Reply from Transport Minister

The Minister for Housing & Transport, Keith Brown MSP, has replied to the e-mail from Starlink, warning that the scheme will have to be supported by a ‘robust’ business case in line with the Scottish Transport Appraisal Guidance but suggesting a meeting with Transport Scotland once the study is complete.

Text of letter from Keith Brown MSP

‘Thank you for your email of the 30 August 2011 regarding a potential rail station at St Andrews.

The Strategic Transport Projects Review (STPR), published in 2008 established Scotland's national transport investment priorities for the next 20 years. A rail link to St Andrews was not recommended by the STPR.

While I welcome the work undertaken by Starlink, any transport proposals seeking Scottish Government funding or which would impact the strategic network must be supported by a robust business case, undertaken in line with the Scottish Transport Appraisal Guidance
(STAG). STAG is an objective led process, which requires all potential modes and options are considered to ensure the optimal solution to a particular transport problem or opportunity is identified.

When the draft timetable and demand forecasts are available I would recommend you seek a meeting with Transport Scotland officials to discuss the proposals in detail. Officials can also provide advice on completing a STAG assessment which is important to ensure a
project is not only feasible, but represents the best value for money solution to a particular problem.’

Starlink convenor Jane Ann Liston said, ‘This is an encouraging response from the Scottish Government. Starlink will certainly be taking up Mr Brown’s suggestion of contacting Transport Scotland once the study is complete, and look forward to making the case to them.’