DUMFRIESSHIRE MSP Craig Hoy has backed the campaign to reopen Beattock railway station following a meeting with members of the Beattock Station Action Group.
Craig Hoy MSP met with Ron McLean, Chair of the Beattock Station Action Group, Vice Chair Franca Bruno and Katherine Clemmens to discuss the campaign and the next steps towards making the case for a new station.
The next step is for and update to the Strategic Transport Appraisal Guidance and also further research, including a business case to be undertaken, taking into account the changes that have taken place since the previous assessment.
Craig Hoy believes a reopened station could provide a significant boost to the local economy, support tourism and improve connectivity for local residents, while helping to plug gaps caused by poor local bus services.
The Action Group has identified a site on the outskirts of Beattock, where the railway line is easily accessible and there is sufficient space for a large car park. This could allow the station to serve a wider area and provide a practical alternative for people travelling by road.
Mr Hoy raised the issue in the Scottish Parliament before the summer recess and will continue to press the case when Parliament returns.
Commenting after the meeting, Craig Hoy MSP said:
“It was great to meet with Ron, Franca and Katherine from the Beattock Station Action Group and to hear more about their campaign to bring Beattock railway station back into use.
“I am very supportive of their campaign and believe the case for a station deserves serious consideration.
“The next step is for an update to the Strategic Transport Appraisal Guidance and also further research, including a business case to be undertaken, taking into account the changes that have taken place since the previous assessment. We need to look at the case for Beattock station based on the needs and circumstances of the area today, rather than relying on an assessment from years ago.
“A reopened station could provide a real boost to the local economy, support tourism and give local people another transport option at a time when bus services don’t always meet the needs of communities.
“The Action Group has identified a preferred site on the outskirts of Beattock, with easy access to the railway line and space for a large car park. That provides a strong basis for taking the proposal forward.
“I raised Beattock station in the Scottish Parliament before recess and I will continue to raise the issue when Parliament returns. The campaigners have worked hard to develop the proposal and I want to see the Scottish Government give proper consideration to their case.
“Reopening the station would improve connectivity, support local businesses and tourism and help unlock the economic potential of Beattock and the surrounding area. I look forward to continuing to work with the Action Group to make that case.”
