The first phase of work to take trams to Newhaven will now get underway in mid-November.

A  joint venture between Farrans, and Spanish-owned Sacyr and its subsidiary Neopul will deliver the £90m main works contract to design and construct the new route from York Place to Newhaven.

The enabling swept path contract will be carried out by Morrison Utility Services.

Enabling works will start on Constitution Street with main construction work beginning in spring 2020.

The work in finalising the plans has also demonstrated that the project budget of £207.3m reported in the Final Business Case remains achievable.

Transport Convener Councillor Lesley Macinnes said: “Now that we’ve finalised the plans, we’re pressing ahead with getting everything ready to begin the first phase of work in Constitution Street alongside enabling works on Leith Walk.”

Alejandro Mendoza Monfort, SFN JV Project Director, said: “This six-month ECI period has given all parties a great stepping stone to build on and we now look forward to delivering a successful Trams to Newhaven project, along with the wide-ranging social and economic benefits for the local community.”

Peter Carolan, Executive Director, Morrison Utility Services, said: “We are delighted that the project has had final sign off from the Council.”