Drug deaths in Edinburgh have soared in recent months as calls grow to open Scotland’s second safe consumption facility in the capital.
A public consultation is currently underway on whether to open a sister centre to The Thistle in Glasgow, which would allow people to inject illegally-bought heroin or cocaine under medical supervision.
Campaigners working to end Scotland’s shameful record as the drug deaths capital of Europe have said opening a second site would play a crucial role in creating a nationwide network.
It comes as the number of drug deaths in Edinburgh reached 34 in the quarter from December 2025 to February 2026 – up from 19 in the previous three month period. The 79 per cent increase in fatalities has alarmed
The Scottish Drugs Forum (SDF) charity said it wanted a “national network of safer drug consumption facilities wherever people are currently using substances outdoors or in unsafe locations”.
The opening of The Thistle in the east end of Glasgow last year followed years of legal and political objections. Two proposed sites in Edinburgh has already been identified in the Old Town.
Kirsten Horsburgh, SDF chief executive officer, said: “Safer drug consumption facilities provide a safe, supervised environment where people can inject drugs under the care of trained staff.
“Crucially, they also offer access to wider health and treatment services, and there is often provision of showers, food and clothing. Together, these supports can create stability and show people that we care about their wellbeing. We want to see a national network of safer drug consumption facilities wherever people are currently using substances outdoors or in unsafe locations. Opening a facility in Edinburgh is an important step towards achieving this goal.”
OPINIONChris McCall
Horsburgh added: “A feasibility study commissioned by Edinburgh Health and Social Care Partnership identified the Old Town as an area of elevated harm, and we agree it is a suitable location.
“It already hosts several services used by people experiencing homelessness, alongside anecdotal reports of high levels of public drug use. Locating a facility in this area will help ensure support is available where people need it.
“At the same time, we must be honest about what a single facility can and cannot achieve. Safer drug consumption facilities are one important part of a wider public health response, not a standalone solution.
“Any suggestion that they alone can reverse Scotland’s deep-rooted drugs crisis misunderstands both the scale of the challenge and the purpose of these services.”
The consultation on opening a centre in Edinburgh, which consists of an online survey and drop in sessions, runs until July 1.
The consultation period will help to inform whether a formal business case to establish a facility will be developed for the Scottish government for a final decision.
There is no confirmed site for the facility but research found the Old Town, around Cowgate, or Spittal Street as potential contenders.
A Scottish Government spokesperson said: “Every drug death is a tragedy and condolences go to anyone who has lost a loved one.
“Stakeholders are actively engaging with those most at risk and providing advice.
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