The business body remarked: “The Chamber would like to express robust support for the expansion of the tram network, on behalf of our members, due to the economic, social and environmental benefits that it would bring.”
It added: “The proposed extension will therefore be a key enabler for the city, opening up opportunities for new housing developments, creating a more joined-up and integrated city, and linking communities to new employment opportunities.
The north-south tram line could run from Granton to the Royal Infirmary. (Image: Edinburgh Trams)
“This is in addition to the significant economic impact that can be expected.”
The contested northern spur of the proposed route would run from Granton to Crewe Toll, after which two alternative routes are being considered.
Plans suggest that trams would either run along the Roseburn Path or via the Orchard Brae corridor.
The latter would require trams to run along Crewe Road South before turning onto Queensferry Road, crossing Dean Bridge and meeting the east-west line at the bottom of Princes Street.
Meanwhile, the Roseburn Path option would use an abandoned rail line now used by cyclists and pedestrians, joining the east-west line halfway between Haymarket and Murrayfield.
The southern spur would begin at the other end of Princes Street, crossing the North and South Bridges before heading south to the Royal Infirmary via Newington and Old Dalkeith Roads.
However, the Chamber tempered its support with several caveats.
The group’s submission read: “There are, however, some challenges that have been raised by our members that should be considered in the ongoing work around a potential tram extension.
“Firstly, there are concerns around the availability of funding for the extension, along with the long timelines involved – the potential benefits of a tram extension would be considerable, as outlined above, and businesses are keen that these are realised as soon as possible, particularly in order to help draw investment to areas such as the Bioquarter, which will require further investment in order to maximise its potential.
“There are also some concerns around the disruption from the construction of the route – whilst it is acknowledged that this is in part an inevitable price to pay for the future benefits, the City Council needs to be considering at an early stage in the process how this disruption could be mitigated, and how businesses along the route could be supported through the build.”
The cost of the new projects are expected to cost billions. (Image: Gordon Terris)
Meanwhile, the Federation of Small Businesses has adopted a neutral position on the proposals, warning of “major disruption” caused by construction along the route.
The national business group remarked: “The city already benefits from a strong public transport network, including buses, rail, and existing tram lines. Introducing new tram lines could deliver significant advantages, such as improved connectivity, increased footfall for local businesses, and support for greener transport options in the medium to long term.
“However, there are notable challenges. Construction would cause major disruption for businesses and residents along the route, and operational issues such as noise and congregation at tram stops may impact the surrounding environment. Overall, while the proposal offers clear benefits, these must be weighed against the potential drawbacks to ensure a balanced approach.”
The University of Edinburgh has also backed the scheme.
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The institution remarked: “The University is supportive of investment in public and active travel, improving road quality and cycle network capacity and investment into the tram network in order to unlock areas of the city, reduce congestion and fill the gaps currently identified in active travel networks.
“The University of Edinburgh fully supports the extension of the tram to Edinburgh BioQuarter, the Royal Infirmary, the Western General Hospital and beyond.
“The expansion of the tram would not only support sustainable travel throughout the city and beyond but would contribute to the success of current and future university activities and potential growth, and in areas such as Edinburgh BioQuarter, through encouraging further development and investment.”
