Scottish Independence and Scotland's Future

The transport system in Scotland is generally well-developed. The Scottish Parliament has control over most elements of transport policy within Scotland and the Scottish Government's Enterprise, Transport and Lifelong Learning Department is responsible for the Scottish transport network with Transport Scotland being the Executive Agency that is accountable to the Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Sustainable Growth.

Transport and Travel
A Scottish Government web page

The plan to re-open Edinburgh's lost rail loop

Could Edinburgh’s South Suburban Railway finally be on the path to revival?

While the line was once an important passenger route, since the 1960s, the route has been freight only. However, with growing congestion and Edinburgh's recently opened tram network, various proposals have started ti bring the idea of reopening it back into the spotlight.

So, in this video, we'll look at the full story of the South Suburban line: why it was built in the 1800s, how it helped shape Edinburgh’s suburbs, and why trams, buses, and cars eventually pulled passengers away.

We'll also look at the various proposals to bring the line back - especially a more recent one that suggests opening the route using tram-trains, which would allow services to share the line with freight, link directly into Edinburgh’s tram network, and create new interchange points at places like Newington, Cameron Toll, and Brunstane.

If built, the project could give Edinburgh a more flexible, orbital transport link - and potentially even form part of a future circular network around the city.