Transform Scotland and 17 organisations have published a statement of support
A group of 18 cross-civil organisations have signed on to a statement of support, led by Transform Scotland, which supports the proposed plans to extend Edinburgh’s trams by building a north-south route.
The statement, signed by organisations such as Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce, Edinburgh Airport, and Prosper, outlines the key benefits of extending the tram network including a reduction in carbon emissions, increased economic investment, and considerable move towards more equitable and fair transport across Edinburgh.
Competitor cities, such as Manchester and Dublin, have made significant investments in tram and metro systems, and have reaped both economic and environmental benefits.
Edinburgh’s growing population now requires more investment into sustainable transport, in order to expand the city’s transport network capacity.
The potential north-south route will significantly improve transport links in some of the most economically deprived areas of Edinburgh and offer a more sustainable transport choice for the city’s residents, reducing car use.
According to The City of Edinburgh Council, the current tram line has supported over 1,000 local jobs a year in economic benefits. The Council have also stated that for any £1 invested generates £4 in economic benefit.
The proposed north-south line is part of a wider network of trams in Edinburgh, with permission for the route already having been granted by the Scottish Parliament. The City of Edinburgh Council are currently consulting the public on the route proposals, which close on the 17th of November.
Colin Howden, Director of Transform Scotland said: “The success of the existing tram network in Edinburgh shows that when good quality public transport services are provided, people will use them.
“Being near the tram line is now used as a key marketing point for properties along the route and businesses served by the tram benefit from increased patronage. An expanded tram network in Edinburgh will increase connectivity for a large section of the city including some of the lowest income areas, allowing better access to jobs, shopping, and activities.
“Edinburgh must ensure that the momentum and expertise provided by the successful extension to Newhaven is not squandered.”
Sara Thiam, Chief Executive of Prosper said: "Building on the success of Edinburgh’s economy is critical to the future prosperity of the Scottish economy. Connecting growth areas of the city-region by investing in high-capacity, sustainable infrastructure will increase the competitiveness of key industries and create attractive places with new opportunities to live, work and study.”
Another massive overspend anddelayed completion on the way.