Rail improvements on track
Calls continue for line electrification
Investment in the East Kilbride rail line remains on track with the Scottish Government confirming the route has been prioritised for enhancement.
Campaigners and beleaguered commuters have long called for much-needed improvements to the line between the town and Glasgow – with local politicians calling for electrification of the route.
East Kilbride MSP Linda Fabiani raised the issue in the Scottish Parliament where it was confirmed that initial investment will see longer trains with more seats for passengers.
Upgrades including electrification and dual track were also proposals put forward during Network Rail’s last Route Study.
But Ms Fabiani was told by Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Michael Matheson, that he would be making “a positive announcement soon”.
It has not been confirmed whether this is in regards to electrification or dual tracking, however.
Ms Fabiani said: “Although our train service has been better of late, I was pleased to hear from the Scottish Government that Transport Scotland, Network Rail and Scotrail are working to improve our train service to bring benefits to passengers for years to come.
“I stressed the inadequacy of the single-track line and how it currently does not fit the Scottish Government’s aspirations regarding low emissions and carbon reduction.
“It is reassuring to know the Cabinet Secretary recognised my concerns and that serious consideration is being given to the infrastructure arrangements to provide a viable alternative to those who currently drive into town.
“Following the exchange in the chamber, I discussed longer term requirements with Scotrail and Network Rail, also raising the matter of inadequate Park and Ride facilities at East Kilbride’s two stations.
“East Kilbride is certainly on their agenda, and I will keep residents informed.”
East Kilbride Central North councillor and leader of the Labour group in South Lanarkshire, Joe Fagan, launched a petition earlier this year calling for the electrification and upgrade of the line which has garnered nearly 300 signatures.
He told the News:“Network Rail put proposals for the electrification and upgrading of the East Kilbride line on the table during their last Route Study and that includes the option of dual track.
“Those proposals would improve reliability and tackle overcrowding and give East Kilbride the modern railway the town needs.
“The Transport Secretary must commit to backing the Network Rail proposals in full for the new Control Period.
“Anything less would be a let down to a community that has already waited too long for investment.
“It is important that we keep up the pressure on the SNP Government and demonstrate the strength of feeling that there is among the travelling public. Passengers and the whole community can sign up to my petition online and join calls for the upgrading of the rail line.
“Like others, I have received assurances that we will see improvements by December and there have been some signs of progress when it comes to the quality of local services.”
Tory Central Scotland MSP Graham Simpson said: “Linda Fabiani and I recently met senior rail industry representatives to discuss the situation at East Kilbride.
“While there has been no announcement, it was the most positive meeting that I have been involved in regarding the line.
“I am certain that we are going to see improvements. Hopefully there will be good news for East Kilbride passengers soon.”
A Transport Scotland spokesperson said: “We have prioritised the East Kilbride and Barrhead routes for enhancement as part of the control period 6 project funding.
“The first part of the improvement is to run longer trains with more seats for passengers along both routes. The work necessary to deliver that is being undertaken, and we expect to make a positive announcement soon.
“Transport Scotland, Network Rail and ScotRail are working together closely to develop plans that will deliver better resilience, more capacity, reduced emissions and major passenger benefits during the coming years. Detailed work has already commenced to assess the most economic means of delivering those outcomes and this will involve on site surveys to inform decisions about how best to proceed.”