How we will transform Lothian Road
This will involve:
- creating more space and a better environment for those walking or wheeling
- building a north-south segregated cycle connection
- improving the efficiency of existing bus services
- maintaining access for loading vehicles and those with blue badges.
- making sure everyone is able to access the street
We are also proposing to improve key junctions on Lothian Road, making them safer and easier to use. These are
- Tollcross
- West Approach Road
- west end of Princes Street/bottom of Lothian Road
We also plan to improve public areas including:
- west end of Princes Street
- Festival Square
- Tollcross and west Tollcross
- some of the surrounding streets
In line with wider proposals across the city centre, Lothian Road will remain open to general traffic and remain a strategic transport link.
How we will fund this stage of the project
The Council has been awarded funding from Transport Scotland under Sustrans’ Places for Everyone grant programme to develop a design proposal for Lothian Road. Places for Everyone is an active travel infrastructure fund supported by Transport Scotland which helps deliver walking, wheeling and cycling improvements across Scotland.
Key project dates
Current – preparation and local engagement
2025 – develop design proposals and consult on these
2026/2027 – Further develop the design proposals based on feedback from the previous consultation
2027/2028 – Develop the technical design, including statutory Traffic Orders
2028 – Construction expected to start