Rural depopulation can be reversed by good transport links, says north Green MSP
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GOOD public transport networks can reverse rural depopulation trends and revitalise communities, according to north MSP, Ariane Burgess.
She wants to see better rail and ferry links as well as improved integration with other transport services.
Ms Burgess, speaking in a debate in the Scottish Parliament, highlighted the problems by pointing out that if a train is late arriving in Thurso, it makes it difficult for people who want to catch the ferry to Stromness in Orkney from Scrabster and could leave them "unexpectedly stranded."
The Green MSP for the Highlands and Islands claimed public transport should be affordable and fit for the future.
She also made a plea for free ferry transport for young people in addition to the free bus travel for under 22’s which the Scottish Greens in their agreement with the Scottish Government delivered earlier this year.
The MSP said: "If the train to Thurso is late, this makes connecting with the ferry to Stromness from Scrabster challenging, leaving people unexpectedly stranded.
"With Scotrail now in public ownership thanks to the Scottish Government and the Greens, this paves the way for new, exciting ways of collaborating and integrating with the rail network.
"We should also build on the bold new policy of free bus travel for under 22s and offer free ferries for young people as well.
"Good public transport networks have the potential to reverse rural depopulation trends, revitalise communities and make islands more accessible for those who walk, wheel and cycle," added Ms Burgess.
Meanwhile, a scheme offering half-price train travel in Scotland next month has been announced by ScotRail.
The reduction will apply to fares on all weekday off-peak services between any two of the country's stations.
ScotRail unveiled the initiative the day after a UK scheme offering half-price tickets was launched.
The scheme is aimed at attracting people back to the railways after the pandemic affected passenger numbers.
