On 20th November FoFNL received this email from Phil Verster:

This is to let you know that ScotRail is the first private company to sign up to the Scotland's Town Centre First Principle which aims to boost the economic, social and environmental fabric of the nation's towns.

The Scottish Government and COSLA jointly launched the Town Centre First Principle to encourage organisations to make long-term decisions and investment choices that acknowledge the importance of town centres.

As part of our commitment, we will create a Local Stations Strategy to help identify and deliver town centre investment and development projects. These could include initiatives such as residential, leisure or retail schemes, as well as partnerships with external organisations such as councils, house builders and developers.

We share the view of Derek Mackay, Minister for Transport and Islands, that good accessibility by public transport is a vital component of vibrant town centres. I am pleased that he has acknowledged how our approach builds on the valuable work we are doing through the Stations Community Regeneration Fund, which is breathing new life into old and disused railway station premises.

I would particularly endorse the minister's observations that stations can be a hub for local communities - with the opportunity to improve the rail experience, support community initiatives and create jobs.

If you know of opportunities where we can work in partnership to support town centre initiatives please contact my colleague iain.wilson@scotrail.co.uk

Regards
Phil Verster
Managing Director, ScotRail Alliance