Colin Smyth, 53, is alleged to have driven dangerously in the capital’s High Street and elsewhere on 2 November 2025, while at more than double the legal alcohol limit.
Prosecutors allege that after mounting a pavement, he narrowly missed a pedestrian and collided with a parked car, while driving at excessive speed.
He is also accused of crashing into electric bollards directly outside City Chambers, and that he repeatedly got in and out of the vehicle, and revved the engine.
The former South Scotland MSP is additionally accused of failing to report the incident to police “as soon as reasonably practicable”.
Smyth denies the allegations.
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During a brief hearing at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Wednesday, Smyth spoke only to confirm his name.
Sheriff Iain Nicol fixed a trial date for 27 November.
