Proposals by a campaign group calling for the improvement of Scotland’s rail network could lead to a new station built at Cambus.

Railfuture Scotland last week unveiled their nationwide proposals to the Scottish Government regarding the Scottish rail network’s future.

Alongside a variety of new proposals to upgrade and speed up the improvement of the infrastructure, they are calling for at least 50 stations to be reopened or built on already existing railway lines.

Among the proposed 50 stations is one at Cambus, where the original station closed to passenger traffic in 1968 after the Stirling-Alloa-Kincardine line was shut down. When the line was reopened over six years ago, a feasibility study explored the possibility of building a station in the village, but plans didn't get the go-ahead.

Commenting on the possibility of the new station, local councillor and Cambus resident George Matchett said: “It has been something I’ve been pushing for for a number years now, but the Cambus halt never happened.

“I am delighted that it is back on the agenda and I am sure it would help ease congestion on the A907 and surrounding road network.” However, the councillor revealed that there is no possibility of a station being built within the village itself, given that the land on which the previous station existed is now owned by Diageo.

He explained that the proposals in 2008 centered on building a station on a nearby field. Councillor Matchett added: “I think a new station would encourage people to leave their cars behind.” He also believes the proposal could benefit residents of other villages nearby, such as Tullibody.

Murdo Fraser, MSP for Mid-Scotland and Fife, welcomed the proposals, saying: “With the ScotRail franchise under new management there is a tremendous opportunity for the Scottish Government to invest in Scotland’s rail network.

“Nine new stations in Mid-Scotland and Fife would boost the local economy and act as a driver for inward investment.

“The Scottish Government have lacked ambition and vision with our rail network. Without real change it will never be a credible alternative to travelling by car, and the Scottish Government would do well to consider these proposals “ According to the proposals by Railfuture it is anticipated that the Cambus station would see a minimum usage of 138,000 per annum.

The campaign group is also calling for the rate of track electrifications to be doubled and for the modernisation of the signalling system – both would allow for faster and more frequent services. They have also proposed 23 new passenger and freight lines across the country.