Trams blocked by traffic on tracks in Edinburgh

Edinburgh Trams was forced to cut its service short after tram tracks were covered by a traffic jam blocking a city centre road.

Trams had to terminate in Shandwick Place as they were unable to reach Princes Street, St Andrew Square and York Place due to the congestion.

City of Edinburgh Council removed a lane closure in Charlotte Square at 10:30 in a bid to release the traffic.

It is understood vehicles were jumping lights and getting stuck on tram lines.

It is thought the congestion was caused by the rail strike which resulted in more drivers on the road.

Yellow-box action

Lesley Hinds, City of Edinburgh Council's transport convener, said: "Traffic was very congested this morning and a lane closure which was in place to accommodate works by CityFibre on Charlotte Square has now been lifted in order to ease traffic congestion at the west end.

"It is thought that additional numbers of vehicles on the roads as a result of today's ScotRail strike exacerbated the situation.

"Congestion was increased further by the behaviour of some motorists, who caused an obstruction by stopping in yellow box junctions, which are meant to be kept clear to keep traffic moving.

"We understand drivers' frustration when traffic is especially busy but it is vital that all road users continue to obey the rules of the road at all times to avoid making congestion worse.

"I have asked officers to ensure that we have contingency plans in place to ensure we're fully prepared for any further ScotRail strike action.

"I'll also be instructing them to take action on yellow-box stopping ."