More Aberdeenshire Train station re-introductions could follow Kintore re-opening after almost 60 years

After almost 60 years, Kintore has finally seen the return of train stations to the town.

The last train stopped at the station in 1964, but now as Scotland looks to find more eco-friendly ways to travel, meaning more stress of the public transport infrastructure, it has re-opened, and more could follow.

Scotland's Railway managing Director Alex Hynes told Northsound:

"We want to see a bigger and better railway for Scotland, so more station openings is on the agenda, more line openings is on the agenda, and the more that Kintore station is a success will help build the case for that."

"If we are going to de-carbonise Scotland's economy and deliver a green recovery, then a bigger and better railway will be at the heart of that."

The £15 million station was built by Network rail and funded by Transport Scotland, Aberdeenshire Council and Nestrans - it will be managed by ScotRail.

It also has the largest electric vehicle charging location in the North East of Scotland. 24 of the 168 parking spaces are fitted with charging ports.

Michael Matheson, Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Infrastructure and Connectivity said:

“This new station is clear evidence of the Scottish Government’s commitment to the north-east. It comes hot on the heels of line dualling between Aberdeen and Inverurie and the introduction of an Inverurie and Montrose Crossrail service.

“By providing a rail interchange that offers significant parking provision with the largest electric vehicle charging facility in the north east, as well as cycle storage facilities and bus links, we are making the decision to switch from private car to train even easier.

“It also offers wider regional benefits by removing the need to drive into Aberdeen city centre, with that reducing congestion and emissions.”

Cllr Peter Argyle, Depute Leader of Aberdeenshire Council and chair of its Infrastructure Services Committee, said: “This is a momentous day for the people of Kintore and is testament to the strength of the community’s long-running campaign for the return of the station.

“It cannot be underestimated just how transformative this facility will be both for local community and wider area. I am proud Aberdeenshire Council has played such a vital role in helping to fund such an important infrastructure project for the North-east.”

Nestrans Chair, Councillor Sandra Macdonald, said, “The reopening of Kintore station has been a long-standing aspiration of the local community and the wider region. It is something that Nestrans and its partners have campaigned, funded and worked towards for several years now.

“Kintore station is a welcome addition to the existing eight rail facilities across the north east. For those local to the area, it is an opportunity for convenient rail travel, better connectivity for the community and a sustainable option for local travel to and from Aberdeen. As part of the Aberdeen to Inverness improvement project, it brings benefits to the wider area, enhancing our local rail service and increasing rail capacity.

“The local community have been very keen to be involved right the way through the project. The historic benches and former station sign are fitting touches for the new station and it has

been through working with the community that these hidden treasures were discovered and restored.

“The realisation of this project shows true success of partnership working for a shared goal. It gives us a strong platform to build on as we seek further improvements and new stations to enhance our rail service for the north east.”