Hammond confirms his backing for trams project

Published on Monday 16 March 2009 20:14

FORTH Ports' chief executive, Charles Hammond, threw his weight behind Edinburgh Council's bid to resolve the dispute that threatens to delay the capital's trams project.

Hammond said he was sure the authority was doing everything it could to end the dispute between Bilfinger Berger and TIE, the council's tram developer.

Forth Ports is a strong supporter of the project, which will link Leith, where the firm has substantial land set aside for development, with Edinburgh airport, via Princes Street.

The timetable of the 512 million scheme, officially due for completion in 2011, is in doubt as a result of the dispute.

Hammond would not be drawn on whose fault the dispute was, but indicated strong support for the council.

He said: "I'm sure that the council and TIE are doing everything they can to resolve the dispute, and we're optimistic that the dispute will be resolved soon."

Forth Ports has not disclosed how much it has contributed to the project, but it is believed to be tens of millions of pounds.

Asked if it would be prepared to pay more towards the project to resolve the dispute, Hammond indicated that was unlikely. He added: "As far as we're concerned, the arrangement that we're finalising with the company is the one we'll stick by."

Hammond played down the impact a delay would have on the company, saying the property market was "effectively closed" and sales of its land assets may be pushed back to 2012 anyway.