Focus on potential rail benefits

The proposed rail link would carry four train services an hour

A new rail link in Scotland's central belt could generate £300m for the local economy, MSPs have said.

Holyrood politicians have been scrutinising plans to re-establish a link between Airdrie, North Lanarkhsire and Bathgate, West Lothian.

Phil Gallie said: "The railway could generate £300m, boost population growth, generate new housing, create jobs and stimulate spending."

The line would carry four services an hour between Edinburgh and Glasgow.

Supporters claimed it would mean thousands of commuters, shoppers and students would no longer need to use their cars.

Mr Gallie is the convener of the Airdrie-Bathgate Railway and Linked Improvements Bill Committee.

"It is important that those areas in between Edinburgh and Glasgow are seen as a hub for further economic growth," he said.

"However, many are currently economically and socially neglected."

As part of the project, new stations would be built at Caldercruix and Armadale and there would be relocated stations at Drumgelloch and Bathgate.