Work is continuing on a project to repair a vital viaduct on the West Coast Mainline in South Lanarkshire, Transport Scotland has announced.

Engineers are underway trying to stabilise the structure after floodwater damage during Storm Frank weakened one of the stone piers in Lamington.

Large sections of the original stone foundations have subsequently been washed away.

Over 1,500 tonnes of stone has been used to create a temporary damn across part of the River Clyde to allow engineers to access the piers base.

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Around 150 tonnes of quick-setting concrete will be pumped into the void during the weekend, recreating the pier base before additional work begins to strengthen the structure/realign and repair the railway track above.

It is understood the line will be reopened on 01 February.

Scottish Government Transport Minister Derek Mackay joined Network Rail MD for Scotland Phil Verster and UK Government Rail Minister Clare Perry last week to oversee the repair operations.

Mr Verster said: "Our engineers are working hard in very challenging conditions to stabilise and strengthen the structure.

"The West Coast Mainline is a vitally important transport link for passengers and freight and we are committed to completing these works and reopening the line for customers as quickly as we can."

(LM)