Work started last month to extend the tram route and activity is currently centred on Constitution Street and Leith Walk.

In addition, a logistics hub has been set up on Mitchell Street to help businesses and residents to manage deliveries. The city is also supporting the introduction of discounted shopping vouchers to help local traders maintain footfall during the tram project.

“We’re doing as much as we can to help the businesses along the tram route while works are ongoing,” said Edinburgh City Council’s transport convener Lesley Macinnes. “We know it's a challenging time and we share their desire to maintain the attractiveness and vibrancy of the area between now and the day trams begin running to Newhaven.”

Lesley added that the tram project will help with the city’s aim of providing a “carbon free, connected and accessible future”. Edinburgh’s 4.7km tram extension to Newhaven is set to open to passengers in 2023.

Cycle charity Sustrans welcomed the introduction of cargo bikes for local businesses. “The primary objective is to help businesses along the route in the short term, but this is also an opportunity to test the concept of cargo bike deliveries longer term,” a spokesman said. “We hope they find it a more efficient, cost effective and quick way to complete their deliveries.”

(Photograph: City of Edinburgh Council)