Three quarters of people in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire support reopening rail links to Ellon, Peterhead and Fraserburgh, according to new polling commissioned by the region’s chamber of commerce.
A survey of 1,303 adults carried out between 23 and 26 March found broad backing for reinstating services from Aberdeen to the three towns, with 78% of respondents in favour of reopening the line to Ellon and to Peterhead, and 76% backing the reconnection to Fraserburgh.
The polling was commissioned by Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce (AGCC) and True North Advisors and conducted by Diffley Partnership using the ScotPulse online panel. Campaigners and business groups have cited the results in calls for investment in transport infrastructure in the north‑east of Scotland.
“The results strengthen the case for investment,” an AGCC statement said.
Business leaders involved with the chamber have argued restoring services would improve connectivity, support local economies and better integrate outlying communities with Aberdeen and the wider rail network.
The findings come shortly after the Scottish National Party (SNP) said in its manifesto launch it would “advance consideration” of restoring rail services to Ellon, Peterhead and Fraserburgh if re‑elected. The two towns are among the largest in the UK without a direct rail connection, a factor cited by local campaigners pressing for the line reinstatement.
Proposals to reopen former branch lines to these towns have been discussed intermittently for years as part of larger debates over regional transport priorities. Reinstatement would require significant capital investment for track and would need to be weighed against restricted public funds for transport in Scotland.
The polling focused on public opinion across Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire and did not examine the views of transport authorities, national government or independent infrastructure bodies that would be responsible for feasibility assessments and funding decisions.
AGCC chief executive Russell Borthwick said: “People want a north-east that is better connected, easier to move around, and fit for the future. For too long, infrastructure gaps and outdated regulations have held back our city centre and disconnected key Aberdeenshire communities.
“The success of reinstating the Borders Railway and Levenmouth in Fife shows what can be achieved with credible plans, a good business case and public support. The next Scottish Government must act decisively to reopen vital rail links in the North-east and unlock economic growth.”
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Campaign for North East Rail (CNER) general secretary Jordan Jack said: “Connecting Fraserburgh, Peterhead and Ellon to the wider rail network would breathe new life into our communities and local economies at exactly the right time, as we move through the transition to renewables.
“Businesses, residents and workers across the North-east are calling for these connections. It is now time for the next Scottish Government to press ahead and get spades in the ground. This is the parliamentary term in which it can happen.”
