Two new train stations to serve the Levenmouth rail link have been dismissed as “glorified bothies” with no toilets.
Prospective travellers who viewed designs for the stations ahead of public events next month say they are disappointed with what’s on offer.
And they have urged people to press Network Rail to include more facilities before submitting a formal planning application to Fife Council.
However, they fear the proposals are a “done deal” without any public input.
The rail company has confirmed it will be presenting its final plans at the two October drop-in events.
And it said that while the public was asked to help choose locations for the new stations, the final designs were never meant to be part of the consultation.
An image released this week shows an artist’s impression of a shelter at the new Leven station, which will be beside the town’s swimming pool.
A second station will be built at Cameronbridge.
Leven estate agent Jim Parker is one of those who expressed disappointment.
He said: “It’s just a glorified bothy with a platform.”
‘There has been no genuine consultation’
The Fife Properties owner added: “It looks like we’re getting just the bare minimum.
“There are no facilities like toilets, a kiosk or tourist info. It’s like a bus stop but bigger.
“We only get one chance to get this right or it will be tumbleweed when people get here.”
Mr Parker is backed by Levenmouth councillors who had previously called for input into the designs.
Liberal Democrat member Eugene Clarke was chairman of the Levenmouth Rail Campaign group which lobbied for the new railway for many years.
He said: “There has been no genuine consultation at all.
“This is contrary to the impression campaigners were given about community engagement.
“It turns out the proposed workshops are about telling the public what Network Rail plans to do and asking if there are any questions.
“It’s outrageous there are no toilet facilities and little provision for any sort of refreshment.”
And Levenmouth area chairman, Labour councillor Colin Davidson, agrees.
He added: “There are two events in the next two weeks but it’s all done and dusted.
“It’s not a consultation exercise.”
Station facilities were ‘clearly defined’
Network Rail said the proposed station facilities had been clearly defined.
A spokesman added: “We are excited to present our final plans for the stations to the community ahead of submitting them to the council for planning consideration.
“It is another important step on the road to reconnecting Leven and Cameron Bridge to the national rail network.
“Through planning and looking forward to construction of the stations we have, and will continue to work with the council… to develop and deliver the best possible facilities for the local communities they will serve.”
The designs will be on show at Methilhill Bowling Club on October 3, and Leven Centre on October 4.
Both events will run from 4pm to 7pm.
Conversation