News

Edinburgh, Scotland — A transformative shift in Europe’s construction sector is being spearheaded by Scotland, which has been selected as one of four cities to trial a new Circular Construction Hub (CCH) model aimed at revolutionising how materials are reused across the continent. With backing from the EU’s Horizon Europe programme, the initiative aims to attract over €80 million (roughly £67 million) in private investment across its pilot locations in Scotland, Munich, Copenhagen, and Lisbon. A Marketplace for Reclaimed Materials Led in Scotland by Zero Waste Scotland, the CCH model will function as a material reuse marketplace, matching salvageable materials…

The Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse by-election has erupted into a political flashpoint following Reform UK leader Nigel Farage’s campaign visit to Scotland, triggering a unified backlash from rival parties amid accusations of racism, media manipulation, and populist provocation. Farage’s arrival in the bellwether central belt seat—his first appearance in Scotland during this campaign—saw him position Reform UK as a disruptive force aiming to "eclipse Labour" and challenge the political dominance of both the SNP and Scottish Labour in an increasingly volatile electoral landscape. The by-election, set for Thursday, was called after the death of long-serving SNP MSP Christina McKelvie. While…

Move signals a 15-year digital transformation plan across HR, payroll, finance, and procurement systems A £206 million plan to overhaul NHS Scotland’s internal digital infrastructure has gone live with the publication of a major procurement tender, marking a significant step forward in modernising the nation’s public healthcare system. The ambitious strategy, announced by NHS National Services Scotland (NSS) on behalf of the country’s health boards, seeks to bring cloud-based efficiencies to critical backend functions such as finance, human resources, payroll, and procurement—through a long-term Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) approach. According to the official tender, NHS Scotland is now inviting joint bids from…

Scotland’s councils face a shortfall nearing £1 billion over the next two years. But wait—local taxes are up by almost 10%, and Holyrood’s funding has increased in real terms. So why do potholes remain unfilled, libraries face cuts, and nurseries are under threat? Let’s unpack the financial squeeze behind this familiar frustration. More Money Coming In—So Why Isn’t It Enough? First off, yes, councils have more cash flowing in than before. Holyrood’s contribution to local government hit over £15.2 billion this year—about a 6% increase in real terms. That sounds pretty solid. Plus, council tax hikes are hitting double digits…

New cross-sector group led by ScottishPower’s Hazel Gulliver aims to drive infrastructure reform and support Scotland’s net zero ambitions GLASGOW — The Confederation of British Industry (CBI) Scotland has established a new Infrastructure Working Group, uniting businesses across sectors to push forward the infrastructure reforms vital to Scotland’s economic resilience and environmental goals. The group convened for the first time earlier this month, marking a coordinated effort to influence policy amid key government initiatives such as the UK Planning & Infrastructure Bill and Scotland’s Programme for Government, both focused on expediting infrastructure development. Leadership with Energy Sector Expertise Hazel Gulliver,…

Community-first housing development joins Aldourie Castle, Stirling women’s prison and Harris hideaway on prestigious architecture awards list DUNDEE – A transformative affordable housing project in Dundee has been named one of Scotland’s top architectural achievements of the year, as the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland (RIAS) revealed the winners of its 2025 national awards. The Ellengowan Regeneration, designed by Collective Architecture for housing association Hillcrest, is one of eleven diverse and high-impact projects recognised across the country—from Hebridean retreats to pioneering infrastructure and historic restorations. A Model for Regeneration Replacing dilapidated post-war housing with 130 modern homes, the Ellengowan…

Disorder, arrests and disruption after Celtic fans flood city centre sparks fresh push for regulated events Scotland’s top police official has called for formal, organised football title celebrations in the wake of chaotic scenes across Glasgow, where thousands of Celtic fans gathered for an unofficial party following their club’s Scottish Premiership victory. Despite repeated warnings from Police Scotland, local authorities, and even Celtic FC itself, supporters descended on the city centre over the weekend to mark the club’s 55th league title win. The resulting disorder left 20 people arrested, several injured, and significant disruption to residents, businesses and transport in…

A trio of ospreys nesting in the Scottish Borders has stunned researchers and bird lovers alike, offering a rare glimpse into an avian love triangle that’s unfolding live on camera. Perched high above Glentress Forest near Peebles, the nest hosts an uncommon arrangement: two females and one male living—and breeding—together in apparent harmony. The nest, monitored by Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) as part of the long-running Tweed Valley Osprey Project (TVOP), is now drawing international attention for what could be a scientific first. “This is very rare behaviour,” said Diane Bennett, TVOP’s project coordinator. “We’ve never had this kind…

Eleven striking structures, including a pink castle, a stone-clad island retreat, and a state-of-the-art prison, have made it to Scotland’s most prestigious architecture list for 2025. The Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland (RIAS) announced the winners of its annual awards this week. The selected buildings now form the longlist for the coveted Andrew Doolan Best Building in Scotland award. From Loch Ness to the Isle of Harris, and even into the heart of Scotland’s correctional system, the projects show the country’s architectural scene is as diverse as ever. Castles Reborn: From Romantic Ruins to Award Contenders They were once…

Invergordon, Scotland — The Scottish Government’s proposal to introduce a cruise ship levy has sparked a heated debate in Invergordon, one of Scotland’s busiest cruise ports, as locals, visitors, and industry representatives weigh the potential economic impact. Last year, an estimated 1.2 million cruise passengers arrived in Scotland, with Invergordon standing out as a major gateway for the 2024 cruise season. The government has proposed giving local authorities powers to introduce a levy on cruise visits to raise funds for overstretched local services. However, details such as the fee amount and who would pay — cruise lines or passengers —…