After almost four years of construction, Edinburgh trams will soon take passengers to Newhaven, after an opening date was announced for the latest route.
Services on the new route between Picardy Place in the city centre and Newhaven are scheduled to start from 7 June.
Work began on the £207.3m extension in November 2019.
Currently, the line begins at Edinburgh Airport and ends at York Place.
To mark the occasion, two historic cable wheels from the capital’s original Victorian tram system were lowered into place on Thursday.
The wheels were discovered where Pilrig Street meets Leith Walk in August 2021 during excavations to prepare for the work on the extension.
Council chiefs hope the extension of tram services in Edinburgh will deliver “high capacity and clean” transport links to the north of the city, as well as bring more jobs and affordable housing to the area.
City of Edinburgh Council leader Cammy Day said: “As we welcome back a piece of tram history to Leith Walk, it’s fitting that we’re also able to look forward to the future of Edinburgh’s tram network, and the start of passenger services on the brand-new line to Newhaven.
“While this is a moment for celebration, it’s also a chance to reflect on the last few years, and I’d like to take the opportunity to thank residents and businesses for their patience during this major, complex project.
“We’re now counting down the days to passenger services, and I’m pleased to say this project will be delivered within budget and on time.”
Lea Harrison, managing director of Edinburgh Trams, said: “The setting of a launch date for the new line is fantastic news for city residents and visitors, but particularly communities between the city centre and Newhaven.
“In recent years, thanks to the efforts of the entire Edinburgh Trams team, our multi award-winning tramway has become one of the most popular transport systems of its type thanks to a single-minded commitment to service excellence that will continue into an exciting new era.
“As we approach this major milestone in the history of Edinburgh Trams and the city, we can’t wait to welcome even more customers on board as we introduce swift and reliable services to the vibrant communities along the route, helping to unlock their full potential and providing a real boost for local businesses.
“While the project will open for revenue services on 7 June, outstanding public realm works will continue in some sections.”
A project snagging list from February, obtained through a Freedom of Information request, revealed there were 590 outstanding defects on the new line, with the majority along Leith Walk.
At that time 83 of a total 673 had been signed off and Edinburgh Council said more have been dealt with in the interim period.
Councillor Scott Arthur, transport and environment convener, told Edinburgh Live: “As would be expected on a project of this scale and complexity, there will be snagging and defects which will be carried out by the contractor as part of an ongoing rectification programme.
“The project will be delivered as specified, and to ensure this there will be regular updates to the Transport and Environment Committee on snagging.”
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