TRAINS are set to return to the village of East Linton for the first time in half a century, after plans were approved for the build of a new station.
Network Rail’s blueprint will see the construction of a two-platform station on the East Coast mainline, with 126 car parking spaces. The station itself will be fully accessible with lifts and a footbridge.
The planning application was submitted in December 2020, following ‘extensive’ engagement with the community, and also local campaigners who have pushed for the return of a station in the village for over two decades.
The rail management firm said that it is ‘generally’ the case that such station projects act as a catalyst for further investment and economic development in local areas, with it being hoped that the new station helps support investment in the local community and further afield.
It added that the new station will also support economic growth by providing a connection into Edinburgh Waverley, offering an ‘excellent’ new link to public transport and enabling residents from the area to access an expanded range of employment, education and leisure opportunities.
Transport minister Graeme Dey said, “I welcome this announcement which is another significant step towards delivery of this important new station and will bring new travel opportunities to East Linton and the surrounding area.
“The Scottish Government has committed funding for this scheme which will have real potential to deliver a number of benefits for the local communities, including those who live in the village and commute into Edinburgh, and it will also help towards supporting our green recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic.”
Alex Hynes, MD of Scotland’s Railway, added, “We are delighted that East Lothian Council has agreed that this project can progress. It is an exciting development that has the potential to transform the local community it will serve.
“Now that we have clarity on the planning decision, we will move to get onsite as quickly as possible and work with our partners to deliver this new station for our customers and the wider East Linton community.”
