NFU Scotland has attended the official launch of the start of the Edinburgh-Glasgow rail project to ensure that the interests of farmers affected by the upgrade are given due consideration.

The Edinburgh – Glasgow Improvement Programme consists of a series of projects designed to improve rail links to the nation's two largest cities and the wider central Scotland corridor.  Work is due to be completed by 2016.

Attending the launch in Edinburgh, NFU Scotland Policy Manager Nicola Clayton said:

“The Edinburgh-Glasgow rail upgrade is a major project that has been in the proposal stage for some time. We have already been in discussion with Network Rail about how it may impact on farmers.  For those who farm land beside the railway, there is the potential for significant disruption to their business and it is important we have an open dialogue with Network Rail, on their behalf, in order to avoid problems.

“Previous experience of working with Network Rail has been mixed and we have had several cases where we feel the company has not properly recognised how their work can impact on farm businesses.   We want to ensure Network Rail takes sufficient account of the problems caused to farmers, so that progress with this massive project goes ahead with all interested parties on side.

“We will urge Network Rail to meet and speak with those whose land this project cuts through.  By being proactive, it will help ensure the project is completed on time and that disruption is kept to a minimum.

“We are looking to build on our earlier discussions with Network Rail and would ask any of our members who have concerns with the project or are encountering problems to bring these to our attention.” 

Ends

Contact Bob Carruth on 0131 472 4006