A multi-million pound project aiming to make Leith's streets safer and less congested has been given the go-ahead.
The Leith Connections scheme will create a Low Traffic Neighbourhood (LTN) and new active travel links to "transform the quality of walking, wheeling and cycling" in the area.
It involves introducing traffic restrictions on some roads whilst 'de-cluttering' pavements by removing some bus stops, bins and bollards to increase walking space.
READ MORE: Edinburgh workplace parking charges could raise over £100 million in 10 years
Councillors approved the changes last week as one hailed it as "a real step forward for a more pleasant, person-centred Leith."
The first phase of the project, a partnership between the council and Sustrans, will see a new active travel link formed between the Foot of the Walk and Ocean Terminal shopping centre via Henderson Street, which will be closed to traffic, and Commercial Street.
The LTN being delivered later down the line in phase 2 of Leith Connections will involve various traffic restrictions, including prohibiting vehicles from turning onto Yardheads and Parliament Street from Henderson Street, whilst also shutting off access to Burgess Street from the Shore.
Further traffic restrictions will be implemented at the eastern end of Coalhill; on Coburg Street at its junction with Dock Street and at Sandport Place bridge.
And the third and final phase will deliver a new cycling route between the Hawthornvale Path and the shared use path to Portobello which commences at Seafield Street.
Changes to the road layout to form the new cycle lanes will need the final stamp of approval from the Scottish Government before work begins.
Chas Booth, Green councillor for Leith, said: "I'm delighted the final stage in the roll-out of the Leith low traffic neighbourhood was approved by Transport committee today.
"This project has the potential to significantly improve safety for people on foot, in wheelchairs and cycling. It will also help tackle air pollution and congestion in Leith and help cut climate emissions from transport.
"It's a real step forward for a more pleasant, person-centred Leith and I'm grateful to all the committee members who supported it."
READ NEXT:
Edinburgh cycle lane bollards to be reinstated again weeks after they were removed
Edinburgh school to be rebuilt eight years after pupil tragically died when wall collapsed
Edinburgh plan to remove Melville Monument slavery plaque approved as family say its 'hurtful'
'Ambushed' Edinburgh council leader looking at 'all options' to overturn parts of opposition budget
Edinburgh Labour members call on party's councillors to resign administration after budget fiasco
