12.02.13
Conon Bridge station open after 50 years
The new Conon Bridge station has been officially opened by transport minister Keith Brown. The £600,000 project has been completed on time and to budget and sees rail services return to the station for the first time since 1960.
Network Rail has built a new 15 metre platform, waiting shelter, passenger information systems and cycle racks and lockers. The project was funded by Transport Scotland, HITRANS and the Highland Council.
Construction began in November 2012. The station will now be served by 13 trains per day to Inverness from Monday to Saturday, with 11 services running northbound Monday to Thursday.
Brown said: “Improving access to rail services is an important factor in encouraging people to use the train and I am delighted to be here today to launch a brand new station for the people of Conon Bridge.
“Instead of travelling to Dingwall, locals can now access trains into Inverness and beyond right here on their doorstep. This will be particularly beneficial during the major upgrade to the Kessock Bridge in coming months and I hope people will take advantage of this as an alternative to driving into Inverness during these works.”
David Simpson, Network Rail route managing director for Scotland, added: “The delivery of the new station on-time, within budget and to such a tight timescale shows what can be achieved when organisations work together to deliver for passengers.
“The reopening of Conon Bridge has been a real team effort by the rail industry and local and central government, which will bring significant benefits for the people of Conon Bridge.”
Steve Montgomery, managing director of ScotRail said: “This is a landmark day for the people of Conon Bridge who are once again, linked to the Scottish rail network.
“Having a station will make a big difference for local people and visitors alike, by providing a real alternative to the car. The more we can encourage people to travel by train the better it is for the environment.”
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