Public views sought on rail link proposal

A CONSULTATION on plans for the Levenmouth rail link has finally started.

People are being asked for their views on various aspects of the £70 million project, including where two stations should be built.

Four options for the Leven terminal have been suggested, including a site next to Leven swimming pool and the old power station site.

A second station will be built near Cameron Bridge. Options for freight trains are also being looked at.

The railway between Leven and Thornton is due to open in 2023 and will link with the Fife circle line and direct trains to Edinburgh.

Work to clear the 12 miles of track and carry out geological investigations has already started.

The online consultation is seen as a key milestone in the long-awaited project.

Levenmouth Rail Campaign chairman Eugene Clarke said: “The consultation is eight months later than expected but it’s a good chance to influence what is going to be the biggest regeneration exercise in Levenmouth for generations.”

Campaign group members and councillors attended an online meeting with Network Rail last week to discuss the details.

Mr Clarke added: “Station choices for Leven are down to four. Most people think it will go behind the swimming pool.”

A £10m blueprint announced by Transport Minister Michael Matheson last year will ensure integrated bus and active travel options are also looked at.

Mr Clarke said the campaign group wants to see a cycle path and pedestrian walkway created alongside the railway.

“That’s not within the remit of the Network Rail project but our plea is to get different organisations involved and working together,” he said.

A Network Rail spokesman said: “We are making great progress on our proposals for the new line and look forward to being able to share them with the local community later this year.”