The next stage of development work is due to begin for Network Rail engineers between Alloa and Longannet, which could see passenger services return between Clackmannanshire and Fiife.
As part of the Scottish Government’s decarbonisation plan, it is hoped the former freight line will be electrified. Engineers will be conducting survey work and site and geological investigations which will help the projects development.
Three new stations are also hoped to be introduced at Clackmannan, Kincardine and Longannet.
The work is also hoping to bring passenger services every half an hour between Alloe and Longannet.
This stage of work includes surveying, drilling boreholes, sampling ballast and extracting core samples to decipher the condition of the ground under the railway.
Graeme Stewart, Network Rail’s sponsor for the development work on the new West of Fife enhancement proposals, said: “While it is still at a very early phase, there are ambitious plans to expand the railway and develop transport options that improve connectivity between towns in Clackmannanshire and Fife.
“Our site and geological investigations will help inform the design and development of an enhancement project which we will submit for review to Transport Scotland.
“As well as the potential for better connectivity on faster greener, electric trains, this scale of investment to improve our transport infrastructure will deliver economic advantage, expansion of communities, better access to employment and education opportunities and expanded social and leisure options for people all across the area.”
Image: Network Rail
