The case for reopening the Dunfermline to Alloa railway is “stronger than ever” despite a funding setback, it has been claimed.
Community group Go Forth Kincardine had applied for funding to the Local Rail Development Fund for a feasibility study.
Despite being rejected, Green MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife Mark Ruskell said the case for a service is still on track.
Transport Scotland confirmed feasibility work on the rail line is already under way by Network Rail and the national strategic transport projects review.
It also confirmed if Talgo builds its proposed station at the former Longannet power station site, the Scottish Government will electrify the existing rail line and provide stations at Kincardine and Clackmannan, “subject to programme and available funds”.
Talgo aims to transform the site into a £40 million train building factory with the opportunity to create around 1,000 jobs.
Mr Ruskell said: “The case for a full re-opening of Alloa Dunfermline rail line is stronger than ever and one way or another the work to progress the line must now proceed with no delay.
“While I’m disappointed that the application for feasibility funds from the communities has not been awarded, it appears that much of this work can now be progressed through a wider transport projects review and Network Rail.”
The Green politician stressed there had to be community involvement in the project.
“The community voice must be there every step of the way especially Clackmannan and Kincardine who look likely to be front runners for new stations.
“It’s also important that a connection through to Dunfermline and Low Valleyfield is not forgotten in the wider planning and feasibility work that will be taking place.”
Mr Ruskell is writing to transport secretary Michael Matheson asking him to clarify the process going forward and the opportunities for communities to be directly involved.
