| Work Detail |
Transport Scotland said the project to refurbish Montrose station “has faced some notable challenges” but was still on track to be completed.
Despite being earmarked for autumn last year, work has yet to start on the improvements.
It comes after North East Scotland Conservative MSP Liam Kerr wrote to the Scottish Government seeking clarity on the future of the improvement plans following the decision to end Abellio ScotRail’s contract early.
Montrose rail station.
The ScotRail deal has been cut three years early by the Scottish Government and will now finish in 2022, following repeated complaints over a high number of cancellations, overcrowding and the cost of tickets.
In his letter to transport secretary Michael Matheson, Mr Kerr hit out at the repeated delays to the start of the 12-week project, pressing ministers for answers.
He said: “Months down the line and a spade has yet to touch the ground yet – it’s disgraceful.
“The Scottish Government continues to abandon commuters south of Aberdeen and is failing to give answers explaining what’s causing these delays.
“As well as this, I’m now concerned the early termination of the Abellio ScotRail contract may increase these already unacceptable delays even further, which would be a blow to commuters in the town.
“I won’t back down on pushing through these improvements and will continue to press for clarification on the situation.”
The improvements planned are a full refurbishment of the station toilets, replacement waiting shelter, additional ticket machine, more seating, public address system extension and enhancements to CCTV.
© DC Thomson
Liam Kerr MSP.
A Transport Scotland spokesman said: “The project to refurbish Montrose Station has faced some notable challenges since it was first raised as a package of works with other stations in the area.
“One of the contributing factors, as previously communicated to local MSPs, was Montrose being removed from the package which had already been through the procurement and planning process and being progressed through procurement as a standalone project.
“This was due to listed building planning consent being refused for another station in the package which explains some of the delay in commencement dates.
“We are also frustrated by the delay, however the recent announcement of Abellio being removed from the franchise early will not impact on the delivery of this project.”
A ScotRail spokesperson said it was currently in the process of finalising the funding for proposed improvements at Montrose station. |
