Plans for a new railway station in East Renfrewshire, Scotland, have been approved, with Story Contracting to build.
Rail contractor Story is set to build the new Balgray station, following a funding award of £18.3m from the Glasgow City Region City Deal.
The Glasgow City Region City Deal is a £1.13 billion partnership between eight local authorities, the Scottish Government and the UK Government, and includes 27 projects, with 21 of them major infrastructure schemes.
The station will be built on the Neilston line near to Balgray reservoir, connecting the existing community and new housing development to the rail network, and act as a catalyst for further development.
Story Contracting has been working with Transport Scotland, ScotRail as well as Network Rail and East Renfrewshire Council to plan and design the new station.
The station will feature two platforms connected by a footbridge with lifts, as well as:
- Waiting shelters
- Cycle storage
- Ticket machines
- 80-space car park
- Ten charging points for electric vehicles
Construction is set to begin February 2025 and the station is expected to be open to passengers Spring 2026.
As part of the build, a direct path from the station to Dams to Darnley Country Park will be created.
Story Contracting was recently selected as one of four contractors to secure a minimum five-year contract to deliver building and civils projects for the rail industry as part of a £44 billion programme.
As part of the Eastern Routes Partnership (ERP), Story is joined by Amco, BAM, and Morgan Sindall through the railway provider’s new Control Period 7 (CP7).
Craig Lafferty, operations director for Story Contracting, Scotland, said: “Story are really proud to be constructing this new station, which will bring significant benefits to the local community.
“Working in partnership with Network Rail and East Renfrewshire Council, this project will not only enhance the rail network but also provide step-free access between platforms, making Balgray Station accessible to people of all mobility levels.”
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.”
East Renfrewshire Council leader Owen O’Donnell said: “It’s fantastic news that City Deal funding has been approved for the new Balgray station in Barrhead.
“Since announcing the new name for the station and how plans were progressing, we’ve had a great response from residents who are excited about the delivery of a much-needed new public transport link.
“It’s going to make a huge difference for our existing community in Barrhead as well as for residents from the new housing developments, making it much easier to access jobs, education and services.”
Was this interesting? HQ Construction hits record turnover despite profit dip
If you have a tip or story idea that fits with our publication, please contact the news reporter miles@wavenews.co.uk
Get industry news in 5 minutes!
A daily email that makes industry news enjoyable. It’s completely free.
