Railway linking Winchburgh and Falkirk in doubt over 'rapidly expanding cost'

dailyrecord.co.uk:

Rapidly expanding Winchburgh may not get its promised railway station as costs have soared in a decade and developers question the commuter demand post Covid.And this week an SNP councillor accused the Labour led administration on the council of being “suckered by the developers.”However, head of planning Craig McCorriston told a meeting of the development and transport policy development and scrutiny panel (PDSP) that the council had not been allowed to make the station a condition of Winchburgh’s growth – on the command of the government agency Transport Scotland.In a report to the PDSP Mr McCorriston said the only condition imposed could be the delivery of a report on the potential for the development of a railway station.He told the meeting: “The council has not been party to the commercial discussions between Winchburgh Developments Limited (WDL) and Transport Scotland but the lead developer is now indicating that the cost estimates are not affordable given cost escalation on estimates by the transport authority and other significant transport infrastructure cost pressures.”Falkirk Live brings you the latest headlines from Falkirk and beyond.But did you know all the ways you can stay informed with us?We share live news and exclusive scoops every day so make sure you're following us so we can keep you informed on all things Falkirk!It is understood that the increase in costs for the station alone may be around £10 million.

Plans for a new station at East Linton in East Lothian including two platforms with an over-bridge containing a lift, and associated car parking , have recently been approved at costs touted as £15 million.At Winchburgh, a core development area (CDA), the station was one of a range of promised