Rail Re-openings
New stations and line re-openings (such as to Larkhall and Alloa, above) have exceeded
expectations and boosted accessibility and regeneration of the local areas. Priorities
for further re-openings, after the Airdrie-Bathgate line, are to the Borders, Levenmouth
and Grangemouth, the last two over existing track.
Urban Transport Co-ordination
Many continental cities,particularly in Germany, Austria and Switzerland, demonstrate
the benefits of integrated public transport systems. In Berlin, tram, bus, U-Bahn
underground, and S-Bahn suburban trains provide interlinking services, with seamless
interchange as at Alexanderplatz (above).
Edinburgh Tram and Glasgow’s extensive suburban rail network should be fully co-ordinated
with bus services to create environmentally friendly, efficient public transport
systems.
Rural Railways
Scotland’s main industry is tourism. Rural railways such as the West Highland, Kyle,
Far North and Stranraer lines pass through the most scenic parts of the country.
As well as being lifeline transport links for residents in these remote areas, these
rail routes are world-class tourist assets that should be developed. Timetables
should be optimised to make services more attractive for leisure travel and commuting.
Planning of co-ordinated rail, bus and ferry timetables is particularly important
in rural areas where public transport is infrequent. Publicity should highlight
opportunities for leisure travel to tourist destinations (such as Glenfinnan, below).
The ScotRail network carried over 81 million people in 2007/8. Further growth of
rail use, and extension of electrification, will cut greenhouse gas emissions and
road congestion and increase social inclusion.
SAPT is preparing proposals for rail and co-ordinated bus and ferry services to create
a comprehensive public transport system providing regular travel opportunities throughout
the country. Rail services would be organised into three tiers, as in successful
continental transport networks:
• Fast inter-city IC train services running every hour, more frequently on busier
routes
• Regional Express RE trains giving intermediate towns regular interval services
• Local trains connecting with IC and RE trains, local buses and ferries (as at
Wemyss Bay, right)
