News archive

News published February 2026

• Midlothian Council will not recognise 15 June 2026 as an extra public holiday 

  Published 24 Feb 2026

  Midlothian Council has decided not to recognise Monday 15 June 2026 as a local public holiday. 

• Rent strategy ensures quality and affordability for local residents

  Published 24 Feb 2026

  The council today agreed on a new rent setting strategy that will form a key part of our long‑term plans to deliver good‑quality, sustainable and affordable housing.

• Councillors updated on denominational school admissions consultation and arrangements with East Lothian Council

  Published 24 Feb 2026

  East Lothian Council has agreed to contribute towards the additional education costs for pupils from Loretto RC Primary School attending St David’s RC High School during the 2026/27 school year.

• Mount Esk Nursery to Become Part of Hawthornden Primary School

  Published 24 Feb 2026

  Midlothian Council has agreed to re-designate Mount Esk Nursery School in Bonnyrigg as the nursery class of Hawthornden Primary School.

• Midlothian Council welcomes tenants' survey results

  Published 24 Feb 2026

  The council has welcomed the results of its 2025 Tenant Satisfaction Survey.

• Council sets balanced budget and 9% Council Tax rise

  Published 24 Feb 2026

  Council has set a balanced budget of £340.7million for 2026/27, alongside a 9% increase in Council Tax to help protect essential services at a time of rising costs and increasing demand.

• Proposal to create new Gorebridge Hub approved

  Published 24 Feb 2026

  Midlothian Councillors today approved proposals to relocate Gorebridge Library into Gorebridge Leisure Centre, creating a new Gorebridge Hub that brings valued local services together under one roof.

• Councillors approve graduated increases to Council Tax for second and empty homes

  Published 24 Feb 2026

  Midlothian councillors have approved a new graduated system of Council Tax charges for second homes and empty properties, to help address housing need by bringing unused homes back into use.

• Libraries shortlisted for another national award

  Published 24 Feb 2026

  Midlothian Council’s Library Service has been shortlisted for a major national award in recognition of its outstanding work to ensure every child starts life as a library member.

• Danderhall Pantry expands services with support from Midlothian Pantry Network

  Published 20 Feb 2026

  Danderhall Pantry is expanding its services, welcoming new members, extending its opening hours and introducing a new credit based system that gives residents more choice and dignity when shopping.

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