Businesses have backed plans for a rail link to Glasgow Airport, council leaders have said.

Glasgow and Renfrewshire chambers of commerce jointly surveyed firms in the west of Scotland about their thoughts on the £144m project.

Frank McAveety, leader of Glasgow City Council and Mark McMillan, leader of Renfrewshire Council are meeting with the Transport Minister, Humza Yousaf, today to discuss the project and have raised the possibility of early delivery.

The leaders said the early indications were of strong support for the plans from the business community.

The survey results will be part of the outline business case for the link due to be published later this year.

Read more: Frank McAveety: Isn’t it time for the Scottish Government to commit to an airport rail link?

Mr McAveety said: “A new direct link between Glasgow Airport and the city centre is essential for the thousands of travellers who fly into and out of Glasgow every day.

“We’ll be looking for the full support of the Scottish Government and its agency, Transport Scotland, to not only commit to helping us deliver the rail link but also to speed up its delivery.”

There are two options. One is for a tram-train link form Central Station running on existing rail track before switching to a new tram line between Paisley and the airport.

Read more: Frank McAveety: Isn’t it time for the Scottish Government to commit to an airport rail link?

The other is for a light rail between Paisley Gilmour Street and the airport

Councillor Mark Macmillan, Leader of Renfrewshire Council, said: “We’re pleased that businesses, of all sizes, took the opportunity to have a direct input into the project. While we’re just beginning to analyse the results, early indications are that the local business community is right behind the project and eager for it to be delivered as soon as possible.

“In order for this project to progress, the transport agency Transport Scotland, needs to include it in future rail planning proposals due to be finalised next year. The project’s inclusion in this document is critical.”