WORK will soon begin to lay foundations for overhead powerlines along the Glasgow Central to East Kilbride railway as part of a multi-million pound investment in the route.
The project will see the line transformed to accommodate quieter, more environmentally friendly electric trains, while increasing the frequency of services and improving network resilience.
It will also include the upgrade of East Kilbride station, the relocation of Hairmyres station to a site 600m west of its current spot, as well as route-wide platform extensions, accessibility upgrades, enhanced timetables and active travel improvements along the route.
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A Scottish Government-funded investment, the project is part of the executive’s commitment to build a cleaner, greener railway, thanks to its decarbonisation plans.
Michael Matheson, cabinet secretary for transport, infrastructure and connectivity, said: “Our recently published Strategic Transport Projects Review (STPR2 Phase 1) sets out our ambitions for accelerating economic recovery and lays the groundwork for placing inclusive, greener transport options at the heart of future investment.
“Electrification of routes such as East Kilbride are a great example of how we aim to achieve this as we work towards our commitment of decarbonising rail passenger services by 2035.”
Contractors SPL will shortly begin on-site activities between Muirhouse South junction and Busby junction – including piling and constructing steelwork foundations to support overhead power masts.
This work will also support future electrification between Busby junction and Barrhead.
Alex Hynes, managing director of Scotland’s Railway, said: “The line to East Kilbride is a key transport corridor serving growing communities to the south of Scotland’s largest city.
“The enhancements we are delivering will transform the service we provide to our customers on this route and help ensure Scotland’s Railway plays its part in offering greener, more environmentally friendly travel options to the public.”
Linda Fabiani, East Kilbride MSP, said: “The benefits of these enhancements are huge – not only faster journey times and a more frequent, reliable service, but one too which is better for our environment. It really is exciting and will provide a service which users will welcome. I look forward to future announcements.”
Network Rail has also launched a survey to allow passengers the opportunity to share their thoughts on the delivery of the project.
This will allow Network Rail to consider views at the vital planning stage.
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