1. Scotland’s Railways Malcolm Reed Chief Executive Transport Scotland

2. 2735 km track 344 Stations 75m Journeys 2005/06 10.9m tonnes freight 2004/05

3. The reality of growth Growth objectives implicit in policy framework Similar assumptions informed franchise specification and approach to rail freight ScotRail franchise carried more than 75m passengers in 2005-06 – up 23% over 2.5 years 10.9m tonnes of originating rail freight in 2004-05 – up 30% in 1 year

4. Powers of Scottish Ministers: –To develop a Rail Strategy for Scotland –To provide financial assistance for passenger, freight and other railway services –To fund Network Rail in Scotland –To specify Network Rail Outputs

5. Transport Scotland An Agency of the Scottish Executive Directly Accountable to Scottish Ministers Responsible for Policy and Delivery of Rail and Trunk Road Networks in Scotland –Driving delivery of the Scottish Executive’s £3 billion capital investment programme of transport improvements to 2010 and beyond –Supporting delivery of the Executive’s vision for sustainable transport in Scotland –Making a real difference for people and businesses using the national rail and road systems

6. New government Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Climate Change – Stewart Stevenson Wealthier and fairer, stronger and safer, healthier, smarter and greener Scotland Retains strong political commitment to rail Geography puts transport high on Scottish policy agenda; Rail devolution settlement gives confidence that Scotland can manage objectives effectively

7. New Direction? Continue expansion of rail network Alternative options: –Surface access to Edinburgh airport –Bus / rail enhancements in place of tram Emphasis on these elements from Scotland’s Railways: –Programme of electrification –Journey time improvements to Aberdeen and Inverness –Capacity improvements

8. Continue expanding and enhancing the network Larkhall-Milngavie Stirling-Alloa-Kincardine Waverley station Glasgow airport rail link Airdrie-Bathgate Borders rail link Mossend-Elgin

9. Continue with Scotland’s Railways National Transport Strategy and ‘Scotland’s Railways’ published December 2006 Set out long term vision 3 Strategic Outcomes: –Improving journey times and connections –Reducing emissions –Improving quality, accessibility and affordability Implemented through HLOS and Strategic Transport Projects Review – the post-2012 investment programme

10. In conclusion….. New Government, new powers, new projects, new opportunities; Increased service quality and reliability; Passenger and freight growth  clear policy and industry framework  securing best value for funders and users - Maximising the devolution dividend!