Calls to revitalise trains to Stranraer

Transport Correspondent

Monday 21 November 2011

RAIL campaigners have called for improvements in train services to Stranraer following the loss of Northern Ireland ferries from its port.

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DAMIEN HENDERSON Transport Correspondent

Passenger numbers on the route have dwindled over the years and many fear the relocation of Stena Line services to nearby Cairnryan, which has no rail connection, will deal a killer blow for the line.

However, Transform Scotland, a sustainable transport charity, has called for a new timetable to be drawn up to attract tourists and serve locals.It also backed the establishment of a community rail partnership, following similar calls by local campaigners, as a way of lowering the cost to taxpayers in subsidies by encouraging greater community involvement.Paul Tetlaw, a spokesman for Transform Scotland, said: “The line needs a strategy for its new role now that the ferries have switched away. A community rail partnership would be the ideal way forward, building a strong alliance to nurture and develop the railway.”Though rail authorities have avoided suggesting the line should be closed, few doubt privately that this is a possibility if more passengers cannot be found.A recent industry report drawn up to advise the Scottish Government on rail services between 2014 and 2019 warned that there were only 11 passengers per train between Girvan and Stranraer.

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Calls to revitalise trains to Stranraer

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