Row as new tram chief says delays are not his problem

Published on Monday 10 August 2009 21:58

A NEW tram row has erupted after the head of the project said it was "not my problem" that work to divert underground pipes and cables ran late.

Richard Jeffrey, chief executive of tram developer TIE, made the remark while touring work in Leith Walk with members of the Leith Business Association.

It came when he was told residents and businesses were suffering from delays to the work which were not their problem. Mr Jeffrey responded: "It's not my problem either."

Shirley-Anne Somerville, a Lothians SNP MSP and arch-tram critic, said: "It beggars belief that the man in charge thinks ongoing delays to utility works are not his problem.

"It's an extremely disappointing remark from the new chief executive, who had a chance to make a fresh start and improve TIE's relations with the businesses and residents of the area. Instead, he seems to want to wash his hands of the issues."

Mr Jeffrey said the remark had been taken out of context, but apologised if a "negative view" had been taken.

He said: "We are determined to move away from apportioning blame. This was the context in which I was speaking. My comment referred to the need to 'own' jointly issues rather than saying 'it is my problem or your problem' – it is our problem."

The clash came as TIE admitted the utility work would not be completed until November, almost a year late and two months after previously expected.

However, the firm was unable to say how much more than the original 60 million it would cost. Two-thirds of the work is being done by contractors Carillion, with the remainder by utility firms themselves.

Susan Clark, assistant tram project director for TIE, said the extra time was required for "two particularly complex sections" at Haymarket and Picardy Place at the top of Leith Walk.

She said: "Unforeseen complexities, including underground structures, congestion of utilities and lack of space, have all contributed to the extension. This, coupled with complex traffic management, has made these areas particularly challenging."

She confirmed a section of Princes Street between South Charlotte Street and Frederick Street would be reopened for the Festival Fireworks.

The tram project is not now expected to be finished until mid-2012, with the cost likely to exceed its 545 million budget.