August 2025 news from Councillor Kevin McKay
In the Chamber
Being in recess, July is a relatively quiet month in the Chamber. This gave me the opportunity to get me feet under the table.
Interesting meeting with Paul Lawrence – CEO City of Edinburgh Council and I also held meetings with other heads of directorates.
I also met with Paul Wilson and Marion Findlay from volunteer Edinburgh. VE is a match maker for organisations seeking volunteers and those willing to volunteer. Check out volunteeredinburgh.org.uk.
They expressed concern at the proposed cuts in funding from the EIJB. The Edinburgh Integration Joint Board (EIJB) for Edinburgh Health and Social Care Partnership is made up of representatives from the City of Edinburgh Council and NHS Lothian, third sector representatives, service users and carers. I am seeking clarification on what cuts are proposed and what can be done to help the Third Sector which is so important to our community.
Unrelated but sadly, the Salvation Army has started the formal consultation process to close Davidson House (Colinton Road, Craiglockhart) along with Eagle Lodge, both Salvation Army care homes. Will update as information comes forward.
Word from the Ward
Harrison Road
The closure of Harrison Road due to the dangerous condition of the two bridges continues to cause disruption. I have put together a summary of the project and timeline - check out my blog page. The impact on the surrounding area has resulted in road health and safety issues particularly around the schools. I have raised these concerns with the transport department and will report back.
Lockharton Parking
It is good to see to see the publication of the Traffic Regulation Order and the start of the consultation process for Lockharton Priotirty Area (PPA). At this stage, the council is seeking comment from statutory groups such as the emergency services, and public bodies. When this stage ends, they will look to the second stage of public advertisement. It is at this time they seek comments of support or objections from residents. The Lockharton resident’s community and working with the Craiglockhart Community council, Cllr Christopher Cowdy and myself to ensure that the process continues. Contact the Craiglockhart Community Council for further information. www.craiglockhart.org
Greenbank
Earlier this month – out of the blue- the current owner of small parcels of land including Greenbank Wood, announced that they are planning on auctioning off the land.
After some frantic emails, the owners agreed to sell the lands to the residents of Greenbank village via a yet-to-be- determined special organisation for a nominal fee. Thanks to Paul Pia, chair of the Greenbank Village East Owners Association for sharing this. Contact Greenbank Village facebook site https://www.facebook.com/greenbankvillageedinburgh/ or drop me a line for this and other ward business.
Communal Bins
A resident contacted me regarding a broken communal bin. He was unable to report this and to organise a new bin through the council website. After investigating, it was discovered that no webform existed. This is now being rectified. Thank you for bringing this to my attention and I will publish the link as soon as it is available, but for the moment, if you need a replacement communal bin contact the waste dept directly
https://webforms.edinburgh.gov.uk/site/portal/request/contact_us_waste
Polwarth Roundabout Redesign Update
Merchiston District Community Council has provided outline details of the proposed designs for the Polwarth Roundabout, which I think will greatly improve pedestrian safety. The existing roundabout will be completely removed and replaced with a T-junction that prioritises the existing east-west bus route, substantially widens footways, significantly enhances pedestrian crossing points, and aims for better management of speeding.
The remodelled junction will include formal loading bays serving local businesses, two new disabled parking spaces and features new cycle parking and greenery. More information on the project, where you can sign up for news, is available here and the latest update, with an outline of what happens next, is available here.
Coming Up.
Various Committee meetings and the full council meeting at the end of the month.
Another Thing
It’s Festival Season. You might have noticed. Lovely to see the city filled with visitors and entertainment. But I wonder if we have become a victim of our own success? Are some companies too focused on commercial success overshadowing the accessibility, variety artistry that made the Edinburgh Festivals so unique? I confess there is a bit of me that wish it was a tad less manic.
….and finally
As I write this – students around the country are discovering their exam results. Congratulations to all our successful young people. For those disappointed in their results, remember failure often leads to success… and that’s someone speaking from experience. You can speak with your school's careers advisor, contact the Skills Development Scotland (SDS) Results Helpline, or explore resources like My World of Work. Additionally, if you're feeling distressed, consider reaching out to organizations like Childline or Breathing Space for confidential support.
Your thoughts and comments on the above is welcome. Please contact me cllr.kevin.mckay@edinburgh.gov.uk for ward matters, and for anything else kevinmckay@edinburghlibdems.org