Optimism at St Andrews rail link feasibility study
Campaigners calling for the restoration of a direct rail link to St Andrews have welcomed a new report suggesting the line could be reinstated for £76m.
Lobby group Starlink have said that an hourly service, introduced between the Fife town and Edinburgh, would pay for itself.
They maintain that a rail link would help boost the town's tourism numbers and reduce traffic on the A91.
The line to St Andrews was closed in 1969.
Campaigners believe that it would be feasible to introduce an hourly service to Edinburgh, reaching Cupar in 10 minutes, Dunfermline in 49 minutes and the Edinburgh Airport interchange in 69 minutes.
A half-hourly service to Dundee, arriving at Leuchars in six minutes, Dundee in 20, and including a stop at Wormit, would also prove popular, the feasibility study suggested.
A Transport Scotland spokesman said further studies would have to be carried out before the project could move forward.
He added: "The proposals must be discussed with the local regional transport partnership, SEStran, and a STAG appraisal considering all transport options, not just rail, must be carried out."