Balgray's new railway station in Barrhead is set to begin operations several weeks ahead of schedule, with final preparations now under way before it welcomes its first passengers.

The opening has been confirmed for Sunday 27 September, brought forward from the originally planned November date.

Built to serve a growing population and to strengthen links to and from Glasgow, the station is expected to make everyday journeys for work, education and leisure easier, and to attract more visitors to nearby destinations such as Dams to Darnley Country Park.

The scheme forms part of the Glasgow City Region City Deal, funded by the UK and Scottish Governments and East Renfrewshire Council. It is being delivered by Network Rail in partnership with East Renfrewshire Council, Transport Scotland, ScotRail and Story Contracting.

With the main construction phase complete, teams are completing snagging and finishing works and undertaking compliance and safety checks, including a series of test trains running to and from the station this month.

-- Advertisement --

Jeremy Spence, route delivery director at Network Rail Scotland, said: "One of the best ways to grow rail travel is to make the railway easier to access, and Balgray station will do exactly that. It will provide a new connection to the rail network for a growing community, making journeys by train a more convenient option for both residents and visitors.

"Although the physical construction work is now complete, the project is far from finished. Teams are carrying out a comprehensive programme of testing, safety assurance and final finishing works to make sure everything is ready for passengers when the station opens."

Facilities at the new station include two platforms linked by a footbridge with lifts, waiting shelters, cycle storage and ticket machines. An 80-space car park with electric vehicle charging is provided for passengers, and walkways from the platforms will connect directly to Balgray reservoir paths and nearby housing developments.

East Renfrewshire Council leader, Owen O'Donnell, said: "I'm delighted that the new Balgray Station will welcome passengers in just a matter of months. This station will bring huge benefits for the existing community in Barrhead as well as residents from the new housing developments nearby. It will provide improved access to jobs, education and services, as well as supporting our aspirations to have better connections across East Renfrewshire. It also allows for a much-improved public transport link to Dams to Darnley Country Park, which combined with the upgrades to Aurs Road will enhance the area even further. I look forward to my first journey from the station."

Mark Ilderton, ScotRail service delivery director, said: "The opening of Balgray station is fantastic news for the local community and everyone who travels by rail in East Renfrewshire.

"By creating a new gateway to the railway, it will give people more choice over how they travel and make it easier to leave the car at home for everyday journeys."