A crucial rail upgrade scheduled between East Kilbride and Glasgow is expected to commence in January 2025, with significant enhancements planned.
- The 16-week project aims to electrify and modernise the railway, improving reliability and reducing emissions in line with ecological goals.
- Passengers should prepare for service disruptions and replacement buses as comprehensive work is undertaken on the railway infrastructure.
- Key developments include new stations, accessibility improvements, and the installation of a 22km power line.
- Essential work will see tracks adjusted under bridges, with operations to be completed late next year.
The electrification and upgrade of the railway from East Kilbride to Glasgow, scheduled to start in January 2025, is a significant development within Network Rail’s broader initiative. This £140 million project, funded by the Scottish Government, not only aims to enhance service reliability but also to contribute to reducing carbon emissions. It represents an essential segment of the nation’s ongoing green efforts.
A round-the-clock work schedule spanning 16 weeks will be implemented as engineers progress with the electrification. During this period, service interruptions between East Kilbride and Thornliebank are inevitable. Passengers are urged to plan alternative travel, as the line will be closed for crucial work on tracks, bridges, and the installation of overhead line equipment.
Significant changes include the electrification of a 22.4km stretch of railway, alongside the construction of new stations at East Kilbride and Hairmyres. Hairmyres will boast two platforms and be equipped with an accessible footbridge. Upgrades are also planned for existing stations, with the addition of a footbridge at Busby and a new entrance at Clarkston. A fresh footbridge is planned for Giffnock, ensuring enhanced accessibility across various stations.
Between 25 January and 18 May, work on the 22km segment will entail the installation of new power cables and the extension of double-tracking between East Kilbride and Hairmyres. The tracks around Busby, Clarkston, and Giffnock will be adjusted to fit new overhead lines beneath the existing bridges. A bus replacement service will help mitigate passenger disruptions during these crucial works.
Gerry McQuade, Network Rail’s delivery director, acknowledges the challenge of closing the railway, yet emphasises the necessity of such an approach. He notes, ‘This approach allows the completion of these major works in the most efficient, fastest way.’ The programme’s schedule underscores the importance of preparedness for both passengers and those living near the railway.
Mark Ilderton from ScotRail highlights the critical nature of these works. Alternative transport plans, including replacement buses, will be communicated to passengers through various channels, ensuring awareness and proper travel arrangements. Meanwhile, Damian Briody from Transport Scotland appreciates the careful planning involved, which aims to lessen passenger inconvenience while delivering substantial upgrades.
The endeavour is a collaborative effort involving several contractors, including Story Contracting, AmcoGiffen, SPL Powerlines, Siemens, Rail Systems Alliance Scotland, and WSP. The anticipation is that these enhancements will not only improve passenger travel experiences but also significantly support Scotland’s ecological ambitions.
This significant rail upgrade underscores the commitment to enhancing infrastructure and reducing carbon footprints in Scotland.
