Plans for a new railway station in East Renfrewshire have been given the go ahead.
A funding award of £18.3m from the Glasgow City Region City Deal will see the new Balgray station built on the Neilston line near to Balgray reservoir.
It’s the latest milestone in the project that will connect the existing community and new housing development to the rail network, and act as a catalyst for further development.
Over the past few months, Network Rail and East Renfrewshire Council have been working with Transport Scotland, ScotRail and Story Contracting, to plan and design the new station.
The station will have two platforms connected by a footbridge with lifts, as well as waiting shelters, cycle storage and ticket machines.
There will be an 80-space car park for passengers, with ten charging points for electric vehicles.
Cabinet secretary for transport, Fiona Hyslop said: “I welcome East Renfrewshire Council’s proposal to use City Deal funding to open a new station at Balgray. This is a great example of integrating new public transport provision with a new housing development. Transport Scotland will be funding the operating and maintenance costs of the station.
“The new station will provide sustainable transport options, better connecting people to employment, education, leisure and business opportunities. We welcome this innovative plan for the delivery of a new station and would encourage other promoters to consider this approach.”
Gerry McQuade, capital delivery director, Network Rail, said: “A new railway station in this area of Barrhead will be transformative for people who don’t currently use the train, and will also provide a cleaner, greener way to visit the green space and countryside in East Renfrewshire.
“We will work hard with our partners to deliver this new station for our customers and the wider community.”
As part of the development of the new Balgray station, Network Rail submitted a prior approval planning request to East Renfrewshire Council in August.
Image & Video credit: Network Rail
