£165m tram extension work could start in 2019

● Search for new Edinburgh scheme contractor might begin next month

Work to extend Edinburgh’s tramline could get under way in 2019 if the £165.2 million project is given the green light.

The task of finding a possible contractor could begin as soon as next month if councillors vote through an outline business case for how the work would be completed.

The case to extend the 1A line from York Place to Newhaven is set to be scrutinised by councillors over the coming weeks.

While the case itself could be given the go-ahead by the end of September, a final decision on whether to proceed – and with which contractor – would not happen until autumn 2018.

Council leader 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

0 Constructing the extension of Edinburgh’s 1A tram line from York Place to Newhaven could take about three years route takes in Scotland’s most densely populated area. 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.”

A report setting out the business case will go before the city council’s transport and environment committee for approval in principle on 4 September.

If this is granted, the case will then go before the full council on 21 September.

While the fine details are yet to be released, it is understood the case will include information about the introduction of a business compensation scheme for traders during construction.

It will also set out forecasts for the number of people using the trams, with this figure expected to double to 13 million in the first year if the extension is carried out.

If all goes ahead, it is thought construction would take approximately three years and, allowing for testing, passengers could expect to use the service in the first half of 2022.

Transport convener Lesley Macinnes said: “Only yesterday, we were named the UK’S best city for transport links, demonstrating the success of our continued work to deliver a truly integrated public transport system for the capital.

“We cannot be complacent, though. We must ensure we keep investing in public transport and sustainable travel.”