Some pleasing news to report from Edinburgh Trams where the latest figures have shown an increase in the number of passengers being carried on board the trams. For the first time it is possible to compare figures year on year and the period between 31st May and 4th September 2015 has seen 50,000 more passengers carried than in the same period in 2014 (which was, of course, the first three months of operation).
Overall in 2015 (up to and including 4th September) 3.6 million passengers have been carried with 1.55 million of these using the tram between 31st May and 4th September. Other headline figures released show that the busiest week ever on the trams was during the week ending 15th August with 137,000 passengers recorded. The busiest ever day for the trams was Saturday 29th August with 23,000 passengers using the trams.
What makes these figures even more impressive is that the periods under review only included one major event at Murrayfield (2014 saw two major football matches and a One Direction concert). 2014 also saw the added attraction of a new service running when you would expect there to be a spike in usage so the fact that passenger numbers continues to increase is very pleasing indeed.
And these points are not lost on Lesley Hinds, Transport Convener and Chair of Transport for Edinburgh: “With 4.92 million passengers in year one and more than 1.55 million since the end of May, Edinburgh Trams is clearly in a good place. It’s still relatively early days so we’re not complacent, but having seen the energy, enthusiasm and dedication of the team first hand I’m confident that the service will continue to go from strength to strength. As we develop proposals for the possible extension it’s good to be in this position, knowing that we’re carrying a consistently high volume of satisfied passengers.”
Ian Craig, Chief Executive of Transport for Edinburgh, said: “These numbers are extremely encouraging and, when taken along with high rates of passenger satisfaction, it’s something everyone involved can take pride in. Our focus has been on ensuring the highest levels of customer service and reliability and I’m confident that our passengers enjoy the service we provide. It’s for the Council press on with the development of proposals for extension but we know our passengers are happy and that they want to see more.”
There may still be some resentment to the trams in Edinburgh but as time goes on this seems to be coming less as the residents of the city realise the asset they now have running and hopefully extensions will not be too far away!
* Meanwhile Edinburgh Trams are starting a trial on one tram to help reduce on board temperatures. The tram has been fitted with an ultraviolet resistant film for assessment but this is already proving popular with staff. They are also considering other ways to regulate temperatures including…wait for it…more opening windows!