Tram developers have apologised after the first day of work at the Mound caused rush hour gridlock.

Some buses were held up for an hour yesterday as temporary traffic measures failed to work. Many passengers had to get off and walk to work as some lights stuck on red.

Princes Street will be closed to traffic for six months while pipes are moved. Traffic is being diverted via George Street or Market Street.

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Tie executive chairman, Willie Gallagher, said: "I would like to apologise for the delays to both bus passengers and drivers today as a result of the introduction of the temporary traffic management measures to undertake the utility works around the Mound.

"Despite careful modelling and planning it was clear by the morning rush hour that the temporary traffic measures were not fully working.

"Responsive action was taken by Tie, Carillion and their specialist traffic contractors, CEC, the police and Lothian Buses to improve the immediate traffic congestion."

Buses will return westbound along Princes Street until further notice.

During peak hours additional traffic wardens will be on put on duty.

(GK/JM)