Network Rail is preparing to deliver a £4 million package of bridge and structure improvements designed to strengthen the long‑term reliability and resilience of the Inverclyde line.
The essential engineering works will take place over two four‑day periods: Saturday 7 to Tuesday 10 February and Saturday 14 to Tuesday 17 February, with full line closures required to allow the project to be completed safely.
Major Structural Repairs Across Key Inverclyde Locations
The planned upgrades involve extensive repairs and renewals at several critical points along the route. The programme includes:
- Greenock: Fixing and replacing sections of the retaining walls that support the railway, including the installation of new concrete structures.
- River Gryffe Bridge: Replacing the main bridge deck and repairing the supporting steelwork to reinforce long‑term structural strength.
- Houston Road, Georgetown: Repairs to the steel supports beneath the railway.
- Station Road, Langbank: Repairing steelwork under the bridge and replacing part of the platform using modern, durable materials.
These works form part of Network Rail’s strategy to ensure the Inverclyde line remains safe, dependable, and able to withstand increasing weather‑related pressures on infrastructure.
Passenger Impact and Rail Replacement Services
To enable engineers to complete the upgrades efficiently, the line between Paisley Gilmour Street and Wemyss Bay / Gourock will be closed on both work periods. Rail replacement bus services will operate throughout the closures to keep passengers moving.
Ross Moran, route director at Network Rail Scotland, said:
“This work is part of our commitment to maintaining a railway that communities and visitors can continue to rely on.
“We’ve combined a number of essential projects into one single closure, avoiding the need for multiple periods of disruption over a longer timeframe.
“We’re grateful to passengers and local residents for their patience and understanding while we carry out these improvements.”
Mark Ilderton, ScotRail service delivery director, added:
“ScotRail is focused on maintaining reliable travel for customers while Network Rail completes these important improvements in Inverclyde.
“Our rail replacement services are designed to keep people moving with confidence, and we would encourage customers to check their journey in advance on the ScotRail website or app.
“This investment will deliver long-term benefits to the Inverclyde line, and we’re grateful for customers’ patience while the work takes place.”
Vegetation Management Continues Alongside Engineering Works
Alongside the bridge and structural programme, Network Rail will continue its ongoing £2.5 million vegetation management project, which began in July 2025. Delivered by QTS, this work involves cutting back and managing trees and plants that pose safety risks or could disrupt train services.
Image credits: Network Rail
