THE Scottish Government has been accused of failing Wee County passengers, by refusing to address the issue of disabled access at Stirling train station.

Services from Alloa to the city often arrive at Platform 9, which is connected to the main station concourse by a stairway and footbridge only.

In such instances, those with mobility issues, or indeed those with prams or buggies, may find themselves effectively trapped on the platform.

A taxi service from Alloa to Stirling can be arranged in advance, but few commuters are aware and there are only nine bookings a month.

Alloa Community Council has been campaigning for years in the hope of seeing a ramp constructed or underpass reopened, but have been left frustrated by a lack of progress.

Recently, Alexander Stewart MSP wrote to the Humza Yousaf, the transport minister, seeking clarification on the government's proposals to deal with the matter.

However, the Mid Scotland and Fife representative said he was left angered with the response, and wants to arrange a formal meeting in the near future.

He said: "There is no clear willingness to move forward with any degree of priority and I find this approach deeply disappointing.

"To remind us about the direct taxi service from Alloa to Stirling Station for 'eligible' disabled passengers who cannot use Platform 9...is akin to rubbing salt into the wound and I for one am very unhappy and the people of Alloa will be also.

"This is an ongoing issue which seems to just be kicked into the long grass and will be devastating news for the people who use Platform 9 and who have been looking forward to a positive decision from the Scottish Government for an improvement in access for some considerable time."

Transport Scotland said they are looking for "affordable and deliverable" solutions to improve access to Platform 9.

A spokeswoman added: "The feasibility study completed by Network Rail highlighted a number of planning and technical challenges to overcome which makes any infrastructure solution complicated.

"Transport Scotland met with Alloa Community Council last year and will work with them as the situation at Stirling develops.

"In the meantime, ScotRail provides a taxi for eligible disabled passengers direct from Alloa to Stirling at no additional cost if booked in advance, and passengers can also exit the station at the gate next to Platform 9 by using the remote locking system in place that gives direct contact to station staff."