How we will transform Lothian Road
This will involve:
- creating more space and a better environment for those walking or wheeling
- building a north-south segregated cycle connection
- improving the efficiency of existing bus services
- maintaining access for loading vehicles and those with blue badges.
- making sure everyone is able to access the street
We are also proposing to improve key junctions on Lothian Road, making them safer and easier to use. These are
- Tollcross
- West Approach Road
- west end of Princes Street/bottom of Lothian Road
We also plan to improve public areas including:
- west end of Princes Street
- Festival Square
- Tollcross and west Tollcross
- some of the surrounding streets
In line with wider proposals across the city centre, Lothian Road will remain open to general traffic and remain a strategic transport link.
How we will fund this stage of the project
The Council has been awarded funding from Transport Scotland under Sustrans’ Places for Everyone grant programme to develop a design proposal for Lothian Road. is an active travel infrastructure fund supported by Transport Scotland which helps deliver walking, wheeling and cycling improvements across Scotland.
Key project dates
Current – preparation and local engagement
2025 – develop design proposals and consult on these
2026/2027 – Further develop the design proposals based on feedback from the previous consultation
2027/2028 – Develop the technical design, including statutory Traffic Orders
2028 – Construction expected to start