A South Scotland MSP is throwing his weight behind a plan by the Scottish Conservatives to review Scotland’s rail infrastructure and consider reopening local stations closed decades ago.
The controversial Beeching Cuts in the 1960s led to the closure of many smaller and more rural railway stations and lines. Now, Brian has welcomed his party’s proposals for a review of the closures to see whether there’s an economic case to restore these stations or open new ones.
The MSP, who has been calling on the Scottish Government to invest in improving South West Scotland’s transport infrastructure, also highlighted the potential environmental benefits of improving rail services as a means of encouraging more people to take the train rather than the car.
Brian Whittle MSP said:
“If we’re serious about tackling climate change we have to recognise that, for some communities, the existing rail network isn’t a practical alternative to the car. That’s not just bad for the environment, but the local economy too.
Times have changed dramatically since these stations were closed and I’m pleased the Scottish Conservatives see that the time is right to see whether it makes sense to restore these stations and services.
Good transport links, whether road, rail, air or sea, are a vital part of boosting our local economy and making Ayrshire an even better place to live work and visit.
The SNP have consistently failed to put in the work and invest in South West Scotland, despite the opportunities it could bring to the area. The Scottish Conservatives are determined to make transport upgrades a priority and as part of that I want Ayrshire to get the investment it has needed for so long.”
