Tram-Train Proposal from HWU Gains Traction

A GROUP of master’s civil engineering students has started a petition to reopen Edinburgh’s South Suburban Railway as an extension of the Edinburgh Tram network. The Heriot-Watt post-graduates have drafted a proposal concerning the “South Sub”, which closed to passengers in 1962 and still exists as a freight line. After months of meticulous research, the group, called The South Sub Team, has launched a petition to gain public support on the proposal, which is available to view on the group’s Facebook page. The proposed tram-train line will connect areas such as Gorgie, Morningside, Niddrie, and the south of Edinburgh.

Heriot-Watt University’s Mechanical Engineering Department has a project group looking at the feasibility and costs associated with running tram-trains along the underutilised south-suburban rail route in Edinburgh.

These tram-trains could link into the existing tram network and provide a cost-effective extension to the tram network to serve the southern part of the city and linking to the Royal Infirmary, Edinburgh’s major medical complex.

The proposals have received support from several MSPs who see it as a simple way of utilising the existing infrastructure and giving multi-million savings in the process.

Tram Trains for Edinburgh is in the process of being formally constituted – with a likely inaugural meeting on 14th August. CRAG been asking for support for a feasibility study.

The detailed proposals can be seen by clicking HERE