Plans for a multi-million-pound train and tram interchange station at Gogar, in west Edinburgh, were exhibited to the public for the first time yesterday as Network Rail hosted the first of two public exhibitions at the Gyle shopping centre.

The Gogar Rail Interchange project, funded by Transport Scotland, comprises the creation of a new rail station on the Edinburgh to Fife railway lines in the Gogar area. This would be located adjacent to a new stop on the Edinburgh Tram network for onward passenger transfer to Edinburgh Airport.

A raised walkway will link the railway station and tram terminal whilst a subway will link the railway station with the Gyle Shopping Centre on the south side of the A8.

The railway station will be on two levels. The lower level area will have a lift, staircase and escalators to take passengers up to the ticket office and concourse at first floor level.

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Ron McAulay, Network Rail Director, Scotland said: "Our aspiration is to have the facility completed by late 2011. The planning application for the station interchange will be submitted in October however, we're keen to incorporate the thoughts and considerations of the general public prior to submission."

Scottish Government Transport Minister, Stewart Stevenson said: "This is a hugely important project for the East of Scotland and I’m delighted that the proposals for the station are available for all to see.

"The new station at Gogar will improve public transport access both to Edinburgh Airport and West Edinburgh and should encourage more drivers out of their cars and on to public transport, easing congestion in the city."

The new interchange, which is expected top provide substantial benefits to passengers travelling to and from Edinburgh and Fife, is part of a £1bn programme of investment in the railway between Edinburgh and Glasgow which is being funded by Transport Scotland on behalf of the Scottish Government. The Edinburgh Glasgow Improvements Programme will make significant investment in the rail infrastructure linking Scotland's two main cities and their surrounding towns, increasing service levels and reducing journey times.

The exhibitions runs until 7pm tonight at the Gyle Shopping Centre.

To view artist impressions of the interchange, visit: www.networkrail.co.uk/gogar

(GK/JM)