Hairmyres station has marked its first anniversary having welcomed more than 614,000 passengers since opening in May last year, underlining its rapid emergence as a key transport hub on Scotland’s Railway.
The £16 million station officially opened on 19 May 2025, following a 16‑week closure of the East Kilbride line between January and May to enable electrification works and the relocation of the station. The project has delivered a modern, fully accessible gateway to the rail network, significantly improving connectivity for the local community.
Delivered as part of Network Rail’s ongoing programme of enhancements to Scotland’s Railway, Hairmyres station has quickly become a vital interchange for commuters, as well as for NHS staff, patients and visitors travelling to Hairmyres Hospital and surrounding areas.
The station forms part of the wider £140 million East Kilbride electrification programme, funded by the Scottish Government. The investment is designed to create a greener, more reliable and more accessible railway for communities across South Lanarkshire, supporting long‑term modal shift and decarbonisation objectives.
Since opening, passengers have benefitted from modern facilities, step‑free access and improved connections, helping to encourage more people to choose rail over car travel and reduce carbon emissions along the route.
Liam Sumpter, managing director of Network Rail Scotland, said:
“Hairmyres station has made a real difference in its first year, providing a modern railway facility that better serves the local community and the vital hospital nearby.
“More than 600,000 journeys in just 12 months show how important this station already is, and how continued investment in Scotland’s Railway will keep delivering benefits for passengers and communities in the years ahead.”**
Joanne Maguire, ScotRail managing director, said:
“It’s been fantastic to see so many people choosing rail travel, with more than 600,000 journeys made to and from Hairmyres station in the first year since it opened.
“The delivery of Hairmyres station has been about far more than new infrastructure – it has helped better connect the local community with Glasgow and beyond, whether for work, education, or leisure.
“With modern facilities, improved accessibility, and a safe, reliable, and environmentally friendly rail service, it’s easy to see why so many people are leaving the car at home and choosing rail as their preferred, more sustainable way to travel.”**
As electrification across the East Kilbride line continues, Hairmyres station stands as a clear example of how targeted rail investment can deliver immediate passenger benefits while supporting wider economic, social and environmental goals.
Image credits: Network Rail
