McConnell in station upgrade call

Mr McConnell said Motherwell was an important transport interchange

Former first minister Jack McConnell has called on the Nationalist government to support the upgrading of a train station in his constituency.

The Labour MSP said Motherwell train station was a key transport interchange for passengers across central Scotland.

Mr McConnell urged ministers to support modernisation plans by the local council and transport partnership, in a Scottish Parliament motion.

Scotland's transport agency is currently looking at draft proposals.

North Lanarkshire Council and Strathclyde Partnership for Transport have been working on a strategy to improve the railway station and nearby road system.

'Massive potential'

Mr McConnell said: "No one could doubt the need for improved facilities at Motherwell. SPT have identified it as a priority and joint work involving SPT and North Lanarkshire Council is very welcome.

"It has already become a key station as passengers can access East Coast mainline and West Coast mainline services as well as First ScotRail services."

The MSP for Motherwell and Wishaw added: "There is massive potential to increase the number of passengers using it locally, but also benefit other communities in central Scotland.

"The government's position is pivotal as no progress can be made without their support."

A spokesman for Transport Scotland said the agency was considering a draft report on the proposals and would comment on them "in due course".