ENGINEERS will work ‘around-the-clock’ for 16 weeks from January to deliver a critical part of the £140 million project to enhance the railway between East Kilbride and Glasgow.
The project, which is being delivered by Network Rail and is part of a Scottish Government investment in the line, will help to decarbonise rail services as well as improve reliability for passengers.
Set for completion in December 2025, the investment will see the electrification of the line, new stations at East Kilbride and Hairmyres, a new footbridge at Busby Railway Station, improved access at Giffnock Railway Station with a new accessible footbridge, and a new station entrance at Clarkston.
No trains will run on the line between East Kilbride and Thornliebank stations from January 25 until May 18 whilst work is carried out to the track, bridges, and overhead line equipment along the route.
This ‘critical’ period in the electrification project will also see 22km of new overhead power cables installed and the lengthening of the double-track between East Kilbride and Hairmyres.
The existing track will also be lowered at locations near Busby, Clarkston, and Giffnock stations so that overhead line equipment can be accommodated under some bridges on the route.
Gerry McQuade, Network Rail capital delivery director, said, “This programme of extended engineering works is a critical point in the delivery of the electrification of the East Kilbride line. Closing the railway is never an easy decision, but the engineering work taking place over these 16 weeks can only be done when no trains are running. This approach allows the completion of these major works in the most efficient, fastest way.
“We do appreciate the impact this will have both on those living closest to the line and to our passengers. We hope that by advising people three-months ahead of the work starting, this raises awareness and allows people the time to consider alternative travel arrangements.”
Mark Ilderton, ScotRail service delivery director, added, “The works being carried out by Network Rail are absolutely critical in the latest phase of the project to electrify the railway on the East Kilbride line. Unfortunately, during the 16-week closure, we will be unable to operate trains to and from East Kilbride, and an alternate transport plan will help to make sure customers are still able to travel.
“In the coming weeks, we will communicate the plan through all our customer information channels, including where replacement buses will operate, and the other routes available for customers.”
Damian Briody, Transport Scotland’s head of rail projects and technical services, commented, “This announcement marks the build-up to the latest phase of progress on the East Kilbride electrification project. Whilst any disruption to passengers is unwelcome, we acknowledge the careful consideration which has gone into delivering the significant improvement works taking place during the closure.
“It is welcome that Network Rail and ScotRail have listened to passengers in planning these works and that they will continue to work closely together to ensure these passengers can make informed journey planning choices.”
