BUILDING a train manufacturing factory at Longannet could "pave the way" for the reopening of the Alloa to Fife passenger line, according to one MSP.

Mark Ruskell, Green MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife, has welcomed the "transformative" jobs set to come to area, as Spanish company Talgo announced plans to build a new manufacturing base on the site of the former power station.

He added the reopening of the railway line to passengers could form part of the company’s legacy to local communities.

Mr Ruskell said: “This is excellent news for the community in West Fife – the end of the coal age can be the beginning of a vibrant, low carbon industry in central Scotland and Talgo’s commitment to 1,000 new jobs will be transformative.

"The rail infrastructure already in place was key to the company choosing this site, and I’m excited to see how this can pave the way for more innovative and ambitious freight and passenger rail in Scotland.

"There has been a long standing demand for a reopening of the Alloa to Dunfermline line to passenger services, and this could be the final piece of the puzzle.

"A passenger service could form part of Talgo’s commitment to a community legacy for the local area, whilst easing the pressure on local roads that such a large increase in employment will bring.”