WORK to install the foundations of a new footbridge at the relocated Hairmyres Railway Station has begun.
Forming part of the East Kilbride enhancements project, the work will see Network Rail and contractor AmcoGiffen carry out piling works over the next two weeks (July 11-25).
Engineers will use a 58-tonne piling rig to drive 24 steel pile foundations to depths of between 2m to 5m to support the new footbridge and lifts.
Once complete, the footbridge and lifts will provide step free access to the two platforms for passengers. A double tracked section of the route will run between the platforms to help keep trains running on time.
Paul Reilly, Network Rail’s senior programme manager for the station works, said, “The piling marks an important and exciting stage in the delivery of the project, as it’s a critical step in then allowing the installation of an accessible footbridge at the new Hairmyres station. Once the foundations are in place, we can start to focus on the construction of the lift towers and bridge deck, as well as the framework for the new station building which people will see emerging from the site over the coming months.
“When the construction of Hairmyres station is complete by summer 2025, it will provide a modern and accessible environment for passengers; whilst the electrification of the East Kilbride to Glasgow line will help encourage more people to switch from cars to rail and generate an even greener railway.”
The new Hairmyres station is located about 600m west of its current location. As well as activity at Hairmyres, work at East Kilbride station to extend the existing platform by 51m finished in May.
The rebuild of two bridges on the route completed in the spring, with work underway on two more at Thornliebank Road and Westerton Lane near Busby Station. Over 160 steel foundations have been installed along the track to provide the base for new overhead masts which will support the overhead power cables.
