A transformative £5.9 million infrastructure project is now underway in Bowling, West Dunbartonshire, marking a key milestone in the redevelopment of the former Exxon site.
The new railway bridge will provide direct access to the expansive 150-acre site, paving the way for future development that includes industrial units, storage facilities, distribution centres, and office space. This initiative is part of the broader Glasgow City Region City Deal, which aims to enhance transport connectivity, stimulate economic growth, and promote sustainable development across the region.
The bridge is being delivered through a collaboration between Network Rail, West Dunbartonshire Council, and Story Contracting. So far, approximately 80,000 tonnes of earth have been cleared to prepare the site for the next phase of construction. This month, work begins on casting the 2,500-tonne bridge structure.
A more intensive phase of construction is scheduled for the festive period. This will involve removing part of the railway embankment, installing the bridge, and reinstating the railway infrastructure—including tracks, overhead lines, and signalling systems.
Network Rail is working closely with train operators to minimise disruption and support local communities. Information about rail replacement services will be shared in advance to help passengers plan their journeys.
Once the bridge is in place, West Dunbartonshire Council will move forward with building a new access road, further unlocking the site’s potential for future investment and development.
Laura Craig, scheme project manager at Network Rail Scotland, said: “This bridge will play such an important role in the wider project to bring new life to the former Exxon site. It’s taken a lot of careful planning and collaboration to get to this point, and we’re excited to see it start to take shape.
“We’re always mindful of the communities we operate in and will be doing everything we can to keep people informed, carrying out this vital work safely and with as little disruption as possible.”
Convener of infrastructure, regeneration and economic development, Councillor David McBride said: “There is real, visible progress on the site at Bowling and I am delighted that our partners, including Network Rail, are pressing on with work to develop this site in a responsible and considerate way.
“The infrastructure at this location will benefit many residents as well as people visiting West Dunbartonshire and I look forward to seeing this project continue to progress.”
Image and video credit: Network Rail
