I spoke with the Agent on 23 December when he explained the background to the application and why the works are being proposed. The application is awaiting assessment.

5. Proposed residential development at the former Comiston Farmhouse, 83 Pentland View Reference:- 19/02636/FUL Previous Reports mentioned the proposal by Buckley Building UK Limited to retain the Farmhouse and convert it in to 4 flats. In addition, 4 detached properties will be built in the grounds to the rear. On 4 February the application was withdrawn by Buckley. It is understood this relates mainly to issues with access to the site for emergency/refuse vehicles. A new application taking account of these issues will be lodged in March. The time period in the Sale Agreement has been extended as a result. No update.

C. FAIRMILEHEAD CC – COMPLETED None.

D. CONSULTATIONS, GUIDANCE AND OTHER NEWS 6. City Plan 2030 The public consultation on the Main Issues Report for the next Local Development Plan - Choices for City Plan 2030 - began on Friday 31 January 2020 and runs for 8 weeks. A number of “consultation”

events have been arranged – full details are on the Council website. There is one in Cameron Toll on Saturday 14 March.

7. Choices for City Plan 2030 The Council are consulting on 16 Choices. These Choices contain the preferred option(s) and at least one reasonable alternative for changing planning policy. The public are asked if they agree with the proposed changes and to say why in the Comments section. The consultation runs until 27 March and comments must be submitted online. Some items to highlight from the Choices for City Plan 2030 (note – this is a high level summary) i. housing density policy should be revised, with a minimum of 65 dwellings per hectare. ii. the aim is to create places that focus on people not cars and prioritise public transport, walking and cycling. iii. new cycling and walking routes are proposed – one is the Pentlands to Portbello link. iv. policy on purpose built student housing to be reviewed – this should be restricted to housing “built for, and managed by, one of the Universities/Colleges in Edinburgh” and cap the amount of studio flats at 10% - so these can be easily converted to residential housing in the future, if required. v. Council are committed to the delivery of 20,000 affordable houses in the next 10 years – one proposal is to increase the requirement in new developments from 25 % to 35%. vi. additional land for housing will require to be allocated. 3 options for this are set out. The preferred option is to build on brownfield sites, rather than releasing green belt land (which is option 2). Option 3 is a blended approach. If the preferred option is to be pursued, the Council may “need to intervene to deliver 275 hectares of employment land for mixed redevelopment” and this approach “may require a significant compulsory purchase order programme to ensure land comes forward.” The Council have identified a large number of brownfield sites which could be turned into locations for new houses, e.g. Redford Barracks, Liberton Hospital, Saughton House and the decommissioned runway at Edinburgh Airport. 5 green field sites have been identified as potentially becoming new housing sites if required, e.g. Riccarton, SE Edinburgh and Kirkliston. The Housing Study assesses the potential of using a number of green field sites for housing if that was to be required. One is Morton Mains but (thankfully) the conclusion is that it is not suitable for development “due to its poor accessibility, community infrastructure capacity, prominent landscape character and contribution to the strategic green network.”

E. DEVELOPMENTS – EDINBURGH, MIDLOTHIAN and EAST LOTHIAN

8. Demolition of existing dwelling house, erection of hotel (approximately 150 rooms), erection of replacement house plot, formation of 3 house plots, formation of access roads, car parking and associated works – at Land (12.23 acres) at Calderstones, Biggar Road Reference :- 15/00113/PPP; 18/00528/S42 and 18/00628/S42 (Midlothian Council) As mentioned in last May’s Report, Midlothian Council decided to consult with various statutory consultees on the S42 application and the accompanying Environmental Impact Assessment Report. Correspondence between Transport Scotland and the Council in July on the issue of vehicle access conditions for any consent is on the Planning Portal. This raises issues of relevance for all 3 developments currently proposed in the Hillend area. The Report to the Planning Committee is on the Planning Portal and recommends the application be approved (subject to various conditions) for the following reason - “The proposed development for a hotel/tourist accommodation accords with policy VIS2 of the Midlothian Local Development Plan 2017; as such there is a presumption in favour of the proposed development. This presumption in favour of the development is not outweighed by other policies in the development plan or other material considerations. The proposed amendments to conditions 4 and 5 are considered not to undermine this policy position or have a detrimental impact”. The application in respect of 18/00628/S42 came before the Planning Committee at its meeting on 27 August and was approved subject to 14 detailed conditions. A Report before the Midlothian Planning Committee at its February meeting indicates the application 18/00528/S42 is likely to come before the Committee at its May meeting.

9. Application for planning permission in principle for redevelopment of existing Snowsports Centre to include additional leisure facilities, tourist accommodation, hotel, function suite, ancillary retail and restaurant, formation of access road and car parking (this application is accompanied by an

16 © Fairmilehead Community Council environmental impact assessment report submitted under the terms of the Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment)(Scotland) Regulations 2017 at Midlothian Snowsports Centre References :- 18/00970/PAC and 19/01018/PPP (Midlothian Council)

On 10 December the application for planning permission in principle was lodged. This follows on from the PAN lodged almost a year ago. All the accompanying documents are up on the Planning Portal. In May 2019 Midlothian Council approved £13.8m of capital funding into the development of the Snowsports Centre into an all year round multi activity leisure facility. The application is now being assessed by the Planning Service. A Report before the Midlothian Planning Committee at its February meeting indicates the application is likely to come before the Committee at its May meeting.

10. Erection of 60 bed care home; 152 private accommodation and care units for residents aged 55 and over in need of care (Class 8); community hub; outdoor recreational uses, landscaping and associated uses on land at Castleton Farm, Tantallon Road, North Berwick lodged on behalf of Goldcrest Communities Limited in conjunction with Richmond Care Village Holdings Limited (part of BUPA) References :- 18/0008/PAN; 19/00002/PAN and 19/01292/PM (East Lothian) This application for a retirement living village follows on from 2 PAC processes, some changes having been made from the original proposal. The site is circa 7.89 hectares currently agricultural land to the East of North Berwick adjacent to the A198. The site is not zoned for such uses in the recently adopted LDP for East Lothian. The occupants of the residential units must both be aged over 55 and have a pre-existing medical condition that qualifies for treatment by Richmond BUPA before they would be allowed to occupy a unit (this condition would be secured by a S.75 Agreement). As such, this is neither retirement housing nor restricted occupancy market housing. There would be 94 independent living units; 38 assisted living units and 20 bungalows. There would also be a spa, a well-being centre, restaurant and bar, and an atrium providing community facilities open to the public. The village centre would be formed over 4 storeys on a sloping site. The construction value is said to be £49m. In the papers, the agent states “there are no alternative suitable sites of the size required in the vicinity”. They also state “the nature of the proposed development means it cannot compete, in terms of land value, with residential land value in the locality”. The agent also states “the application is made in the context of the ongoing closure and centralisation of healthcare facilities within East Lothian to the detriment of local communities such as North Berwick”. There is considerable opposition to this application. A public meeting was held last month which was attended by more than 230 members of the public, according to the East Lothian Courier. The main objection is to such a development in the open countryside, with one person at the meeting being quoted as saying “To put a retirement village outside of North Berwick is simply not right, it’s the wrong place and the wrong development”. The site of the former Cockenzie Power Station was suggested as an alternative location for the development, with others saying that land west of North Berwick suited better than land to the east. North Berwick Community Council have lodged an objection.

11. Demolition of existing nursery school and construction of 3 new townhouses with landscaping, cycle and bin stores, and ancillary infrastructure at Headstart Nursery, 64 – 68 Morningside Drive (as Revised) References :- 19/03853/FUL and 19/03856/CON; 20/00549/FUL and 20/00550/CON November’s Report mentioned this application had been withdrawn following considerable objections. A revised application has now been lodged. The latest plans reduce the scale and overall massing of the proposed build by bringing the roofline down to that of the adjacent terrace, ensuring the properties remain in proportion to their neighbours. In addition, the staggered footprint as first presented has been pushed back to stand in line with the aforementioned terrace while the windows have also been brought into alignment. The agents state “the proposed revisions scale back the buildings and incorporate further features and characteristics from the surrounding area”, and respect the conservation area. There are 14 objections on the Planning Portal – none in support. The deadline for lodging comments is 13 March.

12. External alterations to building (new street level disabled access, new entrance canopy, replacement signage and flags, external flood lighting, windows at 2nd floor level, lift extension and new corridor enclosure at 5th floor level) at Overseas House, 100 Princes Street References :- 19/05790/FUL ; 19/05791/LBC and 20/00390/CLP

January’s Report mentioned the proposal by Red Carnation Hotels Limited to convert the Overseas House into a unique luxury 5 star hotel. This was granted as a Local Delegated Decision on 26 February.

13. Edinburgh Community Solar Co-op is seeking permission to install Solar PV panels on the roof of the building to generate clean energy. There is no change of use in the building in its current form at Craiglockhart Leisure Centre, Unit 1, 177 - 191 Colinton Road Reference :- 19/06057/FUL Last months’ Report mentioned this application. This was granted as a Local Fast Track Decision on 14 February.

14. Part demolition and conversion of existing building and erection of new development for residential accommodation with associated business, commercial, leisure, ancillary uses, public realm, hard and soft landscaping, access arrangements, parking and infrastructure by Queensberry Properties Limited at Finance House, Orchard Brae Reference :- 20/00124/PAN

Last month’s Report mentioned this proposal to convert and extend the disused office block at Orchard Brae. This will provide 170 homes with 25 % being designated as affordable. The main 1968 structure would be retained and repurposed for its new role. The 1970s rear extension would be replaced with a new build element. There is a public exhibition in the building on 19 March between 2 and 8 pm.

15. Erection of mixed-use development comprising residential flats, purpose-built student accommodation, associated car parking, cycle parking, landscaping and infrastructure; change of use of existing car showroom to class 1 and class 3 uses at 553 - 555 Gorgie Road References :- 19/03262/PAN and 20/00619/FUL

This mixed-use development is being promoted by Kiltane Developments Limited. It would result in 217 student beds and 59 residential apartments on a warehousing site off Gorgie Road. The site incorporates the existing ground floor of ELS House (a commercial use of the ground floor would be retained, possibly a small convenience store, and it would also serve as the entrance/amenity space for the new residential development). The upper floors of ELS House are in separate ownership and are currently operated as private student accommodation. In the papers the agent states “Analysis of the local area revealed no clear architectural style, and as such we have selected a red multi-stock brick and bronzed cladding to provide a warm addition to the area”.

16. Erection of glamping site with 3 wooden “pod” structures for holiday lets, formation of decking area with hot tub and associated infrastructure on land to the south east of Scolty House, Strachan, Banchory Reference :- APP/2019/1235 (Aberdeenshire Council) Scottish Government Appeals Division Reference PPA-110-2385 Planning permission was refused by Aberdeenshire Council for the erection of a glamping site, and the applicants appealed to dpea. In her decision letter dated 24 February, the Reporter dismissed the appeal and refused planning permission. She concluded the proposed development does not accord overall with the relevant provisions of the Aberdeenshire LDP and there are no material considerations which would justify granting planning permission. She said “the proposal is not well related to the settlements of Banchory and Strachan in terms of public transport provision and the suitability and safety of footpath and road connections… The intensification of vehicular traffic using the private access road would have an unacceptable impact on the amenity of existing residents”. From her site inspection, she observed that “along the majority of the narrow private road, the only available passing places are the driveways leading to individual dwellinghouses”. The proposal would not provide adequate road access and would be contrary to the LDP. However she did find that the “scale, design and materials would not detract from the landscape character of the area”.

17. Former Royal High School Building at 5-7 Regent Road, Edinburgh Refs:- 15/03989/FUL and 15/03990/LBC Scottish Government Appeals Division Refs :- PPA-230-2178; LBA-230-2076 Refs :- 16/04537/PAN; 17/00587/LBC and 17/00588/FUL (amended applications) Scottish Government Appeals Division Refs :- PPA-230-2213; LBA-230-2118

*Case Update – 13 January 2020* The report and recommendations are being finalised and is expected to be submitted to Scottish Ministers by the end of February. No update.

18. Application for planning permission in principle for Land 1000 metres NW, W and W of Hermiston Junction M8, Gogar Road – proposed residential development, local centre, community facilities (including primary school), green network (“Phase 1 of the Garden District”) by Murray Estates. Reference :- 15/04318/PPP Scottish Government Appeals Division Reference :- NOD-EDB-002

*Case Update 21 October 2019* The report for this case was submitted to Scottish Ministers on 6 February 2019. The application has been returned to dpea for further process and the case will be re- opened with a view to providing a further recommendation to Ministers. The re-opening of the case will be focused on housing land supply, including up to date information published through the City of Edinburgh Council housing land audit. The Reporter has invited further submissions from key parties. (This aspect has now been completed.) No update.

Colin W Anderson Planning Representative