Top cop steps down to take on new beat at council

Chief Superintendent Jeanette McDiarmid, made divisional commander for the Lothians and Borders ahead of the formation of the single police force last April, will work alongside Philip Barr.

Mr Barr is the current head of operational development with the City of Edinburgh Council.

The new posts were created following a restructuring of senior positions at SBC, which will deliver £100,000 of savings.

No start date has been confirmed for either Mrs McDiarmid or Mr Barr.

Tracey Logan, SBC’s chief executive, said: “I’m looking forward to welcoming Jeanette and Philip to the council.

“They have many strengths and excellent experience, and will play an important part in our continued work to deliver and improve our services for the people of the Borders.”

Mrs McDiarmid will oversee the new ‘People’ department, which covers things like social work, education, and business and performance.

Mr Barr will be responsible for the new ‘Place’ department, overseeing the likes of neighbourhood services, capital projects and regulatory services.