Scottish Borders Council and East Lothian Council have written to the Transport Minister, Humza Yousaf to support a Scottish Government proposal that will see the reopening of the East Linton and Reston stations.
Both Councils have agreed that to the proposal that will see the stations included in a programme of works that covers Edinburgh and the South East of Scotland.
The Scottish Borders Council and East Lothian Council have shown repeated commitment to see the reopening of these stations. In 2016 Scottish Borders increased their contribution to £2.84million for Reston, and East Lothian to £3.44m for East Linton respectively.
However, the decision to include the stations to form part of programme of works, which runs until 2024, may mean the stations might not be reopened for yet another 8 years.
John Lamont MSP and Rachael Hamilton MSP have been strong supporters of the campaigns to reopen of both stations.
John Lamont MSP said:
“I pay tribute to the many campaigners who have worked hard over so many years to bring stations to Reston and East Linton. Whilst this is a welcome step forward, we should remember that this Scottish Government has made generous promises about the delivery of these stations in the past. Even if the Transport Minister accepts this proposal from the two councils, it could still be many years until stations are opened.”
“We must ensure that we keep the pressure on the SNP to deliver train services to Berwickshire and East Linton as quickly as possible.”
“Given that the Scottish Government has an extra £800m to spend on capital projects, there can be no more excuses for any further delay.”
Rachael Hamilton MSP said:
‘I absolutely welcome the news that both Councils are showing a real financial commitment to reopening both East Linton and Reston stations, I am however disappointed that the Scottish Government has dithered and dallied for years over committing to reopening both of these vital stations.
‘East Lothian and the Scottish Borders should not have to wait a minute longer to see the reopening of both stations. Rural communities around East Linton and Reston deserve access to a reliable and regular train service.
‘I remain committed to the reopening of Reston and East Linton stations and will keep applying pressure on the Scottish Government until they are delivered, hopefully in 2021."