Proposals to consider further rail infrastructure in north-east welcomed by MSP

Aberdeenshire East MSP Gillian Martin has backed plans set out by the First Minister in the Programme for Government to consider further rail infrastructure in the north-east.

It comes after years of campaigning by Ms Martin to extend rail links from Dyce to Ellon.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon announced there would be a “programme of wider enhanced public transport improvements” in the region which would include improvements to the “resilience, reliability and efficiency” of the Aberdeen to Inverness rail corridor.

A commitment was also made to work with Nestrans, Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire councils on the feasibility of a “mass rapid transit system” and a “rail link between Dyce and Ellon and further north to Peterhead and Fraserburgh”.

Ms Martin said: “I have campaigned for this infrastructure project since my election in 2016 and as we look towards meeting our net zero targets it is imperative we can offer people the option of commuting by more public transport.

“I am pleased that both Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire councils will be considering this option alongside Nestrans and I look forward to hearing further details when they are available.

"I know these proposals have a strong backing from the community who’ve seen the success of other projects in Scotland including the Borders Railway and the improved transport options made available as a result.”

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