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Dumfriesshire MP David Mundell met with members of the Beattock Station Action Group to re-affirm his support for the project and offer any support he can give to the group. The local MP was taken on a site visit by members of the group and visited the former station to get a better idea of what it would take to get it reopened. Mr Mundell believes following the meeting that the plans have real potential if the Scottish Government were willing to get behind the project. He also praised the Groups efforts to build consensus on the issue and to get some momentum behind the plans. Mr Mundell feels there are clear benefits for the wider local community and that re-opening the station would provide a boost for tourism and the local economy.
Following the meeting the MP has pledged to help facilitate a meeting between the group and train operator First Trans Pennine and will also be writing to UK and Scottish Transport Ministers to highlight the Action Group’s work and put their case forward.
Commenting David Mundell MP said: “It was really good to meet with the Beattock Station Action Group who have been leading the fight on this issue for some considerable time. I was keen to re-affirm my support for their plans and offer any support I can give them to help get things moving. The key to getting the project of the ground will be winning the support of the Scottish Government and the rail operators but what is very clear is that the Group’s hard work and dedication is starting to pay off.
“Having a detailed plan and building a consensus in the community and amongst key stakeholders is having a real impact and people are starting to take note. Visiting the site itself and hearing more detail from members of the Group showed me once again just how viable the plans are. I believe it is now really important that all politicians and interested parties work together to make sure the case is heard.”