Scottish News

United States Removes Tariffs on Scotch Whisky in Move Welcomed by Industry

President Donald Trump has announced the removal of US tariffs on Scotch whisky, a development described by industry leaders as a significant boost to Scotland’s most valuable export market after years of trade disruption. Tariffs on Scotch whisky exports to the United States have

Economy·Featured·Scottish News

US Chemicals Group Acquires Aberdeen-based FIS in Cross-border Deal

A long-established Scottish manufacturer with roots in the North Sea supply chain has been acquired by a US-backed chemicals distributor, reflecting continued international interest in Scotland’s industrial expertise as the energy sector evolves. An Aberdeen chemicals company with more than four decades of history

Matrix Renewables Secures £245m Financing for Large-Scale Battery Storage Project in Scottish Borders

Global energy platform backed by private equity firm TPG closes non-recourse financing deal for 500MW battery

ScotRail Outsources Customer Contact Services to Teleperformance in Three-Year Deal

State-owned rail operator awards contract covering complaints, delay compensation and sales support to global outsourcing firm,

A £2 Bus Fare Now Runs Across Much of Northern Scotland. Will it Change Anything?

The cap is already in place. What remains uncertain is its effect. A pilot scheme limiting

Community·Scottish News

Western Isles Warns Against Unlicensed Tour Drivers as Visitor Season Begins

The season is about to begin, and with it comes a quieter concern. Comhairle nan Eilean Siar has issued a reminder that

by David McDonald

30 April 2026

Community·Scottish News

Greenock Primary School Secures Rare Full “Excellent” Inspection Across All Measures

There are inspection reports that confirm standards, and then there are those that stand apart. Whinhill Primary School in Greenock has been

by David McDonald

30 April 2026

Infrastructure·Scottish News

Perth Halves Multi-Storey Parking Charges in Effort to Shift City Centre Traffic

The change has already taken effect, though its impact will take longer to register. Perth and Kinross Council introduced revised parking charges

by James Stewart

30 April 2026

Local Government·Scottish News

Perth & Kinross Test the Limits of Street Performance with Consultation on Busking Rules

There is no ban proposed, but there is a question being asked about how far informality can go. Perth and Kinross Council

by James Stewart

30 April 2026

Community·Scottish News

Forty Years at Danestone: A School Marks Its Past While Quietly Defining Its Future

Photo shows: L-R George Roberts (former HT) Elaine Page (former HT), Angela Corser (current HT) ,Councillor Martin Greig, Aberdeen City Council’s Education

by David McDonald

29 April 2026

Economy·Scottish News

Aberdeen Launches Scheme to Lower Cost of Opening City Centre Shops

A quiet obstacle has persisted in Aberdeen’s city centre: the cost of turning an empty unit into a functioning shop. On Monday,

by John Campbell

29 April 2026

Heritage·Scottish News

Heritage Grants Raised for the First Time in Decades as Costs Reshape Conservation Work

There is a small change in the figures, but it arrives after a long period without movement. Historic Environment Scotland has confirmed

by David McDonald

29 April 2026

Economy·Scottish News

Scotland’s Growth Edges Forward, But Momentum Remains Thin

There is movement in the numbers, but it is slight, and it arrives without force. Official figures released this morning show Scotland’s

by John Campbell

29 April 2026

Environment·Featured·Scottish News

Scotland’s Salmon and Sea Trout Catches Fall to Historic Lows in 2025

Official statistics released this morning record the weakest salmon returns in modern Scottish records, with total catches in 2025 falling to their

by Andrew Robertson

29 April 2026

Economy·Scottish News

Short-Term Lets Pass 32,000 as Licensing System Begins to Take Shape

The numbers are now large enough to notice, but not yet stable enough to compare. Official statistics published on 28 April show

by John Campbell

29 April 2026

Environment·Scottish News

Borders Awards Narrow Focus to Biodiversity and Sustainability as Community Entries Open

There is no shortage of activity across the Scottish Borders, but less of it has been entering formal competition. A revised approach

by Andrew Robertson

29 April 2026

Transport·Scottish News

Stirling to Take Control of Trossachs Explorer in Year-Round Pilot

A seasonal visitor route will become a council-run, all-year service under a two-year trial, with funding secured but long-term viability still to

by James Stewart

21 April 2026

Transport·Scottish News

Corran Ferry Fares to Rise from May as Council Presses Ahead with Budget Plan

Crossing costs on a key Highland route will increase from 1 May, with higher charges for cars, commercial vehicles and multi-journey users.

by James Stewart

21 April 2026

Environment·Scottish News

Angus Maps Climate Risks as Warmer Winters and Stronger Storms Loom

A new council assessment sets out how climate change is expected to reshape Angus, identifying key hazards, vulnerable groups and practical steps

by Andrew Robertson

21 April 2026

Economy·Scottish News

Investment, Spending & Growth: Scotland’s Economic Direction

Recent government funding decisions, investment programmes and business signals point to a clear direction, though the pace of delivery remains under examination

by John Campbell

20 April 2026

Transport·Scottish News

Distance, Cost and Access: Transport Remains Uneven Across Rural Scotland

Longer journeys, fewer services and rising costs continue to shape daily life beyond the central belt, where mobility depends less on networks

by James Stewart

20 April 2026

Energy·Scottish News

Scotland Produces the Energy. Rural Scotland Still Pays the Price.

A nation exporting surplus power continues to rely on imported fuel in its most exposed communities, where costs remain volatile and support

by John Campbell

19 April 2026

Energy·Scottish News

Scotland’s Electric Heating at Risk as Radio Signal Switch Off Forces Shift to Smart Meters

Scotland Faces Uneven Impact as Ageing Radio Meter System Is Switched Off A largely invisible piece of Britain’s energy infrastructure is approaching

by John Campbell

11 April 2026

Local Government·Scottish News

Galston Town Hall Reopens After £3.45 Million Restoration

A prominent Galston landmark has been brought back into public use after a £3.45 million restoration project by East Ayrshire Council, with

by James Stewart

11 April 2026

Heritage·Scottish News

Aberdeen Art Gallery Marks 80th Birthday of Engraver Malcolm Appleby

A new display and forthcoming talk in Aberdeen celebrate the career of engraver Malcolm Appleby, whose work has spanned more than six

by David McDonald

11 April 2026

Energy·Economy·Scottish News

Who Decides What Gets Built: Scotland’s Quiet Shift in Energy Planning

A recent consultation issued by the Scottish Government has raised a question that, while technical in form, carries wider implications for how

by John Campbell

10 April 2026

Infrastructure·Scottish News

Ambulance Service Introduces Search Dogs for Water Rescues in Central Scotland

Specialist dog teams are being deployed to assist in locating missing people near rivers and lochs, with initial operations focused on the

by James Stewart

9 April 2026

Community·Scottish News

Injured Beaver Rescued After Shooting Found to be Thriving in the Wild

A beaver rescued after being shot in Perthshire has been successfully rehabilitated and is now living in the wild, according to animal

by David McDonald

7 April 2026

Energy·Scottish News

North Sea Carbon Storage Push Extends into Scottish Waters as Licensing Bids Exceed 2 Million Acres

Bids to develop carbon storage sites across more than 2 million acres of the North Sea include multiple areas in Scottish waters,

by John Campbell

7 April 2026

Infrastructure·Scottish News

Flood Study Begins on Aboyne Bridge as Options for Repair or Replacement are Examined

Survey work has begun to assess how potential construction options for Aboyne Bridge could affect flooding along the River Dee, as engineers

by James Stewart

7 April 2026

Environment·Scottish News

Call for Stronger Action to Protect Scotland’s Rainforests as Election Approaches

A campaign to restore and expand Scotland’s temperate rainforest has intensified ahead of the Scottish Parliament election, with environmental groups urging ministers

by Andrew Robertson

7 April 2026

Heritage·Scottish News

Rhynie Research Recasts Pictish Scotland as Centre of Power and International Exchange

A decade of archaeological work in a quiet Aberdeenshire village has led researchers to conclude that Rhynie was once a major royal

by David McDonald

7 April 2026

Community·Scottish News

Highland Communities Invited to Apply for £1m Rural Fund

Rural organisations across the Highlands are being invited to apply for a funding programme worth more than £1 million, aimed at improving

by David McDonald

7 April 2026

Economy·Scottish News

Small Producers Pilot Fund Distributes Support Across Scotland

A modest but strategically significant stream of public funding has been channelled into Scotland’s small-scale agricultural sector, as ministers and enterprise agencies

by John Campbell

5 April 2026

Community·Scottish News

Newbyres Returns: From Demolition to New Energy Efficient Homes in Gorebridge

In Gorebridge, a site once cleared of homes is approaching a very different moment. New housing at Newbyres is now nearing completion,

by David McDonald

5 April 2026

Transport·Scottish News

Night Closures Planned for Tay Road Bridge as Essential Maintenance Begins

There are few pieces of infrastructure in Scotland that carry both the symbolic and practical weight of the Tay crossing. Since its

by James Stewart

5 April 2026

Energy·Scottish News

Marine Survey Work Begins Off Shetland Coast for Proposed Second Energy Link

Survey vessels are set to begin work off the north west coast of Shetland in the coming weeks, as early stage plans

by John Campbell

5 April 2026

Energy·Scottish News

A North Sea Alliance: Scotland and Ireland Bet on Talent to Power Offshore Wind Future

In the race to command Europe’s offshore wind frontier, Scotland and Ireland have turned—not to turbines or transmission cables—but to people. A

by John Campbell

4 April 2026

Infrastructure·Scottish News

Island Lifelines Cut: Orkney’s North Isles Battle Prolonged Digital Isolation

In the far reaches of Scotland’s northern archipelagos, where geography has always dictated the terms of daily life, a modern dependency has

by James Stewart

4 April 2026

Community·Scottish News

Community Diners Pilot in Midlothian Shows Early Promise in Tackling Cost of Living Pressures

A network of community diners launched across Midlothian earlier this year is already showing encouraging signs of success, offering affordable meals and

by David McDonald

3 April 2026

Infrastructure·Scottish News

Govan’s Regeneration Enters New Phase with £3 Million Heritage Investment

Govan’s long-running regeneration is set to enter a significant new phase following the approval of almost £3 million in heritage funding to

by James Stewart

3 April 2026

Environment·Scottish News

Scotland’s Climate Intelligence System and the Quiet Rise of Data Led Governance

Across Scotland, a new layer of decision making infrastructure is taking hold inside local government. It does not campaign, it does not

by Modern Scot Editorial Team

3 April 2026

Economy·Scottish News

Dumfries and Galloway Confronts Rural Decline With Evidence Rather Than Rhetoric

There are few subjects in modern Scottish governance more quietly consequential than depopulation. It lacks the drama of constitutional quarrels or fiscal

by John Campbell

3 April 2026

Infrastructure·Scottish News

Gas Network Upgrade to Bring Temporary Disruption to Forfar Town Centre

A key section of Forfar is set to undergo essential infrastructure work, with a temporary road closure planned in the town centre

by James Stewart

3 April 2026

Transport·Scottish News

Traffic Lights Planned to Improve Safety at Historic Clachan Bridge

A traffic management scheme is to be introduced at Clachan Bridge, as officials move to address long standing safety concerns at one

by James Stewart

3 April 2026

Environment·Scottish News

Argyll and Bute Records Strong Air Quality Results in 2025 Report

Air quality across Argyll and Bute remained well within national limits throughout 2025, according to the council’s latest annual progress report. The

by Andrew Robertson

3 April 2026

Community·Scottish News

Aberdeen’s Next Generation Called to Sea for 2026 Tall Ships Adventure

A new voyage is calling — and for young people across Aberdeen, it promises salt air, towering sails, and the kind of

by David McDonald

3 April 2026

Local Government·Scottish News

Inverurie Service Point to Close as Council Shifts to Digital Services

Residents in Inverurie are being urged to prepare for a significant change in how they access local authority services, as Aberdeenshire Council

by James Stewart

2 April 2026

Community·Scottish News

Western Isles Communities to Share £1 Million Boost from Coastal Fund

Island communities across Scotland’s Outer Hebrides are set to benefit from a substantial new round of funding, as Comhairle nan Eilean Siar

by David McDonald

2 April 2026

Heritage·Scottish News

Iconic Glasgow Restaurant Granted Listed Status for Cultural and Artistic Significance

One of Glasgow’s most storied dining institutions, The Ubiquitous Chip, has been awarded Category B listed status by Historic Environment Scotland (HES),

by David McDonald

1 April 2026

Economy·Scottish News

Scotland Braces for Economic Shockwaves as Ministers Assess Fallout from Middle East Conflict

The Scottish Government has moved to assess the domestic consequences of the escalating conflict in the Middle East, amid growing concern that

by John Campbell

1 April 2026

Community·Scottish News

Young Minds Step Into the Future at Irvine Technology Centre

In a quiet corner of Ayrshire, something rather more consequential than a school trip has taken place. At the Digital Process Manufacturing

by David McDonald

1 April 2026

Heritage·Scottish News

Chain-Bar Relic of Scotland’s Industrial Dawn Secures Lifeline for Restoration

Along a quiet stretch of the River Teviot, a slender survivor of Britain’s early industrial ambition has been granted a reprieve. The

by David McDonald

31 March 2026

Economy·Scottish News

National Lottery Funds Drive New Push on Financial Inclusion Across Scotland

Efforts to address financial hardship in Scotland are entering a new phase, as The National Lottery Community Fund begins shaping a fresh

by John Campbell

31 March 2026

Economy·Scottish News

£547 Million Freeport Windfall to Be Reinvested Across the Highlands

A substantial financial dividend from the Inverness and Cromarty Firth Green Freeport is set to be channelled back into Highland communities, after

by John Campbell

31 March 2026

Environment·Scottish News

Highland Council Secures National Recognition for Climate and Energy Leadership

Highland Council has been recognised on the national stage after its Climate and Energy Team secured a major win at the APSE

by Andrew Robertson

31 March 2026

Community·Scottish News

Monumental Industry Meets Fine Art in Aberdeen’s Latest Exhibition

A new exhibition at Aberdeen Art Gallery casts a compelling eye over the vast machinery and human endeavour that have come to

by David McDonald

31 March 2026

Infrastructure·Scottish News

Overnight Campervan Parking Trial Set for Burghead as Moray Council Tests Managed Tourism Approach

A new pilot scheme permitting overnight stays for campervans and motorhomes is now underway in Burghead, as Moray Council seeks to balance

by James Stewart

31 March 2026

Economy·Scottish News

Poverty in Scotland Holds Steady as New Data Reveals Deepening Structural Pressures

The latest poverty statistics released by the Scottish Government offer a picture that is, at first glance, deceptively calm. Beneath the surface

by John Campbell

27 March 2026

Economy·Scottish News

Rural Heating Costs Return to Parliament as Ministers Defend Limited Support for Oil Users

Households in off grid areas face renewed scrutiny over energy costs, as ministers cite targeted support while MPs describe widening price pressures

by John Campbell

26 March 2026

Economy·Scottish News

Scottish Farm Incomes Rebound Sharply After Difficult Year

Farm incomes across Scotland staged a notable recovery in 2024–25, rising by nearly a third after a bruising decline the previous year,

by John Campbell

26 March 2026

Environment·Scottish News

Scotland Sets Out Sweeping Climate Blueprint to 2040

The Scottish Government has unveiled an expansive new roadmap to net zero, setting out more than 150 measures designed not merely to

by Andrew Robertson

24 March 2026

Economy·Scottish News

Shetland Council Responds to Audit Warning of £134m Budget Gap

Shetland Islands Council has acknowledged the scale of its financial challenge after a national audit highlighted a projected £134 million budget gap,

by John Campbell

11 March 2026

Local Government·Scottish News

Council bans indoor storage and charging of e-bikes over fire safety concerns

Shetland Islands Council has banned the indoor storage and charging of electrically powered bikes and scooters across all of its premises, citing

by James Stewart

10 March 2026

Transport·Scottish News

Ferry overhaul delays affect Whalsay and Bluemull routes

Shetland Islands Council has announced further disruption to ferry services serving Whalsay and the Bluemull Sound route after drydock works on one

by James Stewart

3 March 2026

Community·Scottish News

Canadian Hercules to Join Ayr Air Show Line-Up

The Royal Canadian Air Force will bring its CC-130J Hercules to the International Ayr Show – Festival of Flight next month, with

by David McDonald

24 August 2025

Local Government·Scottish News

Falkirk Council Approves New Gaelic Language Plan

Falkirk Council has signed off its third Gaelic Language Plan, setting out measures to support the language and culture locally over the

by James Stewart

24 August 2025

Economy·Scottish News

Argyll and Bute Support Drives Business Growth, Jobs

Argyll and Bute support drives business growth and new jobs Argyll and Bute Council’s Business Gateway service supported more than 450 businesses

by John Campbell

18 August 2025

Local Government·Scottish News

Taxi checks carried out across Aberdeenshire in joint safety operation

ABERDEENSHIRE — Dozens of taxis and private hire cars were stopped and inspected in a joint operation by Aberdeenshire Council Licensing Standards

by James Stewart

18 August 2025

Local Government·Scottish News

Edinburgh Joins Core Cities — But What’s Really In It?

Edinburgh has become the 12th member of Core Cities UK, a group that claims to champion urban policy change—but critics might ask

by Modern Scot Editorial Team

9 April 2025

Local Government·Scottish News

East Dunbartonshire Extends Public Consultation on Economic Development Strategy

Council seeks broader input to shape plan for jobs, investment and local resilience EAST DUNBARTONSHIRE — East Dunbartonshire Council has extended its

by James Stewart

8 April 2025

Infrastructure·Scottish News

East Renfrewshire to Resurface 45 Roads and 15 Pavements in £3.5m Upgrade

Major investment to target residential streets across all council wards beginning in April EAST RENFREWSHIRE — A £3.5 million investment will fund

by James Stewart

8 April 2025

Local Government·Scottish News

East Lothian Approves Expansion of Holiday Lodges at Whitekirk Hill

Second phase of development gets green light as part of broader tourism investment near North Berwick EAST LOTHIAN — Plans to expand

by James Stewart

8 April 2025

Local Government·Scottish News

East Ayrshire Adds QR Codes to Bins to Simplify Community Issue Reporting

New feature builds on success of ‘Report It!’ system, making it easier for residents to flag local concerns EAST AYRSHIRE — Reporting

by James Stewart

8 April 2025

Community·Scottish News

Dundee to Host National Cycling Conference as City’s Active Travel Ambitions Gain Momentum

Event returns to the city for the first time since 2018, showcasing infrastructure progress and plans for a cycle-friendly future Scotland’s national

by David McDonald

8 April 2025

Environment·Scottish News

Environmental Surveys Begin Along River Nith Ahead of Flood Protection Work

Dumfries and Galloway Council launches major ecological assessment to safeguard wildlife during construction Dumfries and Galloway Council has begun a series of

by Andrew Robertson

8 April 2025

Local Government·Scottish News

Clackmannanshire Council Launches Citizen-Led Transformation to Rethink Public Services

£1 million Transformation Fund to back community-driven solutions on housing, mental health, and economic opportunity Clackmannanshire Council has approved a bold new

by James Stewart

8 April 2025