TRANSPORT Minister Graeme Dey has visited the site of a project to improve rail connectivity in the Aberdeen region and beyond.
Mr Dey was shown one of the ground drilling rigs which will be used to undertake geological investigations to inform development of proposals to enhance the railway between Aberdeen and the central belt.
The minister also had the opportunity to discuss the upcoming works with the Network Rail and Siemens project team.
Mr Dey said, “This project is vital for Aberdeen and the wider north east region, so I was delighted to be able to come along to meet the team that will be carrying out this work and understand the importance the investigatory work will have to inform the design. It’s great to hear that some of the work including ecology surveys is already underway.
“Scotland’s Railway is an integral part of Scotland’s social and economic infrastructure and this project will be supporting communities, businesses and the environment in the North East.
“Improved capacity and faster services will be great for passengers, but the scheme will also deliver improved capabilities for freight services enabling further growth in this important sector.”
Matthew Spence, director of route business development and sponsorship for Scotland’s railway, added, “We were delighted to be able to welcome Mr Dey along to meet the team at this important milestone. The works that are due to commence will not only improve passenger and freight services, but importantly support the delivery of our ambitious plans to decarbonise passenger rail services by 2035.
“Construction is expected to take place between 2022 and 2026 and it’s important to point out this scheme will have benefits for the wider North East region with proposals for Dundee, Arbroath, Montrose and Aberdeen stations including lengthened platforms, enhanced capability and enabling additional and longer services.”
