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As Scotland faces an impending hike in National Insurance contributions, 48 prominent organisations have signed an open letter demanding greater clarity from the UK Government on the financial burden this will place on employers and public services. Concern Over Financial Impact on Public Services Among the signatories of the letter are well-known bodies such as Homes for Scotland, the Scottish Trades Union Congress (STUC), Skills Development Scotland, the British Dental Association, and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service. These organisations have come together to voice concerns about the upcoming increase in employer National Insurance contributions, which could lead to significant…

A 2.9 magnitude earthquake shook parts of western Scotland on Sunday evening, sending tremors through several communities, but fortunately causing no damage. Earthquake Strikes Remote Lochaber Region The British Geological Survey (BGS) confirmed that the tremor hit at 20:45, with its epicenter located in Kinloch, approximately 30 kilometers (19 miles) northwest of Oban. The earthquake, though minor in magnitude, was felt across a wide area, including Strontian, the island of Mull, and other surrounding villages. Despite its noticeable impact, the earthquake was not powerful enough to cause any structural damage, and no injuries were reported. Local residents from areas up…

The use of Hikvision security cameras across Scotland's public CCTV networks and various facilities has sparked considerable debate. With more than 20 local councils relying on the technology, questions have emerged about the security and ethical implications of its widespread deployment. Hikvision’s Presence in Scottish Surveillance Hikvision, a Chinese tech company, is a major supplier of surveillance cameras to various public institutions and businesses in Scotland. According to reports from The Times, at least 22 of Scotland's 32 councils have integrated Hikvision cameras into their public CCTV systems. These cameras help monitor public spaces and other facilities, serving millions of…

The Scottish commercial property market is expected to continue attracting significant investment from overseas players in 2025, according to David Smith, the executive director of CBRE. As the market shows no signs of slowing down, foreign investors, including those from France, Germany, Singapore, and the Gulf States, are expected to play a dominant role in property transactions this year. Overseas Investment Growth Smith pointed out that last year saw a notable example of foreign investment in Scotland's commercial sector, with US-based private equity firm Lone Star acquiring Union Square in Aberdeen. This is just one example of the growing trend…

In the heart of Perthshire’s Glenisla, Amy and Andrew Skea are on a mission to bring Scotland’s heritage potatoes back into the spotlight. Their venture, Potato House, is breathing new life into varieties that have long faded from modern kitchens. With over 80 types of seed potatoes on offer, including rare and flavorful heritage varieties like Edzell Blue, Shetland Black, and Arran Victory, the Skea family is dedicated to preserving Scotland’s rich agricultural heritage. A Legacy Rooted in Family Tradition The Skea family’s journey into the world of potatoes began in the 1960s with Andrew’s grandfather, who laid the groundwork…

In a pointed attack on the Scottish National Party (SNP), Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar has accused the Scottish government of “weakening every institution in Scotland.” Sarwar, speaking to Labour activists at Glasgow University, laid out his party’s plan to revive Labour’s flagging fortunes ahead of the Holyrood elections in May 2025. Accusations Against SNP Leadership Sarwar’s speech marked a fresh chapter in the Labour leader's ongoing efforts to challenge the dominance of the SNP, which has been in power at Holyrood for 17 years. He criticized the party’s failure to address significant issues facing Scotland, such as healthcare delays,…

Scotland is facing a particularly harsh winter, with heavy snow, sleet, and rain expected to impact large parts of the country. The freezing temperatures and extreme weather conditions have prompted multiple weather warnings from the Met Office, advising caution for those traveling or heading outdoors. Weather Warnings in Place On Sunday, Scotland’s weather took a turn for the worse, as forecasters issued a series of yellow warnings, signaling the likelihood of hazardous conditions. These alerts cover both snow and freezing rain, with significant snowfall expected across various regions. Loch Glascarnoch in the Highlands recorded temperatures as low as -11°C on…

Shillong, often referred to as the “Scotland of the East” for its cool climate and lush greenery, is facing an environmental crisis that could alter its future forever. The charming city, known for its scenic beauty, is experiencing a growing threat from urbanization—the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect. A recent study has raised alarms about the impact of unchecked development on the city's climate and livability. From Green to Gray: The Changing Landscape of Shillong Over the past three decades, Shillong’s landscape has undergone a dramatic transformation. In 1993, the city’s settlement areas made up only 6.4% of its total…

Scotland is a country renowned for its stunning landscapes, and New Year's Day provides the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in its natural beauty. Whether you’re recovering from Hogmanay festivities or looking for a peaceful start to the year, a scenic walk is an ideal way to clear your head and embrace the great outdoors. Here’s a roundup of some of Scotland's best walks that will take you through captivating views, historic sites, and serene environments. 1. Killiecrankie, Perthshire For history lovers, Killiecrankie is a must-visit on New Year’s Day. Nestled in a tranquil wooded river gorge, this site was…

Scotland is known the world over for its vibrant and unique Hogmanay celebrations. From the iconic cannon being fired atop Edinburgh Castle to the capital's legendary street party, Scotland’s way of ringing in the new year has captivated many. But one tradition stands out in Scottish homes as a go-to dish to mark the occasion: the humble steak pie. The Hearty Tradition of Steak Pie On January 1st, many Scots tuck into a hearty steak pie as part of their New Year's Day festivities. But why has this dish become so central to the holiday celebrations, and what is the…