Edinburgh tram lines joined, old connected to new

AN extension of the Edinburgh tram network – from the city centre to Newhaven, by the coast of the Firth of Forth – has celebrated the joining of old and new lines.

Where the line previously terminated – on the city’s York Place – it has now been joined to a track making its way down Leith Walk.

Says The City of Edinburgh Council, which is managing the project, here: “Ahead of passenger services beginning [in] spring, the last section of rail has been laid at Picardy Place [by York Place]. As the project nears completion, two-way traffic will also permanently resume between Great Junction Street and Duke Street [at the bottom of Leith Walk] this week.”

The announcement adds: “The finishing touches are being made, including removing most of the fencing and filling excavations around the lamppost columns along Leith Walk.”

It continues:

• 100 per cent of tram track laid (4,631 metres)
• 100 per cent of overhead lines poles installed (215)
• 99 per cent of communication ducting (4,579m)
• 95 per cent of drainage (4,369m)
• Seven of the eight new tram stops complete

Picture credit: Place Design Scotland