... and terminus at Leith is still on the table

EDINBURGH’S tram bosses are preparing to extend the service all the way to Leith.

If the first line is a success, City of Edinburgh Council leaders are expected to push ahead as soon as possible with another few miles of line to the docks.

Such a move would delight businesses and Leith residents, but would also be likely to be met with groans of despair from those businesses facing further disruption along the route.

Hundreds of traders along Leith Walk, and in Leith itself, have already endured months of construction work, roadworks and noise – all for a line that was abandoned.

The first tram line was supposed to run from the airport in the west of Edinburgh 13.5 miles across the city to Ocean Terminal.

However, because of all the problems, cost overruns and time delays, the final stretch, from the city centre to Leith, was abandoned by the council.

By the time this decision had been taken, though, Leith Walk had already been dug up by builders who needed to move all pipes underground to prepare for the trams.

So the traders have had the upset – without the benefit of the trams.

It is now understood there is a willingness within the council to spend the £60 million to £90 million needed to extend the trams north to Leith.

Council transport leader Lesley Hinds has denied any decision has been taken to extend. However, a council source revealed that the council had already bought enough trams and enough line to go all the way to Leith.