Press Release

SMITH REMAINS COMMITTED TO WESTERN GENERAL TRAM STOP

1/3/06

Margaret Smith, Liberal Democrat MSP for Edinburgh West, has responded to today’s publication of the Consideration Phase One report by the Edinburgh Tram Line 1 Bill Committee.

Ms Smith said:

“The committee has taken the view that the tram stop on Crewe Toll Road with a feeder bus to the Western General will ‘greatly enhance’ access to the hospital.

“This is true to the extent that a feeder bus is better than no access at all. However, a stop directly outside the front entrance to the Western itself would be much more convenient than the feeder bus option.

“My view remains that the Committee and the Parliament should be open-minded about amending the route in order to provide such a stop at the Western.

“I believe that this would provide the best possible outcome for patients and their visitors – and might also lead to a greater demand for the tram service than would otherwise be the case.”