BAA objects to plans to link airport with rail network

EDINBURGH airport has objected to plans to connect it to the rail network, fearing a proposed tunnel under the runway could cause subsidence and increase the costs of a second runway.

BAA, which runs the airport, said the 650 million scheme could "adversely affect" the airport's future operation and growth. The authority said it disagreed with the developers over many key aspects of the scheme, which "increases the financial, technical, safety and operational risk" to both parties.

BAA said it would not contribute funding unless it was satisfied the scheme was in the airport's best interests. The authority also questioned the cost as well as the disruption to the airport during construction work.

The project would involve diverting trains on several lines through the airport. A spokesman for TIE, which is developing the scheme for the Scottish Executive, said: "We have been working hard with BAA over the design of this project and are confident the issues can be resolved."