The project represents a 5km extension to the Scottish capital’s existing tram line from the airport in the west to York Place in the city centre, which faced significant time and cost overruns before its 2014 completion.

The Trams to Newhaven scheme is learning lessons from the original project to ensure effective delivery and minimise disruption.

“We are about to reach a major milestone in the project to take the trams to Newhaven, as we prepare for the main phase of works on Leith Walk,” said Edinburgh’s transport and environment convener Lesley Macinnes.

“We are already progressing well with the first phase of the project on Constitution Street and the Trams to Newhaven team have been working closely with contractors and transport operators to plan this next crucial stage.”

A section of Leith Walk will be reduced to one city bound traffic lane for the duration of the works, and large sites will be established to allow both utility works and tram construction to take place at the same time, reducing traffic management. Pedestrian and cycle access is being maintained at all times during the works.

Construction is scheduled to be completed by summer 2021.

Vice convener Karen Doran added: “This is a transformational project for the city as a whole, but we’re aware of the particular impact this work will have on the people living nearby. That’s why our team has been making every effort to share information on the process, as well as providing support to adapt to the changes for residents and businesses.”

(Photograph: Alastair Lloyd)