Edinburgh Tram (Line Two) Bill: Consideration Stage
Agenda item 2 was to consist of oral evidence taking. It was our intention to take evidence today from two of the objectors: the Stakis Ltd organisation and BAA plc. Late yesterday, we were notified that the objection on behalf of Stakis had been withdrawn on the basis of a settlement's having been agreed with the promoter. We have been advised this morning that, after a period of considerable angst and a sleepless night on the part of the representatives who are present, the BAA objection has also been withdrawn.
We have a letter before us, which was written in considerable haste at 7.30 this morning. I understand, Ms Donald, that we will receive a full written explanation of what has been agreed by 12 o'clock.
Laura Donald (Counsel for the Promoter):
That is the case.
We appreciate that you have been working under considerable pressure. The committee would be interested to hear some expansion on the third paragraph of your letter. I understand that Mr Duke is in a position to speak briefly on that.
Mr Duke is from the promoter.
Geoff Duke (Transport Initiatives Edinburgh Ltd):
As part of the agreement that we were very pleased to reach with BAA last night, there are some amendments that we would like the committee to make. I will now read out what they will be.
There are three aspects where we seek alterations to the limits of deviation as they affect Edinburgh airport. Those relate to Jubilee Road, which is currently identified for construction and access purposes; to construction compounds at the airport; and to the location of the tram stop at the airport.
As we have confirmed in written evidence, the promoter does not intend to use Jubilee Road for construction traffic. Accordingly, the promoter recommends to the committee that plots 362 and 363 be excluded from the limits of land to be acquired or used to reflect that intention.
On the construction compound, it has now between established that there is no requirement to locate a construction compound within the airport site. The promoter recommends to the committee that plots 354, 355 and 361 be excluded from the limits of land to be acquired or used.
As regards the tram stop, the limits of deviation that are currently shown on the plans would, if agreed by Parliament, authorise construction of tram infrastructure, including a tram stop, within the current proposed development zone of the airport. As part of the agreement, and in conjunction with a range of measures that we have agreed with Edinburgh Airport Ltd, it has been agreed that the tram stop should be relocated in the most appropriate location at the airport to promote the integration of that stop within a co-ordinated public transport hub. Accordingly, the promoter recommends to the committee that plot 360, in its entirety, and plots 345, 349, 350, 352 and 353 in part be excluded from the limits of deviation. A plan will be provided to the committee to show the extent of the amendment.
In conclusion, the promoter asks the committee to make, at the appropriate stage, the amendments as set out in our memorandum.
There are no questions from the committee, so that can be agreed.
Item 3 can be declared redundant on the basis of the agreement that has been reached.
Meeting closed at 09:47.