Improving connectivity and reducing car use in Scotland’s capital city
Delivered in spring 2023, the Trams to Newhaven project completes a vital sustainable transport option in the heart of Edinburgh.
Key information
- Location:
- Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Date started:
- 2014
- Completion date:
- 2023
- Client type:
- infrastructure
- Main services:
- advisory, controls and performance, cost and commercial management, procurement, programme management, programme strategy and set up, project management, safety, health and quality, digital
Better connections
Since launching in 2014, Edinburgh Trams has become an essential part of the Scottish capital’s transport network. Completion of the 4.69km/2.91m route to Newhaven provides a direct link for the people of Leith to the city centre and out to the airport, as well as connects passengers to major employment hubs. The line now serves one of the most densely populated areas of the city, providing high-capacity public transport and unlocking a large swathe of the city for housing development and employment opportunities.
Creative collaboration
We provided a range of services to deliver the £207.3m project on schedule and within budget. Working closely with the City of Edinburgh’s project sponsor, finance, technical and procurement teams, these services included construction management, controls and performance management, cost management and project management. Three years in construction, the line made significant changes to public realm spaces, road infrastructure and utilities, and includes the introduction of eight new tram stops and 215 overhead line poles.
Sustainable benefits
The project will deliver significant strategic and economic benefits for Edinburgh, including linking key investment zones, connecting employment destinations, reducing reliance on cars and improving access to the city centre. The project also supports the City of Edinburgh’s plans to improve the pedestrian experience in the city centre, offer dedicated cycle provision and encourage the growth of retail and entertainment infrastructure.
Hannah Ross, Senior Responsible Officer, City of Edinburgh Council, said:
Turner & Townsend performed a key role in the Tram to Newhaven project with its continued involvement since the delivery of the first phase of tram, and throughout the approval process for the project, meaning essential knowledge and experience was retained.
