Tram scheme ready to deliver new plaza for Ocean Terminal

Published on Thursday 27 December 2007 09:19

A NEW public plaza is set to be created in front of the Ocean Terminal shopping centre as part of the city's tram scheme.

A deal has been struck between local landowner Forth Ports and tram firm TIE to divert traffic away from Ocean Drive on a new road, which will lead to the creation of the new square.

Forth Ports has vowed to make a "significant" investment in Edinburgh's tram scheme in the Ocean Terminal and Leith Docks area.

The harbour authority said it would also work with TIE and its contractors to ensure the design, particularly around the shopping centre, was "delivered in the most cost efficient and attractive way".

Charles Hammond, group chief executive of Forth Ports, said: "The tram network is going to be a key part of Edinburgh's future growth and development and we are delighted to have this opportunity to underline our support.

"Our work with TIE will help deliver an efficient transport system that will address some of the perceived traffic issues on the Waterfront. For projects of this magnitude it is vital that public and private sectors organisations come together in a meaningful way, and with this new partnership I believe we are setting the standard for others to follow."

In September, Forth Properties – the property division of Forth Ports – submitted the largest planning application in Edinburgh's history.

The Leith Docks development will accommodate nearly 16,000 new homes, a quarter of which will be affordable housing, and is expected to create almost 12,000 jobs in Edinburgh.

The massive regeneration of Leith Docks also includes space for dozens of new retailers in and around Ocean Terminal, which will almost double in size.

Willie Gallagher, the executive chairman of TIE, commented: "This investment by Forth Ports is great news for the Edinburgh trams project and demonstrates our joint commitment to the development of Edinburgh waterfront.

"By working together and understanding each other's needs, Forth Ports and TIE have agreed ambitious proposals.

"This investment sets a fantastic precedent for us to build on. My team will continue to work with Forth Ports and other potential developers along the tram route to create a sustainable public transport system that supports the future growth and economic prosperity of Scotland's capital city."

City leaders believe the new-look Leith Docks will help boost Edinburgh's retail image, despite concerns from some quarters about the development.

Andrew Murphy, managing director of John Lewis in Edinburgh and Aberdeen, recently told the Evening News that Ocean Terminal was effectively an out-of-town shopping development and should not receive council backing.

But Forth Ports believes that better shopping in the Leith area will benefit the whole of the city.