Contractor to run tram tests from depot to airport

Overhead power lines between the tram depot at Gogar Castle Road and Edinburgh Airport will go live from 26 November 2012 to allow the Tram System to be tested and commissioned. Test running of trams between the tram depot and the airport will begin at the same time.

Transport Convener Lesley Hinds said:

“Testing is a vital part of the development of Edinburgh’s tram system to make sure it’s safe and reliable for future service. We have been in touch with residents and businesses along the route to make sure they know the tests are taking place and so they have important safety advice.

“The tram project is progressing well and it’s good to see that a long stretch of track is almost complete and that we’ll see trams running on it very soon.”

The tram runs and system tests are the final part the development of ‘Section B’ of the route. This 2.8km stretch is set to be handed over from contractors to the Council in March following testing and commissioning.

Residents are being advised to take the following safety precautions during the testing which will take place over a period of weeks:

• Trams move quietly and quickly, with a top speed of 70kmh (45mph) so be aware.
• look both ways at tram crossing locations for passing trams and other vehicles.
• Tram crossings should be treated like any other railway level crossing and road signs and any traffic signals should be obeyed.
• Overhead power lines are live at all times at 750V dc so do not go near them
• Children should be supervised and dogs should be kept on leads around tram crossing locations
• Don’t enter into any Restricted Areas.

The tram road crossings are at Castle Gogar Road, Gogarburn tram stop, Gogar Mains Farm (private road) and Eastfield Avenue at the Airport.