Edinburgh is set for a new transport network costing multimillions that will include extra tram lines and bus routes as part of a national scheme.
The Scottish Government recently published its blueprint for future transport investment, and Edinburgh will join Aberdeen and Glasgow in receiving massive investment to create new travel systems.
The second Strategic Transport Projects Review (STPR2) will introduce the new mass transit systems in Scotland’s three biggest cities.
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Edinburgh could see the creation of a new north and south tram line from Granton to the Bio Quarter and beyond.
The Edinburgh scheme would be complemented by supporting measures that include integrated and smart digital ticketing and passenger information services.
The scheme will aim to improve connectivity to a number of areas of deprivation including Muirhouse, Drylaw, The Inch, Moredun, Craigmillar and Greendykes.
They are also considering increasing frequency of services to Edinburgh from neighbouring local authorities or introducing a south railway within the city and a cross-Forth Light Rail Transit system to Fife.
They will also look to address the Edinburgh bus network - which is already close to capacity. Up to one quarter of Edinburgh citizens use a bus four or more times a week so they want to create a new transport corridor.
Councillor Lesley Macinnes, Transport and Environment Convener, said: “We’re pleased that the second Strategic Transport Projects Review recommends several priority areas in the region, including extending mass rapid transit in the region, like tram and bus travel.
"Mass rapid transit is a key element of our own ten-year City Mobility Plan, delivering reliable, sustainable transport options for our growing population and as part of this we’ve committed to completing the Strategic Business Case for the north/south tram line between Granton and the Bio Quarter and beyond.
“We’re already well on our way to completing the tram line to Newhaven, which will be game-changing for the city, providing low carbon, large capacity transport to this densely populated part of the city. Not only will it unlock the area for development and economic opportunities but it will offer clean, efficient travel choices for the many people that live here.
“We have a number of exciting projects which we’ll request to be considered for STPR2 funding and will continue to work closely with the Scottish Government to deliver the STPR2. We look forward to further details emerging.”
The STPR2 draft recommendations are now subject to a 12-week consultation closing on 15 April 2022.
Transport Scotland and the City of Edinburgh Council continue to finalise the specifics of schemes, timescales and costing.
