SNP members back cross-border rail service
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HIGHLAND-based SNP elected representatives have united in support for investment in cross-border rail services linking the North with London
Local MSP Rob Gibson joined his MSP colleagues, Dave Thompson, John Finnie, Jean Urquhart and Mike Mackenzie – along with the entire Highland Council SNP group – to promote a positive future for the Highland Chieftain and Caledonian Sleeper services.
They have pledged to respond to Transport Scotland’s consultation on the future of rail services with a proposal to improve and build upon the existing services.
Mr Finnie, who raised the issue in parliament, said: "I asked transport minister Keith Brown what reassurances the Scottish Government [could] give those concerned about the future of the Highland Chieftain and Caledonian Sleeper services as a result of the furore that has arisen about Transport Scotland’s Rail 2014 consultation.
"I was pleased the minister spoke of the increased patronage of the cross-border services and that he saw the consultation as an opportunity to propose not simply the status quo but also rail service enhancements. I believe the time has come to replace the 40-year-old sleeper rolling stock and will respond to the consultation accordingly and encourage others to share their views too."
Highland Council leader Drew Hendry said: "The next couple of weeks will see two additional services daily between Inverness and the central belt and increased rail service use in Highland is what we all want to see.
"Scotland is committed to significant reductions in our carbon footprint and we must seek to enhance rail services in order that they offer a credible alternative for people making journeys, especially cross-border.
"Connectivity is key to the Highland economy and I am delighted that Highland’s elected SNP representatives, together, will respond positively and strongly in favour of enhanced rail services for our people and businesses."
