THE final major piece of construction work on Edinburgh's tram network will begin next month.
Contractors will work through the night to install cables which will power the trams, with work expected to be completed by autumn.
The public transport project has been hugely criticised after it was beset by delays and ran wildly over budget.
Scottish Transport Minister Keith Brown said the next stage was a key milestone and called for patience while work was carried out.
Existing work sites between Haymarket and the west end and at York Place will remain in place while the work is carried out.
Cables will be installed on Princes Street and on St Andrew Square and it is expected overhead work will start in mid-June from York Place at Broughton Street, working west towards Haymarket. The full programme includes underground cabling.
Mr Brown said: "The project is entering a crucial phase and the installation of overhead and underground cabling in the city centre section is another key milestone. I wish everyone involved in carrying out this complex operation over the summer well.
"The continued patience of local residents and businesses is to be applauded. They are hopefully now starting to see some tangible progress ahead of the crucial summer tourist season."
Edinburgh City Council transport convener Lesley Hinds said: "Good progress continues all along the tram route and we are now approaching a stage, in the city centre, where roadworks are nearly finished. This will be a welcome sight to traders, residents and visitors to the area this summer.
"This cable installation programme is the final major piece in the construction jigsaw but it is a significant project that requires time.
"Contractors will carefully hang power wires overhead at the correct tension and they'll pull miles of power cables and communication lines through underground ducts.
"Once this is done we will be closer to the rigorous testing phase, which will fully prepare the system and the people of Edinburgh Trams for service next year."
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