The new Balgray Station in Barrhead is set to welcome its first passengers later this month, but the project has already created a significant legacy for the local community through investment, skills development and employment opportunities.
Delivered through the Glasgow City Region City Deal and funded by the UK and Scottish governments alongside East Renfrewshire Council, the new station will strengthen rail connectivity between Barrhead and Glasgow while creating lasting social and economic value across the region.
More than 350 young people have participated in careers, STEM and employability initiatives linked to the project, helping to showcase the wide range of opportunities available within the rail industry.
Students from Barrhead High School and St Luke's High School took part in a dedicated railway industry taster day, while pupils at St Mark's and Hillview primary schools were challenged to design railway stations and construct model bridges as part of classroom learning activities.
The project has also provided valuable industry experience for students and trainees. Graduate apprentice Karan Raj joined through Story Contracting's early careers programme, while engineering student Kieran Mooney completed more than 580 hours of on-site learning. Local resident Brandon Wotherspoon secured a permanent position after completing a year-long scheme delivered through the QTS Rail Skills Academy.
"As well as building a new station, we've built strong connections with the local community, and that's been one of the most rewarding parts of the project. Seeing young people take their first steps towards a career in rail has been particularly inspiring, and it's something I'm incredibly proud to have been part of.
"Balgray Station will improve journeys for local people, but the opportunities created through the project are just as important. I hope the skills, experiences and relationships developed along the way will continue to benefit the community for many years to come."
Ashley McDonald, scheme project manager at Network Rail Scotland
£1.6m Invested in Local Businesses
The project has also provided a major boost to the local economy, with approximately 10 per cent of subcontract expenditure awarded to small and medium-sized enterprises within the Glasgow city region.
More than £1.6m has been spent with local firms, including Akela Construction in East Renfrewshire, Lanarkshire Welding and Alter Fencing. A further £749,000 has been invested through supply chain partner Kelly Group.
“While Balgray Station will transform connectivity for local communities, we are equally proud of the positive impact created throughout its construction. From inspiring young people through STEM and employability initiatives to supporting local businesses, sustainability projects and community groups, our team has worked hard to ensure the benefits of the project extend far beyond the railway. The dedication shown by our people and supply chain partners has been outstanding, and together we have created a legacy that will continue to benefit the community long after the first train calls at the station."
David Fenwick, project manager at Story Contracting
Supporting Community Groups and Active Travel
Community organisations have also benefited from financial support and volunteer involvement throughout the project.
Funding has been provided to groups including Auchenback Resource Centre, The Foundry Community Hub and Include Me 2 Club, which supports children with learning disabilities.
Project volunteers contributed more than 400 hours to community initiatives, including improvements to outdoor learning facilities at Hillview Primary School through the creation of new play and planting areas. Volunteers also helped deliver a family fun day that attracted more than 200 local children.
As part of the station's long-term legacy programme, two local schools will receive 44 bicycles along with helmets, high-visibility clothing and cycle safety equipment to encourage active and sustainable travel choices.
Leaders Welcome Long-Term Community Benefits
East Renfrewshire Council has praised the wider impact generated by the station project, highlighting the value delivered through community engagement and local investment.
"I’m delighted that the impact of the City Deal funded Balgray station project has extended far beyond improving public transport, leaving a lasting legacy for communities across East Renfrewshire.
“We’re committed to ensuring that our local communities benefit from large contracts. It’s been great to see Network Rail and Story Contracting sharing this ethos and delivering meaningful and impactful initiatives for our young people, businesses, community groups, local causes and schools.” - Owen O'Donnell, Leader of East Renfrewshire Council
Balgray Station has been delivered by Network Rail in partnership with East Renfrewshire Council, Transport Scotland, ScotRail and Story Contracting.
The station is scheduled to officially open to passengers on 27 September, marking a major milestone for transport connectivity in the south-west of Glasgow.
Image credits: Network Rail
