Capital News
Big records for the University of Edinburgh
It’s been a very busy few months for the University of Edinburgh. Not only has the University climbed considerably up the latest World University Rankings from 36th to 24th, new figures have revealed that the University generates £2 billion annually for the Scottish economy. The independent financial study was carried out by BiGGAR Economics and focused on the economic impact of the University’s core operations. The study also discovered that the University supports more than 30,000 jobs across the country.
This news follows the announcement in autumn that a new record was set for the number of companies formed by the University in the past year. In 2014/15, 44 start-ups and three spin-outs were created, while university-founded companies also received a total investment of £237 million.
Borders Railway opened
The longest domestic railway to be constructed in the UK in more than 100 years opened in September. The Borders Railway, originally called the Waverley Line and which connected Tweedbank with Edinburgh, was closed in 1969, but planning at the turn of the century promised a new future for the railway. Construction began in April 2013, and the line was officially opened on 09 September by H.M. The Queen.
The project has cost £294 million and is supporting the Scottish Government’s strategy of strengthening rural transport connections. It is boosting employment, business and tourism opportunities, and for the first time in over 40 years, people are enjoying the scenery of the Scottish Borders by rail.
Christmas and New Year Festivals
This year Edinburgh’s Royal Mile will be lit up by 60,000 lights in a stunning light installation sponsored by Virgin Money. The show, to be switched on by Susan Boyle of Britain’s Got Talent fame, will bring Christmas into Edinburgh’s Old Town like never before.
Usual festive favourites will also return, including the Big Wheel, the renowned European Market on Princes Street and the ice rink at St Andrew Square, as well as an exceptional programme of circus, comedy and cabaret at the Paradiso Spiegeltent and regular performances of The Nutcracker at the Festival Theatre by the acclaimed Scottish Ballet company.