SCOTTISH Transport Minister Fiona Hyslop has opened a new train station in East Linton.
The £15 million project reconnects the East Lothian village to the national rail network for the first time in almost six decades.
Hyslop said it was the “latest example of this Scottish Government’s commitment to building and investing in Scotland’s railway”.
She was joined by a number of guests as well as members of the local community to unveil a plaque to mark the opening of the new station.
The minister added: “Our aim is to encourage more people out of their car and on to sustainable public transport.
“The station will open up education, leisure and business opportunities for East Linton’s growing community, while also offering greener ways to travel as we work towards our ambitious net zero goals.
“I’d like to thank everyone who has worked to deliver this project, on the ground and in the background, as we look forward to welcoming passengers for many years to come.” The new station includes two new station platforms, a new footbridge across the railway incorporating lifts and stairs as well as a car park and bus stop.
It is the latest station to be added to the network following the completion of Inverness Airport station in February 2023.
The original station closed in 1964.
East Lothian council leader Norman Hampshire also welcomed the news and said: “The arrival of the first train at the new East Linton station will be a historic moment for the local community.
“After so many decades without passenger services, people living and working in the area are very excited and will benefit greatly from improved transport connections.
“East Lothian council has invested almost £3.5m in this fantastic new infrastructure. With the county being one of Scotland’s fastest growing areas, we believe the new station can also boost the local economy.”
