East Kilbride-Glasgow Rail Route to Undergo 16-Week Closure for Electrification

Network Rail has announced that the rail link connecting East Kilbride and Glasgow will be shut down for a four-month period, commencing at the end of January. This closure is part of a £140m initiative focused on electrifying the line. Additionally, new stations are slated for construction at East Kilbride and Hairmyres. This undertaking, executed by Network Rail and supported by a Scottish government investment, seeks to achieve the decarbonisation of rail services and improve passenger reliability. The completion of all works is anticipated by December 2025. Artist impressions reveal that the forthcoming Hairmyres station will incorporate two platforms and an accessible footbridge. Furthermore, new footbridges are planned for construction at Busby station and Giffnock, and Clarkston station will receive a new entrance. Train services will be suspended on the section of the line between East Kilbride and Thornliebank stations from 25 January to 18 May. This suspension is necessary to facilitate work on the track, bridges, and overhead line equipment along the corridor. Within this timeframe, 22km of overhead power cables will be installed, and the double-track segment between East Kilbride and Hairmyres will be lengthened. Close to Busby, Clarkston, and Giffnock stations, the current track will be lowered to allow for the installation of overhead line equipment beneath certain bridges. Gerry McQuade, Network Rail’s capital delivery director, commented: “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.”” Mr. McQuade acknowledged the anticipated impact of the closure on residents near the line and on passengers. He stated: “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.” Travelers are encouraged to consult the ScotRail or National Rail websites in the upcoming weeks for details regarding the substitute bus service and to make appropriate plans for their journeys.