Strathspey Railway

Thanks - I've not been on the A21 in over 20 years, and never as far south as Robertsbridge, but I was just vaguely wondering about the implications of level crossings relative to traffic levels.

 

No idea about the A21, but from a local perspective the A95 is an arterial route, its vitally important. Level crossings and or traffic lights are an absolute non starter.

 

The A21 has identical legal status, is also an arterial route, and the only main road access from London to Hastings (both a tad larger than Aviemore and Keith!). That's why I'm curious about traffic volumes, for an objective comparison - I realise the politics will be different and don't wish to argue them.

I acknowledge that the question is hypothetical given that at the crossing point it is a fast road, compared with the Rother Valley close to a roundabout.

 

I can tell you from experience the A21 is a very busy road, especially in summer.

 

Which is what I remember from 20-25 years ago on weekend day trips to places like Rye

 

Does Strathspey really need to extend any further? I know Grantown is a WIBN project but in the forseeable future a longer railway is not necessarily a more cost effective one, indeed the opposite is likely to be the case. Better to concentrate on developing what you have at present and make that a more manageable and sustainable enterprise.

Peter

 

I think Grantown is the natural destination for the Strathspey, its a bit like the SVR terminating at Hampton Loade this year, perfectly feasible and gives a nice journey - but as nice as Hampton Loade is, the train doesn't really end up anywhere. Broomhill offers even less - its a good 30 minute walk to Nethy Bridge, its essentially a platform in the middle of nowhere.
Grantown on the other hand is a lovely town, far more traditional than Aviemore with a great range of independent shops, hotels and woodland walks. There is no doubt it would make the Strathspey if it could happen, as it would give it a really nice destination - after all isn't that the point of a railway?

 

Grantown is more than justified. The current line terminus is practially in the middle of nowhere, and offers virtually nothing compared to what is on offer in Grantown. Its a huge boost to the town and completes the railway.

The true WIBN is Craigellachie or Nairn over Dava. Grantown is a realistic and feasible end point for the railway. It also deserves a connection to the network. I cant be the fist person to wonder if the occasional railtour or special Scotrail service could be run from there. A rail connection makes a massive contribution to these places, and we are sorely lacking connections up here.

It can be done, but it is going to need some political support.

 

Back in 1980 (I think) we made the thought of going via Craigellachie a bit more difficult.
I was in a Royal Engineers unit that was sent to install a footbridge Suspension bridge on the formation near Aberlour.
I know that I was not very popular with some salmon fishermen as I drove my digger up and down the river collecting rocks for the anchorage.