A landmark scheme to transform active travel between the east and west of Edinburgh has been officially opened.
Balfour Beatty led the build of the £23 million city centre west to east link (CCWEL) scheme, which connects Roseburn to Leith Walk via Haymarket and the west end with a safe and direct cycle route, as well as ‘significantly’ enhancing streets for those walking.
Officially opened yesterday, members of the local community joined councillor Scott Arthur, of the City of Edinburgh Council; Patrick Harvie, minister for active travel; and other stakeholders in Haymarket to celebrate the occasion.
Pupils from local primary schools were amongst the first to test out part of the route, participating in a group ride from Old Colt Bridge which arrived in Haymarket in time for the festivities, where they were treated to music performed by St Mary’s Music School pupils and a range of walking, wheeling and cycling-themed activities.
Councillor Scott Arthur, transport and environment convener at the City of Edinburgh Council, said, “Today we celebrated a major development for walking, wheeling and cycling in the Capital, with the completion of CCWEL. This major scheme is not only one of the largest pieces of active travel infrastructure delivered in Edinburgh, but it has transformed spaces along the route for the use and enjoyment of people who live, visit and work here.
“I’m pleased that that the community and all those involved were able to share in celebrating the occasion today – we really want them to benefit from the route. I’d like to thank local residents and businesses for their patience throughout construction, which I know has been disruptive at times.
“Now it’s open, CCWEL will form a key section of our growing walking, wheeling and cycling network, connecting with Roseburn to Union Canal, George Street and First New Town and other key routes. This kind of joined-up project delivery is essential for helping people to choose clean, sustainable modes of transport, in turn supporting our net zero 2030 goals, as well as improving air quality and reducing congestion.”
