Edinburgh Makes Leith Low-Traffic Neighborhood Permanent After Trial

Edinburgh made a traffic plan permanent. Leith had temporary road changes for over a year. They aimed to reduce traffic and improve walking. The council voted to keep the changes. They will make minor changes to address concerns.

Chas Booth is a local Green Party leader. He is very happy about the decision. He says it benefits Leith greatly and believes it will reduce traffic and pollution. Kids can now walk to school more safely.

The council asked the public for their opinion. They found that 74% supported the changes. However, the community council saw a more even split. Some people thought pollution had increased; others said driving took longer.

Council data showed different results. Driving speeds and traffic decreased generally. Salamander Place traffic was said to increase by some, but council data showed no change. Only Duncan Place saw increased traffic.

The council will shift a bus gate. It will be near Links Gardens. This should reduce traffic on close streets. They will add dropped kerbs for accessibility and improve planter and bench maintenance.

A group called Liveable Leith celebrated the news. They wanted less traffic in Leith, as less than half of Leith residents own a car. They will improve the changes now and no longer need to fight.