Fight for rail link to England goes to Westminster
The need to maintain a direct train service between the north-east of Scotland and England has been highlighted at a Scottish Chambers of Commerce board meeting in Aberdeen.
The government is considering stopping direct services north of Edinburgh, meaning England-bound travellers will have to change at Waverley.
Such a move would affect business and other passengers in Fife, Dundee and Angus, as well as further north.
The SCC is campaigning to ensure the through-running of trains from north of Edinburgh to London and centres in the north of England.
SCC chairman Mike Salter has already written to the Liberal Democrat MP for West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine, Sir Robert Smith, who has agreed to set up a meeting with Westminster transport secretary Philip Hammond.
SCC is tackling the issue on behalf of several chambers, including Aberdeen and Grampian, Fife, Dundee and Angus, Perth, Moray and Inverness. The issue was taken to the Secretary of State last week via British Chambers.
Liz Cameron, SCC chief executive, said, "The UK Government must recognise the east coast main line route north of Edinburgh services a population 29.7% greater than the population of Edinburgh and Glasgow combined.
"Also, these areas are home to over a quarter (26.6%) of Scotland's total population and almost one third (33.0%) of Scotland's businesses. The area contributes 46% of the total turnover of all Scottish businesses yet looks set to face the brunt of government cutbacks.
"The crucial role played by these areas in supporting the wider Scottish and UK economy cannot go unnoticed and it is essential that direct links north of Edinburgh remain."
Bob Collier, chief executive of Aberdeen and Grampian Chamber, said, "We are right behind the SCC in defending our direct services."
Colin Parker, chief executive of Aberdeen Harbour Board, said, "The chamber campaign has highlighted just how important transport is to our region. Businesses need to be aware of the threats to their connectivity with their markets."
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