THE reopening of a rail link where passenger services were axed 50 years ago has been announced in a project estimated to cost £70 million.

It is hoped the move, which follows a long-running campaign, will lead to increased tourism and employment opportunities in the Levenmouth area of Fife.

The proposal of restoring the five-mile link with stops in Leven and Cameron Bridge emerged as the preferred option – combined with improved bus services and cycling and walking routes – in the Levenmouth Sustainable Transport Study.

Research suggested there will be 750,000 passengers boarding or alighting from trains in the area each year by 2037.

The route, which will link to the Fife Circle Line at Thornton North Junction, will take five years to complete. A push for its restoration has been led by the LevenMouth Rail Campaign.

Transport Minister Michael Matheson confirmed the project will now go forward to the detailed design phase. He also committed an additional £5 million to a Levenmouth blueprint fund.

Matheson said: “I am extremely pleased the case has been made for the Levenmouth rail link and I look forward to seeing this project being taken forward to the next stages of design. The detailed appraisal work that has been carried out suggests that improved transport links, which give Leven a direct rail link to Edinburgh, will lead to an enhanced local economy, bringing better access to employment and education and the potential for new investment.

“Easier and more sustainable travel options will make it easier for people to reach hospitals, schools and visit other areas of the country as well as giving better access to Levenmouth.

“I would like to acknowledge the hard work of local MSPs, elected members and interest groups that have campaigned for the reopening of this line and look forward to working with all partners to realise the benefits.”

The train journey time from Leven to Edinburgh is expected to take approximately 70 to 75 minutes.

Kirkcaldy SNP MSP David Torrance said the announcement was “incredible news”. He added: “This will bring huge potential to the area, not only allowing residents in the area to travel out with the area for employment, education and leisure, but also bringing huge economic potential for investment and tourism within the area with the backing of a good reliable public transport system.

“Credit must be given to the incredible work of the LevenMouth Rail Campaign. It has continually kept the rail link as a high-profile campaign at the forefront of the transport agenda.

“It is testament to their determination that despite multiple setbacks and years of campaigning they persevered to this moment today.”