Edinburgh's first daytime 'ghost trams' appeared on the new line between Picardy Place and Newhaven for the first time on Wednesday as footage from inside the driver's cockpit shows the new link in action.
Locals spotted the trams making their way from the city centre, down Leith Walk to Newhaven as the official launch date edges nearer. Last month, overnight testing began on the line to minimise disruption to traffic.
Empty trams will now make their way to Newhaven as locals are encouraged to stay clear and not attempt to get onboard. Starting off at walking pace, the testing process recently increased to the maximum 20mph.
READ MORE: Edinburgh easyJet 'sorry' as stranded passengers told to stay in one star hotel
Work is now underway to integrate signalling and interface with Edinburgh Trams' control centre. Footage recorded on Wednesday, April 19, shows the view drivers have from the cockpit as the landmark achievement is reached.
The video shows a trained driver making his way from Picardy Place, past the Omni Centre as the tram approached Leith Walk.
The newly-recruited 40 drivers will get a chance to get involved in the morning-to-afternoon testing process alongside experienced colleagues to become familiar with the route.
Up until now, drivers have been training on a state-of-the-art simulator, featuring the existing line and a simulated version of the new track to the north of the city.
Testing to ensure the newly constructed line, software and signals work effectively and safely will also continue. Over the coming weeks, tram test frequency is expected to increase to a full timetable, as the launch of passenger services approaches.
Speaking on the new progress, transport convener Scott Arthur said: "Seeing trams running the length of Leith Walk and beyond during the day will give a real taste of the future of the route – this is an exciting moment. Of course, this is the first time that the new trams will be on the line in the daytime, so I would encourage everyone to take extra care when in the area.
"We’re on the cusp of passenger services beginning, with the project delivered on time and in budget, and this is the culmination of a great deal of hard work by all those involved, despite the challenges of the last few years.
"We can now look forward to a green, high-capacity transport link between the centre and north of the city, which will transform travel along the route, help boost the economy and open up development opportunities."
READ NEXT:
Edinburgh Arthur's Seat killer husband plans appeal against murder conviction
Grand Edinburgh millionaire's villa near Old Town hits the market
British holidaymaker with heart condition jailed for ten years after buying drink
Edinburgh mum's ‘dying wish’ to take her family on dream adventure holiday
Edinburgh hotel apologies as 'constant thud' keeps guest awake through the night
