Leith Walk in line for break in tramworks

LEITH WALK is set to get its first break from tram roadworks in 18 months under plans being considered by transport chiefs.

The embargo on roadworks in the city centre for Christmas would be extended as part of proposals aimed at giving Leith traders, and commuters, some respite over the festive season.

Traders on Leith Walk have taken the brunt of the tramworks so far and many have complained that the disruption has cost them thousands in lost revenue.

Businesses have called for a two-month cessation of works, but a more likely scenario will see a five-week embargo starting in mid-December.

Tram firm TIE is still finishing work to move utilities under Leith Walk and has just started preparation work for laying tram tracks on the busy shopping street.

The plan will be discussed at a TIE board meeting next week, but it has today won the backing of city leader Jenny Dawe.

Alan Rudland, vice-chairman of the Leith Walk and Constitution Street Traders Association, said: "If everything had gone to plan, then we would have had a two-month break between the utilities and the track-laying work, but clearly that has not happened.

"The businesses down here cannot continue to sustain the barrage of roadworks, so we have called for a two-month cessation.

"We need this because of the different types of traders here, some of which are reliant on the Christmas run-up but others who are busier in January."

The next phase of work for the tram tracks on Leith Walk will involve narrowing pavements, removing lampposts and putting in temporary lighting, as well as building up a new road surface.

Cllr Dawe said: "I have been pushing for this for some time."

Willie Gallagher, TIE chairman, said he would listen to the traders and agree a compromise.

"It will be for a five-week period to cover the January sales. We've not been asked to cover the sales before, but it should make it a lot easier for visitors making use of the businesses on Leith Walk."

A spokesman for TIE said the proposals would be discussed at a TIE board meeting next week and the exact timing of the works embargo will be worked out with interested stakeholders.