The next stage of utility diversion work for the Trams for Edinburgh project is due to commence in the Haymarket area on Monday 18th August, with traffic diversions due to be introduced from Saturday 16th August.
Haymarket is said to be the most complicated area of utility diversion because of a high density of pipes and cables to be moved. Work is also due to be done on a viaduct which will take trams from street level to railway line level. The work will be undertaken in five separate stages and completion is aimed for February 2009 – although a break is likely to introduced around Christmas.
Willie Gallagher, Executive Chairman of tie, said: “The Haymarket location is both a vital artery to the city and a critical part of the Edinburgh tram project. With this in mind we have developed a robust traffic management system to minimise congestion, to ensure the continued movement of bus services and ensure the safety of pedestrians. We have worked very closely with Haymarket local businesses and residents groups to address their concerns and needs, and we appreciate their involvement."
Cllr Phil Wheeler, city council transport leader, said: “The construction process is never a quick and easy one, as other cities with successful tram networks can vouch for, but ultimately the result is well worth it."
Businesses in the area would like to see the work completed in time for the Christmas rush. Graham Russell, Chairman of the Edinburgh branch of the Federation of Small Businesses, gave a normal “positive” outlook: “The job must be finished by the end of November, in time for the peak pre-Christmas spending weekend. I hope businesses do not suffer 1 per cent of what those in Leith Walk suffered during tram works, but I'm sure they will."
Source: The Scotsman