17 January 2008
Crossrail completes the 'rail jigsaw'
MSPs have given their strongest ever endorsement of the Glasgow Crossrail project.
An influential cross-party group assessing the plans gave solid support during a meeting at Holyrood, which was attended by Transport Minister Stewart Stevenson.
MSPs heard SPT Chair Alistair Watson describe the Crossrail project as the last piece in Scotland's "rail jigsaw", linking the lines serving Glasgow Central and Queen Street stations.
SPT provided politicians with an update on progress of the scheme and Councillor Watson was upbeat following the meeting at the Scottish Parliament.
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| "Crossrail is a vital part of Scotland's national rail network." - Alistair Watson |
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He said: "I’m delighted that cross-party support for Crossrail is more firm than ever.
"This shows that it’s understood that Crossrail isn’t just for Glasgow but is a vital part of Scotland’s national rail network.
"You might say it’s the last piece in Scotland’s rail jigsaw."
Councillor Watson said SPT has been eagerly awaiting a report into the project and even ahead of the findings there was much cause for optimisim.
He said: "SPT is due to get the findings of a major research study in the next week or so.
"But the early indications are that the study will show positive results for Crossrail and in particular very real passenger demand if it’s built.
"Of course, when the study is published we’ll be seeking the support of Transport Scotland and Network Rail for a partnership to make it a priority project. And then to make it happen."
ends