| Transport

Rail improvements 

First ScotRail has committed £40m of investment to stations and trains to raise the overall level of service provided. Over £25m has already been spent on train refurbishments, better and more widespread facilities and improved access. 
As part of the franchise extension (now running to November 2014), 

a further £70m will be invested to deliver further improvements. These include timetable enhancements, travel integration options and a community fund to encourage businesses and local communities to take up empty buildings at stations. 
Working alongside industry partners, First ScotRail is involved in the delivery of major rail projects including the opening of the line between Airdrie and Bathgate. Already underway by Network-Rail, this £300m Transport Scotland funded project will provide another travel link between existing west and east coast rail services. Both this and the Glasgow Airport Rail Link are due to open in 2010. 
In May 2008, the brand new Alloa Station opened providing direct, half hourly services to Stirling and Glasgow with onward travel opportunities to Edinburgh. Work is also ongoing to restore the train link from Edinburgh to the Scottish Borders. 
Underpinning such visible improvements are those that go on behind the scenes Ð such as the new £6m maintenance depot near Haymarket. Without doubt, the depot team has played a major part in improving the reliability of the trains. 
Following the success of ScotlandÕs bid to host the Commonwealth Games 2014, First ScotRail has committed significant investment to ensure extra services during the course of this major sporting event. 
Tel. 08457 55 00 33 www.firstgroup.com/scotrail/ www.nationalexpresseastcoast.com www.virgintrains.co.uk www.tpexpress.co.uk 


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