Trams to Newhaven: Leith Walk & Elm Row close-out delayed until March 2027

Since last November, there has been some welcome progress, but Leith Walk Lib Dem Councillor Jack Caldwell has expressed frustration at a number of outstanding works that our community's high streets needs.

The Trams to Newhaven close-out report was supposed to be at November's Transport and Environment committee meeting, but has been delayed again until March 2027 to allow more time for unfinished works to take place.

The issues that have been resolved are documented on the Council's website: www.edinburgh.gov.uk/tramstonewhaven/news/article/431/trams-to-newhaven-issues-resolution-update-june-2026

Leith Walk works still to happen:

• Completion of the re-laid paving stones all the way up and down Leith Walk (check out the white paint spots when you're next out).
• Widening the pavement outside the Scotmid near Pilrig Street.
• Dalmeny Street's continuous footway junction is under review (Councillor Caldwell wants to see a zebra crossing here).
• Additional on-carriageway loading bays to have a Traffic Regulation Order made to help reduce pavement parking.
• Removal of the temporary bike diversion signs parallel to Leith Walk.

Elm Row works still to happen:

• The cycle lane closest to the bus stops will be fully removed and merged into the newly widened one at the shop-side of the trees to reduce pedestrians crossing two separate lanes (half done). This has been delayed due to the stone used now being unavailable from suppliers.
• Replacements for the missing pigeon statues will be installed and the Council are investigating how to better secure them.
• Bollards will be installed at the pedestrian island behind the bus stops as it is constantly blocked by inappropriately parked cars.
• A Traffic Regulation Order will be made to make the parking ‘Pay and Display’ and introduce a blue badge bay and loading bays.
• The Council are exploring how to better protect the soil under the trees which is being eroded.
• A dropped kerb for cycle access to Montgomery Street will be installed.

There are a number of recurring issues that Councillor Jack Caldwell is still pushing for too, but don't have any works confirmed as of writing.

Speaking on the matter, Jack said “We need to see more political will to get these issues signed off and closed out instead of getting distracted by the next big project. Leith Walkers just want to see the basics done right to promote accessibility and active travel such as walking, wheeling and cycling”.