Local stations get early morning link with London trains

Nov 21 2008 by Iain Howie, Stirling Observer Friday

EARLY morning rail passengers in Dunblane and Bridge of Allan are to benefit from increased links with London.

First Scotrail and Transport Scotland say that passengers looking to connect with the 7am Edinburgh to London service will be able to do so direct from the two stations when a new service is introduced as part of the winter timetable next month.

The new timetable will see the introduction of a service at 5.21am from Dunblane and 5.24am from Bridge of Allan. It will also call at Stirling.

The winter timetable starts on Sunday, December 14.

Transport Minister Stewart Stevenson said: “These new services will mean even more people will have the opportunity to make the switch to public transport.

“We are working hard to identify locations under-served by the existing rail network and are investing significantly in extending services – both in terms of expanding infrastructure and plugging gaps in the timetable.

“The rail network in Scotland makes a significant contribution to Scotland’s economic and social health, which is why we are announcing a series of service improvements across Scotland, making the switch to pubic transport an easier one.”

Mary Grant, managing director of First ScotRail, said:

“First ScotRail works closely with Transport Scotland to identify opportunities to provide additional services, improve journey times and meet the needs of communities across the country.

“This new, more frequent timetable will benefit our customers and help us meet the growing demand for rail travel.”

From this month, passengers should also start benefiting from easier-to-read timetables available at staffed stations.