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A guide to living in a conservation areaA guide to living in a conservation area

Living in a conservation area means residing in a place deemed of special architectural or historical interest, the character or appearance of which it is desirable to preserve or enhance.

The designation as a conservation area is a testament to its unique contribution to heritage and culture. However, this designation also brings with it a specific set of planning controls designed to protect the distinctive characteristics of these areas. Here’s a detailed look at the rules that govern conservation areas to help residents and potential developers understand what is expected.

Understanding Conservation Areas

Conservation areas are designated by local planning authorities and exist across the UK, each with its unique character. From the Georgian terraces of Bath to the Victorian suburbs of London, these areas are key to maintaining the historical fabric of the region. The rules in these areas are more stringent than in non-designated areas to ensure any development or change maintains the aesthetic integrity of the area.

General Rules and Restrictions

Alterations to Exterior Features: In conservation areas Edinburgh, you usually need to apply for planning permission for changes that might usually be allowed elsewhere without permission. This includes changes to windows, doors, roofs, and even the color of paint used on the exterior of houses.

Demolition: Demolition of any building in a conservation area requires planning permission. Minor demolitions, like taking down a wall or a small part of the structure, also typically require approval unless specifically excluded by Article 4 Directions.

New Development: Any new development within a conservation area must respect the existing context and character. This doesn’t necessarily mean mimicking the old but does require a design that enhances the existing environment. High-quality modern architecture that reflects the area’s character in terms of scale, height, spacing, and materials may be acceptable.

Protected Trees: Trees in a conservation area that are above a certain size (usually with a trunk diameter of more than 75mm at a height of 1.5 metres) are protected. You must give the local planning authority six weeks’ notice before carrying out any work on such trees, giving them time to decide if a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) is necessary to prevent the work.

Satellite Dishes and Solar Panels: The installation of satellite dishes and solar panels may face restrictions to keep the visual impact on the streetscape to a minimum. These installations usually require planning permission and must be done in a way that does not detract from the character of the area.

Article 4 Directions

Article 4 Directions are legal tools used by local authorities to further restrict the scope of permitted development rights within a conservation area. These directions can cover a range of development activities from alterations to doors and windows to the erection of boundary walls and fences. If your property is subject to an Article 4 Direction, you may need to seek planning permission for work that normally wouldn’t require it, reinforcing the control over changes that could affect the character of the area.

Can I Repair a Tyre with a Nail in It?Can I Repair a Tyre with a Nail in It?

Discovering a nail in your tyre is a common yet frustrating experience for many drivers. The immediate question that comes to mind is, “Can I repair this tyre, or do I need to replace it?” The good news is that, in many cases, a tyre with a nail in it can indeed be repaired. However, there are specific conditions that need to be met to ensure the repair is safe and effective.

When Can a Tyre Be Repaired?

Location of the Nail

The location of the nail plays a crucial role in determining whether a tyre can be repaired. If the nail is embedded in the central tread area of the tyre, there’s a good chance it can be repaired. However, if the nail is close to the tyre’s sidewall or in the shoulder area, repair may not be possible due to the high flex and stress these areas undergo.

Size of the Puncture

The size of the puncture also matters when determining if Emergency tire repair in Edinburgh is a possibility. Generally, punctures less than 6mm in diameter can be repaired. Anything larger compromises the tyre’s structural integrity, making repair unsafe.

Tyre Condition

The overall condition of the tyre is also a factor. Tyres with deep tread and no significant wear or damage are candidates for repair. On the other hand, tyres that are excessively worn, have multiple punctures, or show signs of aging (like sidewall cracks) should be replaced.

The Repair Process

The repair process involves several steps to ensure the tyre’s safety and longevity. A professional tyre repair service will:

Inspect the Tyre

Before any repair, the tyre must be thoroughly inspected both externally and internally for additional damage.

Remove the Tyre

To properly repair the tyre, it must be removed from the rim. This allows for an internal inspection and ensures the repair materials bond correctly.

Clean and Prepare the Puncture

The puncture site is cleaned and prepped to ensure the repair patch adheres properly.

Seal the Puncture

A combination of a plug and a patch is often used. The plug fills the hole, while the patch seals the inner lining of the tyre, restoring its air retention capability.

Considerations for DIY Repairs

While DIY tyre repair kits are available, it’s important to understand that not all punctures are safely repairable at home. These kits typically use a plug repair method, which may not be as durable or reliable as a professional repair. For a temporary fix, they might suffice, but for long-term safety and performance, a professional repair is recommended.

When to Opt for Replacement

In some cases, replacement is the safer and more economical option in the long run. If the tyre has multiple punctures, significant wear, or the puncture is in a non-repairable location, investing in a new tyre is advisable. Additionally, tyres with a compromised structural integrity or those that have been previously repaired in the same area should also be replaced.

Key staff you must have for a successful eventKey staff you must have for a successful event

Thinking of hosting your own event? Security is your key to ensuring it goes down a storm and everyone in attendance has a fantastic time.

Security at events is not just about managing potential threats but also ensuring that attendees have a safe and enjoyable experience. In this blog, we’ll delve into the key roles in event security, outlining their responsibilities and the pivotal part they play in the seamless operation of an event.

Event Security Officers

Licensed Security Officers

These professionals are the backbone of event security. They are responsible for a wide array of duties including patrolling the event space, monitoring for suspicious activity, controlling access points, and responding to emergencies. Licensed security officers possess a security guarding license, which equips them with training in first aid and conflict management, essential skills for managing large crowds and ensuring safety. This is a bit different to an event steward who are not licensed.

Door Supervisors

Specifically stationed at entry points, door supervisors are tasked with ensuring that only verified guests gain entry into the event. They check IDs, manage ticket verifications, conduct searches when necessary, and handle unruly guests. Their role is crucial in preventing unauthorised access and managing the flow of attendees, contributing to the overall security and smooth operation of the event.

Specialised Security Roles

Event Stewards

Stewards play a supportive role in event security, focusing on crowd care rather than direct security enforcement. Their duties include directing attendees, keeping escape routes clear, and assisting with general queries. Stewards are vital for the logistical aspect of event management, ensuring that crowds move safely and efficiently throughout the venue.

Dog Handlers

Canine units provide an additional layer of security at events. Security dogs are trained to assist in patrols, detect prohibited items like drugs or weapons, and deter potential wrongdoers. The presence of dog handlers and their canine partners can significantly enhance the security measures at an event, offering both detection capabilities and a psychological deterrent to criminal activity.

CCTV Operators

With the advent of advanced surveillance technology, CCTV operators play a critical role in event security. They monitor live feeds from cameras positioned around the venue, enabling them to quickly identify and respond to any incidents or suspicious behaviour. Effective CCTV operation is key to preventing potential security breaches and ensuring a rapid response to any emergencies that arise.

Overarching Responsibilities

Across these roles, a unifying theme is the responsibility to ensure the safety and security of all event attendees. This includes deterring criminal activity, managing emergencies, providing customer support, and effectively controlling crowds. Security personnel must also work closely with local law enforcement and emergency services, ensuring a coordinated response to any situation that may occur.

The Importance of Professional Security Firms

Hiring a professional security firm brings numerous benefits, including access to highly trained personnel, integrated security systems, and a comprehensive security strategy tailored to the specific needs of the event. These firms offer the expertise and resources necessary to manage the complexities of event security, from pre-event planning to post-event debriefs.

A guide to Breach of the Peace LawA guide to Breach of the Peace Law

Breach of the peace is a term that many people have heard, but very few actually understand.

It is used to describe all sorts of behaviour that range from shouting in public to threatening behaviour and even following someone down the street.

Breach of the peace is often used as a throwaway term about those arguing or being loud in public and many believe that it is a relatively minor offence that rarely gets applied. The truth, however, is that in Scotland, the only area of the UK where breach of the peace is a criminal offence, the outcome of being found guilty of these charges can be incredibly serious.

In fact, the maximum penalty for a conviction is a hefty fine and a 12-month long prison sentence. As a result of this, if you have been accused or charged with breaching the peace, it is essential that you find yourself a good breach of the peace lawyer as soon as possible.

As a leading breach of the peace lawyer, we most frequently take on cases where protesters or demonstrators have been accused of breaching the peace whilst campaigning for critical causes that are of the upmost importance to our clients and to society as a whole.

What legislation covers breach of the peace?

Prior to 2010, breach of the peace was a common law offence only, but this all changed with the introduction of the Criminal Justice and Licensing (Scotland) Act 2010.

Section 38 of this legislation made behaviour that may cause fear or distress to a reasonable person a criminal offence, with cases usually being heard at the Justic of the Peace Court, or the Sheriff Court in very serious cases.

Whilst there are many different actions that could be considered as a breach of the peace, the ones that we deal with most frequently involve campaigners who have been arrested for expressing their political beliefs in a strong manner.

After all, the police have been known to use breach of the peace as a tool to prevent demonstrators from expressing their freedom of speech and expression.

We regularly represent those who are involved in marches and political demonstrations, protecting their fundamental human rights and ensuring they have all the advice and representation they require should a case reach the courts.

What to do if you are charged with breach of the peace

If you have been charged with a breach of the peace offence, or believe that your right to protest has been restricted it is vital that you get in touch with an experienced law firm as soon as possible.

As mentioned above, the potential punishments for a breach of the peace conviction are severe and do not assume just because you were campaigning for a good cause that the court will find in your favour without the correct legal representation.

We will work hard from the very start of your case to the very end to ensure that justice is served and the best possible outcome is achieved.

Different types of jobs in the security sectorDifferent types of jobs in the security sector

Security is a huge industry in the UK and across the world, with many thousands of highly trained professionals committed to protecting people, property, and valuable assets from harm.

Public sector, private security, cyber security, canine assisted security, there are industries within industries in the security world and if you are looking for a career you have plenty of options available to you.

In this blog we will look at just a few of the most popular security roles that are in high demand right now, as well as giving you some important information on what these roles look like on a daily basis and how one goes about pursuing each career.

Security Guard

Perhaps the most well known job in the security industry is that of the security guard. These highly trained professionals have been keeping us all safe for many decades, long before the emergence of CCTV and other security technologies.

They are just as important today as they ever have been and can be found in shops, shopping malls, hotels, and many more places across the nation.

In order to become a security guard you must first acquire an SIA licence, something that requires extensive training on skills such as conflict management and first aid. Everyday is different for Prime Secure security guards and your duties may involve anything from giving directions to visitors to taking down intruders and overseeing emergency evacuations.

Police Officers

Not technically within the security sector but the roles do overlap significantly. Police officers will often work alongside security guards and other security professionals on this list to find criminals and to keep the public safe.

Your best bet if you wish to become a police officer is to visit the police officer section of the Government website, or the Police Scotland website if you live north of the border.

Airport Security

Airport security officers often have the same or similar duties to a standard police officer but are in a position of additional responsibility given the risks in play.

Airport security will often have to go through additional training programmes covering things like working alongside security dogs and operating airport specific technologies such as scanners.

Waking Watch Officers

Waking Watch Officers are more fire marshal than security guard and are deployed on high-rise properties thought to be at high risk of fire.

The role was introduced after the devastating Grenfell Tower fire and is designed as a fast way to identify fire in high-rise properties until the flammable cladding found on the exterior has been replaced or an inspection has deemed the building safe.

Waking watch is far from ideal due to the amount that it costs the residents or property management but it is an effective short term way to keep people safe. Whenever possible, waking watch officers should be replaced by a common fire alarm. IN an ideal world, waking watch officer would not be a role at all, but with no sign of widescale remedial action coming soon, there is no sign that these experts will be disappearing soon.

Where is the best place to meditate for inner peaceWhere is the best place to meditate for inner peace

Inner peace. We all want it and have different ways of trying to achieve it. Meditation is one of the most effective tools in our mental box for attaining a sense of calm and mindfulness and is a practice globally recognised for its effectiveness.

You can meditate pretty much anywhere if you are able to achieve the focus and mindfulness required but certain places provide the ideal conditions for effective meditation.

In this article we will explore some of the best places you can go to meditate where you will be able to connect with your inner self and the environment around you.

Some of the best places to meditate include:

Public Gardens

If you live in a busy city, fitting a visit to a beach or mountain top into your hectic schedule might now be very realistic. In an environment where peace and solitude can be hard to come by botanical gardens are a blessed oasis of colour and nature and a great place to mediate. The smell of the flowers, the beauty of nature, and all within walking distance of you.

Temples

Meditation is a practice that has been around for thousands of years, so where better to feel connected and practice this ancient tradition than a structure rich is history.

Temples and churches were built specifically as places of quiet and reflection, and remain some of the most beautiful and effective locations to practice meditation and contemplate the world around us. Meditating in these places can be an incredibly spiritual and grounding experience that everyone should try at least once.

During Yoga

Combining Yoga and meditation is a match made in heaven. Many yoga studios even have rooms specifically set aside for meditation purposes filled with cushions and soft lighting to create the optimal environment for mindfulness and relaxation before or after a tough yoga session.

Saunas

Where better to meditate than the hot and steamy solitude of INCA saunas? Scientific research has shown that saunas are some of the most relaxing places to destress and unwind and combining this effect with meditation is a powerful combination indeed.

Both are right at the top of the list when it comes to the most effective modern tools for mindfulness.

Nature

Surrounding yourself with nature is profoundly spiritual and there are an unlimited list of places within nature where you can relax and focus the mind.

The shore of a lake, deep within a forest, in your back garden even, anywhere you can surround yourself with the sights and sounds of nature is a great place to enter a deep state of meditation.

Beaches

There is nowhere quite like a quiet beach when it comes to tranquillity and a sense of perspective. The crashing waves and the endless vast ocean are a sight to behold and the noise the sea makes as it hits the shore creates a highly effective natural white noise, one of he best tools for focussing the mind.