PHOTOS: Human skeletons found on Edinburgh tram project

Ten human skeletons have been found during construction work on the Edinburgh tram project.

The skeletons of eight adults and two infants were encountered during utilities works in the Leith Walk area of the city, and are thought to be linked to an old priory and leprosy hospital.

Archaeology firm Headland is working with main contractor Carillion on the excavations of the skeletons.

Mike Kimber, Project Manager for Headland Archaeology, said: “When tram workers discovered the burials, we were able to mobilise an archaeologist immediately to inspect the remains and meet with the police and the council archaeologist on site. Once we knew what we were dealing with we were able to send a team to begin careful excavation of the skeletons."

Susan Clark, Project Director for Edinburgh Trams said: “The trams project has provided a rich selection of interesting historical findings with the possibility of more items being found as the project progresses. We see it as a significant part of the project as well as our responsibility to ensure that all archaeological findings are preserved and explored fully by experts.”

This is the second burial site Headland has uncovered during the trams project. In April this year, works carried out in Constitution Street uncovered a number of human remains dating back to the mid 16th – 18th Century.