The progress made to deliver Edinburgh’s tram service was seen by Transport Minister Keith Brown today.
Trams will run from Edinburgh International Airport to the city centre in less than 30 minutes, providing a clean, comfortable and efficient mode of transport.
Mr Brown joined Edinburgh’s Transport Convener Councillor Lesley Hinds and Edinburgh International Airport CEO Gordon Dewar for a tour of the airport tram stop site.
Commenting, Mr Brown said:
“It was fascinating to visit the site and see the overhead power lines that are due to go live at the end of November. This will allow the system to undergo testing, a crucial stage of the process, and is further evidence of the significant progress being made.
“The trams project has caused a lot of disruption to many residents, businesses and motorists in Edinburgh, and they deserve praise for their patience. However I am heartened to see the project taking shape, and Transport Scotland is now playing a key role in overseeing the delivery. Our immediate focus, and that of the Council, is to deliver a tram project that will help erase the memories of what has gone before, and breathe new life into the capital.
“There are of course major benefits for the rest of Scotland’s transport network. In terms of connectivity, the new Edinburgh Airport tram stop, combined with the planned Edinburgh Gateway rail-tram interchange, refurbished Haymarket Station and existing station at Edinburgh Park, will provide better links and more options with between the Scottish rail network, Edinburgh Airport and other key transport hubs.”
Edinburgh’s Transport Convener, Councillor Lesley Hinds, added:
“The tram project is now making good, steady progress in line with the revised schedule and when finished will be a vital part of a new, modern, integrated transport system for the future.
“This particular part of the line is especially important and will connect the city centre to the Airport, something that will benefit the people of Edinburgh and visitors for many years to come.
“As we’ve seen, the tram stop is very close to the terminal building – a one to two minute walk – making it accessible to all passengers.”
The Edinburgh tram project is Scotland’s second largest infrastructure project after the Forth Replacement Crossing. Passenger services will begin in summer 2014, from the airport to York Place.