This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Investment for Stirling-Alloa rail link
12/06/2003
The re-opening of the rail link between Stirling, Alloa and Kincardine came a step closer today following the announcement of £30 million of investment.
The rail link will see the introduction of passenger services between Stirling and Alloa, reconnecting Alloa to the national rail network. It will also allow the transportation of freight to Kincardine and Dunfermline via Longannet. This will take freight off the Forth Bridge leading to improved passenger services between Edinburgh and Fife.
Transport Minister Nicol Stephen said:
"I am very pleased to announce the Executive will provide the full £30 million funding Clackmannanshire council is seeking towards the project. The re-opening of this line will not only benefit local communities and businesses but also improve the rest of the Scottish rail network.
"I am committed to making sure we deliver important transport projects such as this following the record investment we now have in place. Improving public transport is vital and this rail link contributes to our vision of a network that connects our communities, supports the economy and enhances our environment."
Benefits from the re-opened line will include:
- Easing local congestion, particularly into Stirling
- A more efficient route for coal from Ayrshire to Longannet taking freight off our roads
- The opportunity for extra rail services between Fife and Edinburgh by taking freight trains off the Forth Bridge
The Minister made the announcement during a debate in the Scottish Parliament today where he outlined the Executive's priorities for public transport investment.
The £30 million investment announced today forms 81% of the capital costs of a project estimated to total £37.15m. This includes a £6.5 million Public Transport award made to Clackmannanshire Council in November 2000 for development of the plans.
The Executive's funding will come from the Integrated Transport Fund as set out in the Scottish Budget for 2003-06.
The Stirling - Alloa - Kincardine Railway and Linked Improvements Bill was presented to the Scottish Parliament in February this year