At the most recent meeting of Aberdeenshire Council’s Policy and Resource Committee, councillors considered a report on the latest funding allocations for the proposed new Kintore railway station.
The project, which is closely linked to wider improvements of the Aberdeen to Inverness rail line, is estimated to cost around £12.2 million. Aberdeenshire Council and Nestrans have submitted a combined contribution of £3.2 million to the project which will cover around 26% of the total cost.
The Scottish Stations Fund recently committed to providing a further 50% of the total cost. It was agreed that a contribution of 60% be sought, to bring the scheme in line with two similar projects elsewhere in Scotland. Indications are that the request would be looked at favourably.
A figure in the region of £3 million will still need to be sourced and councillors have offered their support to officers and partners in the project to ensure the momentum continues.
Vice-chair of Policy and Resources, Councillor Stephen Smith said: “We had a fruitful debate surrounding the funding of the Kintore Station and we have decided to contribute £3.2million.
“This will ensure that the project moves forward as it will be of enormous economic benefit to Kintore and Aberdeenshire.”