Edinburgh North-South tramline: Scott Arthur says new line is 'essential' and will boost economy
Edinburgh's proposed new North-South tramline is an "essential" investment which will boost the Capital's economy and cement its place as a world-class sustainable city, according to MP and former transport convener Scott Arthur.
Dr Arthur spoke out ahead of the public consultation on the line from Granton to the Royal Infirmary and BioQuarter closing at midnight tonight, Monday November 17.
He said he felt there had been too little debate about why Edinburgh needed the new line, which he described as "a generational opportunity for our city".
In a blog on the issue, he said: "It’s not just a debate about public transport; it’s a commitment to sustainable urban growth, better homes, more jobs, and a stronger economy.
“This line is the infrastructure bedrock upon which a future-proof Edinburgh will be built."
He said it would connect Edinburgh College, the Western General Hospital, Haymarket Station, Edinburgh University and the Royal Infirmary, and attract investment to the city.
"Edinburgh is a city of high demand and limited space. A new high-capacity transit line is the single most powerful tool for unlocking major development opportunities and facilitating the creation of new homes, particularly along the northern stretch and southern extent of the route.
"Trams provide the certainty that large-scale housing developers need to invest. By linking up development sites, the tram effectively makes these areas viable and attractive places to live, helping to meet the city’s urgent demand for housing.
"Crucially, the route will connect communities, including some of the most economically deprived areas, directly to major employment and healthcare hubs in the south, enhancing social inclusion and access to essential services."
Dr Arthur stepped down as the city’s transport convener after he was elected Labour MP for Edinburgh South West at last year’s general election.
He said the tramline was a massive economic driver, with immediate benefits in the creation of thousands of jobs during the construction, but far more significant returns in the long term.
The current tramline already generated £4 for every £1 invested. And the new line would accelerate that by broadening the labour market an attracting inward investment.
"It connects the large workforce potential in the north directly to high-value sectors like the life sciences at the BioQuarter and professional services in the City Centre,, making it easier for local businesses to hire the right talent and increasing job access for residents.
"And high-quality, reliable public transport is a key factor for international businesses choosing where to locate. An integrated tram network boosts Edinburgh’s reputation as a globally competitive city, supporting our key industries and ensuring long-term prosperity."
He said elsewhere in the UK, Manchester’s Metrolink tram network had been instrumental in the city’s regeneration, while Nottingham’s Express Transit (NET) system has been linked to property price increases and major commercial investments along its corridor.
Dr Arthur concluded: “The North-South tramline is an essential piece of infrastructure that will help Edinburgh manage its growth, support its economy, and cement its place as a world-class, sustainable city for decades to come.”