Leith tram link cost estimated at£165m

Edinburgh’s controversial tram system could be extended to Newhaven in a project costing an estimated £165 million.

Councillors will consider a business case for the link, with a final decision to be taken in autumn next year.

Completing a tram line from the airport to Leith was part of the original plans before costs spiralled and the scheme was nearly scrapped.

After it was revealed binning the project would cost £700m, a truncated link stopping at York Place launched in 2014, at a cost of £776m.

The City of Edinburgh Council said if approved, construction on the line would take three years and, allowing for testing, passengers could expect to use the service in the first half of 2022.

Businesses along Leith Walk previously experienced disruption when work went ahead to divert underground cables and pipes away from the route.

As part of the new extension, a business compensation scheme would be introduced for local traders.

Council leader Councillor Adam McVey said: “As the fastest-growing city in Scotland, and with our existing system nearing capacity, we have to look at ways of enhancing our public transport system.

“The planned tram extension route takes in Scotland’s most densely populated area and, taken with low car ownership, developing high capacity transport to Newhaven would bring a range of local benefits in terms of boosting economic growth, creating jobs, enhancing accessibility, reducing congestion and improving air quality.

“We’re now working to make sure that the business case is as robust as possible to ensure we have confidence that the project can be delivered on time and on budget.”

Transport convener Councillor Lesley Macinnes added: “The outline business case demonstrates good early performance for the tram, with patronage expected to double in the first year.”

Picture: PA. An Edinburgh tram.