tie Limited, the promoter of the Edinburgh Airport Rail Link (EARL) Bill, welcomes the Committee's Consideration Stage Report, and the support shown by the Committee to the progression of the Bill.

It was particularly pleased to note the Committee's praise of tie's open and conciliatory approach in dealing with objectors. This approach resulted in the number of objections dropping from 48 to 18 during Phase 1 of the Consideration Stage. None of the remaining objections were upheld by the Assessor or the EARL Committee.

Scott Barrie, Convener of the EARL Bill Committee, recommended that tie's approach to objectors should be used as a template for future Private Bill Promoters.

This transparent approach, as noted by the Committee, will continue through the construction phase by the implementation of the Noise and Vibration Policy and the Code of Construction Practice, which the Committee commended as a 'thorough, clear and detailed robust document'.

The scheme, which will construct a new railway station at Edinburgh Airport, will provide over three million Scots with direct rail access to Edinburgh Airport, placing it at the centre of the national rail network.

Barry Cross, Project Director, EARL, said: "We welcome the Committee's acknowledgement that the benefits of EARL outweigh the disbenefits and the Committee's thorough analysis of the scheme.

"From the outset, tie has adopted a transparent and conciliatory approach designed to accommodate objectors, where possible. I agree with the Committee that this has improved the Bill and ensured that solutions to most objections are in place.

"tie's approach certainly shows the benefits of a constructive and collaborative style."

View information about the EARL committee and the consideration stage report on the Scottish Parliament website.

For further information, please contact:
Gordon Robertson at Media House, t: 0131 555 1505 / m: 07887 542124
or
Jen Johnston at tie Limited, t: 0131 622 8330

Media Contact