Cllr Stephen Jenkinson has been appointed as the new Transport and Environment Convener on the City of Edinburgh Council. Cllr Jenkinson replaces Scott Arthur who became MP for Edinburgh South West at the recent UK general election.
The Transport and Environment Convener is a crucial role for the development of trams (as well as the overall transport plan for the city) and Cllr Jenkinson will now have responsibility to help guide the next stage of extensions which could see trams running north to Granton and south to the BioQuarter.
Cammy Day, Leader of the Council, said: “I’d like to thank Councillor Arthur for his service, dedication and expertise as convener over the past two years. Scott has led us through some challenging times for our city. From delivering more safer streets, increased active travel routes, such as the City Centre West to East Link, pushing for better air quality in the city with our Low Emission Zone, spearheading a vision to extend trams to the north and south of the city and much more, he can be very proud of his record.
“Our loss of a convener is the UK Parliament’s gain, and I have no doubt he’ll diligently represent Edinburgh South West as their new MP as he did for his constituents while serving as a councillor. Looking forward, I’m delighted that my friend and colleague Councillor Jenkinson will take up the mantle on what is one of the Council’s busiest and most important committees.”
Cllr Stephen Jenkinson added: “Firstly, I want to pay tribute to Councillor Arthur for his hard work and commitment to the Council and the role – and for all he’s achieved over the past two years as ‘interim’ convener! I’m also grateful for his valuable advice to me as I take on this exciting new challenge.
“I’m really looking forward to getting to grips with this new role and working with colleagues across the political groups and our council teams to continue delivering for the people of Edinburgh. This is an exciting time for Edinburgh as we continue to work towards our ambitious goals whilst getting the basics right for our residents, businesses and visitors.”