Transport Summit MSP calls for significant investment in road and rail links to Central Belt

The MSP behind the local Transport Summit has made the case for significant investment to develop faster road and rail links to the central belt.

 

Joan McAlpine – whose election campaign led to the summit – says that significant investment in the A701 and A709, as well as electrification of the Nith Valley line, will help encourage more people to visit, live and work in the region.

 

The SNP MSP is also calling for further improvements to the A75, and the re-opening of rural stations.

 

The calls come as part of Ms McAlpine’s submission to the National Transport Strategy – which will ultimately dictate transport priorities across the whole of Scotland.

 

The submission has been determined by listening to the views of constituents across the region.

 

Commenting, Ms McAlpine said: 

 

“We all know that the region has been let down badly by successive Westminster governments and the decades of underinvestment in the area will not be fixed quickly.

 

“However , it is clear that Dumfries and Galloway needs better transport links to boost economic activity and enhance the quality of life for people who live here – and so it is important that we set some long term priorities.

 

“The three major areas I believe will bring the greatest economic benefit are connecting Dumfries with faster rail links to Glasgow and Edinburgh – connecting Dumfries with faster road links to the motorway and further improvements to the A75 with a view to dualling where viable.

 

“I have also made the case for the reopening of stations at Beattock, Langholm and Thornhill.

 

 “This is an important first step in getting the region’s priorities recognised.”

 

Notes to editors:

 

Joan’s submission to the NTS is attached.