Work is set to begin on a project that will eventually see the return of passenger trains in the east of Fife.
Network Rail says a project aimed at constructing new stations at Leven and nearby Cameron Bridge will soon be under way.
The development will see 19 single track kilometres of railway to link Leven to the mainline train network.
Engineers are set to carry out vegetation clearance – as well as site survey and geological investigations – as part of the first phase of work, which will be ongoing until early 2021.
As part of the Scottish Government’s rail decarbonisation agenda, the line will also be prepared for future electrification.
Graeme Stewart of Network Rail’s Levenmouth project team said: “Although still at a very early stage, it is fantastic to see work happening literally preparing the ground and to inform the design of the line.
“As well as the promise of better connectivity this scale of investment to improve our transport infrastructure will help to deliver benefits to the economy.
“It will act as an enabler for growth, provide better access to employment and education opportunities and expanded social and leisure options for people all across the area.”
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