Edinburgh Tram completes high-speed test run

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Edinburgh Tram has completed a full-speed test on the new light rail network.

Testing was carried out on a 2.8 km section of the line which is due to be handed over by contractors to the council in March.

Passenger services are expected to run by summer 2014 and it is anticipated that full-route tram testing will take place from Edinburgh Airport to York Place in late spring 2014.

The top speed of the tram is 70 kmph (43 mph).

The tram project remains in line with the revised budget of £776 million approved by the council in September 2011, with work either ahead of schedule or in line with the adjusted timescale reported in December 2011.

Transport Convener Lesley Hinds said: “It’s hugely encouraging to see an Edinburgh tram running at full pace and it’s a tangible sign of just how far this project has come since mediation last year.

“Much progress has been made in 2012 with bridges built, tram stops completed, miles of track laid and, most importantly, the project remains on track to hit the revised budget and time frame.

“We are now nearing later stages of this most challenging of projects. I want to assure people that every last element of it is being closely managed by the project team.

“Everyone involved is ready for this next crucial year as we drive hard towards completion.”

Contractors will continue works until Friday, December 21, and will resume on Monday, January 7.

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