Agenda Document Pack - Cabinet - 20/01/2026
Midlothian Council · 20 January 2026
Back to Cabinet — 20 January 2026 and its agenda
Text extracted from the council's PDF. Layout and reading order may differ from the original.
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Notice of Meeting and Agenda Cabinet Venue: Normandy Court/ Hybrid, Normandy Court, 20 Normandy Dr, Dalkeith, EH22 1JG Date: Tuesday, 20 January 2026 Time: 11:00 Executive Director : Place Contact: Clerk Name: Democratic Services Clerk Telephone: Clerk Email: democratic.services@midlothian.gov.uk Further Information: This is a meeting which is open to members of the public. Privacy notice: Please note that this meeting may be recorded. The recording may be publicly available following the meeting. If you would like to know how Midlothian Council collects, uses and shares your personal information, please visit our website: www.midlothian.gov.uk Page 1 of 112
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1 Welcome, Introductions and Apologies 2 Order of Business Including notice of new business submitted as urgent for consideration at the end of the meeting. 3 Declaration of Interest Members should declare any financial and non-financial interests they have in the items of business for consideration, identifying the relevant agenda item and the nature of their interest. 4 Minute of Previous Meeting 4.1 Minute of the Meeting of Cabinet 25 November 2025 submitted for approval 5 - 14 Private Minute Addendum to the Meeting of 25 November 2025 submitted for approval 4.2 Action Log 15 - 18 5 Public Reports 5.1 Inspection of St David’s RC Primary School and Nursery, report by Chief Education Officer 19 - 30 5.2 Inspection of Midlothian Council’s Fostering, Adoption and Adult Placement Services, report by Chief Officer Children’s Services, Partnerships and Communities and Deputy Chief Social Work Officer 31 - 36 5.3 Proposed Creation of Additional Lane Space for Right Hand Turning Traffic, Bonnyrigg High Street, report by Executive Director Place 37 - 44 5.4 Food Standards Scotland: Food Law Enforcement Actions Audit 2025-26, report by Executive Director Children, Young People and Partnerships (Acting) 45 - 68 5.5 Midlothian 20mph Zones Delivery Update, report by Executive Director Place 69 - 112 6 Private Reports 6.1 Disputed ‘Disabled’ Parking Bay - Broomieknowe Park, Bonnyrigg, report by Executive Director Place Page 2 of 112
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6.2 Disputed Proposed Parking Restrictions (Double Yellow Lines) – Clerk Road, Penicuik, report by Executive Director Place 6.3 Disputed ‘Disabled’ Parking Bay: Edmonstone Road, report by Executive Director Place 7 Date of Next Meeting The next meeting will be held on Tuesday 10 March 2026 at 11am. Page 3 of 112
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1-1 Minute of Meeting 2024 Cabinet Tuesday 20 January 2026 Item No 4.1 No 4.1 Cabinet Date Time Venue Tuesday, 25 November 2025 11:00am Council Chambers, Normandy Court, Dalkeith and MS Teams Present: Councillor Parry (Chair) Councillor Alexander (Virtual) Councillor Cassidy Councillor McKenzie Councillor McManus (Virtual) Councillor Scott In attendance: Councillor Bowen (Virtual) Dr Grace Vickers, Chief Executive Nick Clater, Head of Adult Services and Chief Social Work Officer Rebecca Hooton, Chief Officer Children’s Services, Partnerships and Communities and Deputy Chief Social Work Officer (virtual) Saty Kaur, Chief Officer Corporate Solutions Derek Oliver, Chief Officer Place Michelle Strong, Education Chief Operating Officer Hannah Forbes, Democratic Services Officer Louise Middleton, Democratic Services Officer Page 5 of 112
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1 Welcome, Introductions and Apologies The Chair welcomed everyone to the meeting of Cabinet, no apologies were submitted. 2 Order of Business The order of business was as detailed within the agenda. 3 Declarations of interest No declarations of interest were received at this stage of the proceedings. The Chair reminded Members of the Cabinet that they could declare an interest as relevant agenda items come up for discussion. 4 Minutes of Previous Meetings 4.1 The Minute of the meeting of Cabinet held on the 7 October 2025 was approved as a correct record by Councillor Scott and seconded by Councillor Mckenzie. 4.2 The Action Log was noted, and it was agreed that item 3 should now be removed and item 4 be marked as complete. 5. Reports Agenda No. Report Title Presented by: 5.1 Inspection of Community Access Team (CAT) Head of Adult Services and Chief Social Work Officer Outline of report and summary of discussion The Head of Adult Services and Chief Social Work Officer presented the report which includes the outcome of the short notice announced inspection and the recommendations that will be included within the improvement plan. The Head of Adult Services and Chief Social Work Officer noted their thanks to the staff and management involved in the inspection. The Chair thanked the Head of Adult Services and Chief Social Work Officer for the report and invited comments or questions. Cabinet noted the positive report and added that it shows the commitment of the staff to the people they support. The report highlights how highly valued the service is by its users, and the families it supports. Cabinet thanked the team involved in the inspection. Decision Cabinet noted the report and its recommendations. Page 6 of 112
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Agenda No. Report Title Presented by: 5.2 Q2 Education Performance Report 2025/26 Education Chief Operating Officer Outline of report and summary of discussion The Education Chief Operating Officer presented the Q2 Education Performance Report highlighting the key achievements and challenges throughout the period. The Education Chief Operating Officer thanked the Education, Communities, Lifelong Learning and Employability (CLLE) teams and wider partners for the positive impact they are having and their contribution to this quarter’s performance. The Chair thanked the Education Chief Operating Officer for the report and invited comments or questions. Cabinet was delighted to report that Midlothian’s Education Service have won the Inspiring Learning Spaces Award from Learning Spaces Scotland and with this received a highly recommended grading for Inclusive Learning Spaces. Cabinet noted the work of Susan Ward, Education Support Officer and the Digital Team in supporting the staff and students through the changes in the classroom. Cabinet highlighted that the Council should be proud that Midlothian’s is one of the first Youth Cabinets to take place in Scotland. The Education Chief Operating Officer was asked to explain what the Pareto Methodology is for clarification. The Education Chief Operating Officer advised they would take the action to the cross-party meeting where they will explain this in more detail and provide information on the current pilot. Cabinet expressed their appreciation for the ongoing work with Additional Support Needs (ASN), noting how well this is being handled. The Chair added that it was commendable to see the impact statements commemorating the 50 years since the Alexander Report, noting that these statements were particularly impactful. Decision Cabinet noted the report and its recommendations. Action Provide the cross-party group with more detail and information on the current pilot in relation to the Pareto methodology - Education Chief Operating Officer Page 7 of 112
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Agenda No. Report Title Presented by: 5.3 Q2 Children’s Services, Partnership and Communities Performance Report 2025/26 Chief Officer Children’s Services, Partnerships and Communities and Deputy Chief Social Work Officer Outline of report and summary of discussion The Chief Officer Children’s Services, Partnerships and Communities and Deputy Chief Social Work Officer presented the Q2 Children’s Services, Partnership and Communities Performance Report 2025/26 detailing the key achievements and challenges. The Chief Officer Children’s Services, Partnerships and Communities and Deputy Chief Social Work Officer thanked all staff that have supported the work undertaken over the quarter. The Chair thanked the Chief Officer Children’s Services, Partnerships and Communities and Deputy Chief Social Work Officer for the report and invited comments or questions. Cabinet noted their appreciation of the formatting and graphics in the report. Cabinet acknowledged the decrease in deferrals, however had concerns regarding the “revolving door” where families need consistent help and support due to the lack of resources they have. The Chair highlighted that Care Experience Week took place during Q2 which was great to participate in, along with the Chief Executive, and pledged to listen to children and to continue to honour and support their rights. Cabinet descried the work undertaken within the departments as “superhuman”, noting that staff consistently operate above and beyond expectations and that such responsibilities require individuals of exceptional dedication and capability. Decision Cabinet noted the report and its recommendations. Agenda No. Report Title Presented by: 5.4 Q2 Adult Social Care Performance Report Head of Adult Services and Chief Social Work Officer Outline of report and summary of discussion The Head of Adult Services and Chief Social Work Officer presented the Q2 Adult Social Care Performance Report noting the key achievements and challenges throughout. The Head of Adult Services and Chief Social Work Officer thanked all Social Care and Social Work staff in the Partnership for their work this quarter. Page 8 of 112
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The Chair thanked the Head of Adult Services and Chief Social Work Officer for the report and invited questions or comments. Cabinet highlighted the award ceremony that was hosted by the Health and Social Care Learning and Development Team where 180 people who gained qualifications to support people were celebrated. It was noted that, while there are challenges with staffing, this shows that the Council are doing what they can to attract people into the sector. Cabinet also congratulated those that had received an award and the Head of Adult Services and Chief Social Work Officer on receiving their award. Cabinet recognised that the work undertaken by the Head of Adult Services and Chief Social Work Officers team is incredibly difficult and thanked all the staff for their work. As the number of complaints had risen, and Cabinet queried whether this was due to their complexity or just taking longer to resolve. The Head of Adult Services and Chief Social Work Officer advised that there is work ongoing in relation to the complaints process and hoped that by quarter 3 there would be more intelligence so the data can be analysed. Cabinet highlighted the good work undertaken by Thera Trust who have been shortlisted for the Equality and Diversity Award. Decision Cabinet noted the report and its recommendations. Agenda No. Report Title Presented by: 5.5 Q2 Place Performance Report Chief Officer Place Outline of report and summary of discussion The Chief Officer Place presented the report noting the key achievements and challenges. The Chair thanked the Chief Officer Place for the report and invited comments and questions. Cabinet recognised and thanked the catering team for their care and consistency in their work. Place Directorate staff were thanked for keeping the roads safe and making sure that active travel is possible. Environmental teams were also thanked for their support, noting that the team help Midlothian Council move closer to our net zero responsibilities. Cabinet highlighted the Damp and Condensation Policy, asking for an update on the work around that policy. The Chief Officer Place explained the Damp and Condensation policy, that was previously approved and as part of that several environmental monitors, has been rolled out to provide data on condensation and dampness. This has allowed Page 9 of 112
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targeted work on the properties that have structural dampness rather than as result of residential behavioural such as ventilation issues. Cabinet expressed they were impressed with the void turnaround of 11 days and asked the Chief Officer Place if there was room for further improvement. The Chief Officer Place explained the information that has been extracted was to show Elected Members how those void properties that require significant work has impacted the overall figure. The Chief Officer Place added that the work is ongoing to assess the best way to improve performance and anticipates the figures reducing, however the overall figure will be impacted by the properties that need the major work. Cabinet congratulated the success of the Number 800 bus, noting that it has been very well received by the community who are keen to see it continue. Newtongrange Primary School’s new playground and equipment was described as fantastic resource for the school and the community. Goreglen Primary school were also mentioned as they are delighted with their new playground. The team were described as always willing to look at solutions and Cabinet thanked them for all the work that they do. The Chair shared feedback from Prana, the new Jiu-Jitsu gym that has newly opened in Midlothian, who praised the Economic Development Team and the support from Business Gateway as they are now delivering sessions for young people delivering martial arts. Cabinet noted that the Alpine Coaster had reached its 1-year anniversary and the Chair asked if the additional income is due to the volume of sales or the upselling of the 3-ticket ride. The Chief Officer Place advised that it has been both the additional volume and the upselling of the 3-ticket ride. Customer feedback was noted that single ride ticket that was purchased over the weekend were then looking to buy additional tickets but that had an overall impact on the queuing system and other customers. It has now been implemented that during peak times; only 3-ride tickets are available. This has had a positive impact as this allows the demand to be dealt with and has been evidenced in the statistics detailed in the report. The Chair thanked the team involved in the Alpine Coaster for ensuring everyone attending is having a great experience. Decision Cabinet noted the report and its recommendations. Page 10 of 112
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Agenda No. Report Title Presented by: 5.6 Q2 Corporate Solutions Performance Report Chief Officer Corporate Solutions Outline of report and summary of discussion The Chief Officer Corporate Solutions presented the Q2 Corporate Solutions Performance Report noting the key achievements and challenges contained within. The Chief Officer Corporate Solutions expressed their appreciation to all Corporate Solutions staff for their hard work and commitment throughout the year, noting that significant progress has been made in transformation activities that enhance the delivery of services to our communities. The Chair thanked the Chief Officer Corporate Solutions for the report and invited comments and ask questions. Cabinet commended all the work of the Chief Officer Corporate Solutions and their teams on the move from Midlothian House to Fairfield House. It was noted that there had been no further complaints to Elected Members in relation to people being unable to contact the Council. The Chair congratulated the Chief Officer Corporate Solutions on the project to expand the Lend to Mend hubs and the way it was presented by library staff. The authenticity of the work is reflecting well on the Councils net zero aims, recycling and cost of living. Cabinet suggested having knitting machines in libraires as this is a growing hobby. The Chair highlighted that there is the Knit and Natter group held at Loanhead Library and other libraries. Decision Cabinet noted the report and its recommendations. Agenda No. Report Title Presented by: 5.7 Q2 Midlothian Council Performance Report & Balanced Scorecard Chief Executive Outline of report and summary of discussion The Chief Executive presented the Q2 Midlothian Council Performance Report & Balanced Scorecard which includes a summary of actions in line with the Single Midlothian Plan that compliments the reports from the Chief Officers today. It was noted on the Balanced Scorecard on page 226 there was an error in the figures relating to internal processes perspective update where the figures should show as 0272. As Head of Paid Service, the Chief Executive thanked all staff for their outstanding contribution to Midlothian over the course of 2025. The Chair thanked the Chief Executive for the report and invited comments and questions. Page 11 of 112
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Decision Cabinet noted the report and its recommendations. Agenda No. Report Title Presented by: 5.8 Proposed Traffic Calming in Newlandrig Chief Officer Place Outline of report and summary of discussion The Chief Officer Place presented the report for decision which describes the challenges experienced by residents in Newlandrig village in relation to excessive speeding and the results of a recent consultation to determine benefits and challenges of the solutions presented. It is recommended that Cabinet: i. Review the proposed speed control measure options detailed, and ii. Nominate which option is to be delivered. The Chair thanked the Chief Officer Place for the report invited comments and questions. Cabinet highlighted the volume of correspondence regarding this matter and while the residents are supportive of the additional speedbumps it was noted that residents may not be aware of the traffic noise this could incur. Cabinet sympathised with the residents as the road is known for speeding. Cabinet discussed speaking with the residents of Newlandrig to offer the option of traffic islands instead of speedbumps as this will not cause the same disruption and noise on the road. Cabinet also suggested that it would be helpful to understand if the roll out of the 20mph would have a positive impact on the road. The Chair asked Cabinet to consider whether Gorebridge Community Council should be consulted regarding this matter, as the road is used by the community and people who live in Gorebridge, Cabinet highlighted that there has been a vast change across Europe from removing speedbumps and replacing them with traffic islands that has shown a great improvement with traffic. The Chair noted the conflicting views and proposed that this paper is deferred for 1 cycle to allow the time to work with residents. It was agreed that if the paper is deferred to the next meeting of Cabinet, Members would be prepared to communicate with the residents of Newlandrig to explain the possible implications of speed bumps. Lighting has been discussed with the Roads Team and whether there are options for different types of lighting which may resolve the lighting issue in the area. Page 12 of 112
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Cabinet agreed to defer the paper to the next meeting and to work with the residents of Newlandrig to provide information on all speed control measures detailing the implications they have. Decision Cabinet deferred this paper to the meeting. Action Cabinet to communicate with residents of Newlandrig to detail the possible implications of speedbumps. The public part of the meeting terminated at 12:16pm. The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday 20 January 2026. Page 13 of 112
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Cabinet Action Log Cabinet Tuesday 20 January 2026 Item No 4.2 Date of Meeting Item No and Title Action Action Owner Expected completion date Comments 1 04/03/2025 5.5 Adult Social Care Services Performance Report Quarter Three 2024/25 Arrange for a communication to the public to advise what is being built at Polton Street, Bonnyrigg and arrange a site visit for Councillors Head of Adult Services and Chief Social Work Officer December 2025 Work on the model for the housing component of the site and the use of the old schoolhouse building is being finalised. The relocation of Highbank Intermediate Care Home is scheduled to take place in March 2026. It had been hoped that this move could take place before the end of 2025, but some additional work was required. Communications are working with the HSCP to develop a Communication Strategy for all aspects of the bed-based review, and it is anticipated that Elected Members and senior officers will be offered a visit of the new facilities at Polton Street as soon as it is practical to do so. Communication and engagement with the local community is also planned. Page 15 of 112
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2 20/05/2025 5.1 Client Transport Integrated Policy Confirm if the reimbursement payments in relation to mileage for those parents and carers providing their own transport will impact any benefit payments, tax liabilities or incur any economic penalties. Education Chief Operating Officer TBC Action to be updated after confirmation of impact is confirmed by Welfare Rights Team. 3 20/05/2025 5.4 National Thematic Inspection of local authority approaches to supporting school improvement Prepare a timeline detailing how and when Midlothian’s young people can get further involved in committee meetings. Education Chief Operating Officer Complete Recommended for Closure As agreed at Cabinet on 25 November this item is now complete. Proposal prepared and to be presented to Cross Party WG for their consideration and further action. 4 26/08/2025 5.4 Resettlement Update and Proposal: New Scots in Midlothian Write to the UK Government Minister, copying the COSLA Community Wellbeing Spokesperson, requesting information on who will be arriving in Midlothian requiring resettlement. Chair/Council Leader Complete Recommended for Closure As agreed at Cabinet on 25 November this item is now complete. 5 25/11/2025 5.2 Q2 Education Performance Report 2025/26 Provide more detail and information on the current pilot regarding Pareto Methodology to the Cross Party Working Group. Education Chief Operating Officer TBC Page 16 of 112
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6 25/11/2025 5.8 Proposed Traffic Calming in Newlandrig Cabinet to communicate with residents of Newlandrig to inform them of the possible implications of speedbumps. Cabinet Members Complete Recommended for Closure. Cabinet Member for Housing Services & Community Empowerment and Cabinet Member for Community Facilities, Climate Change and Environment engaged directly with Newlandrig residents on traffic calming measures. A revised report will be submitted to Cabinet Meeting in March. Page 17 of 112
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Cabinet Tuesday 20 January 2026 Item No 5.1 Inspection of St David’s RC Primary School and Nursery Report by Michelle Strong, Chief Education Officer Report for Information 1 Recommendations Cabinet is asked to: (i) Note the content of the 16 December 2025 inspection report. (ii) Congratulate the headteacher, pupils, parents and staff connected with St David’s RC Primary School and nursery on the key strengths highlighted in the report. 2 Purpose of Report/Executive Summary The report outlines the outcome of the Education Scotland inspection of St David’s RC Primary School and nursery class. The nursery class was inspected as part of Education Scotland’s pilot inspection phase using the Quality improvement framework for the early learning and childcare sectors. Date: 16/12/25 Report Contact: Julie Fox, Quality Improvement Manager Julie.Fox@midlothian.gov.uk Page 19 of 112
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3 Background/Main Body of Report 3.1 In September 2025, a team of inspectors from Education Scotland visited St David’s RC Primary School and their ELC setting. The report was published on 16 December 2025 and is now available here St David's RC Primary School | Inspection Report | His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Education in Scotland. This is also attached as Appendix B. 3.2 Education Scotland is responsible for inspecting education settings throughout Scotland. This inspection was a full model inspection using core quality indicators from How Good is Our School and the new Quality Improvement Framework for Early Years and evaluations were as below; School QI 1.3 Leadership of change, evaluated as Good QI 2.3 Learning, teaching and assessment evaluated as Good QI 3.1 Ensuring wellbeing, equality & inclusion evaluated as Good QI 3.2 Raising attainment and achievement evaluated as Good Nursery HM Inspectors gathered evidence to evaluate the nursery using three quality indicators from the new Quality Improvement Framework for the early learning and childcare sectors. As this inspection is part of Education Scotland’s inspection pilot phase these quality indicators have not been graded. Quality indicators focused on during this inspection were; Curriculum Learning, teaching and assessment Wellbeing, equality and inclusion 3.3 Strengths The strengths identified in the Education Scotland report of 16/12/25 are: Children in the nursery class and school are supported by very positive, warm and nurturing relationships. This helps them be happy and achieve well in the setting. Children in the nursery class who require additional support to achieve are supported very well. Staff ensure planning and strategies to improve outcomes for children are focused clearly on meeting the needs of children and families. This supports children in the nursery to make very good progress in their learning and wellbeing. Page 20 of 112
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Children in the primary school and nursery class are happy, polite and hardworking. They embody fully the school’s values of loyalty, responsibility and kindness. Children learn in a settled and supportive environment. The headteacher provides strong leadership which supports a culture of continuous improvement. Across the school and nursery, children, staff and parents work together effectively to lead change. This is having a positive impact on outcomes for children. Staff work well together to achieve the best for children and families. They ensure carefully considered action is taken to build consistency in learning, teaching and assessment. This is improving children’s learning experiences. 3.4 Areas for Improvement The main areas for improvement are: In the primary school, the headteacher and staff should continue to improve planning to meet the needs of children who require additional support. Child’s plans should include clear, measurable targets which are timebound and reviewed regularly. Teachers should ensure that all learning activities are set at the correct level of difficulty for all children. In doing so, they should ensure engaging learning experiences which challenge children capable of achieving even more. In the nursery class, children would benefit from greater use of digital technology to support their learning. This should extend children’s learning and help them develop further their skills. 3.5 Conclusion Education Scotland inspectors concluded that they were confident that the school has the capacity to continue to improve and so will make no more visits in connection with the school and nursery. 4 Report Implications (Resource, Digital and Risk) 4.1 Resource There are no resource implications. 4.2 Digital There are no Digital implications. 4.3 Risk Education Scotland’s team of Inspectors visit a sample of education settings every year to find out how they are performing. A report is Page 21 of 112
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published which informs parents about the key strengths of the setting and its capacity for further improvement. Following the publication of the report further visits may be made to the setting, by the Education Authority to assist improvement and monitor progress. Monitoring, review and evaluation of progress by central officers in the Education Team is the control measure in place to reduce the risk of failure of settings to demonstrate their capacity to improve. 4.4 Ensuring Equalities (if required a separate IIA must be completed) The School Improvement Plan will be screened for equalities implications. 4.5 Additional Report Implications (See Appendix A) See Appendix A Appendices Appendix A – Additional Report Implications Appendix B – Report Page 22 of 112
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APPENDIX A – Report Implications A.1 Key Priorities within the Single Midlothian Plan • Getting it right for every Midlothian child • Improving opportunities in Midlothian A.2 Key Drivers for Change Key drivers addressed in this report: Holistic Working Hub and Spoke Modern Sustainable Transformational Preventative Asset-based Continuous Improvement One size fits one None of the above A.3 Key Delivery Streams Key delivery streams addressed in this report: One Council Working with you, for you Preventative and Sustainable Efficient and Modern Innovative and Ambitious None of the above A.4 Delivering Best Value Noted within. A.5 Involving Communities and Other Stakeholders A link to the published report has been made available to Elected Members, parents of children currently attending Newbattle High School and other interested parties. A.6 Impact on Performance and Outcomes The setting will continue to improve its work in line with the school improvement plan and central officers in the Education Team will continue to challenge and support the setting in relation to developing and implementing a range of quality improvement strategies. A.7 Adopting a Preventative Approach The Education (Scotland) Bill aims to take preventative action in order to close the attainment versus deprivation gap by implementing key Page 23 of 112
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policies and programmes which are designed to target support to children and young people from disadvantaged communities. Midlothian is highly committed to closing the poverty related attainment gap. A.8 Supporting Sustainable Development The School Improvement Plan allows for sustainable development and improvement. Page 24 of 112
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APPENDIX B – Inspection Report Page 25 of 112
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St David’s RC Primary School and Nursery Class, Midlothian Council, 5543029 © Crown Copyright 16 December 2025 Dear Parent/Carer In September 2025, a team of inspectors from Education Scotland visited St David’s RC Primary School and Nursery Class. During our visit, we talked to parents/carers and children and worked closely with the headteacher and staff. The nursery class was inspected as part of Education Scotland’s pilot inspection phase using the Quality improvement framework for the early learning and childcare sectors. The inspection team found the following strengths in the school’s work. • Children in the nursery class and school are supported by very positive, warm and nurturing relationships. This helps them be happy and achieve well in the setting. • Children in the nursery class who require additional support to achieve are supported very well. Staff ensure planning and strategies to improve outcomes for children are focused clearly on meeting the needs of children and families. This supports children in the nursery to make very good progress in their learning and wellbeing. • Children in the primary school and nursery class are happy, polite and hardworking. They embody fully the school’s values of loyalty, responsibility and kindness. Children learn in a settled and supportive environment. • The headteacher provides strong leadership which supports a culture of continuous improvement. Across the school and nursery, children, staff and parents work together effectively to lead change. This is having a positive impact on outcomes for children. • Staff work well together to achieve the best for children and families. They ensure carefully considered action is taken to build consistency in learning, teaching and assessment. This is improving children’s learning experiences. The following areas for improvement were identified and discussed with the headteacher and a representative from Midlothian Council. • In the primary school, the headteacher and staff should continue to improve planning to meet the needs of children who require additional support. Child’s plans should include clear, measurable targets which are timebound and reviewed regularly. • Teachers should ensure that all learning activities are set at the correct level of difficulty for all children. In doing so, they should ensure engaging learning experiences which challenge children capable of achieving even more. • In the nursery class, children would benefit from greater use of digital technology to support their learning. This should extend children’s learning and help them develop further their skills. Page 27 of 112
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St David’s RC Primary School and Nursery Class, Midlothian Council, 5543029 © Crown Copyright We gathered evidence to enable us to evaluate the school’s work using four quality indicators from How good is our school (4th edition). Quality indicators help schools, local authorities and inspectors to judge what is working well and what needs to be improved. Following the inspection of each school, the Scottish Government gathers details of our evaluations to keep track of how well Scottish schools are doing. Here are Education Scotland’s evaluations for St David’s RC Primary School Quality indicators for the primary stages Evaluation Leadership of change good Learning, teaching and assessment good Ensuring wellbeing, equality and inclusion good Raising attainment and achievement good Descriptions of the evaluations are available from: How good is our school? (4th edition), Appendix 3: The six-point scale We gathered evidence to enable us to evaluate the ELC’s work using three quality indicators from the Quality improvement framework for the early learning and childcare sectors. As this inspection is part of Education Scotland’s pilot inspection phase using the Quality improvement framework for the early learning and childcare sectors, these quality indicators have not been graded. Quality indicators for the nursery class Curriculum Learning, teaching and assessment Wellbeing, inclusion and equality A more detailed document called Summarised Inspection Findings (SIF) will be available on the Education Scotland website at: St David's RC Primary School | Inspection Report | His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Education in Scotland Page 28 of 112
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St David’s RC Primary School and Nursery Class, Midlothian Council, 5543029 © Crown Copyright What happens next? We are confident that the school has the capacity to continue to improve and so we will make no more visits in connection with this inspection. Midlothian Council will inform parents/carers about the school’s progress as part of its arrangements for reporting on the quality of its schools. Fraser Forsyth HM Inspector Page 29 of 112
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Cabinet Tuesday 20 January 2026 Item No 5.2 Inspection of Midlothian Council’s Fostering, Adoption and Adult Placement Services Report by Rebecca Hooton, Chief Officer Children’s Services, Partnerships and Communities Report for Information 1 Recommendations Cabinet is recommended to note: 1. the outcome and grading of the short notice announced inspection for Fostering, Adoption and Adult Support which took place between 25th August 2025 and 16th September 2025; and 2. a further report providing an update and assurance will be presented to Cabinet on 19th May. 2 Purpose of Report/Executive Summary The report summaries the finding and grades of the most recent inspection of our Fostering, Adoption and Adult Placement services. The Care Inspectorate reports are published on their website and available to the public. 01/12/2025 Report Contact: Lesley Watson Tel No 0131 271 3720 lesley.watson@midlothian.gov.uk Page 31 of 112
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3 Background 3.1 The Care Inspectorate is responsible for inspecting care services throughout Scotland. This includes registered services for Fostering and Adoption of children and Adult Care, often referred to as Continuing Care, placements. Inspections are carried out using the Health and Social Care Standards. The core standards are: 1: I experience high quality care and support that is right for me. 2: I am fully involved in all decisions about my care and support. 3: I have confidence in the people who support and care for me. 4: I have confidence in the organisation providing my care and support. 5: I experience a high-quality environment if the organisation provides the premises. The inspection uses a descriptive statement and/or statements to evaluate how the service meets the 5 high-level standards. The final grade is then calculated using an overall six-point scale ranging from unsatisfactory (1) to excellent (6). 3.2 In Midlothian the Fostering, Adoption and Adult placements services are managed by one small, discrete team. This includes 1.6 FTE Social work Team Leaders, 7.5 FTE Social workers and one FTE practitioner. 3.3 For the purposes of this short notice (announced) inspection the descriptive statements used and associated grades were as follows: Fostering Services How well do we support people's wellbeing? 3 - Adequate How good is our leadership? 3 - Adequate How good is our staff team? 3 - Adequate How well is our care and support planned? 4 - Good Adoption Services How well do we support people's wellbeing? 3 - Adequate How good is our leadership? 3 - Adequate How good is our staff team? 3 - Adequate How well is our care and support planned? 3 - Adequate Adult Placement/Continuing Care Service How well do we support people's wellbeing? 4 - Good How good is our leadership? 3 - Adequate Page 32 of 112
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How good is our staff team? 3 - Adequate How well is our care and support planned? 4 - Good Midlothian Council was awarded an overall Grade 3 for all three services inspected. The inspection determined that the overall practice across all three service areas was adequate. It is important to note there are many measures that were noted to be of a good standard, this is an indication of progress and improvement from the last inspection. However the overall grade always relates to the lowest grade provided. Several areas of Good Practice highlighted during the inspection. These included; • Young people experienced stable, enduring and attuned care from nurturing caregivers. • The service showed a clear commitment to ensuring brothers and sisters remained together. • The importance of young people understanding their life story and of promoting a positive sense of identity was clear within caring households. • Young people's views were known, and their voice had influence on the direction of their care and support. 3.4 Inspectors noted that there is a clear vision in place for our Fostering/Adult Placement and Adoption service and inspectors were confident that this vision will be driven forward by the Service Manager and Team Leaders. Progress made on Requirements and Areas for Improvement 3.5 The inspection also identified areas of requirement and improvement. Whilst inspectors identified evidence of improvements across all key performance areas since the last inspection, the requirements and areas for improvement reflect the ongoing staffing challenges experienced since the last inspection which has continued to impact on the service’s capacity to provide consistent support to our carers and adoptive parents. The feedback acknowledged the impact of staffing pressures on the ability of the service to drive forward and sustain improvements, including the progress made in relation to quality assurance structures which evidence good practice. Detail of the requirements and area for improvement are noted in the full reports (Appendix B). 3.6 Improvement plans for all three services have been devised and implemented that support the identified Requirements and Areas for Improvement. Improvement work has progressed at pace following the inspection. 3.7 Improvement work completed to date includes: • The FCC team is now fully staffed which in turn has underpinned increased and consistent support to all foster carers and adopters. Increased staffing has allowed for all foster carers to have an allocated Supervising Social Worker. Practice standards now reflect that in the event that this changes a FCC Team Leader will be allocated to the carer(s) on an interim basis to ensure regular supervision and support; (Fostering Requirement 1, Adult Placement AFI 1, Adoption Requirement 1 & AFI 1 & 2) • Increased staffing has also supported the review and further embedding of quality assurance structures into practice to support and evidence best Page 33 of 112
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practice. These include robust tracking in relation to Care Inspectorate notifications, unplanned endings and out with approvals. The FCC case file audit tool has also been strengthened to incorporate adoption and continuing care practice These structures are currently being built into the Council’s recording systems to ensure quality reporting and monitoring moving forward. (Fostering Requirement 3 & AFI 1, Adult Placement Requirement 1 & AFI 1, Adoption Requirement 2) • Additional Out with Approval safeguards have been built into practice. There is now a requirement that any out with approval recommendation is approved by the Agency Decision Maker or Depute Agency Decision Maker prior to any placement being approved. Additional slots at the Midlothian Fostering Panel have been ringfenced to allow capacity for any out with approvals to return to panel as necessary within a 4-week period. Out with approval guidance has been developed and will be rolled out across the service and panel members. (Fostering Requirement 2) • Unplanned Endings and Continuing Care policies have been further reviewed and amended in line with Care Inspectorate guidance and statutory regulations. These will be rolled out at a planned two-day Children’s Services conference in late January 2026. Tracking mechanisms and case file audit tools are in place to monitor practice in both areas. (Fostering Requirement 4, Adult Placement AFI 2) • A supervision and support framework for adopters has been developed that reflects Midlothian Children’s Services post adoption support guidance (Adoption Requirements 1,3 & 4). 3.8 The FCC Service Manager and FCC Team Leaders met with the Inspectors on 10th December 2025 to review the improvement planning post inspection. The Inspectors have confirmed that they are satisfied with the improvement planning and with the work that is progressing to meet the Requirements and Areas for Improvement. This was followed up with written correspondence from the Care Inspectorate on 8th January which confirmed this position – they stated that they were satisfied with the content of the action plans and had a productive discussion about the team’s capacity to implement them. Consequently, Inspectors do not require to meet with the service again out with standard monitoring, the next meeting of which is in March 2026. The relevant Service Manager and Team Leaders will manage this plan and regularly report on progress to the Children’s Services Senior Leadership Group and on a monthly basis at Social Work Assurance Group (SWAG). 3.9 To ensure progress is expedited, the Chief Officer Children’s Services, Partnerships and Communities will monitor and provide weekly updates to the Directorate Management Team meetings, chaired by the Acting Executive Director – Children, Young People & Partnerships. 3.10 A further report will be brought to Cabinet on 19th May which will provide an update and assurance that the outstanding Requirements and Areas for Improvement have been met. Page 34 of 112
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Report Implications (Resource, Digital and Risk) 4.1 Resource The budgeted resource in place for the team should allow for the improvement of service delivery. The challenges in recruiting staff and the impact of absence including sickness and maternity leave have had a direct impact on service provision and the inspection grading. Two newly recruited staff will be in place by January 2026 and we are confident with a full complement of staff that the improvement plan is achievable and will result in improved grading for the next inspection. 4.2 Digital There is ongoing consideration about the future of AI to support social work services which would enhance capacity of front-line staff to support our children, young people and their carers. 4.3 Risk Lack of consistent staffing impacts on the care and support that is provided to children, young people and carers. Any further challenges with staffing need to be addressed in a manner that ensures a consistent level of capacity to meet the needs of our children, young people and carers to ensure we improve the current gradings. The leadership team raised the impact of being a small local authority and that any absence in a small team has a large impact. This was acknowledged by the Care inspectorate. 4.4 Ensuring Equalities The service’s mission is for all care experienced children and young people to be provided with quality services. 4.5 Additional Report Implications (Appendix A) Page 35 of 112
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Appendices APPENDIX A – Report Implications A.1 Key Priorities within the Single Midlothian Plan The inspection feedback endorses our local approach to delivering services A.2 Key Drivers for Change Key drivers addressed in this report: Holistic Working Hub and Spoke Modern Sustainable Transformational Preventative Asset-based Continuous Improvement One size fits one None of the above A.3 Key Delivery Streams Key delivery streams addressed in this report: One Council Working with you, for you Preventative and Sustainable Efficient and Modern Innovative and Ambitious None of the above A.4 Delivering Best Value Staff continue to strive to support children and young people and carers to deliver best value and this is supported by the inspection improvement plans. A.5 Involving Communities and Other Stakeholders Staff work with many stakeholders including young people and their families to deliver holistic, sustainable services A.6 Impact on Performance and Outcomes The recent grades are below the current performance measure however the inspection improvement plan will support improved practice standards across all of the services inspected. A.7 Adopting a Preventative Approach Not applicable A.8 Supporting Sustainable Development – not applicable Page 36 of 112
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Cabinet Tuesday 20 January 2026 Item No 5.3 Proposed Creation of Additional Lane Space for Right Hand Turning Traffic, Bonnyrigg High Street Report by Executive Director Place Report for Decision 1 Recommendations Cabinet is requested to determine i. installing an additional lane space for right hand turning traffic at High Street, Bonnyrigg (as depicted in Appendix B) and ii. if this traffic measure is approved, to agree that a full design and cost project is brought forward for the 2026/27 financial year. 2 Purpose of Report / Executive Summary 2.1 This report describes traffic flow issues experienced in Bonnyrigg, caused by the inability of traffic to flow through the signals at the High Street, due to stacking of right hand turning vehicles and how these impacts on wider service. The proposal is to introduce a new lane at the top of Bonnyrigg High Street to facilitate queing right-hand-turning traffic on to Polton Street. Date: 05/11/2025 Report Contact: Gillian Bathgate, Senior Roads Officer gillian.bathgate@midlothian.gov.uk Page 37 of 112
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3 Background 3.1 Proposals have been designed for a new lane on Bonnyrigg High Street to facilitate the flow of queuing right-hand-turning traffic on to Polton Street which currently creates a build-up of traffic on the High Street. 3.2 Congestion issues have been raised with the council, in particular around the evening commute times from 3.30pm – 7.00pm. Bonnyrigg continues to experience ongoing development with expansion areas which add to the pressures experienced.. 3.3 Lothian Buses which operate 4 buses per hour through the signals during this period have highlighted the traffic flow and signals issue as a key contributor to service delays. 3.4 Residents from neighbouring streets at Leyden Place, Park Road and Golf Course Road have complained of their streets being used by vehicles in displacement to avoid the traffic signal congestion. Main Report 3.5 Road Services subsequently investigated if any soft traffic management measures could alleviate the traffic flow issues and the signalling term maintenance contractor tested signal phasing and determined that to gain traffic flow advantage would be through implementation of a secondary lane to allow left turning/straight flow traffic to pass the stacking right turn traffic. 3.6 This can be achieved by reducing pavements widths on both sides of the carriageway and a reduction in on street parking provision by circa 6 spaces. 3.7 The costs of the project is estimated at around £0.125M and will utilise Transport Scotland funding. 3.8 All construction works will be matched with the current street scene materials such as kerbs, slabs and railings replaced as close as possible to existing. 3.9 A project is anticipated over a 4-6 week period and would aim to be delivered during the school break in Summer 2026. 3.10 Appendix B shows the proposed initial layout – this is subject to a full design review if approved. 3.11 Road Services carried out a consultation in June 2025. Circulation of the proposals was limited to properties set within the High Street to include residential and business plus statutory consultees such as bus operators and community councils. Page 38 of 112
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➢ No response was received from any residents with presumption made that they utilise parking away from the High Street and as such are unaffected. ➢ Of the eighteen businesses who were consulted seven replied with six opposed and one in favour. The opposition centred around reduction in parking provision having an impact on business. ➢ Lothian Buses responded - they would welcome any changes which introduces more road space, assists traffic progression, and reduces journey times. ➢ Bonnyrigg and District Community Council response welcomes the prospect of an additional lane; although with concern that the reduction in parking and reduction in footpath may be potentially damaging to businesses and detrimental to customers and pedestrians in general. 3.12 Bonnyrigg has ample off-street parking for town centre utilisation beyond the remaining on street provision on both the High Street and Polton Street, with an additional thirty-four spaces at Campview car park and circa fifty at the King George the V park (considering reserved parking at this site). Page 39 of 112
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4. Report Implications (Resource, Digital and Risk) 4.1 Resource Minimal additional expense would be incurred by realigning works. A small cost element for footpath width reductions can be accommodated within current service budget. 4.2 Digital None 4.3 Risk The proposed creation of additional lane space for right hand turning traffic would improve traffic flows, reduce waiting time and potential impatience/risk taking and provide more space for manoeuvring vehicles. This is intended to make the area easier to negotiate and reduce the risk of accidents. 4.4 Ensuring Equalities None. 4.5 Additional Report Implications None. Page 40 of 112
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Appendices Appendix A: Report Implications Appendix B: Site Plans, consulted on proposed creation of additional lane space for right hand turning traffic. Page 41 of 112
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Appendix A – Additional Report Implications APPENDIX A – Report Implications A.1 Key Priorities within the Single Midlothian Plan In terms of the key priorities through the Single Midlothian Plan…. A.2 Key Drivers for Change Key drivers addressed in this report: Holistic Working Hub and Spoke Modern Sustainable Transformational Preventative Asset-based Continuous Improvement One size fits one None of the above A.3 Key Delivery Streams Key delivery streams addressed in this report: One Council Working with you, for you Preventative and Sustainable Efficient and Modern Innovative and Ambitious None of the above A.4 Delivering Best Value A.5 Involving Communities and Other Stakeholders N/A A.6 Impact on Performance and Outcomes Improved traffic flows will improves localised air quality. A.7 Adopting a Preventative Approach. N/A A.8 Supporting Sustainable Development N/A Page 42 of 112
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APPENDIX B Proposed new Signalisation Layout Page 43 of 112
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Cabinet Tuesday 20 January 2026 Item No 5.4 Food Standards Scotland: Food Law Enforcement Actions Audit 2025-26 Report by Derek Oliver, Executive Director Children, Young People and Partnerships (Acting) Report for Information 1 Recommendations It is recommended that Cabinet note: i. Midlothian Council’s Environmental Health Service was subject of a statutory Audit of Food Law Enforcement by Food Standards Scotland (FSS) between 19 June - 6 August 2025. In the Presentation of Audit Findings, the Auditors concluded that whilst recognising the significant staffing resource issues, which is being experienced nationally, the service was performing well in fulfilling its enforcement roles and responsibilities; ii. the Audit report is published on the FSS website; iii. the exemplary work of the Environmental Health Service to enable the Authority to achieve a positive outcome to the Food Law Enforcement Actions Audit 2025. 2 Purpose of Report The purpose of this report is to bring to the attention of Cabinet the findings of the Food Standards Scotland: Food Law Enforcement Actions Audit of Midlothian Council’s Food Service carried out between June and August 2025. Date Report Contact: Gail McElroy Tel No: 0131 271 3559 gail.mcelroy@midlothian.gov.uk Page 45 of 112
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3 Background/Main Body of Report 3.1 Food Standards Scotland (FSS) has responsibility to monitor the performance of Local Authority Food Service’s enforcing food safety legislation in Scotland with the aim to provide assurance that the delivery of official controls for food is compliant with Scottish and UK legal requirements and official guidance. Midlothian Council received notification of audit from Food Standards Scotland on 19 June 2025 that they had been selected for the Local Authority Food Law Enforcement Actions Audit 2025-2026. The aim of the audit was to assess and verify the arrangements in place to ensure the adequate and effective delivery of food law enforcement systems, procedures and actions. The audit scope and process were defined, and specific information was requested. The outcome of the audit was presented by FSS Audit Team on 6 August 2025 in Midlothian House to: Chief Officer - Place, Senior Manager Protective Services, Team Manager Business Regulation (Lead Food Officer/Audit Liaison Officer) and Principal Environmental Health Officer (Food & Safety). Presentation of Audit Findings – Midlothian Council is enclosed at Appendix B.1. 3.2 Feedback from the audit team was overall very positive. Midlothian Council has a Food Service Plan for 2025/26, approved by Cabinet on 20 May 2025 and a Food Law Enforcement Policy, approved on 28 May 2024, with Standing Orders and a Scheme of Administration in place. There are up to date Operational Procedures available and internal monitoring to enable a consistent and proportionate approach to enforcement. Food Law Interventions are effectively managed with around 330 inspections carried out per year of the 995 food businesses registered within Midlothian. However, it was also noted that there were 143 missed inspections in 2023-24 and 284 missed inspections in 2024-25 due to staffing shortfall. This was highlighted and recognised by Cabinet in May 2025 in the Review of Service Performance against the 2024-2025 Food Service Plan. 3.3 At the time of audit, the Food Service had 2.45 FTE in post from 4.1 FTE posts on the establishment. The final outcome of the Required Resource Exercise in May 2025 calculated that 6.5 FTE is required in Midlothian Council to deliver the full range of food law-related activities. There was acknowledgement by the Audit Team of the difficulties faced nationally within Local Authority Environmental Health Teams to recruit qualified Environmental Heath Officers and Food Safety Officers that impact the Food Service. These workforce sustainability challenges are being strategically addressed by The Society of Chief Officers of Environmental Health in Scotland. During the audit process, Midlothian Council was recognised for its considerable efforts and innovative progress to address the staffing shortfall in the face of the national shortage of Environmental Health Page 46 of 112
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Officers and Food Safety Officers. Midlothian Council has employed two trainee Food Safety Officers, a Regulatory Services Modern Apprentice and appointed temporary contractors to help alleviate the pressures on the team and has a clear commitment to train and develop new officers. The service will continue to build on this concept through its Service Review and collaborate with other Local Authorities to develop and implement a framework that supports alternative regulatory models, ‘grow your own’ capacity and strengthens the sustainability of the workforce. 3.4 Enforcement action taken by the Food Service was deemed effective, resulting in improvements in standards. However, it was reported that in some cases the copy quality of the handwritten notices served on site were difficult to read owing to the manual method used. A new procedure has been implemented using technology to improve the copy quality of handwritten enforcement notices issued on site to food businesses. 3.5 Midlothian Council’s Food Enforcement Activity data is collected by our Management Information System (MIS), IDOX Uniform and uploaded to the Scottish National Database (SND) a central repository within FSS. This is the prescribed mechanism for Food Authorities to provide real time information to FSS on all Official Control activity, which is undertaken by the Food Service. The audit identified that Midlothian Council’s Enforcement Action data is not accurately represented on SND with a number of actions missing from the national database. The Lead Food Officer has previously attempted to take action to verify the data, however further intervention is required to ensure the current and future accuracy of this information. A specialist/development provision will be considered as a priority as part of the Service Review of Protective Services. This will assist the Council meet our responsibilities regarding accurate reporting to the SND but would also assist the service with digital solutions to modernise and improve efficiency and productivity. Further significant changes to our systems will be required with the implementation of the Scottish Authorities Food Enforcement Rebuild (SAFER) programme which aims to reform and modernise the food law delivery system in Scotland. Page 47 of 112
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4 Report Implications (Resource, Digital and Risk) 4.1 Resource At present there is no capacity within the existing establishment to fulfil the duties required by FSS to check and verify the food enforcement activity date and ensure it is and remains accurate. This requires a dedicated role to be incorporated into the structure through the Service Review. Growth is highlighted as required if the Authority were to meet the staffing resources identified as required through the FSS resource calculator; without such growth the Service will only be able to undertake the highest identified risk matters. 4.2 Digital The use of existing digital platforms has no anticipated impact on Digital Services or IT infrastructure. 4.3 Risk As sufficient qualified staff cannot currently be recruited to fill the existing establishment, Midlothian Council Food Service is taking steps to address the staffing shortfall by training new officers to build the Environmental Health workforce. In order to address resource shortfall and the development role for the SND, the Service Review will address these requirements. 4.4 Ensuring Equalities (if required a separate IIA must be completed) There are no known equality issues arising from the outcome of this audit. 4.4 Additional Report Implications (See Appendix A) See Appendix A Appendices Appendix A – Additional Report Implications Appendix B – Background information Page 48 of 112
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APPENDIX A – Report Implications A.1 Key Priorities within the Single Midlothian Plan Ensuring the Food Service is well resourced and can provide accurate and up to date data is imperative to reducing the gap in health outcomes not only in Midlothian but also nationally. A.2 Key Drivers for Change Key drivers addressed in this report: Holistic Working Hub and Spoke Modern Sustainable Transformational Preventative Asset-based Continuous Improvement One size fits one None of the above A.3 Key Delivery Streams Key delivery streams addressed in this report: One Council Working with you, for you Preventative and Sustainable Efficient and Modern Innovative and Ambitious None of the above A.4 Delivering Best Value This report relates to the outcomes of an 3rd party audit which identifies areas of continuous improvement in performance. Implementing the solutions above we have an opportunity to improve our efficiency and effectiveness thereby protecting public health. A.5 Involving Communities and Other Stakeholders Food Standards Scotland are the Competent Authority responsible for monitoring the performance of Food Authorities in Scotland. Midlothian Council Food Service is required to engage with FSS and rectify any non-conformities by introducing appropriate solutions. A.6 Impact on Performance and Outcomes Implementing the solutions identified will improve our performance to provide the accurate and up to date data required by FSS. Page 49 of 112
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A.7 Adopting a Preventative Approach Any increase in staffing within the Food Service allows the Food and Safety Team to allocate resources to other preventative activities. A.8 Supporting Sustainable Development N/A Page 50 of 112
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APPENDIX B Background Papers/Resource Links 1/ Local Authority Food Law Enforcement Actions Audit 2025-26, Presentation of Audit Findings – Midlothian Council Page 51 of 112
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Date: June – August 2025 Audit Assurance Division Title slide Local Authority Food Law Enforcement Actions Audit 2025 - 26 Presentation of Audit Findings – Midlothian Council Page 53 of 112
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2 Audit Aim • The aim of the audit programme is to assess and verify the arrangements in place at Local Authorities to ensure the adequate and effective delivery of Official Controls, specifically enforcement actions in LA enforced establishments. Audit Scope • The audit covered the organisation, planning, implementation and review of official controls carried out by Midlothian Council’s Environmental Health Service. Audit Process • The Audit primarily consisted of a documentation review with one online meeting held with the Audit Liaison Officer over the course of 10 days. • The findings of the audit will be presented here and will also be compiled into an overall summary report at the end of the Audit Programme. Introduction Page 54 of 112
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• The Authority has an up-to-date 2025-26 Food Service Plan that was approved by Cabinet on 20 May 2025. • The plan outlines how food safety will be monitored and controlled within Midlothian. The Authority’s approach to interventions out-of-hours is included in the Plan. • A review of service performance against the 2024-25 Plan was also completed and submitted. 87% of planned inspections at highest-risk premises were stated to have been completed. • The Authority has 993 registered food premises and 11 Approved Establishments (AE) in total. • FHIS – there are 691 premises on the platform and 92% have a Pass. Due to ‘missed’ inspections, some data contributing to this calculation is historic. As a comparison, only 76% of Midlothian food businesses inspected achieved a Pass rating between April 2024 and March 2025. Down 10% from 2023-24. • On SND, there are 215 premises showing as unrated – equating to 21% of the database cohort. It is acknowledged that the number of unrated premises has reduced from 254 in 2024. The majority of that 215 are risk rated under FLCOP, Annex 5 and have been scheduled to receive an FLRS inspection. 45 new businesses are unrated and await inspection. • A process exists for triaging and prioritising new and unrated establishments. Organisation & Management Page 55 of 112
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• The Authority provided an Enforcement Policy that was approved by Cabinet on 28th May 2024, with a review scheduled biennially. • The Authority has Standing Orders and a Scheme of Administration that were last reviewed in 2022 and are currently under review. • Copies of photographic ID Instrument of Appointment officer authorisations were submitted. • Recently reviewed Operational Procedures were submitted for a wide range of enforcement notices. • An Employee Charter and Code of Conduct was provided that sets out standards of behaviour expected. Forms are used routinely to require staff to declare any outside employment or other potential conflicts of interest. • A recently reviewed Monitoring Procedure for Food Law Enforcement was provided that outlined how the Authority ensures a consistent approach to enforcement. • Staff can access documented procedures via a share drive and/or MS Teams. Policies & Procedures Page 56 of 112
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• In accordance with the Enforcement Policy and Food Law Codes of Practice, most interventions are carried out unannounced. • An Excel spreadsheet exported from the FED was provided, showing that 995 interventions had been carried out in Midlothian in the past 3 years. • OCV, Group 1, Group 2&3 Band D&E and initial Group 1&2 inspections are being prioritised. • There were 143 missed inspections in 2023-24 and 284 were missed in 2024-25 due to a staffing shortfall. 16 food premises were found to have significant or sustained non- compliances (risk rated Band D or E) necessitating an additional 26 unplanned interventions to be carried out. • Currently, in SND there are 215 premises showing as unrated – 21% of database. The majority of that 215 are risk rated under FLCOP, Annex 5, low-risk Category D’s and E’s, and have been given a scheduled FLRS inspection date. 45 new businesses are unrated and await inspection. • Procedures exist detailing how officers should record FLRS Food Law Interventions, and any Food Law Notices served or withdrawn in the Food Enforcement Database (FED). • Staffing - 2.45 FTE is filled out of 4.1 posts and considerable efforts have been made to address the shortfall, with 2 EHO contractors being employed temporarily and 2 trainee FSOs and a Regulatory Services Modern Apprentice also recently being appointed. • A Required Resource Exercise carried out in January 2025 and revised in conjunction with FSS in May 2025 calculated that 6.5 FTE would be required to deliver the full range of food law-related activities and a further 2 FTE to deliver other work carried out by the Food and Safety team. Interventions Page 57 of 112
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• Authorised Officers decide on the appropriate enforcement action, using a graduated approach where possible, and are required to discuss any formal enforcement action (including voluntary undertakings) being considered with a manager. • In 2024-25 14 food enforcement notices, plus 1 voluntary closure and 1 voluntary surrender were issued. 1 report was submitted to the COPFS, which resulted in a guilty plea and successful prosecution. • The service of notices was proportionate in that these were in response to higher FL rating scores. Notices, specifically HINs, were served within 5 working days following interventions. • Some high score anomalies were identified where no notices were served. The Authority has provided a satisfactory explanation. • RANs – the copy quality of handwritten notices was generally worse than those that were typed. In some cases, the handwriting was difficult to read, and it was not clear whether some options had been stroked through or underlined. • Revisits to check compliance are done during and after Notice expiry dates. Enforcement Arrangements Page 58 of 112
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The Authority provided evidence that 64 enforcement actions had been taken on 31 establishments since 1st April 2022, as follows: On SND for the same period, there were 31 enforcements on 28 establishments. The Lead Food Officer is taking appropriate action to ensure that enforcement activity taken since 01/04/2022 is checked and verified on SND to ensure that data held there accurately correlates with the data held on the Authority’s Food Enforcement Database. Enforcement Actions Enforcement Action 2022-23 2023-24 2024-25 2025-26 Total HIN 8 1 9 RAN 8 9 11 2 30 RAN withdrawn 3 6 6 1 16 Voluntary Closure 1 1 2 Voluntary Closure Lifted 1 1 Voluntary Surrender 1 1 1 3 HEPN 1 1 HEPO 1 1 Prosecution 1 1 21 17 23 3 64 Page 59 of 112
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Reasons cited and effectiveness of Enforcement Action 9 Hygiene Improvement Notices – HACCP, maintenance and facilities. 30 Remedial Action Notices – lack of hot water, significant pest issues, extending shelf life, allergens. 2 Voluntary Closures – poor and unsatisfactory standards. 3 Voluntary Surrenders – potential contamination by pests and counterfeit vodka. 1 HEPN – rat activity. 1 HEPO – rat activity. 1 Prosecution – 1 rat infestation/repeated visits and poor history of compliance (pled guilty). Overall, it appears that enforcement action was effective, resulting in improvements in standards and FLRS scores afterwards. Page 60 of 112
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• The Authority has qualified, trained and experienced officers. • Authorised Food Enforcement Officers are required to undertake regular training activities to maintain their proficiency and expertise. The Authority has sourced and funded a bespoke legal procedures training course for officers, to be delivered in October 2025. • The Principal Officer (Food & Safety) reviews training requirements at workplan review meetings and as part of annual planned appraisal system operated by the council. • Communication - general outcomes and performance reports are discussed at Food & Safety team monthly meetings, monthly consistency workshops and weekly catch ups. Competence Page 61 of 112
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• The Authority uses its FED to schedule due dates for all its food premises including OCV activity in Approved Establishments. • There are detailed FED data entry procedures in place for the Service. These detail (using screenshots) how data is entered and checked including a reference to FED/SND accuracy. • There were no Enforcement Actions code errors (Value not recognised) on SND. • The Authority identified an issue with its FED not picking up missed Band D and E inspections and has initiated a process to track high risk inspections. • The Authority’s Enforcement Action data is not accurately represented on SND. A significant number of enforcement actions are missing on SND. Further data checking and verification is required to ensure that the Authority's work output is accurately depicted in SND. • Discussions are ongoing with FSS regarding automated upload of FHIS data. Food Enforcement Database Page 62 of 112
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• An annual sampling plan is prepared each year. • In 2023-24, 130 samples were taken - 34 from approved establishments, 46 from manufacturers and 50 for FSS surveys. • In 2024-25 134 food samples were taken - 109 from approved establishments and manufacturers, 24 FSS surveys and 1 complaint sample. • There was no enforcement action requiring to be taken in the last 3 years in response to unsatisfactory sample results, the majority being minor labelling errors. • None of the Approved Establishments in Midlothian operates with a Private Water Supply. Sampling Page 63 of 112
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• The Authority has a Monitoring Procedure for Food Law Enforcement and a new spreadsheet process for checking FLRS and OCV interventions and enforcement notices served. • Quarterly internal monitoring procedures exist for checking FLRS and OCV interventions and approving Food Law Notices. Draft reports to the COPFS via SRA web also require to be approved prior to submission. • The database review revealed that 995 premises had had official control inspections in the past 3 years. Several premises were subject to multiple visits. • FLRS scores were consistent with the Interventions Food Law Code of Practice. Premises with high scores mainly resulted in enhanced enforcement action including statutory notices being served but there were some exceptions. The ALO provided an explanation which has been accepted. • Enforcement action taken appeared effective, resulting in improvements in standards and FLRS scores afterwards. Internal Monitoring Page 64 of 112
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Conclusions • The Authority provided an Enforcement Policy that was approved by Cabinet on 28th May 2024 an up-to-date 2025- 26 Food Service Plan that was approved by Cabinet on 20 May 2025. • There is a lack of resilience in that 2.45 FTE is filled out of 4.1 posts on the establishment and a Required Resource recently calculated to be 6.5 FTE. The number of missed inspections and unrated premises is a cause for concern, but it is acknowledged that good and innovative progress is being made in addressing the staffing shortfall. • Recently reviewed Monitoring and Operational Procedures for Food Law Enforcement outline how the Authority ensures a consistent approach to enforcement. • 64 enforcement actions had been taken in 31 establishments since 1 April 2022, but more than 30 of these enforcement actions had not been captured in SND. Further checking and verification of data accuracy is required. • Enforcement action taken was effective, resulting in improvements in standards and FLRS scores afterwards. • Officers taking enforcement action were suitably authorised. • A sampling plan is prepared and adhered to each year, with sampling targeted at the highest risk establishments as well as FSS surveys. Page 65 of 112
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Midlothian Council’s Comments & Feedback • The national shortage of Environmental Health Officers and/or trained Food Safety Officers coupled with the extremely limited options to achieve the necessary qualifications and fully funded training opportunities nationally has negatively impacted the LA. Midlothian Council have taken considerable efforts to address this locally by ‘growing our own’. • Midlothian Council supports the introduction of a licensing scheme to ensure compliance with standard conditions prior to a food business starting operations, with retrospective licensing to be applied to all existing establishments. This would provide a valuable (ring-fenced) income stream commensurate with the size of the authority to the resource required for interventions; improve initial compliance to protect public health; and potentially reduce enforcement action taken on business through pre-requisite conditions. • The limitation of the LAs MIS and compatibility with SND, such that the LA under report food law enforcement activity, had previously been identified by the Authority and discussed with FSS in an attempt to resolve this matter. Further action by the Authority is required to identify and implement a solution to ensure that enforcement activity is accurately uploaded to SND. This will require a specialist role. • From now on for all notices served on site the officer will take a photograph of the original notice served on the FBO to ensure an accurate and clear copy of the notice is retained for our records. Page 66 of 112
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Next Steps • Midlothian Council is the first Authority to have been audited under the programme. • The programme will run until the end of financial year or until an adequate representation of Authorities has been achieved. • The findings from each audit, including your comments and feedback, will be published on FSS’ website and collated into an overall summary report which will be produced and published at the end of the programme. • The presentation once agreed, will be sent to your Chief Executive along with a covering letter. There is an expectation that the Local Authority will use the findings of the audit to help improve their performance. You may consider sharing the audit findings with elected members within the appropriate local public committee. • Any feedback you provide will also be incorporated into the summary report. The report will be made available on our website, and you will be notified once it has been published. Page 67 of 112
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Cabinet Tuesday 20 January 2026 Item No 5.5 Midlothian 20mph Zones Delivery Update Report by Executive Director Place Report for Decision 1 Recommendations It is recommended that Cabinet: i. Acknowledges the delivery of 20mph zones following prior approval in May 2023. ii. Approve the next phase, including amendments to 20mph zones following the proposed observation period. 2 Purpose of Report/Executive Summary This report describes the process of delivery of 20mph zones across Midlothian, the challenges and more recent its impacts on communities. It recommends next steps which will be considered and delivered as directed by road services, corresponding with the Transport Scotland implementation guide. Date: 30/12/2025 Report Contact: Wayne Clark – Group Manager, Roads and Transportation Wayne.Clark@Midlothian.gov.uk Page 69 of 112
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3 Background 3.1 Council approved a rollout of 20mph zones across Midlothian in May 2023. 3.2 The reduction to 20mph was undertaken as part of a county wide, Transport Scotland led initiative where 20mph is to become the standard for residential areas - The Road Assessment Criteria | Transport Scotland 3.3 The Guidance aimed to have all roads which are suitable for 20mph changed by end of 2025, and Midlothian Council has achieved the target. 3.4 Changes at this point only include signage, including digital signage. 3.5 No additional control measures to the signage are in place but are reinforced by a legal Traffic Restriction Order (TRO) which is enforceable by Police Scotland. 3.6 Transport Scotland desire to implement speed change and then install behavioural change through education and improved habits as opposed to control measures such as speed humps and build outs as these contribute to poor air quality caused by vehicles start/stop motion. Main Report 3.7 Following approval in May 2023, the Council’s Road Services started to plan and seek funding for the delivery of 20mph zones across all residential domains. 3.8 Installation was to be prioritised as detailed in the AECOM report dated 13 April 2023 with the included maps the basis for change. (Appendix B) 3.9 The project was divided into phases – ➢ Phase 1 – small villages and settlements ➢ Phase 2 – main towns 3.10 Phase 1 was delivered in financial year 2024/25 with small villages to include Howgate, Dewarton and Edgehead. 3.11 Phase 2 was delivered in financial year 2025/26 with towns such as Dalkeith, Penicuik and Bonnyrigg included. 3.12 All areas now have legal Traffic Restriction orders in place meaning Police Scotland can enforce speed control as this activity is not within the council’s remit to undertake enforcement. 3.13 As supplementary works, the council has installed 20 permanent speed monitoring stations across the county. These are being used to capture real time speeds and measure change in behaviours. Page 70 of 112
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3.14 The council have reduced speeds in over 800 streets, and continues to expand numbers as additional residential streets are added from local new build development. 3.15 In accordance with Transport Scotland Guidance, our Road Services intend to monitor behavioural change over a period of 1 year, which can commence once the proposal is approved. Thereafter outcomes will be collated in a subsequent report with recommendations on particular ways forward. 3.16 Outcomes from the speed monitoring are anticipated to fall into 3 categories 1- New speed limit has been well received, has delivered tangible change and has not created a risk. o No changes required 2- New speed limit has poor compliance; however, lack of compliance causes wide risk to all users. o Seek installation of control measures as per Transport Scotland guidance Speed Management Interventions | Transport Scotland . the installation of these in some locations would require additional works such as addition of street lighting. 3- New speed limit has poor compliance and/or has caused motorists frustrations. o Abandon Traffic Order and revise speed to old/or a new median speed. 3.17 Road Services anticipates between 1-2% of the implemented changes may need revision. 3.18 Lothian Buses have not revised any of their bus schedules due to the implementation of 20mph zones in Midlothian. 3.19 Complaints regarding 20mph zones are often focussed onto arterial routes through towns or villages. 3.20 Early indicators from the permanent speed monitors show a decrease in average speeds when excluding the outliers of both high and low speeds. 3.21 The revisions of speed limits will be carried out on a service driven priority list based on professional assessment and feedback. 3.22 Additionally officers will be reviewing speed limits on arterial link routes to our communities as agreed by Council in May 2023 – these works will see some limits at 60’s and 40’s reduced to promote safety. Work on this has already begun on both Millerhill Road and Roslin Glen. Page 71 of 112
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4 Report Implications (Resource, Digital and Risk) 4.1 Resource Capital expenditure will be funded against the Transport Scotland awarded RSIF (Road Safety Improvement Fund) 4.2 Digital N/A 4.3 Risk There is a risk that residents in locations may still consider that traffic speeds are too high after any undertaken works. 4.4 Ensuring Equalities (if required a separate IIA must be completed) N/A 4.5 Additional Report Implications Appendices Appendix A Appendix B Page 72 of 112
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APPENDIX A – Report Implications A.1 Key Priorities within the Single Midlothian Plan In terms of the key priorities through the Single Midlothian Plan…. A.2 Key Drivers for Change Key drivers addressed in this report: Holistic Working Hub and Spoke Modern Sustainable Transformational Preventative Asset-based Continuous Improvement One size fits one None of the above A.3 Key Delivery Streams Key delivery streams addressed in this report: One Council Working with you, for you Preventative and Sustainable Efficient and Modern Innovative and Ambitious None of the above A.4 Delivering Best Value A.5 Involving Communities and Other Stakeholders Midlothian Council, Road services meet regularly with community councils via MTRAP group (Midlothian Transport Roads and Pavements), which is facilitated via the federation of community councils. A.6 Impact on Performance and Outcomes N/A A.7 Adopting a Preventative Approach. The road safety principles are adopting a harm prevention approach. A.8 Supporting Sustainable Development N/A Page 73 of 112
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Appendix B Midlothian 20mph Speed Limit Review Page 74 of 112
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Midlothian 20mph Speed Limit Review Midlothian Council 13 April 2023 Page 75 of 112
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Midlothian 20mph Speed Limit Review Prepared for: Midlothian Council AECOM Quality information Prepared by Checked by Verified by Approved by Elliot Bayley Consultant Iain Hamilton Principal Consultant David McKechnie Regional Director David McKechnie Regional Director Revision History Revision Revision date Details Authorized Name Position 1 24 April 2023 Client Comments IH Iain Hamilton Principal Consultant 2 24 April 2023 Client Comments IH Iain Hamilton Principal Consultant 3 5 May 2023 Proposed Speed Limits Reviewed and Amended Current Speed Limits to be Reviewed and Amended DD David Dewar Associate Director Distribution List # Hard Copies PDF Required Association / Company Name Page 76 of 112
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Midlothian 20mph Speed Limit Review Prepared for: Midlothian Council AECOM Prepared for: Midlothian Council Prepared by: Elliot Bayley Consultant T: Tel M: Mobile E: elliot.bayley@aecom.com AECOM Limited 1 Tanfield Edinburgh EH3 5DA United Kingdom T: +44 131 301 8600 aecom.com © 2023 AECOM Limited. All Rights Reserved. This document has been prepared by AECOM Limited (“AECOM”) for sole use of our client (the “Client”) in accordance with generally accepted consultancy principles, the budget for fees and the terms of reference agreed between AECOM and the Client. Any information provided by third parties and referred to herein has not been checked or verified by AECOM, unless otherwise expressly stated in the document. No third party may rely upon this document without the prior and express written agreement of AECOM. Page 77 of 112
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Midlothian 20mph Speed Limit Review Prepared for: Midlothian Council AECOM Table of Contents 1. Background and Introduction ....................................................................................................................... 1 1.1 Introduction ....................................................................................................................................... 1 1.2 Background ...................................................................................................................................... 1 2. Policy and Guidance .................................................................................................................................... 2 2.1 Introduction ....................................................................................................................................... 2 2.2 National Transport Strategy 2 ........................................................................................................... 2 2.3 Midlothian Council Speed Policy ...................................................................................................... 2 3. Methodology ................................................................................................................................................ 3 3.1 Introduction ....................................................................................................................................... 3 3.2 Methodology Applied ........................................................................................................................ 3 3.3 Next Steps ........................................................................................................................................ 4 4. Public Consultation ...................................................................................................................................... 5 4.1 Introduction ....................................................................................................................................... 5 4.2 Old Pentland Road ........................................................................................................................... 5 4.3 Howgate ........................................................................................................................................... 5 4.4 Edgehead ......................................................................................................................................... 5 4.5 Millerhill Road ................................................................................................................................... 6 4.6 Pathhead .......................................................................................................................................... 6 4.7 Dewarton .......................................................................................................................................... 6 4.8 Oxenfoord Equestrian Centre ........................................................................................................... 6 4.9 Roslin ................................................................................................................................................ 7 5. Results ......................................................................................................................................................... 8 5.1 Introduction ....................................................................................................................................... 8 5.2 Results of the 20mph and 30mph Review ........................................................................................ 8 5.3 Bonnyrigg Ward ................................................................................................................................ 8 5.4 Dalkeith Ward ................................................................................................................................. 10 5.5 Midlothian East Ward ...................................................................................................................... 11 5.6 Midlothian South Ward ................................................................................................................... 12 5.7 Midlothian West Ward ..................................................................................................................... 13 5.8 Penicuik Ward ................................................................................................................................. 14 5.9 Dalkeith with Shawsfair and Millerhill .............................................................................................. 15 6. Summary ................................................................................................................................................... 16 6.1 Introduction ..................................................................................................................................... 16 6.2 Methodology ................................................................................................................................... 16 6.3 Results ............................................................................................................................................ 16 6.4 Summary and Next Steps ............................................................................................................... 16 Appendix A – Current and Proposed Speed Limit Plans ....................................................................................... 17 Figures Figure 1. Bonnyrigg Existing Speed Limits ............................................................................................................. 9 Figure 2. Bonnyrigg Proposed Speed Limits .......................................................................................................... 9 Figure 3. Dalkeith Existing Speed Limits .............................................................................................................. 10 Figure 4. Dalkeith Proposed Speed limits ............................................................................................................ 10 Figure 5. Midlothian East Ward Current Speed Limits.......................................................................................... 11 Figure 6. Midlothian East Ward Proposed Speed Limits ...................................................................................... 11 Figure 7. Midlothian South Ward Existing Speed Limits ....................................................................................... 12 Figure 8. Midlothian South Ward Proposed Speed Limits .................................................................................... 12 Figure 9. Midlothian West Current Speed Limits .................................................................................................. 13 Page 78 of 112
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Midlothian 20mph Speed Limit Review Prepared for: Midlothian Council AECOM Figure 10. Midlothian West Proposed Speed Limits ............................................................................................. 13 Figure 11. Penicuik Ward Existing Speed Limit .................................................................................................... 14 Figure 12. Penicuik Ward Proposed Speed Limit ................................................................................................. 14 Figure 13. Dalkeith with Shawsfair and Millerhill Existing Speed Limit ................................................................. 15 Figure 14. Dalkeith with Shawsfair and Millerhill Proposed Speed Limit .............................................................. 15 Page 79 of 112
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Midlothian 20mph Speed Limit Review Prepared for: Midlothian Council AECOM 1 1. Background and Introduction 1.1 Introduction Midlothian Council has commissioned AECOM to undertake a review of speed limits across the Council area with a view to adjusting speed limits to 20mph in appropriate locations. Following this initial review the Council has requested that the study extend to a review of other streets within the Councils area which are currently subject to a speed limit of 40mph, 50mph, 60mph and 70mph. 1.2 Background In response to Transport Scotland’s review of their approach to the setting of speed limits across Scotland, Midlothian Council has reviewed its own policy for the setting of speed limits and the criteria that should apply to different speed limits. The purpose of this was to achieve clarity in the setting of appropriate speed limits for different setting and so that communities have a greater understanding of what speed limits should apply in their area. Progressing with this work the Council is now moving to implementing this new policy through a review of current speed limits to establish if there is a requirement to alter speed limits throughout the Council area. Page 80 of 112
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Midlothian 20mph Speed Limit Review Prepared for: Midlothian Council AECOM 2 2. Policy and Guidance 2.1 Introduction This chapter provides a brief summary of the relevant policy and guidance documents which have been used to inform this study. 2.2 National Transport Strategy 2 National Transport Strategy 2 (NTS2) was published in 2020 and sets out the vision for Scotland’s transport system over the next 20 years. The vision of the strategy is to have a sustainable, inclusive, safe and accessible transport system, helping to deliver a healthier, fairer and more prosperous Scotland for communities, businesses and visitors. Accompanying NTS2 is the NTS2 Delivery Plan which sets out actions for how the vision of NTS2 will be delivered, providing an overview for transport investment and projects. Key to the Midlothian Speed Limit Review is the priority of the Delivery Plan to improve safety by reducing road casualties and delivering the outcomes of Scotland’s Road Safety Framework. To deliver safer roads, the Plan states that Transport Scotland will ensure all appropriate roads in built up areas will have a safer speed limit of 20mph by 2025 as it seeks to reduce perceptions of road danger, encourage people to walk, wheel and cycle, and create more pleasant street and neighbourhoods by providing a more equitable balance between different road users and will contribute to the implementation of the safe system. 2.3 Midlothian Council Speed Policy Midlothian Council have undertaken a road safety and hierarchy review which subsequently led to the production of a Speed Policy document which sets out the Council’s objectives, guidance which informs the policies and how they would be implemented. The document states that underlying principles of Midlothian Council’s speed limit policy include: • Determining the function of the road and its characteristics in terms of movement and place when examining and considering the speed limit • The needs of all road users to be fully taken into account when considering the implications of speed limits. Section 4.2 states that 20mph street within towns are mostly residential, or see high pedestrian and cyclist movements and tend to be areas where motor vehicle movement is not deems the primary function. The policy sets out the following guidance on characteristics for the application of 20mph speed limits: • A clearly defined core, such as a central shopping area of community facility; • Several facilities generating active travel movements; • Notable development depth; • Almost continuous frontage; • Numerous junctions; and • Significant pedestrian activity throughout the day. Page 81 of 112
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Midlothian 20mph Speed Limit Review Prepared for: Midlothian Council AECOM 3 3. Methodology 3.1 Introduction This chapter provides an outline of the methodology that has been employed in reviewing the speed limits currently in use in Midlothian and determining whether or not these should be revised. 3.2 Methodology Applied In order to undertake the review of 20mph and 30mph speed limits, a list of approximately 1,700 streets or sections of streets was provided from Midlothian Council area, including identification for which town, village or other settlement they were located in. This was accompanied by GIS data which included information on existing speed limits on each of the streets provided. The settlements which were reviewed are: • Bonnyrigg • Dalkeith • Danderhall • Gorebridge • Howgate • Lasswade • Loanhead • Newtongrange • Pathhead • Penicuik • Rosewell • Roslin Using the list provided, every street was assessed, using desktop tools, against the criteria for a 20mph street as set out in the Midlothian Council Speed Policy Document using a simple ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ system. A street would be marked with a ‘Yes’ next to a particular criterion if it was judged to match it and vice versa for ‘No’. Greater detail on how each of these criteria was applied is set out in Table 1 below. Table 1. Application of Midlothian 20mph Criteria Criteria Contributing Factors A clearly defined core, such as a central shopping area of community facility • On or leading to an area with a high concentration of facilities relative to the size of the area (e.g. in a small residential setting, a community centre was considered “core”) • Near an area which would attract a high number of travel movements (e.g. a group of shops or bus stops) • On or leading to an area considered central to a settlement, where movements are likely to congregate (e.g. main thoroughfares through settlements) • Likely to incorporate schools, high streets, community centres, sports centres and other community facilities Several facilities generating active travel movements • On corridors likely to be a focal point of active travel movements (e.g. leading to schools) • On or near routes with dedicated active travel facilities such as cycle lanes Notable development depth • Areas of significant density of residences or commercial properties likely to attract travel movements Almost continuous frontage • Streets which continuously have properties facing onto them and are therefore likely to experience travel movements associated with them Page 82 of 112
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Midlothian 20mph Speed Limit Review Prepared for: Midlothian Council AECOM 4 Criteria Contributing Factors • Streets with significant numbers of residential driveways accessed from them Numerous junctions • Streets with numerous points of conflicting traffic movements where slower speeds would allow these movements to be undertaken more safely Significant pedestrian activity throughout the day • Streets with significant densities of residential or commercial properties with footways where pedestrian movement is likely throughout the day • Streets which are likely to form key pedestrian routes to nearby facilities Additionally, streets which currently have 20mph speed limits were not considered for change as an assumption was made that a decision based on similar factors as the above had been made in the past to introduce the limit. Streets which belong to new housing developments which are either under construction or recently completed were assumed to be given a 20mph speed limit. This is due to the streets likelihood of meeting the above criteria given how most modern housing development are designed applying the principles of Designing Streets. Streets were then mapped out on GIS mapping software, highlighting streets which were proposed to be 20mph based on the review. It could then be observed in each settlement if there were any outlier streets which remained at a higher speed limit when surrounding by proposed 20mph streets. These streets were proposed to also be changed to a 20mph speed limit to ensure continuity of speed limits within areas. A further review was subsequently undertaken to ensure consistency through an area and that there were no very short sections (less than approximately 400-600m) of any one speed limit. This review sought to identify any streets in an area with an abnormal speed limit compared to the surrounding streets. An individual street may have been assessed correctly as, for example, being retained as 30mph, however if all the surrounding streets have been assessed as changing to 20mph there is a danger that the inconsistency may not be adhered to by drivers or that the speed limit in the surrounding streets may not be adhered to. There would therefore be legitimate cause to reduce the speed limit of the street in question to 20mph. 3.3 Next Steps The project has initially considered the streets within Midlothian that are currently subject to a speed limit of 20mph and 30mph. The next stages of the project are to review the speed limits of streets subject to 40mph, 50mph, 60mph and 70mph speed limits. This process has started and is ongoing at present. Page 83 of 112
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Midlothian 20mph Speed Limit Review Prepared for: Midlothian Council AECOM 5 4. Public Consultation 4.1 Introduction Separately to the review exercise in accordance with the Council’s standards, a public consultation exercise has been undertaken which has afforded members of the public the opportunity to comment on speed limits in their area and the speeds that vehicles travel through the area. Consideration has been given to a number of areas in Midlothian at the Councils request in order to determine if the impact of the public consultation exercise is sufficient to require alteration in the speed limit. Public consultation data has been reviewed for the requested areas identified below initially. 4.2 Old Pentland Road From the A702/ Old Pentland Road junction the current speed limit is 40mph for approximately 230m before rising to 60mph until the A701 Straiton Road/ Old Pentland Road junction. It is proposed to implement a 30mph speed limit for the full duration of the public road. From the public consultation there are requests to lower the speed limit to 30mph, include measures to enforce the speed limits, widen the footways to give additional protection to pedestrians and concerns around safety at the A702/ Old Pentland Road/ A703 junction. It is considered that the proposed implementation of a 30mph speed limit will meet the requests from residents for a reduced speed limit, and it is also considered that measures will be required in order to enforce this speed limit. The imposition of a 20mph limit would not reflect Council policy and in this location lack of consistency in implementation of the 20mph speed limit may reduce adherence elsewhere. 4.3 Howgate The existing speed limit is 30mph through the village. From the public consultation the principal issues are in relation to speeding vehicles, wide carriageways and narrow footways. Based on the additional review the recommendation is that the speed limit within Howgate be reduced to 20mph, however measures will be required on approach to and within the village to enforce this. Initial consideration should be given to the implementation of gateways at both sides of the village, staggered speed limit reductions on both approaches, physical measures to reduce the carriageway width and additional measures to create further points at which drivers are required to slow and give way to each other such as build outs. 4.4 Edgehead Current speed limits through Edgehead are 30mph with a 20mph limit at the nursery. The principal issue reported through the public consultation exercise is that of speeding vehicles not adhering to the existing speed limits. Initial proposals based on policy identify the retention of the 30mph speed limit on Edgehead Road through the village, and the 20mph limit past the nursery, with lowering of speed limits on side streets. On review of national speed limit policy and in consideration of the public comments made it is proposed to reduce the speed limit on Edgehead Road to 20mph. However this in its own right is unlikely to bring about significant change to vehicle speeds through the village. Substantial measures will be required to ensure drivers adhere to the speed limit. Gateway features at either end of the village with staggered speed limits approaching the built up area will be required. Physical measures will be required to reduce the width of the carriageway and widen the footways, as well as additional physical features throughout the village to reduce speeds. Without these it is unlikely that a 20mph speed limit will be adhered to based on reports that the 30mph speed limit is not observed by many drivers. Page 84 of 112
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Midlothian 20mph Speed Limit Review Prepared for: Midlothian Council AECOM 6 4.5 Millerhill Road Millerhill Road is at present a combination of 30mph within Newton Village and 60mph roads. Reflecting the increased number of residences in the area and the continuous footway along the route proposals are that the speed limit be 30mph from the Millerhill Road/ Shawfair Spine Road junction to the A6106/ The Wisp/ Millerhill Road junction. In addition the speed limit between the Millerhill Road/ Shawfair Spine Road junction to the Sheriffhall Roundabout is proposed to have a 40mph speed limit as opposed to the 400m of 40mph speed limit south of the Millerhill Road/ Shawfair Spine Road junction transitioning to 60mph speed limit as far as the Sheriffhall Roundabout. The public consultation exercise has called for a reduction in speed limits on this road with 40mph being requested due to development and increased traffic volumes. It is considered that the proposed speed limit combination of 30mph and 40mph for this road meets and exceeds the requests from the public, based on the Councils speed limit policy. Physical measures may be required in strategic locations to enforce this speed limit. 4.6 Pathhead The present speed limit through Pathhead is 30mph, and outwith the village this increase to 60mph in all directions. In line with the Councils policy and with comments received through the public consultation exercise, it is proposed that the speed limit within the village be reduced to 20mph. The main street through the village has a wide carriageway with high radius bends, and it is considered that substantial physical measures will be required in order to enforce a reduced speed limit. These are likely to include the reduction in width of the carriageway as well as further measures in certain locations to require drivers to adhere to the speed limit. Public consultation comments have highlighted the A68/ B6367/ Hill Road junction as being problematic and this junction is incorporated in the proposed reduced speed limit. 4.7 Dewarton At present Dewarton has a speed limit of 30mph on the single street through the village. The speed limit rises to 60mph outwith the village. In line with the Councils speed limit policy it was proposed to retain the existing 30mph speed limit, however taking comments from the public consultation into account it is proposed to reduce the speed limit to 20mph through the village. In order to enforce this it is likely that speed reduction measures will be required due to the width of the existing carriageway and the relatively small nature of the village. There are a number of methods of achieving this, but physical constraints will be necessary all the way through the village. 4.8 Oxenfoord Equestrian Centre The B6372 passes the Oxenfoord Equestrian Centre. This road has a current speed limit of 60mph placing it outwith the extent of this current review. However it has been requested due to the high number of public comments that consideration be given to reducing the speed limit. The nature of the street being rural and lying outwith a settlement with only the equestrian centre fronting the carriageway at this point means that the street does not meet the criteria for a reduced speed limit to 20mph as requested through the public consultation exercise. The public consultation exercise highlights the presence of horses crossing the carriageway between the stables and a field as the justification for a reduced speed limit. However this does not fall within the Councils speed limit policy. Implementing a reduced speed limit at this location could set precedent that every equestrian centre could request a similar policy and potentially this could extend to every instance where animals are required to cross a carriageway. It is likely that horses cross the carriageway for cumulatively no more than a few minutes of the day meaning that the majority of other road users would encounter a reduced speed limit with no other activity on the carriageway. This has the potential to reduce the effectiveness of other reduced speed limits. It is proposed that the speed limit be retained at 60mph. The potential for the installation of warning signs for horses crossing should be investigated. Page 85 of 112
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Midlothian 20mph Speed Limit Review Prepared for: Midlothian Council AECOM 7 4.9 Roslin Existing speed limits have been based on GIS information supplied. The speed limit on the B7003 Penicuik Road has been lowered from 40mph to 30mph following the construction of new housing on the western edge of the village. The speed limit between Kilburn Wood Drive and the B7003/ B7006 junction is now 30mph. Reviewing this street in the context of the Councils policy suggests that this should remain a 30mph street. There is no direct frontage to it, no community facilities and nothing on the south side of the carriageway. The B7006 Penicuik Road extending west from the B7006/ B7003 junction currently has a speed limit of 30mph which continues on the B7006 Main Street. Following review of this against the Councils policy and taking into account comments from the public consultation which have requested a reduced speed limit, it is proposed that the speed limit on the B7006 Main Street and Penicuik Road be reduced to 20mph. It is suggested that physical measures to enforce this reduced speed limit will be required along these streets. Page 86 of 112
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Midlothian 20mph Speed Limit Review Prepared for: Midlothian Council AECOM 8 5. Results 5.1 Introduction This chapter of the report highlights the results of the review of the existing 20mph and 3mph speed limits. The full results of the assessment are contained in the GIS files which are provided to the Council. 5.2 Results of the 20mph and 30mph Review The results of the assessment have been presented in both a tabular form and on GIS mapping. The tabular form presents each street and how they were reviewed in terms of the categories as set out above. The GIS mapping has assigned a colour to each speed limit so that an overview of the proposed speed limits can be observed. Furthermore, an additional map has been produced which highlights streets whose speed limit is proposed to change. Of all the streets which were reviewed, there are approximately 850 instances of streets currently under a 30mph speed limit which are proposed to be reduced to a 20mph speed limit. Meanwhile there are approximately 70 instances of streets which are currently under a 30mph speed limit which are proposed to remain at a 30mph speed limit. The results are presented below according to Council Wards in order to highlight the changes that are proposed on a local basis. In addition a focus has been provided around the Sherrifhall roundabout. It should be noted that work is still in progress in this area and the proposed speed limits have the potential for further revision. Figures contained within the results show the existing speed limits, and the proposed changes based on the assessment and review. The results figures only highlight the streets that have been reviewed, they do not show the wider street network with Midlothian which has not been subject to the 20mph and 30mph review. 5.3 Bonnyrigg Ward Figure 1, below, shows the existing speed limits of 20mph and 30mph streets within the Bonnyrigg Ward, while Figure 2 shows the proposed speed limits. The Figures are contained in greater detail in Appendix A. Page 87 of 112
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Midlothian 20mph Speed Limit Review Prepared for: Midlothian Council AECOM 9 Figure 1. Bonnyrigg Existing Speed Limits Figure 2. Bonnyrigg Proposed Speed Limits Page 88 of 112
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Midlothian 20mph Speed Limit Review Prepared for: Midlothian Council AECOM 10 5.4 Dalkeith Ward Figure 3, below, shows the existing speed limits of 20mph and 30mph streets within the Dalkeith Ward, while Figure 4 shows the proposed speed limits. The Figures are contained in greater detail in Appendix A. Figure 3. Dalkeith Existing Speed Limits Figure 4. Dalkeith Proposed Speed limits Page 89 of 112
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Midlothian 20mph Speed Limit Review Prepared for: Midlothian Council AECOM 11 5.5 Midlothian East Ward Figure 5, below, shows the existing speed limits of 20mph and 30mph streets within the Midlothian East Ward, while Figure 6 shows the proposed speed limits. The Figures are contained in greater detail in Appendix A. Figure 5. Midlothian East Ward Current Speed Limits Figure 6. Midlothian East Ward Proposed Speed Limits Page 90 of 112
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Midlothian 20mph Speed Limit Review Prepared for: Midlothian Council AECOM 12 5.6 Midlothian South Ward Figure 7, below, shows the existing speed limits of 20mph and 30mph streets within the Midlothian South Ward, while Figure 8 shows the proposed speed limits. The Figures are contained in greater detail in Appendix A. Figure 7. Midlothian South Ward Existing Speed Limits Figure 8. Midlothian South Ward Proposed Speed Limits Page 91 of 112
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Midlothian 20mph Speed Limit Review Prepared for: Midlothian Council AECOM 13 5.7 Midlothian West Ward Figure 9, below, shows the existing speed limits of 20mph and 30mph streets within the Midlothian West Ward, while Figure 10 shows the proposed speed limits. The Figures are contained in greater detail in Appendix A. Figure 9. Midlothian West Current Speed Limits Figure 10. Midlothian West Proposed Speed Limits Page 92 of 112
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Midlothian 20mph Speed Limit Review Prepared for: Midlothian Council AECOM 14 5.8 Penicuik Ward Figure 11, below, shows the existing speed limits of 20mph and 30mph streets within the Penicuik Ward, while Figure 12 shows the proposed speed limits. The Figures are contained in greater detail in Appendix A. Figure 11. Penicuik Ward Existing Speed Limit Figure 12. Penicuik Ward Proposed Speed Limit Page 93 of 112
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Midlothian 20mph Speed Limit Review Prepared for: Midlothian Council AECOM 15 5.9 Dalkeith with Shawsfair and Millerhill Figure 13, below, shows the existing speed limits of 20mph and 30mph streets within the Dalkeith, Shawsfair and Millerhill area, while Figure 14 shows the proposed speed limits. The Figures are contained in greater detail in Appendix A. Figure 13. Dalkeith with Shawsfair and Millerhill Existing Speed Limit Figure 14. Dalkeith with Shawsfair and Millerhill Proposed Speed Limit Page 94 of 112
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Midlothian 20mph Speed Limit Review Prepared for: Midlothian Council AECOM 16 6. Summary 6.1 Introduction Midlothian Council has commissioned AECOM to carry out a review of speed limits within its area. This report highlights the methodology used in carrying out the first stages of this study, reviewing the current 20mph and 30mph zones. 6.2 Methodology The methodology has employed use of Midlothian Councils policy for the implementation of speed limits. Each individual street currently subject to a 30mph speed limit has been assessed according to this policy in order to determine whether there is a requirement to propose a change to this policy. The results have been compiled into a GIS file following the review. 6.3 Results A number of streets within Midlothian have been identified as being suitable for a proposed change in speed limit. These results are highlighted in this report and provided in detail to the Council. 6.4 Summary and Next Steps The study has considered the streets subject to an existing 20mph and 30mph speed limit. The next stages of the project will be to continue the review with 40mph, 50mph, 60mph and 70mph streets according to the Councils policy. Page 95 of 112
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Midlothian 20mph Speed Limit Review Prepared for: Midlothian Council AECOM 17 Appendix A – Current and Proposed Speed Limit Plans Page 96 of 112
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Midlothian 20mph Speed Limit Review Prepared for: Midlothian Council AECOM 18 aecom.com Page 111 of 112
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