AMBITIOUS plans could see a second platform created at Dunbar Railway Station.

Proposals to extend the car park on the northern side of the line have already been drawn up by East Lothian Council.

Now, Network Rail is also looking at the possibility of creating a second platform, which would be on the Hallhill side of the line.

Ward councillor Michael Veitch, the local authority’s spokesman for transport and roads, told the Courier: “Network Rail have it in their plans for a second platform but I have no idea when it would be built – but it would be hugely welcome.

“The main benefit for the operator is they would be able to get trains more quickly between various stations.” A second platform could allow more high-speed trains travelling between Edinburgh and London. Similarly, it could open the door for more services between Dunbar and Edinburgh.

A spokesman for Network Rail said: “A second platform at Dunbar is being considered, but we’re only in the early stages of planning/design.

“At the moment, it would be too early to put a cost or timescale on such a project.

“The main benefit of building a second platform at Dunbar would be that it would increase flexibility for trains calling at/passing the station and in turn help to improve capacity on the line.” The councillor was also keen to see improved links between the station and the nearby underpass at Retreat Crescent.

He suggested steps and a path could link the two, rather than pedestrians having to head to Countess Road and then back along Station Road to reach the station.

The idea of a second platform was also discussed by local campaign group RAGES (Rail Action Group East of Scotland).