Construction
Timescales for construction
The development of a business case on a project this size will take a long time and is subject to future funding. Construction would be unlikely to begin before 2028 at the earliest.
How the line would be constructed
Based on lessons learned from the two previous tram projects, it is likely that construction would be divided up into sections such as Granton – City Centre, City Centre, City Centre to Bioquarter, and Bioquarter into the regions. A full construction strategy would be developed as part of the development of the Outline and Final Business Cases.
The cost of construction
Further investigative works and detailed design is needed to confirm costs. The £2 billion quoted in the Transport and Environment Committee report of 1 February 2024 (section 6.2) for the whole route is a high-level estimate at this stage.
How it will be funded
As part of the development of further business cases all funding streams will be explored which will include Scottish Government/Transport Scotland given the national and regional importance of the expansion of trams in Edinburgh.
Nesting season
If trees need to be removed, will this be done outside of nesting season. Legislation prohibits cutting down trees with nesting birds in it.
Bridge structures along the proposed routes
As the majority of the bridges are owned by the Council, we already have maintenance and structural records for them.In addition, the original design for the Roseburn Corridor included how trams would move underneath these bridges.