An Edinburgh man who runs a business just off Leith Walk has said he has no choice but to shut up shop after changes to traffic movement due to the tram works.
William McGregor, who runs McGregor Auto Service on Stead's Place, says that changes to the way traffic can move on Leith Walk means customers are struggling to find the business. He's been running the garage for over 30 years, and claims he's had no assistance in putting up signs from the council.
Responding, the City of Edinburgh Council said the Trams to Newhaven team have 'worked extremely hard to take the needs of local businesses into account'. Due to the introduction of the trams and changes to the way traffic can move up and down Leith Walk, cars can no longer turn from Leith Walk onto Stead's Place - so access to William's business must be made through Springfield Street.
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Speaking to Edinburgh Live, William said: "35 years I've had this business, and it's coming to an end because of the trams.
"Cars being unable to turn into the street weren't in the initial plans. Cars can't drive in the way they used to be able to, nobody can drive up Leith Walk and turn in.
"People need to take a detour. It's ridiculous.
"They've not put any signage up, I've had to do that myself. People don't even know where Springfield Street is, customers are calling me trying to figure out how to get to us.
"You'd think something could be done to help us as a long standing business. There's not much to be done now.
"We're going to close. We've been left with no choice."
Councillor Scott Arthur, Transport and Environment Convener, said: “The Trams to Newhaven project team has worked extremely hard to take the needs of local businesses into account, and has been liaising regularly with those along the route.
"Our comprehensive £2.4m support for business scheme also included an ‘open for business’ campaign, which highlighted traders in the area. Indeed, the uptake of the support available has exceeded expectations and many new businesses have opened on Leith Walk.
“I do recognise that this has been a challenging time for all those who work and live here, and the team has been making every effort to take concerns on board. With this in mind, I would be happy to meet Mr McGregor to listen to his concerns.
“Our designs for Leith Walk were developed in close consultation with the community and stakeholders, and this showed strong support for a central reservation along the street to help people cross safely.”
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