TRANSPORT GIANT WORKING TO MINIMISE DISRUPTION
The condition of East London St seems to be deteriorating fast now that, post-lockdown, more heavy vehicles are using the route to avoid tramworks and northbound closures on Leith Walk.
Associated problems of noise and vibration prompted one resident to contact Lothian Buses, asking whether it had strayed from an agreement reached in November to limit the number of not-in-service vehicles using East London Street to 20 westbound and 5 eastbound between 7am and 7pm.
An LB spokesperson today confirmed that – despite local perceptions – the agreed reduction was indeed being monitored and adhered to, as was the 20mph speed limit.
They also clarified that a feasibility study to make greater one-way use of Green Street has shown this is not practical. Council officials could not modify the junction with Annandale Street soon enough, and reopening the depot entrance on Green Street would make it too easy for unauthorised people to get in.
The East London Street resident asked about mitigating local disturbance by speedier introduction of newer and quieter vehicles. LB replied that its four newest electric double-deckers are already operating on the Service 10 route, to the benefit of Bellevue Road residents.
‘Our fleet investment strategy continues to be based on more environmentally friendly buses and the requirement to move away from diesel, and we are working on a plan that will dovetail into the city's aspirations for net zero carbon by 2030.’
LB also says it’s resumed contact with New Town & Broughton Community Council, and is working effectively with it to identify and minimise disruption for people living and working in the area.
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