PLANS have been approved for the £18.3 million build of a new railway station at Balgray in East Renfrewshire.
Network Rail and East Renfrewshire Council have been working with Transport Scotland, ScotRail, and Story Contract to plan and design the new station, which will have two platforms connected by a footbridge with lifts.
There will also be an 80-space car park for passengers, with 10 charging points for electric vehicles, as well as waiting shelters, cycle storage, and ticket machines. Footpaths and cycle paths will lead into the station and will be easily accessible for residents in nearby homes by walking, wheeling or cycling.
As part of the build, which will be led by Story Contracting, a direct path from the station to Dams to Darnley Country Park will be created, allowing easier access for visitors arriving for, and departing after, a day out.
The project has received a funding award of £18.3 million from the Glasgow City Region City Deal.
Craig Lafferty, operations director at Story Contracting (Scotland), said, “Story are really proud to be constructing this new station, which will bring significant benefits to the local community. Working in partnership with Network Rail and East Renfrewshire Council, this project will not only enhance the rail network but also provide step-free access between platforms, making Balgray Station accessible to people of all mobility levels.”
“The new station will provide sustainable transport options, better connecting people to employment, education, leisure and business opportunities. We welcome this innovative plan for the delivery of a new station and would encourage other promoters to consider this approach.”
Gerry McQuade, capital delivery director at Network Rail, commented, “A new railway station in this area of Barrhead will be transformative for people who don’t currently use the train, and will also provide a cleaner, greener way to visit the green space and countryside in East Renfrewshire.
“We will work hard with our partners to deliver this new station for our customers and the wider community.”
