McInnes secures Crossrail concessions

11.33.32am BST (GMT +0100) Thu 9th Oct 2008

Alison McInnes: fighting for Crossrail

Speaking after yesterday's meeting with the Transport Minister, Aberdeenshire MSP and Liberal Democrat transport spokesperson Alison McInnes said:

"When I met with the Minister I stressed the importance of his political backing for the Aberdeen Crossrail project.

"I have won two big concessions. The Minister has promised to look again at separating the funding for the Aberdeen Crossrail away from the national funding for improvements to the Aberdeen to Inverness mainline.

"He has also promised to reconsider the projected passenger numbers. The numbers that are being used at the moment are very conservative and based on outdated figures. At my suggestion, his advisors will now look at similar improvements to the Stonehaven line to help them construct a more accurate picture of commuter use of the Aberdeen Crossrail project.

"The meeting was constructive, but I will continue to keep a close eye on progress. The Aberdeen Crossrail project is a vital infrastructure link for the north east and I will be doing everything I can to ensure that it goes ahead."