Campaigner’s joy as work begins on new Reston Station

Prepatory work has begun on Reston Station, much to the delight of Barrie Forrest, chair of the Rail Action Group East of Scotland (RAGES).
Preparatory work begins on the new Reston Station.Preparatory work begins on the new Reston Station.
Preparatory work begins on the new Reston Station.

Councillors gave the green light at this week’s meeting of the planning committee for the major project, which incorporates a new road, a transport interchange, waiting shelters, car park and a footbridge crossing, serving two platforms.

Councillors described it as a "very exciting development" which had the potential to open up transport links in the east of the region.

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Mr Forrest told us this week: “It’s as if we have won the lottery.

"It’s testament to the work done by the entire RAGES group over the years.

"Many people have campaigned hard on this, including Tom Thorburn who started the group more than 20 years ago.

"Without blowing our own trumpet, I don’t think we’d have been at this stage without the work of the group.

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It’s been 56 years since the station was closed … that should never have happened.

"Hopefully, East Linton will be next.

"We’ve been told the station will be completed by the end of the year.

"How fantastic would it be to have the services in the winter timetable at this time next year.

"People have said to me it will never happen, but things will happen if you persevere, keep shouting, talking to MPs and MSPs.

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"We’ve been to parliament loads of times, and have spoken to half a dozen transport ministers, but I’d like to thank Michael Mathison for finally green-lighting the project.”

Local MP John Lamont said: “This is really exciting news for residents in Berwickshire. I have supported this project for many years and it is great to see the plans approved.

“Transport links are hugely important for prosperity and increasing educational opportunities for young people.

“Making it easier to travel to Edinburgh and to the south will hopefully make living in the area even more appealing.

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“I pay tribute to the team at RAGES who have campaigned very hard on this issue and have kept politicians like me on my toes for years to help push this project forward.

“I look forward to seeing this station operational again.”

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