WORK is progressing on the £207.3 million Edinburgh’s trams to Newhaven project, with more than 60% of track now laid.
A new phase of works is set to begin on the project, with the construction of a temporary tram stop at York Place – built for the original line – to be demolished to allow for the installation of a crossover linking the existing line with the new route.
Construction work on a new, permanent stop at Picardy Place will also begin in May, with it due to come into use when the line to Newhaven opens in 2023.
With construction works on the west side of Leith Walk nearing completion, February will also see changes to traffic management in the area.
Councillor Lesley Macinnes, transport and environment convener, said, “We’re entering a significant phase of the Trams to Newhaven project, as we work to link the old line to the new. We are in the final year of construction for the project which will be followed by a period of testing and commissioning ahead of opening for service in Spring 2023.
“With 60% of track laid and main construction on two of the new tram stops completed, we’re making great progress and it’s exciting to be able to see elements of the new line in place, giving us an idea of how the route will look next year.
“Of course, as is expected of major infrastructure projects of this nature, there is bound to be some disruption, and I’d like to thank all those living and working nearby for their patience. We’re working hard to mitigate the impacts and will continue liaising with residents, businesses and public transport providers to keep them up to date.”
