Transport Minister Humza Yousaf has revealed plans to increase funding for the construction of new railway stations in Reston and East Linton.

Under the offer, the Scottish Government would contribute up to 60% towards the cost of the schemes, provided by the Scottish Stations Fund.

At East Linton, the £11.7 million project cost would be met with just over £7m from the Scottish Government, while £6m would be contributed towards the £10m Reston station project.

However, another option has been suggested which could see the stations' construction form part of a programme of works within the next Network Rail delivery period. Under these terms, councils are not being required to increase the level of funding above that which they have stated is their limit.

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Minister Yousaf said: "The Scottish Government has been a strong supporter of the delivery of Reston and East Linton stations and is keen to work with local authorities to deliver rail infrastructure to meet the needs of their local communities.

"Currently, we fund new stations via the Scottish Stations Fund with central government funding limited to 50%; the balance being matched by contributions from promoters, whether local authorities or private developers.

"Recognising the budgetary pressures facing all parties concerned, I have written to both local authorities outlining my two potential solutions to the current funding shortfall."

"I am pleased to be able to offer these unprecedented solutions to allow the construction of these stations to progress. I've advised the councils that I'm happy to accept either option. The ball is now in the Councils' court and I look forward, in due course, to hear how they wish to proceed."

(LM/MH)