Elected members on the Transport & Environment Committee today voted 9:2 to keep St James Square for pedestrians only.
The two members who voted to back the W Hotel's request for limited access to the front of its premises by a limited number of strictly controlled taxis and minibuses entering via Elder Street were Councillors Whyte and Munro (Con).
Vehicular access will still be possible via the underground car park at the rear.
Revenue-generating services will start operating along the Newhaven to Broughton tramway extension on 7 June 2023.
Testing at various speeds and to timetable will continue between now and June to familiarise drivers with the route and integrate software and signals with the control centre in darkest Gogar.
‘While this is a moment for celebration', said Council Leader Cammy Day this morning, speaking over the sound of locals grinding their teeth 'it's also a chance to reflect on the last few years.
Local resident and former MP Mark Lazarowicz first publicised proposals to improve Broughton Street for pedestrians and cyclists here.
Those suggestions were later refined following discussion (see Update 21.6.20), and additional observations and tweaks from a variety of interested parties appeared on the Spaces for People online consultation.