GLASGOW’S SNP council leader hit back yesterday after her administration was accused of betraying the city by axing plans for a direct rail link to its airport.

Councillor Susan Aitken said there were serious doubts about the viability of such a project, following an attack by Labour leader Frank McAveety.

A direct rail link was included in a £1.13 billion Glasgow City Region deal agreed in 2014. Alternative proposals were revealed last week for a shuttle pod system between the airport and Paisley Gilmour Street.

McAveety said: “This is the second time that Glasgow has had its rail link project axed by the SNP. Glasgow is one of few cities of its size that does not have a dedicated rail link to its airport. This is a betrayal for the city.”

Aitken said improving connections to the airport is a key priority but added: “Serious doubts remain about the viability of the option Mr McAveety continues to champion.”