Laurencekirk delay "bitterly disappointing" - McInnes

5.00.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Wed 6th Aug 2008

Following Network Rail's admission that the new station at Laurencekirk will not open in December after all, Aberdeenshire MSP Alison McInnes has reacted with dismay.

The already delayed project is now not scheduled to be completed until May 2009, and Mrs McInnes, who is also the Liberal Democrats' transport spokesperson, is concerned that there are still no guarantees that the new target date is achievable.

Commenting, Mrs McInnes said: "I am bitterly disappointed to hear the news that we must now wait an additional 5 months for the new Laurencekirk station - assuming the latest target date is actually met.

"Seeing the project slip back now could easily lead to even greater delays, especially given the potential for variable weather and ground conditions that are likely to hamper work on the site through the winter.

"Opening new stations could be the catalyst for moving commuters in the North East away from their cars and onto the railways. Now, more than ever, its time for Network Rail to start delivering these vital improvements on time."