Gazing at this plaque, imagine the scene in 1898. Shrubhill Tramway Workshops and Power Station was opening. It was a vital part of Edinburgh’s cable-tram system.
Shrubhill Workshops and Power Station played a significant role in Edinburgh’s transport history. The Edinburgh and District Tramways operated it. This company had taken over the horse-drawn lines. The site had previously housed stables for the horse-drawn trams.
The Shrubhill depot was a striking building. It had an 8-bay, 1-storey ashlar block. There were also single-storey bays and a rubble block. An octagonal brick chimney caught everyone’s eye. The power station housed the haulage engines. These engines powered the cable-tramway operations.
Edinburgh’s trams changed from cable to overhead wire in 1926. This brought them in line with nearby Leith. The last tram ran in 1956. The Shrubhill Workshops then became a bus depot. Lothian Region Transport later used it. After its closure as a bus depot, it became a museum briefly. It even served as a Festival Fringe venue.
But by 2011, the buildings had fallen into disrepair. Historic Environment Scotland added it to the Buildings at Risk Register. Now, the Engine Yard development incorporates it. Architects are preserving as much as possible. They are maintaining its ornate industrial character.
Two of the huge wheels that carried the cables are now public art. They are displayed in Iona Street. They were discovered during excavations for the new tram extension. The City of Edinburgh Council saved them.
A Red Wheel Plaque was unveiled here on August 7th, 2023. Cambell Reid, John Cameron, Jim Summers, and Robyn Clift attended. This plaque commemorates the Shrubhill Tramway Workshops and Power Station.
John Cameron said the tram project rekindled interest in Edinburgh’s tram heritage. Shrubhill served the city through horse, cable, and electric trams. It even became a museum. Now, the new tram line gives this area connectivity. This location is supporting a new community. Its name, The Engine Yard, remembers its inheritance.
The former Shrubhill tram depot faces onto Dryden Street. From the Balfour Street tram stop, walk southwest. Turn right into Pilrig Street then left into Dryden Street.
The iconic Shrubhill Workshops were where Edinburgh’s trams were built. They were maintained here. In November 1956, the last tram terminated here. The works were repurposed as a bus depot. Later it was a museum. Finally, it was a Fringe venue. A leaking roof caused it to be abandoned.
In 2020, a plan was put forward. It would deliver a mixed-tenure community. It would recognize the site’s history. It would act as a catalyst for the regeneration.
The Tram Sheds represent a tremendous feat. The restoration of the historic tram depot has taken years. Forty-three modern luxury apartments have been created.
The latest addition sees homes built into the original structure. This brings a fusion of old and new style. Arched and oval windows offer stunning views. The historical octagonal brick chimney provides a magnificent focal point.
So, as you stand here, remember the Shrubhill Tramway Workshops. It was a place of innovation. It was a place of transport history. It is now a place of modern living. It is a testament to Edinburgh’s ever-evolving story.