Businesses across Edinburgh have struggled under recent health guidelines brought in since the pandemic hit the UK – but traders in Leith have the added pressure of tram works obstructing their front doors.
The Trams to Newhaven project has lined Leith Walk with construction works restricting access to shops and businesses in the area.
While access is possible still on foot and by bike, travel to the once bustling street by car and public transport is severely limited.
Here are some pictures of some businesses and their owners talking about the strain of Covid-19 and the tram works, and reminding customers that they are still open for business.
5. So few customers
Svetlane said she only sees about four customers a day coming into her shop and has noticed the drop in pedestrians on the street outside. "I know the coronavirus lockdown stopped people coming out, but to have these tram works restricting access for people when we need them most is what is making life really tough," she added. Photo: JPI Media/Lisa Ferguson
6. Restricted access
At the moment due to the works, full access to Leith Walk is only possible by foot or by bike. Buses and cars are restricted to just one way, while parking has also been limited to temporary parking areas where drivers will be charged by the hour. Photo: JPI Media/Lisa Ferguson
7. Weigh to Go
Lucy Watters, from Weigh to Go, said she wishes the council waited a bit longer before starting tram works in Leith. "We needed a bit more time to get ourselves back up on our feet from when the last tram works took place," she said. "It would have been good, especially in the light of Covid, to have had more time to build ourselves back up." Photo: JPI Media/Lisa Ferguson
8. Elvis Shakespeare
David Griffin at Elvis Shakespeare said while the council has been supportive during Covid-19 by offering businesses a £10,000 grant, he is "disgusted" tram works have resumed in the area once again. "I am disgusted they have started these works again, in this time when businesses have been badly hit already," he said. Photo: JPI Media/Lisa Ferguson