16 March 2006
SPT Chair welcomes Minister's speech
Cllr Alistair Watson, Chair of Strathclyde Partnership for Transport and the West Regional Transport Partnership, today welcomed the Ministerial statement from Tavish Scott on public transport projects but has called on him to move Crossrail up the agenda.
Cllr Watson said, "Today the Minister has highlighted the opportunities that the increased Transport Budget present for Scotland. The Transport Budget has risen by 500% since 1999 and truly offers the opportunity to improve infrastructure and the economy and increase travel choices for passengers and freight.
"The Minister is right when he says we need to be bold to make these projects happen. He is also right when he says we need to have realistic and credible delivery plans to turn these plans into reality.
"SPT has a bold vision to deliver Crossrail, the most strategically important rail infrastructure project in Scotland, a project which closes a critical gap in the Scottish rail network.
"Journeys which terminate are a waste of time, for passengers and for train operators. Currently there is no link between Glasgow Queen Street and Glasgow Central stations.
"Crossrail has the potential to bridge that gap and create a vital link which joins south-west Scotland with the rest of the country. It opens up the possibility of a huge range of new rail connections across Scotland with faster journey times. It will also improve local Glasgow rail links and support the regeneration of some of the city's poorest areas.
"SPT has a bold vision for Crossrail. We have a realistic and credible delivery plan. We have a track record of bringing in projects on time and on budget - the Larkhall-Milngavie Line is a prime example. The Glasgow Airport Rail Link is another project where SPT expertise is the driving force behind delivering a key infrastructure scheme.
"The Scottish Executive has shown its commitment to our country's transport infrastructure. Crossrail is a key component of that infrastructure and should be first in line for funding.
"SPT already has, 'realistic, deliverable, affordable plans to enhance Scotland's railways'. All we need is the funding from the Scottish Executive to turn them into reality."
Aidan O'Donnell, Director General of SPT said: "The reopening of the Larkhall-Milngavie Line and the construction of the four new stations is a clear example of SPT's ability to deliver a project when the funding is made available. It is also an example of SPT's ability to work alongside industry partners, the Scottish Executive and local government in improving both transport infrastructure and services for passengers."
ends