A CAMPAIGN group to re-open railway stops in Mauchline and Cumnock has taken what it calls 'a significant step' towards their target.
The Cumnock and Mauchline Railway Stations Action Group is made up of local representatives, including ward councillors and community council members.
The group's campaign, which has received strong backing from locals, aims to bring back railway stations to the towns - after they were both closed in 1965.
With backing from local businesses, the public and politicians, the group believes that one day the towns can once again have their stops.
Last week, members made strides towards achieving their goal by holding a meeting with bosses from Transport Scotland.
The meeting addressed long-standing community demands, reflected in Mauchline’s Local Action Plan along with a public petition, for local access to train services.
The hope is that reopening the two stations will cut the number of cars on the area's roads and open up new travel opportunities for work, education and leisure - as well as attracting more people to the area.
A group spokesperson said: "The steering group has voiced concerns over the limitations of the A76, particularly at Mauchline Cross, where there is frequent congestion.
"The group is advocating for the use of existing rail infrastructure as a safer and more efficient alternative. Reinstating the stops would provide local residents with direct connections to employment, education, and urban centres across Scotland, including links to destinations south of Carlisle.
"Additionally, the group believes improved rail services could bolster tourism and stimulate economic growth in the region.
"The return of these stations could open the door to new opportunities, fostering development and enhancing quality of life for locals.
"Further meetings with East Ayrshire Council and Transport Scotland are planned to advance the proposal."
The old Mauchline railway station stood on the line that is still in operation today between Kilmarnock and Dumfries.
Cumnock was previously home to not one but two railway stations.
The original - which opened in 1850 - also stood on today's Kilmarnock-Dumfries line, but was closed to passengers in 1965, on the same date that the station in Mauchline was permanently shut.
It was located off the A70 at Barrhill Road, and the site is now occupied by the Bute House care home.
The second Cumnock station, around three-quarters of a mile south of the town centre, opened in 1872 and closed in September 1951.
It was located off Cairn Road, near the junction with Recreation Road, on a now-closed line that ran south from Annbank and also featured stations at Ochiltree, Dumfries House and Cronberry.
You can also help by liking and following the group's Facebook page - Cumnock & Mauchline Railway Stations Action Group.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here