Smith Welcomes Tram Backing

16/3/07


Local MSP is delighted at extension of concessionary fares scheme to the Tram Scheme

Margaret Smith, Liberal Democrat MSP for Edinburgh West has welcomed the Scottish Executive’s decision to give the go ahead in principal to the draft business case for the Edinburgh Tram Scheme.

Margaret said: “While giving the go ahead at this stage the Minister has rightly asked tie and the Council to put in place robust project management. This is not a blank cheque . I’m pleased the Minister has asked them to deliver savings and contributions from other sources before giving the go-ahead to the Haymarket to Granton stage. I think that’s reasonable and prudent but it does leave many of my constituents in a state of limbo, not knowing whether or not there will be trams in those areas.”

Margaret is delighted that the concessionery fares scheme will be extended to the tram scheme: “It’s only fair that the concessionary fare scheme covers the trams, because in some cases it will replace bus services , and the tram scheme only stacks up if concessionary travel is included. Many of my elderly constituents were concerned that they would lose their right to free travel. This announcement should put their minds at rest.”