FOLLOWING proposals for a train stabling facility in the Gretna area, Dumfriesshire MP David Mundell and constituency MSP Oliver Mundell are encouraging local residents to become involved in a planned 12-week consultation.
Both politicians have been assured by the company behind the plan, HS2 Ltd., that they will contact residents directly affected by the proposals and will also stage online information events to engage with near-by communities.
The local parliamentarians welcomed the prospect of new jobs in the future and substantial investment over a period of time associated with the proposal but are keen to hear the views of constituents.
They pointed out that such a large long-term UK Government infrastructure project would potentially also benefit the wider area.
A site between the A74(M) and West Coast Main Line is under consideration for the facility which would to stable and carry out light maintenance on high-speed trains using the existing line serving north west England and Scotland.
In a joint-statement, David and Oliver Mundell commented: “In the current economic climate, any proposal to create jobs and investment locally is welcome.
"This has the potential to provide long-term employment opportunities in an area which has seen challenges as a result of the decommissioning of Chapelcross and recent issues affecting wedding industry.”
"Ultimately, it will be for local residents to give their views but we hope constituents will look at the proposals in the round.
"We would strongly encourage people to share their thoughts as part of the formal consultation.”