WORK is set to progress on the Dunfermline to Alloa rail link, according to Fife MSP Mark Ruskell.

The Green MSP announced this week that he had secured an extra £5million for new rail infrastructure work – including a commitment on West Fife – as a result of the Scottish budget deal between his party and the SNP.

He said: "I’m delighted that our budget negotiations have secured a commitment to press ahead with feasibility work on the Dunfermline to Alloa line.

"We’re all excited at the prospect of Talgo relocating to the former Longannet site but West Fife and Clackmannanshire need this vital investment in a new rail line whether the factory goes ahead or not.

"Two years ago, I secured a £2m Local Rail Development Fund, which opened up the first stages to local communities wanting to get reconnected to the network.

"This extra £5m announced today will build on that and start fleshing out the details of new routes like Dunfermline to Alloa.

"Addressing the climate emergency means investing in low-carbon transport and building strong economies closer to home in places like Kincardine and Clackmannan.

"The Green budget deal delivered today contains the first steps on that journey.”

Transport Scotland said they would continue to support developing Scotland’s rail infrastructure, with options to be developed to improve performance and connectivity.

A spokesperson added: "The Strategic Transport Projects Review, which is currently identifying the transport interventions required to provide Scotland with a network fit for the 21st century, will consider rail provision in the West Fife area."