Assurances sought over improvement works at Broughty Ferry rail station

Concerns have been raised whether works that have begun at Broughty Ferry railway station will be completed after the collapse of Carillion.

The firm was contracted last year by Network Rail to shorten the stepping distance between the surface and the train carriage at platform one at the station with work having begun just after New Year.

But with the company having now been plunged into liquidation, Ferry councillor Craig Duncan said assurances must be given by Network Rail that equipment won’t be left “lying abandoned” while the situation is clarified.

The company has sought to reassure the public, stating that “contingency plans” have been put in place to ensure all projects continue.

A Network Rail spokesperson said: “We are activating our contingency plans as a result of this unfortunate news.

“We will be working closely with the administrators and Carillion’s management team to ensure projects that they are working on continue and that the supply chain is maintained for this important work.

“Our aim is to ensure that this news has as little impact as possible on our projects to grow and expand the railway network.”

Mr Duncan said: “The bottom line is that I want the rail works to continue.

“What we don’t want is for there to be equipment lying abandoned for God knows how long.”

In 2014, Carillion was award two major UK Government contracts in a joint venture partnership with public services provider Amey.

The firms were handed the Scotland and Northern Ireland Regional Prime contract and re-secured the National Prime Housing contract, which have a combined estimated value of £1.7 billion.

The initial five-year contract involves management of 49,000 military homes and 30 key Ministry of Defence sites, including at Leuchars in Fife.

What we don’t want is for there to be equipment lying abandoned for God knows how long. COUNCILLOR CRAIG DUNCAN