The Parliamentary Reception is currently at capacity. Please register on the waiting list or contact alison@scotlandstowns.org
Join us at the Scottish Parliament for the Annual Parliamentary Reception celebrating Scotland’s towns and town centres under the inspiring theme: Scotland Loves Local.
This evening recognises the essential role that towns and local places play in shaping a stronger, fairer, and more sustainable Scotland. As drivers of economic growth, community identity, and local resilience, our towns are vital to the wellbeing of people, planet, and place.
The reception also serves as a key opportunity to:
Showcase inspiring local leadership and innovation
Connect stakeholders from across sectors and regions
Celebrate this year’s Scotland Loves Local Awards – honouring outstanding individuals and organisations who are helping our towns to thrive.
Programme
17:30 | Guest Arrival & Registration
17:50 | Guests escorted to the Holyrood Room
18:00 | Networking Opportunity
An informal time to connect and engage with fellow guests. Welcome refreshments served
18:30 | Welcome Remarks
Meghan Gallacher MSP, Convener, Cross Party Group on Towns and Town Centres
Paul McLennan MSP, Deputy Convener, Cross Party Group on Towns and Town Centres
18:40 Ministerial Address
Ivan McKee MSP, Minister for Public Finance
A Scottish Government perspective on empowering local places and people
Scotland Loves Local – Celebrating Our Towns
18:50 | Local Government Leadership
Cllr Maureen Chalmers, Community Wellbeing Spokesperson, COSLA
Insights on how local authorities are championing town resilience and renewal
19:00 | Scotland Loves Local Awards Celebration
Kimberley Guthrie Chief Officer, Scotland’s Towns Partnership
A ‘showcase’ of award-winning individuals and organisations who make our towns exceptional.
19:20 | Looking Ahead
Professor Leigh Sparks, Chair, Scotland’s Towns Partnership
Looking ahead – building momentum for stronger, more connected local places
19:30 | Networking Reception
Continue the conversation and celebrate with award winners and fellow guests
20:00 | Close of Event
Privacy
To support networking and help you get the most out of our event, we will provide those coming with a list of the names and organisational affiliation of those attending.
Furthermore, we typically take photographs of proceedings in order to highlight or showcase STP’s activities.
Please let us know if you do not wish to provide consent for the use of your personal data in this way. To see how we use and take care of your information, please see our privacy notice.
Location
Holyrood Room, Scottish Parliament, EH99 1SP
The Parliamentary Reception is currently at capacity. Please register on the waiting list or contact alison@scotlandstowns.org