Architecture and Design Scotland (ADS) – a Scottish government watchdog – have released a report which criticises the design and safety of the tram system for Edinburgh. ADS believe that no thought has gone into the design in relation with the street furniture where the tram will go.
The report states: “We continue to be concerned at the low priority given to public realm, urban design and related funding considerations, when such aspects will have profound and long lasting consequences for the capital city. The project lacks joined-up thinking, and a lack of management is evident in the approach to funding, the integration with retail, streetscape or other initiatives, and the co-ordination of the project across various city departments".
This section of the report was leapt on by the Scottish National Party’s Edinburgh leader, Cllr Steve Cardownie: “We have always been concerned by how the trams will fit with the city's streets and TIE have not really been forthcoming with answers so far.”
The report also says there is concern for the safety of prospective passengers as tram stops are due to be in the centre of roads. ADS think people may got injured crossing the roads to get to the stops and say the needs of pedestrians and cyclists have not been taken into consideration by the planners.
Willie Gallagher, Chairman of tie, hit back: “This project has been designed in conjunction with the people of Edinburgh for the people of Edinburgh. We totally refute the accusation of being 'technically led' and are confident that when the trams begin to run in 2011 all will agree that the scheme fulfils the aspirations and expectations of all."
Andrew Holmes, director of city development at Edinburgh City Council, added: “We fundamentally disagree with what Architecture and Design Scotland have said. Many of their comments betray their lack of understanding of the process, as well as the discussions and agreements which took place around the approval of the parliamentary Bills for tram lines one and two. We will continue to liaise with ADS and would hope that they will come to show a better understanding of the project."
Source: The Scotsman