Airdrie’s new park and ride facility, adding extra capacity for commuters travelling to the town’s station, has been officially opened.
The £200,000 facility at Cairnhill Road provides 40 spaces, including two suitable for wheelchair users, as well as an area for bikes and motorcycles.
It also includes a CCTV system monitored by Town Centre Activities, energy-efficient LED lighting and underground ducting to allow the future installation of charging points for electric vehicles.
The car park was officially opened by representatives of North Lanarkshire Council, Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT) and Robertsons Partnership Homes, who constructed the adjacent 14 new council houses.
Both developments were constructed following the demolition of the former Alexandra Primary from the site at Broomknoll Street and Cairnhill Road.
The 120-year-old building had housed Alexander’s School, Airdrie Academy and finally Alexandra Primary, and was vacated when the latter school – now named All Saints – moved to its new building seven years ago.
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Environment and transport convener Michael McPake, the Glenboig councillor, said: “This new facility increases the park and ride capacity at Airdrie station by 33 per cent, making it easier for commuters to use the train service and reducing road congestion.
“Alongside the new council housing, it has regenerated an area of land close to the town centre and improved local services for residents of Airdrie.”
SPT vice-chair Alan Moir added: “The new park and ride will help encourage people to switch to rail and reduce the need to travel by car.
“We’re delighted to have helped fund this project in Airdrie, demonstrating our commitment to delivering more sustainable travel choices.”
Councillor McPake, centre, and Mr Moir, right, are pictured with Airdrie councillors Trevor Douglas, Sandy Watson, Nancy Pettigrew and Jim Logue, as well as council and Robertsons representatives.
