Glasgow Shettleston MSP, John Mason, last night welcomed confirmation from Transport Minister, Keith Brown, that The Scottish Government has no intention of closing any train stations in Glasgow – including Duke Street station, which serves the Dennistoun and Parkhead area of his constituency.

Mr Mason spoke in a Scottish Parliament Members’ debate last night which focussed on the future of Glasgow’s rail services. Keith Brown MSP, Minister for Transport, said unequivocally that there are “no plans and no intentions to close stations in Glasgow”.

Commenting, the SNP’s John Mason said:

“I am delighted that we have received this clear message from the Transport Minister; no station in Glasgow is under threat from closure –including Duke Street, which sees over 70,000 passengers a year.

“I took the opportunity in the debate to speak about my enthusiasm for railways and, particularly the new Glasgow to Edinburgh – via Bathgate – rail link which I personally use to get to Holyrood. This was a great investment in our transport infrastructure by the SNP Government.

“On top of that it is tremendous news that Dalmarnock Station is being upgraded at a cost of some £12 million. Also the Subway is getting a major refurbishment. All of this confirms how committed the SNP Government is to public transport in general and to Glasgow in particular.

“Longer term, I would like to see more investment in the rail network, including Cross Rail (through Glasgow Cross) and a new station at Parkhead Forge which would serve the Shopping Centre, Celtic Park and local businesses.

“Therefore, I am glad that we have received these reassurances concerning Duke Street Station and that it will continue to serve Dennistoun and Parkhead”.