Smith speaks up for rail link

21/9/06

Edinburgh West MSP, Margaret Smith, spoke in the Preliminary Stage Debate of the Edinburgh Airport Rail Link Bill. The proposed link will bring direct benefits to Edinburgh West residents through better access to the rail network and reduced congestion.

During her speech Margaret observed: “From day one, there have been misconceptions about the scheme, not least because of its name. The name—Edinburgh airport rail link—focuses on only one of 62 stations that are linked by the project.

We should consider what the project offers. The rail link will connect 64 per cent of the Scottish population to Edinburgh airport. It offers estimated economic efficiency benefits of nearly £920 million over 30 years; improved employment opportunities; reduced congestion; the removal by 2026 of 1.7 million car journeys; better air quality; and, crucially, an interchange opportunity for rail, bus, coach, taxi and aeroplane passengers, which will increase the demand for public transport and represent real opportunities for my constituents to use the airport hub, even if they are not getting on a plane.”

Margaret also pointed out the specific benefits to the residents of Edinburgh West: “The project includes a connection to Edinburgh Park in my constituency, which has a railway station but does not have a connection on the Glasgow to Edinburgh line, which is a concern that I have taken up in the past.”

Margaret also made sure that the concerns of local residents over the consultation process were raised. She also called on the promoter of the bill , tie, to involve Airport owner’s BAA directly in the tunnelling part of the project. Meanwhile Margaret raised concerns about the continued lack of clarity about funding and called for negotiations between BAA and the Executive to be concluded quickly  She said: “It only seems appropriate that BAA should contribute towards some of the funding for the project as they will be major beneficiaries of the project.”

Margaret concluded: “I am pleased that the Committee have said that they will take further evidence on issues around rolling stock, tunnelling and funding. I think there are questions still left to be answered.”

The full text of Margaret’s speech >>