SOME rail services are to return to Ayr Railway Station next week following the completion of safety works at the fire-damaged former Ayr Station Hotel, Network Rail has said.
Services at the station were halted in late September last year after the fire caused ‘extensive’ damage to the nearby station.
South Ayrshire Council commenced safety works on the privately owned building in October with the project due for completion on June 17, with direct services from Ayr and Glasgow set to return on the same day.
Network Rail engineers are already removing debris and repainting the tracks in preparation for the return of trains. The organisation added that a full timetable is expected to be in operation by mid-July.
Liam Sumpter, MD of Network Rail Scotland, said, “Our thanks go to South Ayrshire Council for completing the critical safety work at the former Ayr Station Hotel.
“Our teams are working hard to have the track ready and alongside our colleagues at ScotRail we’re looking forward to welcoming passengers back to the station and on to services next week.
“We’d like to thank passengers and the Ayr community for their patience and understanding during the station closure.”
David Lister, ScotRail safety, sustainability, and asset director, added, “The devastating fire at the former station hotel has had a significant impact on ScotRail services in the south west of Scotland and we have worked closely and collaboratively with South Ayrshire Council, Network Rail, and other partners during this challenging period.
“We know how much people rely on rail services, so we’re pleased that from 17 June, we’ll be able to reintroduce electric services between Ayr and Glasgow and will work with Network Rail to complete all activities required to re-establish services south of Ayr due to the extended period of closure.
“We’re grateful to customers for their patience and understanding while we work towards the full return of services later in July.”
