The multi year investment programme will replace ageing electrification equipment first installed on the North Clyde lines during the 1960s.
Network Rail has started a £20 million programme to renew overhead power line equipment across Scotland’s North Clyde railway network.
The works will focus on sections of the North Clyde lines connecting Helensburgh, Balloch and Milngavie through Glasgow’s west end and low level stations. The suburban railway is one of Scotland’s busiest rail corridors and the largest suburban rail network outside London.
Originally electrified in 1960, the North Clyde route marked the beginning of modern electric rail operations in Scotland. Much of the original infrastructure remains in place more than 65 years later and is now approaching the end of its operational life.
North Clyde electrification equipment to be replaced
Initial preparatory works are already underway, including refurbishment of cantilevers and supporting structures that hold overhead wires in place.
More intensive engineering works to replace sections of the overhead line equipment are planned during the Christmas and New Year periods over the next three years, when passenger demand is lower and disruption can be reduced.
Ross Moran said: “This stretch of railway was where electrification began in Scotland and marked a real turning point.”
He added that failures on the North Clyde network can quickly affect wider railway operations across Scotland, making early infrastructure renewal essential for long term reliability.
Mark Ilderton said the investment would improve reliability for passengers travelling across routes linking Argyll and Bute with West Lothian.
ScotRail said it would work closely with Network Rail to keep passengers informed during future engineering phases later this year.
No comments yet