Progress in campaign to restore St Andrews rail line

The latest stage of the St Andrews Transport Study STAG Appraisal – a crucial step in any rail campaign – has been completed and published.

Following its funding award from the Scottish Government Local Rail Development Fund, campaign group StARLink appointed leading transport consultancy, Stantec, to undertake a St Andrews transport study consistent with the Scottish Transport Appraisal Guidance (STAG) process and specifically to develop the ‘Case for Change’ stage of this process.

The STAG looks at the current transport situation in St Andrews, considering all known problems, opportunities and potential solutions across all modes and on their own merits.

A list of potential options has been developed and heavy rail remains an option to be further investigated in later stages of the STAG.

A StARLink spokesperson said: “The quality of connectivity between St Andrews and Scotland’s major towns, cities, and transport hubs creates a range of transport-related problems for those travelling to/from the town and those who live in the town – all travel is road-based and the overwhelming majority of journeys are not taken by bus but by car.

“Investing in improved transport links to St Andrews and improved transport arrangements within the town will help the town and Scotland’s visitor profile keep pace with its international competitors, whilst improving the visitor experience and quality of life for local residents, playing a key role supporting the vital national tourist industry and providing sustainable transport alternatives in a time of climate emergency.

“Transport Scotland’s acceptance of the Case for Change is an acknowledgement that the status quo is not an option – and indeed the vulnerability of St Andrews due to essential roadworks and the increased influx of cars consequent of Covid-19 restrictions have confirmed that the St Andrews transport system is inadequate.”

The spokesperson added: “StARLink is delighted that Transport Scotland has accepted our Case for Change and that rail remains an option for further development throughout subsequent stages of the STAG.”

The St Andrews Transport Study ‘Case for Change’ STAG Report is available via the StARLink website.