Transport Scotland and Network Rail have developed a decarbonisation scheme, seeking to electrify 25kms track south of the Forth Bridge in Fife. The first phase of this project has been approved and moved on the construction phase of the £55m scheme. The section of rail line being developed is situated between Haymarket and Dalmeny.
The works being conducted are set to be completed by December 2024 and forms part of a rolling scheme that will see further electrification works. These will culminate with Aberdeen and Dundee.
This opening phase of the project will see Network Rail pile the foundations for masts that will carry overhead wires up to the Forth Bridge
Contractor Scottish Powerlines (SPL), will shortly begin on-site activities between Haymarket and Dalmeny, including piling and constructing steelwork foundations to support overhead power masts.
Transport minister Jenny Gilruth said:
“It is great news that the first phase of the Fife electrification project is expected to start this month as this will make a significant difference to passenger and freight services in the future.
“Delivery of the Fife decarbonisation project will support introduction of new rolling stock through partial electrification of the route.
“It will also help towards the delivery of our Rail Decarbonisation Action Plan which will see removal of all diesels on passenger services by 2035.”
The ongoing electrification of the UK’s railways is key to dramatically reducing the transport sectors carbon footprint, modernising travel, and ensuring long term stability. The investment into the North will also help public perception of the industry, as for too long this has been a neglected area of rail development.
Alex Hynes, managing director of Scotland’s Railway said:
“We’re working hard alongside the Scottish Government to bring the benefits of electrification to communities across Scotland.
“The government has set an ambitious target to decarbonise our railway and projects such as the electrification of the Fife Circle – starting with the line connecting Fife to Edinburgh, will be key to delivering on that commitment.
“We look forward to delivering further investment in Scotland’s Railway and significantly improving the quality of service for the communities it serves. This is one of a number of projects that will create an even greener, cleaner, and more reliable railway for Scotland.’’
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