Network Rail has hosted Transport Minister Fiona Hyslop for the official opening of the newly completed £15 million East Linton Railway Station, as the town re-joined the rail network after almost six decades.

The reconnection of East Linton to the national rail network follows completion of work to construct the station and is part of the Scottish Government's ongoing investment in Scotland's Railway.

Around 130,000 journeys are expected to be made to and from East Linton in the first year of its operation.

The new station boasts two 158m long platforms and is fully accessible with step-free access across the railway via a footbridge with lifts.

Fiona Hyslop, Minister for Transport, said: "The new East Linton station is the latest example of this Scottish Government's commitment to building and investing in Scotland's Railway. Our aim is to encourage more people out of their car and onto sustainable public transport.


"The station will open up education, leisure, and business opportunities for East Linton's growing community, while also offering greener ways to travel as we work towards our ambitious Net Zero goals.

"I'd like to thank everyone who has worked to deliver this project, on the ground and in the background, as we look forward to welcoming passengers for many years to come."

Alex Hynes, managing director of Scotland's Railway, said: "The new East Linton station is an exciting development that has the potential to help transform the area by improving transport links and triggering further investment and economic growth.

"The station will offer East Linton's growing population a more sustainable, cleaner travel option and is an important part of our commitment – alongside the Scottish Government – to expand the rail network and open-up Scotland's Railway to new communities.

"Our project team has worked incredibly hard to deliver this new station and we look forward to seeing the positive impact the station will have in the community in years to come."

East Lothian Council Leader Norman Hampshire said: "The arrival of the first train at the new East Linton Station is an historic moment for the local community. After so many decades without passenger services, people living and working in the area are very excited and will benefit greatly from improved transport connections.

"East Lothian Council has invested almost £3.5 million in this fantastic new infrastructure. With the county being one of Scotland's fastest growing areas, we believe the new station can also boost the local economy."