Edinburgh's Ambitious Plan for a Greener Future: Prioritizing Publ...

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Author: Geeta Pillai

Edinburgh's Bold Vision: Paving the Way for a Greener Future

In a bid to achieve net zero for transport by 2030, Edinburgh has unveiled an ambitious plan to transform travel within the city. With a focus on improving pedestrian walkways, expanding the cycle network, and prioritizing public transport, the city council aims to promote cleaner transport and address the climate emergency.

The race to net zero for transport in Edinburgh is on, and the city council recognizes that quicker action is needed than in previous decades. The city's streets are more than transport corridors; they're the lifeblood of communities and businesses. With this in mind, Edinburgh is taking bold steps to allocate limited space to best serve its residents, addressing issues like air and noise pollution in the process.

In line with the Labour Party's Rail and Urban Transport Review, Edinburgh is looking to encourage more people to choose rail for their Anglo-Scottish journeys. The review aims to address capacity constraints and reduce carbon emissions by advocating for faster trains. Labour has committed to launching an independent review on HS2 and working with local leaders to deliver transformative transport infrastructure investment.

Transform Scotland emphasizes the urgent need to shift the balance in favor of rail over air and car travel, particularly on the route between Edinburgh and London. The city council is considering building a tram line between Granton and the BioQuarter, which may involve tough decisions but would support local regeneration, boost economic growth, and connect to educational and cultural venues along the route.

Edinburgh is also taking steps to make the city center more people-friendly. The council has agreed on measures to improve pedestrian walkways and expand the cycle network. The first action is a trial closure of the Cowgate this summer. Similar changes have already been implemented in other European cities, and Edinburgh is determined to catch up.

The framework outlines guidelines for apportioning space on different types of streets, ensuring that pedestrians and cyclists are given priority. By promoting cleaner transport, Edinburgh is not only addressing the climate emergency but also creating a more livable city for its residents and visitors.

Edinburgh's bold vision for a greener future is a beacon of hope for cities around the world. By prioritizing public transport, pedestrians, and cyclists, the city is taking a stand against air and noise pollution and showing that a sustainable future is within reach.