Trials undertaken on Edinburgh's tram system

Date: 27/11/2012

The overhead power lines on part of the tram system which is being constructed in Edinburgh have been turned on for the first time.

Full testing is to be undertaken on the whole 1.7-mile length of track, which will stretch from the Gogar depot to the airport.

The system is not going to be usable by passengers until the summer of 2014, but the testing symbolises a milestone in the project, reports the Scotsman.

It is on track to finish on time and within the budget, which has been revised to £776 million, the council has said.

Local residents have been warned that the power lines have gone live and that there is a potential for them to see the trams running along them.

As they are relatively quiet vehicles pedestrians have been instructed to watch out for their approach.

They reach a top speed of 45 miles per hour and the power lines are live at 750 volts.

Signs have been put up about the testing of trams at the four stops which line the route: Castle Gogar Road; Gogarburn tram stop; Gogar Mains Farm, private road; and Eastfield Avenue at the airport.

It is thought that the first tram will be tested within two to three weeks now that the overhead lines have been switched on.

Lesley Hinds, Transport Convener, said: "These tests are a vital part of the development of Edinburgh’s tram system and it’s a clear indication that the project is progressing well.

"Trams are a safe method of transport but we realise that people will not be used to seeing them running."

This part of the overall tram project, which is due to be tested, is known as Section B and should to be handed over from contractors to the council in March.

Keith Brown, Scottish Transport Minister, said: "It is greatly encouraging to see sections nearing fruition, which is a clear indication of the benefits of partnership working."

Posted by Sarah Bailey

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