The campaign to reopen Blackford station must be sustained as transport preparations for the 2014 Ryder Cup at Gleneagles start to be finalised, according to a local politician.
Dr Richard Simpson, MSP for Mid-Scotland and Fife, said this work was “crucial” as the scheme is facing crunch time over transport arrangements for the competition.
Speaking at the annual meeting of COBRA (Campaign to Open Blackford Railway station Again), he said that despite being pressed on the issue ministers had yet to issue a timeline for decisions.
The Labour MSP also said any outcome should not be based on a “beauty contest” between the stations at Blackford and Gleneagles, but ease of access.
He said he had spoken to VisitScotland on pedestrian access and shuttle buses during the Ryder Cup.
“The Scottish Government’s e-Petitions Committee was supportive that COBRA be involved in these discussions and decisions.”UnlikelyDr Simpson said access grants, awarded by the UK Government, had been slashed so Gleneagles Station was “very unlikely” to be upgraded.
He then highlighted the benefits of the COBRA campaign, saying the Freight Facilities Grant faced closure. “If Highland Spring had access to rail freight at Blackford, this could cut 10,000 lorry journeys and reduce carbon emissions.”
A reopened Blackford station would ease parking problems in Bridge of Allan and Dunblane, where residents say they cannot park because of commuters’ cars.
He said the Strathallan and Strathearn population would grow over the next 20 years, as would demand for good commuter access.
Seeking to have their voices heard at Holyrood, three COBRA members met Scottish Transport Minister Keith Brown yesterday.