Major transport hub project opens

Improved rail facilities form part of the £6m interchange

A £6m transport hub has been officially opened in Fife.

The Markinch Interchange features a new rail station building with waiting facilities, a bus turning circle, increased parking and a taxi rank.

Scotland's Transport Minister Stewart Stevenson opened the new facility which he said was an "excellent example" of an integrated public transport project.

A new cycle way has also been constructed, linking the interchange with Glenrothes.

The Markinch scheme was announced as part of a 10-year development plan published by the Strategic Rail Authority in January 2002.

The new interchange features a pedestrian overbridge and lift and platforms were also lengthened to accommodate longer trains.

In addition there is now electronic passenger information and CCTV.

BUDGET BREAKDOWN £3.75m - Scottish Government £1.5m - Fife Council £500,000 - South East of Scotland Transport Partnership (SEStran) £150,000 - Scottish Enterprise Fife £94,000 - Sustrans (Sustainable Transport Charity)

At the opening on Tuesday, Mr Stevenson said: "I am very pleased to be here today to officially open Markinch Interchange.

"I am delighted that the Scottish Government was able to provide £3.75m of funding for what is an excellent example of an integrated public transport project.

"From this one facility people will be able to choose whether to travel by bus, train, bike or taxi.

"Everyone who has been involved in this project is to be commended and I look forward to hearing about the benefits this facility brings to local communities and the local economy."

'Perfect example'

Fife Council's chair of environment and transportation, Councillor Tony Martin, said he was delighted to see such an "attractive public transport interchange".

He said he hoped the completed project would bring many benefits to the local economy.

Steve Montgomery, deputy managing director of train operator First ScotRail, said: "This is a perfect example of the partnership approach to deliver for customers and to perform at the very highest standards.

"I am confident it will lead to more people choosing rail as their preferred means of public transport."