Latest news with #Dewar
The Herald Scotland
6 hours ago
- Business
- The Herald Scotland
Edinburgh Airport chief reveals £1.6 billion lift and hopes
And Mr Dewar declared: 'It is obvious that airports are profoundly important for local economies, particularly island economies such as ours. I am a geographer by background. I am a transport operator my whole career.' He also underlined the attractiveness of Edinburgh as a destination for overseas visitors. And he flagged the lift Edinburgh Airport provided to the tourism sector, and vice-versa. Mr Dewar highlighted his confidence that Edinburgh Airport would handle more than 16 million passengers this year, setting another all-time high to exceed the record of 15.78 million it achieved in 2024. In 2012, the year in which he took up the top job at the airport, the passenger total was 9.19m. Mr Dewar said: 'We are confident we will exceed 16 million this year. We have a number in mind. We are currently advising our shareholders. 'We will definitely have a record year. I would hope to outperform even the [figure] we have shared with our shareholders. We are ahead of our forecasts in the first four months of the year.' Edinburgh Airport was estimated in a 2020 report by Biggar Economics to have contributed £1.4bn to the economy on the gross value added (GVA) measure in 2019 - a year in which it exceeded 14m passengers. Noting the economic contribution amounted to around £100 per passenger, Mr Dewar said of the current position: 'We should be up to £1.6bn of GVA or a bit higher, if my rule of thumb works.' He said: 'You can sort of do the maths. That ratio won't have changed much. The reason I say that with much confidence [is] the only thing that would change that would be if there was a substantial mix change.' Highlighting improvements in the mix of passenger traffic from an economic contribution perspective, Mr Dewar added: 'The ratio of international [traffic] we have is higher. All the growth is international. We have increased our proportion of inbound. The American routes - they tend to be stronger inbound demand than other…routes.' He flagged the various components of the economic contribution of Edinburgh Airport - which has been majority-owned by Paris-based VINCI Airports since last year - as well as the fact that the benefits flow well beyond the city. Mr Dewar said: 'Obviously, there is a direct spend [with] tourism, a direct economic contribution, essentially an export market.' He also highlighted people using the airport to travel to universities and the importance of connectivity for 'people doing business and selling goods or selling services'. While observing the economic contribution was 'focused in the central belt and around Edinburgh', he highlighted the fact that the benefits of tourism through the airport were felt 'on Skye, in the Outer Hebrides, in the Borders and so on'. Flagging Edinburgh Airport's provision of some services not available elsewhere, he said: 'We are called Edinburgh Airport but we are Scotland's airport.' Read more: Highlighting growth ambitions, Mr Dewar said: 'The only question is how far can we go, how fast can we go. 'We work on a pipeline of 50, 60, 70 routes a year, confident we will get between five and 20 of them. What we see is all the things that are driving the value of Edinburgh, certainly in relative terms.' He added: 'The economy of Edinburgh is doing better than most of the non-London UK.' Mr Dewar also flagged outperformance in tourism and student development. He also highlighted the part that the airport could play in social inclusion. Mr Dewar said: 'How do we tap into communities that have maybe struggled before?' He added that the airport needed that workforce for the future. Asked about social inclusion, he replied: 'The positives are largely driven by the career opportunities at the airport. I don't mean just us. We have a very large campus – people have built a career at the airport.' He highlighted the fact that the airport campus was somewhere people could 'come without a degree…and build a career'. Mr Dewar noted that people could move into senior roles from such a start at the airport campus, highlighting the variety of jobs on offer. He declared: 'We have a really good opportunity to do that.' Mr Dewar said the airport prided itself on the number of opportunities it offers for people joining from school or as graduates from universities, and its provision of internships and apprenticeships. He added: 'They have ended up building a career here.' Noting the many different jobs provided by Edinburgh Airport itself, he said: 'We have everything from car park drivers to security officers to accountants to finance people to analysts. It is an incredibly diverse business.' Mr Dewar noted the Scottish tourism market is 'facing into a new challenge', with cost pressures, adding: 'They need high-value demand.' He highlighted the good job being done by tourism providers and the fact that Scotland was 'still growing that market as a country'. Mr Dewar noted that international tourists generally had to arrive in Scotland by air. He said that, apart from domestic tourists, 'everyone else, [from] Europe, Americans, Asians, is flying', observing: 'They might come here via London.' Highlighting the importance of the airport winning new routes and services, Mr Dewar added: 'The more we can connect and the easier we can make these connections, the better chance Scottish tourism has in attracting people to spend their money.' He observed that, in terms of tourism from America, Scotland has the 'best numbers' it has ever had. Mr Dewar added: 'Not only are they coming in greater numbers but they are staying longer.' Edinburgh Airport has enjoyed significant success in winning direct North American flights in recent times. Mr Dewar highlighted the fact that more direct flights from the US meant Americans might now - instead of travelling through London and spending four or five days of a two-week holiday in Scotland as they did previously - now land in and fly from Scotland and spend the 'whole fortnight' in Scotland. He declared: 'All of these things are good news, tapping into the [American market].' Mr Dewar said of Edinburgh: 'It is an iconic destination, in its own right: the castle, whether you are into Harry Potter, whether you have Scottish connections or not, it is one of those iconic cities, the Festival. 'Landing in Scotland and seeing the rest of the country is seen as very accessible.' Mr Dewar highlighted the strong growth enjoyed by Edinburgh Airport. He said: 'We were already one of the fastest-growing airports in Europe pre-Covid. We were then one of the fastest-recovering airports in Europe post-Covid. There are many airports haven't got back to 2019 levels yet. We are way ahead of that.' In terms of growth among European airports, Mr Dewar added: 'We might not always be best all the time but we are going to be in the upper quartile for the foreseeable future…within Europe.' He observed 'the Indian market is pretty hard to beat at the moment' in terms of the growth of airports.
The Herald Scotland
a day ago
- General
- The Herald Scotland
NTS workers death-defying abseil to root out invasive species
The gravity-defying feat was undertaken to remove non-native species such as Japanese knotweed and Rhododendron that had established itself in the crags of the 60m deep gorge at Corrieshalloch Gateway to Nature. Property and conservation staff surveyed the gorge identifying sites where invasive plants had established themselves on the vertical cliff sides. Specialist rope access contractors were then deployed to wipe out the invasive plants by different means - mainly using stem treatment to apply a targeted dose of herbicide. The Invasive Non-native Species (INNS) project at Corrieshalloch is supported by funds raised by players of People's Postcode Lottery and awarded by Postcode Earth Trust. Workers have to get close to treat the stems of the invasive plants (Image: NTS) It follows the publication of the National Trust for Scotland's new Plan for Nature, which sets out its ambitions to conserve the nature in its care, which the Trust has special responsibility for. The plan outlines the actions the charity will undertake to address INNS which have been identified as a main driver of nature loss in Scotland. The National Nature Reserve in Wester Ross is one of eight reserves cared for by the conservation charity across the country. READ MORE: Plan for 'trotting track' at Bannockburn battlefield thrown out by Ministers Three years, 77,000 plants — the National Trust has aced its biggest test yet Rob Dewar, National Trust for Scotland INNS Project Officer, said: 'Our work at Corrieshalloch is part of our ongoing nature conservation to remove invasive non-native species and demonstrates the extreme lengths we go to, to protect the places in our care. 'These gravity defying feats are undertaken by our rope access specialists who support our conservation efforts in these hard-to-reach places where these species can quickly establish themselves, like on the vertiginous sides of the gorge. 'The National Trust for Scotland's INNS work is focused on eradicating invasive non-native plants, including Japanese knotweed, American skunk cabbage and Rhododendron ponticum. The work helps to tackle these species and protect native flora from being crowded out of their natural habitat to safeguard the biodiversity of Scotland's wild landscapes.' A specialist clings to the wall of the gorge (bottom right) (Image: NTS) Mr Dewar added: 'It is thanks to the continued generosity of our members and supporters, including players of People's Postcode Lottery, that we're able to continue our vital work to care for and protect Scotland's natural heritage at this special place for everyone to enjoy, now and into the future.' Players of People's Postcode Lottery have supported the conservation charity's Love Our Nature project since 2022 which benefited from £900k last year. Further funding will support nature conservation work across a variety of different habitats including coastal and marine areas, peatlands, wetlands, woodland, and the eight National Nature Reserves cared for by the Trust. Not a job for the faint-hearted (Image: NTS) Head of Charities at People's Postcode Lottery, Laura Chow, said: 'Players of People's Postcode Lottery will be delighted to know that they are supporting the important work of the National Trust for Scotland to protect the biodiversity of our country's beautiful landscapes.
Perth Now
23-05-2025
- Sport
- Perth Now
Flying High! Trio of Eagles re-sign as rebuild takes shape
Waalitj Marawar (West Coast) have locked away a trio of stars with Tim Kelly, Tyrell Dewar and Jack Hutchinson all re-signing with the Eagles. As first reported by The West Australian, Kelly has signed a two-year extension tying him to the club until the end of 2027. Dewar has signed a three-year deal, also first reported by The West Australian, while last year's mid-season draftee Hutchinson has inked a three-year extension on top of the deal he already has locking him away until the end of 2029. Kelly, 30, was the subject of speculation that he could be on the move last year and was dropped for the first time in his career before the Gather Round clash against Carlton because of poor form. The 2023 John Worsfold medallist has rediscovered his best at half-forward and was among the best in their breakthrough win over Euro-Yroke (St Kilda) at the weekend, lighting up the last term. 'I'm absolutely stoked to be committing for another two years,' Kelly said. 'I'm always really grateful for the opportunity that the club gave me, they got me and my family home at a time when we really needed it. Tim Kelly had no intentions of leaving the Eagles. Credit: Paul Kane / Getty Images 'There was no intentions of looking anywhere else, and I'm just pumped that we could get this done.' Eagles list boss Matt Clarke said Kelly's leadership would be vital as part of the club's rejuvenation under Andrew McQualter. 'We are delighted to have Tim onboard for the next two years with the West Coast Eagles,' he said. 'Tim's talent and experience will be vitally important to the regeneration of our squad under Andrew (McQualter) and keeping our 2023 Club Champion was a priority. 'He has the flexibility in his game to play through several positions in our new system and his leadership for our young core is highly valued. We feel Tim has some strong football ahead.' Dewar has emerged as an exciting part of the Eagles' next generation, with the 2022 Naitanui Academy graduate playing the first seven games of this season after going from a small forward to a dangerous wingman. 'I feel so grateful, it's a big thing for me and my family,' Dewar said. 'The club put so much trust in me in my first year, I got picked up as a category-B rookie and they've just believed in my since I first got drafted, and I'm forever grateful for the opportunity they've given me. 'I love coming to work every day, everyone has a big smile on their face, we all have a laugh and a bit of banter, and we all get along really well. I love the boys.' Meanwhile, Hutchinson – who was picked up in last year's mid-season rookie draft as a forward – was already signed on for next season but has added a further three years to his deal. Hutchinson has gone from a high-flying forward last year to a midfielder under McQualter and most recently found a spot on the wing. Liam Baker and Jack Hutchinson of the Eagles celebrate after the win. Credit: Paul Kane / Getty Images 'I'm super pumped, coming over less than a year ago and to now re-sign is amazing. It was my goal to be able to re-sign,' Hutchinson said. 'I've been loving my time over here and I think we're moving the right way so I'm super keen to be involved in the next few years with the Club. 'I love it over in Perth, it suits me well, a few waves, nice weather so it's a suitable environment for me, plus all the boys at the club, I'm really enjoying it. 'The move over was so seamless, all the support I had from coaches and other staff around the club, and all the boys were so welcoming, I've made some really good mates over here.'
Scotsman
16-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Scotsman
Top Father's Day drink picks every dad will love this year
For the avid whisky collector ABERFELDY 22-Year-Old Oloroso Sherry Cask Finish Single Malt Scotch Whisky Bottled to celebrate 25 years of Dewar's Aberfeldy Distillery's visitor centre, this is a luxurious dram with sweet orchard fruits, succulent pear, and caramelized apples taking centre stage. Delicate notes of vanilla and heather honey weave through the palate, while undertones of toasted oak and gentle clove provide a satisfying balance. The finish is exceptionally smooth, leaving a soft echo of honey and spice. For the dad with a sweet side Berry Bros. & Rudd Speyside Sherry Cask, 12-Year-Old Distilled in Speyside, a small region in the middle of Scotland famous for its whisky production. This full, deep, and brooding whisky has a wonderfully rich texture, each sip offering a well-balanced, heartwarming experience that captivates the senses. Aromas of sun-dried fruits meld with baking spices. The palate explores richness; layers of spiced fruit cake and honey toast and hints of brown sugar, orange & dark chocolate add complexity to the finish. For the proud Glaswegian Glasgow Distillery 1770 The Original Glasgow Distillery's inaugural expression, The Original is a fresh and fruity single malt that combines the finest concerto malted barley with the purest Scottish water from Loch Katrine. The Original is a true representation of the whisky produced at The Glasgow Distillery, showcasing the production philosophy and dedication to quality. For the dad who brings the party Cutty Sark Original The very first smooth & mellow whisky of the Cutty Sark family. With a lighter taste, lighter colour and a lighter, fresher personality, Cutty Sark is masterfully Blended from the finest single malts and top-quality grain whiskies to create a unique light and refreshing character. Born to mix, it is a versatile blend that is perfect for the dad who hosts BBQs, mixes a mean highball, and believes whisky should be fun, not fussy. For the dad with a social soul The Hearach From the Isle of Harris Distillery, opened in 2015 to create sustainable employment for their island community, every drop of this multi-award-winning whisky is made on the island by a team of local distillers, trained from scratch. This complex and utterly delicious whisky is made for the dad who values heritage, community, and the slower pace of island life. The Hearach offers an elegant and highly drinkable flavour profile, with notes of homemade apple sauce and wild machair flowers, and old-fashioned sweetness of candied ginger and honeycomb.
Hamilton Spectator
12-05-2025
- Hamilton Spectator
Sault Ste. Marie Police Service celebrates Division 2 opening
Sault Ste. Marie Police Service has officially launched its new Division 2 location at 180 Brock St., with an outdoor barbeque held in partnership with Victim Services. Monday afternoon's launch also marked the beginning of Police Week and Victims and Survivors of Crime Week. While officers have been operating out of the site since April 28, the building is not yet open to the public as an intercom system for security purposes still needs to be installed. Public access is expected in the coming weeks, with a transition period as police and community members adjust to the new service model. The collision reporting centre, along with Crime Stoppers and Victim Services, will also relocate to the new downtown site. Division 2 is staffed by four constables and a sergeant, with a total of 17 staff working from the new location. This includes members from Traffic Services, the Canine Unit, the Central Support Bureau, a Community Safety Officer, and the High School Liaison Officer. It has taken a year and a half to bring the project to life. Approximately $850,000 was allocated for renovations and the move, although a final cost has not yet been released. The 84,000-square-foot facility spans two floors and includes interview rooms, an elevator, offices, change rooms, storage space, and a lunchroom. Officers working in the downtown area now have a convenient location to complete paperwork without needing to return to headquarters on Second Line East. 'It's been a long time coming and we're proud to see it finally taking shape down here,' said interim Chief Brent Duguay. Duguay reported that within Division 2's first month of operations, officers have made 15 arrests, issued nine provincial offences, and handed out two bylaw tickets. He also noted strong early engagement with local businesses. 'The biggest engagement so far has been with store owners to make sure they know who to call if there's a problem,' he told the crowd of about 20 gathered outside the new building. Insp. Derek Dewar said the move was in response to feedback from the public and city council, who voiced a desire for a stronger police presence downtown. 'So far the impact has been overwhelmingly positive,' said Dewar. 'It lessens the burden of the existing building,' he added, referring to the main station, which he said is 'bursting at the seams.' Dewar said downtown officers will conduct beat and bicycle patrols, with a proactive approach aimed at improving response times and community safety in the core. Jasmine Savoie, executive director of Victim Services, emphasized that individuals seeking their support do not have to report each incident to police. 'That's a huge barrier to some of our friends who may have run-ins,' said Savoie. She noted that a large part of Victim Services's mission involves raising awareness for victims and survivors of crimes such as trafficking, intimate partner violence (IPV), and homicide. She hopes the new location, which the agency has been operating from for a week, will make it easier for people to access support. 'We think that having more of a central location is better for the downtown core,' said Savoie. 'We can meet a lot more people in their own environment.'
