Smith to scrutinise Government’s Rail Link Alternative

27/9/07

Margaret Smith has tabled questions about the SNP’s alternative to the Edinburgh Airport Rail Link.  During a debate in the Parliament Ministers were unable to answer basic questions about their proposed alternative to EARL, an extra station at Gogar on the Fife line to allow airport passengers to join the proposed Edinburgh tram network.

Commenting, Mrs Smith said: “Leaving aside the astonishing U-turn by the Scottish Government, where they have gone from slamming the Edinburgh tram system to making it a cornerstone of their transport policy in advance of the final business case being agreed, I am extremely concerned about the Scottish Government’s alternative rail link proposals.

“Different options for the rail link were analysed in detail by transport specialists and the Parliamentary Committee.  The original EARL scheme was found to be by far the best value for money option. The Gogar option was assessed and rejected. Ministers were unable to answer basic questions about their plans for an extra station at Gogar, including the cost and timescale of the project. I am also worried that the Scottish Government has not considered the potential impact this plan would have on the Edinburgh trams project.

“Unlike the Scottish Government, the Liberal Democrats are committed to improving public transport in Scotland.  Ministers can be assured that we will monitor the progress of these plans very carefully.”

Read Margaret’s speech at this debate >>