Work is now underway on a new cycling and walking route linking the east and the west of the Scottish capital.
On Tuesday [08 February], City of Edinburgh Council’s transport convener Lesley Macinnes broke the ground on the £19.4m City Centre West to East Link (CCWEL).
When complete, the scheme will connect Roseburn to Leith Walk via Haymarket and the West End with a safe and direct cycle route. The CCWEL is also designed to enhance streets for those walking, wheeling and spending time there. This will tie into a new George Street cycling thoroughfare delivered as part of the George Street and First New Town project.
Furthermore, the project overseen by contractors Balfour Beatty aims to lead the way in sustainable construction, with measures to cut carbon emissions. Site compounds will utilise ‘EcoSense’ cabins in conjunction with an ECONET power management system, which reduces energy consumption and water usage.
Project officers will also use e-bikes rather than cars to travel between the site compound and works areas wherever possible, and cycle training has been provided as part of this.
Macinnes said: “I’m thrilled that we’re now delivering the CCWEL, one of the largest pieces of safe walking, wheeling and cycling infrastructure the capital has seen yet. It’s been really exciting to visit the site and see work get underway – before long, this route will benefit so many people walking, wheeling and cycling to and from the city.
“The CCWEL project is just one of a range of bold initiatives to transform the way we travel around Edinburgh. We are committed to becoming a net zero city by 2030 and a key element of this is encouraging and supporting clean and sustainable modes of transport through projects like this.”
Construction is expected to last around 18 months and has been funded by the Scottish government via Sustrans.
