This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Edinburgh Airport Rail Link
08/11/2004
Proposals for a new rail link connecting Edinburgh airport to the rest of the Scottish network were announced today.
They envisage a tunnel under the runway linking offering direct travel from the airport to Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Glasgow, Stirling, and south to Newcastle.
It is estimated the new airport station will be operational by the end of 2010 and cost £500 million.
Transport Minister Nicol Stephen said:
"This is a project of major national significance. It will benefit businesses and passengers in Inverness, Aberdeen, Glasgow and Dundee as well as the city of Edinburgh.
"It is the largest rail project in Scotland and underlines our commitment to investing more in public transport.
"We are now planning to spend £3 billion on major transport projects. To deliver this the Executive's transport budget is set to grow to record amounts in the next few years.
"This new link, along with the proposed Glasgow airport rail link, will offer real transport choices and improve the quality of people's journeys."
Michael Howell, chief executive of transport initiatives Edinburgh (tie), said:
"This scheme will transform rail services in Scotland. People will be able to travel to and from Edinburgh airport more quickly and efficiently.
"The benefits to Scotland, its business community and tourism industry are significant. EARL is a world class project and will bring Scotland into line with many countries worldwide."
The consultation will last for six weeks. Further information can be viewed at www.earlproject.com