In the ever-evolving political landscape of Scotland, the role of local councillors remains crucial in shaping the everyday lives of residents. Among those making a significant impact is Jane Meagher, Labour councillor for the Portobello and Craigmillar ward in Edinburgh. Since her election in May 2022, she has become a prominent figure in the city council, demonstrating both leadership and dedication to the communities she serves. Rising through various council positions, Jane Meagher became the Leader of the City of Edinburgh Council in December 2024, a role that highlights her influence, trustworthiness, and ability to build consensus during challenging times.
Early Life and Community Roots
Jane Meagher is not only a politician but also a community figure deeply rooted in Portobello. She has lived in the area since 1986, which gives her a strong connection with the people she represents. Before entering the council chamber, she worked as a community worker, gaining first-hand experience of the challenges that ordinary families face. Her early career shaped her perspective on fairness, social inclusion, and the importance of accessible local services.
Her experience in community roles gave her a foundation in problem-solving and advocacy. It also reinforced her belief that politics should serve as a practical tool for improving people’s lives rather than being limited to lofty debates. This background continues to shape her approach as a councillor who listens, understands, and acts in the interests of her constituents.
Political Journey and Election Success
In May 2022, Jane Meagher stood as a Labour candidate in the local elections and won a seat representing the Portobello/Craigmillar ward. Her victory reflected both Labour’s enduring strength in the area and her personal reputation as someone committed to community issues. She quickly became active across the council’s committees, particularly those linked to housing, homelessness, and fair work.
Her rise was swift, largely because of her ability to bring people together and her willingness to take on tough responsibilities. She was appointed as the Convener of the Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work Committee, a vital role given the increasing demand for affordable housing and the rising pressures of homelessness in Edinburgh. Through this position, she worked tirelessly to improve the city’s housing strategy and promote fair work opportunities for its residents.
By late 2024, her leadership qualities were recognised even more broadly, and she was elected as the Leader of the City of Edinburgh Council. This role placed her at the helm of a diverse council with 63 councillors, making her one of the most influential local politicians in Scotland.
Leadership of Edinburgh City Council
Taking over leadership in December 2024, Jane Meagher inherited a council facing a variety of challenges. These included budget constraints, the need to balance sustainable development with heritage protection, and the requirement to ensure that essential services continued to meet public demand. Her leadership style has been described as inclusive and pragmatic, with an emphasis on stability, collaboration, and fairness.
As council leader, she has taken on wider responsibilities beyond her ward. She now chairs the Policy and Sustainability Committee, one of the most powerful committees in the city, responsible for guiding long-term strategy. She is also Chair of the Edinburgh Partnership and serves on the City Region Deal Oversight Committee, influencing regional development projects that go far beyond the city limits.
Her work on these committees demonstrates her commitment to strategic planning and sustainable growth. Under her guidance, the council aims to deliver progress while ensuring that communities benefit directly from decisions made at the top.
Housing and Homelessness: A Central Focus
One of Jane Meagher’s most important priorities is tackling Edinburgh’s housing crisis. Like many cities across the UK, Edinburgh faces a shortage of affordable housing, long waiting lists, and rising homelessness. As convener of the Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work Committee, she placed these issues at the heart of the council’s agenda.
Her policies emphasise increasing the supply of affordable homes, supporting social housing, and ensuring that homelessness services are effective and humane. She has also been a strong advocate for ensuring that developments are not only about numbers but also about quality, sustainability, and integration into existing communities.
She believes that housing is not merely a commodity but a fundamental human right. This belief informs her decisions, whether it is backing new housing projects, lobbying for national support, or ensuring that tenants’ voices are heard in council planning.
Commitment to Sustainability and Fair Work
Alongside housing, Jane Meagher has consistently championed sustainability and fair employment practices. As the convener of the Policy and Sustainability Committee, she oversees policies that impact Edinburgh’s environmental future. This includes addressing climate change, reducing emissions, and making the city more resilient.
Her work extends to the promotion of fair work policies, ensuring that local people benefit from secure jobs with fair pay and conditions. She understands the importance of linking economic growth with social fairness. For her, a thriving Edinburgh must also be an inclusive Edinburgh where prosperity is shared across communities.
Engagement with the Community
What sets Jane Meagher apart from many politicians is her accessibility. She holds weekly surgeries at Portobello Library, giving residents a regular opportunity to meet her, raise concerns, and discuss ideas. These sessions highlight her commitment to listening and responding to constituents.
She understands that effective leadership requires being close to the community. Whether it is supporting local initiatives, attending community events, or championing grassroots organisations, she ensures that her role is not limited to council chambers.
Her long residence in the area further strengthens her credibility. Residents know she is not an outsider but someone who has lived alongside them for decades. This sense of shared experience builds trust and authenticity in her political life.
Wider Influence and Board Memberships
Beyond her council roles, Jane Meagher is involved in several local development and partnership organisations. She holds directorships in Energy for Edinburgh Ltd, Capital City Partnership Ltd, and EDI Group Ltd, among others. These positions allow her to influence strategic projects that have a direct impact on the city’s economy, sustainability, and regeneration.
Through these roles, she ensures that the voice of local communities is considered in major development decisions. Her influence extends to projects such as regeneration schemes in Craigmillar and Waterfront Edinburgh, which aim to deliver long-term benefits for residents.
A Leader in Times of Change
Jane Meagher’s leadership comes at a time when local government faces increasing pressures. From financial challenges to rising social needs, councils across the UK must adapt to difficult circumstances. Her ability to navigate these complexities with pragmatism and resilience has earned her respect across the political spectrum.
She has pledged to restore stability to the council following political uncertainty and to ensure that Edinburgh is governed effectively. Her inclusive leadership style, commitment to fairness, and strong connection to the community position her as a leader able to deliver in challenging times.
Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Jane Meagher envisions an Edinburgh that is fair, sustainable, and inclusive. Her focus remains on delivering more affordable housing, supporting those at risk of homelessness, ensuring fair work opportunities, and building a greener future.
She recognises that Edinburgh is a city of contrasts: a place of rich history and vibrant growth, yet also home to communities struggling with inequality. Her policies aim to bridge these divides and ensure that progress benefits everyone.
Conclusion
Jane Meagher is more than a councillor; she is a leader shaped by community values and a determination to make a difference. From her early years as a community worker to her current position as Leader of the City of Edinburgh Council, her journey reflects resilience, dedication, and a deep commitment to fairness.
Her work on housing, sustainability, and fair work highlights her belief that politics must serve people first and foremost. With her community at the heart of her vision, Jane Meagher continues to build a reputation as a trusted and effective leader for Edinburgh.
