Now that trams are no longer in prospect for Leith Walk, work to restore the thoroughfare to normality – or even to improve it – could begin as early as June 2012.
City of Edinburgh Council's Transport, Infrastructure and Environment Committee will convene on 29 November and consider proposals to:
- resurface roads, pavements, and improve drains
- restore some parking slots
- reinstate the junctions at London Road and Blenheim Place (plus that at the Foot of the Walk)
- put back junction signals and pedestrian crossings
- make local improvements.
At Broughton's end of Leith Walk, the works would also involve restoring the Elm Row pigeons and Picardy Place Sherlock Holmes sculptures (Issues 167, 198), and – presumably – the London Road / Leith Walk clock (Issue 162). Leith Walk should also regain its signature balls.
The 'remediation and reinstatement works' follow a direct request by City Centre ward's Councillor Joanna Mowat. Transport Convener Councillor Gordon Mackenzie says the Council will use this window 'as an opportunity to consult as widely as possible with traders, residents and local members'.
Cash-strapped officials are probably more interested in very modest public contributions concerning the location and condition of bins, but if locals don't aim high they will certainly never receive. With City elections due in May 2012, we have leverage to demand proper compensation for a universally recognised complete balls-up.
Spurtle recommends timely, joined-up planning between the various residents/traders associations and community councils concerned, and co-ordinated lobbying thereafter.