Local government authority for Edinburgh, Scotland
The festivals showcase Scots Gaelic language and culture, featuring 2,000 entries across 200 competitions, plus 80 fringe events. Glasgow hosts opening performances as Edinburgh prepares Torchlight events and a New Year celebration. The events emphasize Gaelic education’s 40-year milestone and highlight community participation amid a busy winter calendar.
A series of large-scale seizures across the UK have disrupted counterfeit football shirts tied to the World Cup. Authorities warn the suppliers and criminal networks behind fake gear are linked to safety risks and broader crime. Fans face higher prices for official kit as prices rise across clubs; experts urge buying official gear to protect safety.
Residents in Edinburgh’s Bond Building have been urged to leave due to high fire risk identified in safety checks. Persimmon Homes is arranging emergency accommodation and outlining the longer remediation timeline, with relocation potentially lasting one to two years. The cases echo broader cladding concerns across Scotland as investigations continue.
A blaze at the former Debenhams on Princes Street has shut trams from Leith to Newhaven. Edinburgh Council is exploring a four-tram shuttle to re-open a link between Picardy Place and Newhaven, with overnight movements and enhanced security. Officials warn the disruption will extend into August and impact Festival travel.
The Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society has moved its operations into a permanent space on Infirmary Street, transforming Fringe Central into a year‑round hub for artists, welfare support, rehearsal spaces and industry services. The project, funded by the UK Government and partners, is designed to support a thriving, inclusive fringe ecosystem alongside the city’s galleries and venues.
A wave of school mobile-phone policies is rolling out across Scotland and England. Pouches and locked cabinets are being introduced or trialed to keep devices out of classrooms, with phased rollouts, exemptions for medical needs, and ongoing testing of new systems. Some councils report delays in delivery and phased introductions through October.
Harvey Nichols has been put up for sale and is undergoing a turnaround led by Frasers Group. The six-storefront estate, including Edinburgh’s flagship, will continue operating while a broader restructuring is pursued, with potential integration of Flannels and the wider Frasers luxury ecosystem.
Edinburgh’s new five-percent visitor levy has prompted a review of how charges are calculated. The Scottish Tourism Alliance warns that percentage-based calculations are driving up administration costs, urging fixed-fee models to curb bills for guests and protect the tourism sector. Other regions are considering similar levies, with debates over rates and how revenue funds local services.
The blaze at the former Debenhams building has led to seven weeks of disruption in Edinburgh. Princes Street has reopened to pedestrians and traffic as bus and tram services resume along the corridor. Officials say the work to secure the site is complete and the city is focusing on recovery and support for affected businesses.
Edinburgh’s festival ecosystem is under renewed pressure as councils consider diverting visitor levy funds to support arts events. The Guardian reports a move to relocate the Edinburgh TV Festival abroad has intensified debate over access and funding. The Scotsman details proposals to ringfence tourism tax revenue to bolster cultural institutions, while council discussions probe the sustainability of Edinburgh’s world-class festival status.
A derelict Glasgow tenement has been renovated into affordable housing. A blaze on Stonyhurst Street sparked online rumours that the flats would host asylum seekers; authorities say the claims are false. Investigations continue, with no injuries reported.
FOI data show bus lane and bus gate penalties have surged in early 2026 across English cities, Scotland and Wales. Manchester, TfL and Birmingham lead the fines, with Edinburgh rising in Scotland. Authorities emphasise the need for clear signage as fines can be reduced if paid quickly.
Edinburgh Airport is unveiling a multi-year, £500m-plus capital plan to expand gates, stands and the terminal by around 60%, to boost international connectivity and support Scotland’s economy. The move comes amid ongoing criticism of baggage delays and passenger experience, with officials insisting the investment will deliver improved service and longer-haul links.