STEPHEN WELCOMES NETWORK RAIL TO AIRDRIE BATHGATE RAIL LINE
Tuesday May 24, 2005
Work is on track for the new Airdrie to Bathgate rail line with the announcement by Transport Minister Nicol Stephen that Network Rail will be the project promoter.
The new railway will link communities between Edinburgh and Glasgow with the centres of both cities, improving access to public transport and increasing access to jobs, health and education services.
The Airdrie-Bathgate line will also provide a quick and reliable alternative to car travel, helping reduce congestion in the A8 corridor.
Work is expected to start early 2007 subject to successful passage of the Bill through Parliament. The Bill is due before Parliament before the end of 2005.
Speaking while on a visit to Drumgelloch station, Mr Stephen said:
‘Improving transport links across Scotland is vital to supporting business and opening up job opportunities. By increasing access to public transport we provide greater choices for people to travel every day for work, school or pleasure.’
‘The new Airdrie–Bathgate rail link will bring real benefits to the communities of West Lothian and North Lanarkshire.’
‘Today has great significance not only because Network Rail are taking on this major new project, but also because this is the first time they have taken on such a development in Scotland.’
‘Network Rail are a vital partner in delivering rail projects in Scotland, with a crucial role in delivering new rail schemes such as Airdrie to Bathgate. I am therefore delighted today to welcome Network Rail as the promoter of this project.’
Route Director for Network Rail, Ron McAulay said:
‘We are delighted to be invited by the Scottish Executive to promote this important scheme. Network Rail welcomes investment in the railways in Scotland especially on routes such as this one that helps to open up greater flexibility for passengers travelling from one side of the country to the other. We look forward to working closely with the Scottish Executive on this project.’