Supporting retention of vital rail services

The Highland Council has unanimously agreed to support the campaign to retain direct rail links between Inverness and London (the Highland Chieftain) and the Fort William – London sleeper service.

The rail services are seen as vital transport links that support the economy of the Highlands.

Council Leader Michael Foxley said:  “We strongly oppose any proposal to remove these direct rail links between the Highlands and London, which will have a severe impact on local businesses and tourism.”

The Leader will send a letter to the Rt Hon Philip Hammond MP, Secretary of State for Transport, to highlight the Council’s support.

Later, the Council decided to write to the Scottish Government to reject any proposal to centralise the provision of policing and fire services in Scotland. The Council supports efforts to ensure that local accountability, control and service provision are delivered in the Highlands and Islands through closer integration and joint organisational arrangements.

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