SNP councillor Davina McTiernan has revealed “positive developments” in the fight to have a new footbridge constructed at Stevenston Railway Station.

The original footbridge at the station was removed in the early 1980s while the line to Glasgow was electrified.

Now Cllr McTiernan is hopeful co-ordinated efforts by North Ayrshire Council and Network Rail could see a bridge created.

Last month, the Stevenston councillor pointed out that the rail barrier is lowered at Stevenston when a train reaches Kilwinning, and Ardrossan in the opposite direction.

This can mean pedestrians having to wait, often in the rain, for up to 10 minutes until a train has passed.

Speaking this week, Cllr McTiernan said: “I think it is unacceptable that people have to stand and wait for so long, so I asked council officials to liaise with Network Rail to see if we could have a new footbridge constructed over the railway at Stevenston Station.

“While there is some way to go before we have a new bridge, I’m delighted this work has already resulted in positive developments.

“Network Rail has confirmed it is now looking at improving the accessibility at the level crossing, and will continue to work with council officers on the issue.

“The council are also in the process of drafting an application to secure funding from Sustrans Scotland’s ‘Places for Everyone Fund’ to further investigate and prepare recommendations for improvements at Stevenston Station.”

Cllr McTiernan concluded: “I am very grateful to the officers of North Ayrshire Council and staff at Network Rail who continue to work together on this very important matter.”