Trams on track with contract approval in sight

TRAM company TIE has welcomed a council report showing the project is on schedule and seeking approval for contracts to be signed.

The report asks for the full council's permission to enter into contracts with preferred bidder BBS, which will build the tram line, and CAF, which will supply the tram cars.

If the move wins the approval of the full council tomorrow, as expected, contracts would be signed next month and work on building the tracks would get under way in February.

Willie Gallagher, chairman of TIE Limited, said: "This is the final stage of the approval process and we are confident that Edinburgh's councillors will accept our recommendations and approve the scheme.

"It is a fantastic business case that will deliver real benefits for the Capital. Thursday's vote will ensure that Edinburgh has a public transport network that is the envy of the world."