WORK on three railway bridges in Hairmyres is set to get underway this month as part of Network Rail’s East Kilbride enhancement project.
The activity marks the start of wider engineering works on the £139.8 million electrification project, which forms part of a Scottish Government investment to decarbonise passenger services.
Network Rail and Story engineers will begin work to replace a bridge at Thornton Road on December 11 until April 9, with the structure closing to traffic and a diversionary route in place during this time.
Work to a footbridge close to Hairmyres station and neighbouring Eaglesham Court will take place from December 11, with a footpath diversion in place until 21 February. A third bridge near Thornton Farm, which has been out of use for a number of years, will be demolished.
Gerry McQuade, Network Rail capital delivery director, said, “The bridge works are the starting point for our two-year programme to deliver the East Kilbride enhancement project. After several months of planning, along with our contractor Story, the team’s excited to be on the ground as the bridge works get underway.
“The three bridges are the first of several structures we’ll be replacing or modifying along the line of route. This will allow the installation of the new overhead equipment that will power a greener and more reliable railway for our passengers and lineside neighbours.
“Given the scale of the engineering being delivered over the Christmas and New Year period, and the road closure and footpath diversion in place, we fully appreciate the patience and support of the community during this time.”
