Edinburgh to consult on North–South tram line

 

A 12-week consultation on the route of the proposed North–South tram line in the Scottish capital will start on 25 August, focussed particularly on how the line should be built between Granton and the city centre. The former railway alignment was put forward initially, but this is now the popular Roseburn Path pedestrian and cycleway. The alternative is a new on-road route route via Orchard Brae, with the major challenge of the Dean Bridge crossing. There is also an option of using Telford Rd to place the tram line closer to the Western General Hospital. From the city centre after a section of joint running with the existing tramway, the line will use the North Bridge/South Bridge corridor to reach the Royal Infirmary and the BioQuarter. 

 

Transport & Environment convenor Stephen Jenkinson said, 'I am pleased to have reached such an important stage in the project, and I look forward to hearing the public's views on our plans when the consultation opens later this month. Extending our hugely popular and multi-award winning tram service to the north and south of the city would bring huge social, economic and environmental benefits, while helping us to face the challengers of the future. 

 

The city council says the consultation will inform the development of a Strategic Business case, which, after approval by the Transport & Environment Committee, will support an application for Scottish government funding.