Edinburgh Tram
13 December 2005 12:35
Two private bills for the Edinburgh Tram Network are currently making their way through the Scottish Parliament. This method of obtaining powers to construct and operate the tram network enables individuals or organisations with concerns regarding the potential impact of either the construction or operation of the system to raise these issues through the parliamentary process.
These concerns are voiced to the two Parliamentary committees who are considering the two bills. The range of bodies that have taken advantage of this opportunity range from individuals to multi-national companies. In each case it is incumbent on the promoter of the scheme to devote time and resources to understand the concerns of these groups, to enter into dialogue with them, and then through the provision of more detailed information or, where possible, through agreement, reach an understanding that is acceptable to both parties.
Scott Wilson has played a significant role in working with the tie team in reaching agreement on a number of these cases. A few examples include: Edinburgh Airport Ltd. where the tram design was altered to accommodate the future expansion plans for the airport whilst maintaining critical integrated links between transport modes; First ScotRail where a review of the construction methodology in the area of Haymarket Station allowed the tram operator to retain the majority of the station parking during the building of the tram and Murrayfield Indoor Sports Club where the promoter was able to make changes to the design of the tram adjacent to this property such that the activities of the club would not be affected by the proposals.
This major transport project is one that the citizens of Edinburgh should be rightly proud of and will bring real benefits to citizens and visitors alike due to the ability of a tram network to act as a catalyst to development and economic regeneration throughout the city.
To facilitate the efficient installation of the tram network in Edinburgh it will be necessary to relocate a number of existing utilities to locations away from the area of the tracks. This will allow future access for maintenance once the tram system is up and running. Experience has shown that previous tram projects have found significant difficulty with this aspect of the construction process with some cities having to dig up streets anything from three to eight times when the utility companies have undertaken this work independently and without co-ordination. This causes significant disruption to the public.
tie are working on an agreement that will form a single framework contract for the movement of utilities, seek to allow all apparatus to be moved at the same time, manage the project by one contractor, and take on board specialist assistance from each utility company where necessary through a partnership structure. A UK first, the deal is expected to avoid unnecessary disruption, and will result in a more efficient overall delivery of the tram project.
This agreement is an example of the innovative approach tie has taken throughout this project to ensure that we deliver the best for Edinburgh. By working together with utilities companies we cannot only save the public money, but we can also minimise the disruption of what will be an extensive construction project.
Other cities, which are now experiencing the benefits of their tram network, endured disruption through the approach to utility works meaning that streets were disturbed up to eight times. We hope that the Edinburgh public recognise that the utility plans for Edinburgh are a progressive UK first, designed to deliver a world class tram system for a world heritage city.
For more information on this company:
Scott Wilson - International Multi-disciplinary Railway Consultancy
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