THE layout of the new £18.3 million Balgray Railway Station in Barrhead is beginning to take shape.
Construction got underway in July, with the project being delivered by Network Rail in partnership with East Renfrewshire Council, Transport Scotland, ScotRail, and Story Contracting.
New overhead line structures have been installed, as well as drainage and earthworks underway. Once complete in Autumn next year, it’ll feature two platforms connected by a footbridge with lifts, along with waiting shelters, ticket machines, and secure cycle storage.
The station will also have an 80-space car park with electric vehicle charging points, and new paths to link the platforms to nearby housing developments and the reservoir. A new bus turning circle and stop have already been delivered on Springfield Road by East Renfrewshire Council.
The next phase of work will focus on building the foundations for the footbridge and starting construction on the new car park. More earthworks and drainage will be carried out, and platform construction will continue. Early next year, the lift and footbridge will be installed.
A range of community benefit activities have also been delivered, including local employment opportunities, internships and industry placements, providing hands-on experience in rail engineering and infrastructure delivery. Nine pupils from Barrhead High School and St Luke’s High School also took part in a STEM-focused industry taster day, while more than 40 students have attended career events.
Ashley McDonald, scheme project manager at Network Rail Scotland, said, “We know how much this station will mean to the local community and it’s great to be able to share these early glimpses of how it’s progressing.
“The new station is about giving people more choice in how they get to work, visit family and friends and enjoy their free time. It makes rail a more convenient and accessible option for their everyday journeys.
“As the build continues, we’re committed to keeping the community updated and involved. It’s great to see the progress so far, and we’re looking forward to delivering a station that will make a real difference to the local area.”
East Renfrewshire Council leader, Owen O’Donnell, added, “It’s exciting to see Balgray station starting to take shape. We are very much looking forward to the new station opening in Autumn 2026.
“Having this new station in Barrhead is going to make a huge difference to our growing community there. Public transport options are set to be much improved between Barrhead and other parts of East Renfrewshire, as well as making it easier to travel to Glasgow city centre, and for visitors to access Dams to Darnley Country Park.”
