Economic case for Fife rail line

With lines still in place, estimated costs for reopening are about £45m

A campaign to reinstate a Fife railway has been given a boost.

A report commissioned by the South East Scotland Transport Partnership said there was an economic case for re-introducing Levenmouth services.

It also found a case for reconstructing the line to Leven along an existing route, rather than on a new one.

The line, which ended at Methil docks, was used by freight trains before it closed. The cost of reopening it was estimated at £45m.

Sestran will send the Scottish Government an appraisal.

Russell Imrie, Sestran chairman, said: "Sestran is mindful that there is a great deal of local support for the introduction of passenger train services in Levenmouth.

"The stage two report shows that there is a viable economic case for introducing rail services to the area.

"The pre-existing rail alignment can be re-used and a new infrastructure developed at a competitive cost of £45m.

"The reintroduction of rail service will make Levenmouth far more attractive as a place to live, work and do business.

"It will also offer the possibility of moving freight by rail and encouraging the economic development of the area."