Leith resident calls for Ocean Drive tram stop to be re-evaluated to save 30 trees from being cut down

Tim Threlfall, a 46-year-old operations manager from North Leith, is calling for the City of Edinburgh Council to reconsider the need for a tram stop on Ocean Drive saying it is a ‘shortsighted’ decision that ‘baffles’ him.

Ocean Drive, parallel to Stevedore place, where the proposed tram stop is to be built

Mr Threlfall has started a petition, which so far has over 130 signatures, to ask the council to reconsider the stop saying that it will require the removal of 30 mature trees in an area that is already lacking in green space.

He told the Evening News: “For me, I don't feel that we need a tram stop on Stevedore Place where the proposal has put one. There will be one on Constitution street which is a very short walk away and the same with ocean terminal. Why we need a tram stop here, I don't know."

Mr Threlfall continued: “If we weren't to have a tram stop we could save some of the green space, save the trees from being removed and give kids a place to play, there is nowhere else around here.

“The green spaces in North Leith have been pretty much detonated to make way for flats and housing like the Cala development, we hardly have any left"

He also noted the extensive wildlife that resides in the trees saying he loves walking down Ocean drive and hearing the birds sing.

He added: “I just think it's shortsighted. It just baffles me why they think a tram stop is still required here.”

In response to the petition, Transport and Environment Convener Councillor Lesley Macinnes said: “We’re aware of local concerns around the trees on Stevedore Place [parallel to Ocean drive] and are continuing to explore options to see what might be possible.

"We’ll always look to avoid the loss of trees but, where there’s no reasonable alternative, at least two trees will be planted for every one removed. These will be of broadly similar size and as close as possible to the original position.

“We want to maximise the benefits the tram system brings to local residents and businesses, which means offering an attractive and accessible option for all users – especially those with mobility issues – and we’re working hard to find a solution here that delivers both high quality green space and a convenient tram stop.”

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