CR> The new tram network is a huge investment for Edinburgh and Scotland. What is the overarching vision?
WG>At the outset of this process, we committed to delivering a world class transport system that will bring Edinburgh into the 21st century and enable the city to compete with its European counterparts. Our dedication to this is unswerving and everything we do is geared towards achieving it.
CR> We are now more than a year into the tram works. How is it going so far?
WG> The project is progressing well. We are on track with both the programme and the budget and are confident of delivering the project under both. We’re currently at a transition point in the works as we finish the utility diversion work and move on to building the infrastructure. It’s an exciting time as people will soon be able to see the first tangible components of the Edinburgh Tram network appearing on the streets.
Our work has certainly had an impact on the city, but the patience of residents and visitors, coupled with support from our partners in the Council, Lothian Buses and the emergency services, has minimised the effects of our work.
CR> How supportive have local businesses and residents been?
WG> Throughout the process, we have been in contact with various groups and individuals ranging from those with outright objections to those who want more trams built. We need to be ready, skilled and equipped to deal with everyone affected at every level regardless of their opinion. That being said, the project has received a very positive response from the majority of the city’s stakeholders and most people recognise the advantages that a modern tram scheme will bring to Edinburgh.
The business community agrees the project will act as a catalyst for sustained improvement and growth in the capital and are looking forward to the scheme’s completion. Many members of the public also recognise the environmental, economic and social benefit that trams bring.
However, we still have a duty to work to understand why some don’t think this is the right way forward. In some cases this is down to the fact they don’t have a tram line near to where they live. We hope in the longer term that the construction of further tram lines will attract future funding which will go some way to addressing these concerns. Furthermore, we and the City Council need to persuade people that we wish everyone to share in the economic and social benefits that the Edinburgh Trams will help bring.
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