Media centre

Monday 13 Aug 2012

AGREEMENT REACHED ON WAVERLEY ACCESS PROPOSALS

Region & Route:

Scotland’s Railway: Scotland

Taxis will continue to operate from Waverley Station following the development of a draft agreement between Network Rail and City of Edinburgh Council.

At a high level meeting at Waverley Station on Friday (10 August), a proposal was agreed which would allow taxis access to the station via a secure, controlled entry system. Access for specialised disabled organisation vehicles will also be maintained as part of the agreement.

Drop-offs for private vehicles will be moved to Market Street, while free short term parking for up to 30 minutes will be arranged in New Street car park to the south of the station.

Network Rail and City of Edinburgh Council will aim to have the new arrangements in place by January 2013.

David Simpson, Network Rail route managing director, Scotland commented:

“Network Rail is in a difficult position of having to balance security concerns with passenger convenience. The status quo of letting open access for all vehicles into the station is no longer acceptable for a major transport hub, however, we’ve listened to a wide range of user groups and understand that taxi pick ups and drop offs at Waverley are a benefit which would be sorely missed.

“That’s why we are pleased to have a proposal in place with City of Edinburgh Council which will see a controlled number of taxis continue to use the station facilities. We are certain that this arrangement, combined with the enhancements which are now in place at Waverley will make the station a better environment for all users.”

Councillor Lesley Hinds, Transport Convener for the City of Edinburgh Council, said:
“I am very pleased that we have been able to work constructively with Network Rail to reach this welcome agreement regarding vehicle access to Waverley Station. Both parties recognise the importance of balancing security concerns with the need to maintain adequate public access to the Station, especially for older people or those with mobility issues.

“The proposed arrangements will make it far easier for everyone – residents and visitors - to get in and out of the Station, including pedestrians, taxis, cars and cycles, as well as providing a more welcoming environment to visitors to Edinburgh.”

The agreement coincides with Tuesday’s (14 Aug) official completion of the Waverley Steps improvement project, which has seen escalators and lifts installed to Princes Street. A partial opening of the new Market Street entrance on Saturday (11 Aug) has also greatly enhanced access on the south side of the station. Combined, the two new accesses provide step free access through the station from north to south for the first time.