A KEY train line is set to close for 16 days while £16.5 million worth of upgrades are carried out at a train station in a bid to reduce delays for passengers travelling between Glasgow, Ayrshire and Dumfries and Galloway.
Starting this weekend, over the next 16 days, Network Rail engineers will install 5.5km of new rail, 3200 sleepers and 7500 tonnes of ballast, the stone that supports the track, as they upgrade the track at Kilmarnock station.
Network Rail said that once complete, the new infrastructure will allow trains to move “more smoothly” through the station, helping to reduce the risk of delays.
Passengers have been reminded that the line between Barrhead and Dumfries will be closed for 16 days from Saturday, August 29, until Monday, September 14, while the work is carried out.
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During the closure, no trains will run between Barrhead and Dumfries or between Kilmarnock and Troon.
ScotRail services will be replaced by buses, while trains will continue to run between Glasgow Central and Barrhead, and between Dumfries and Carlisle.
Passengers have also been advised to plan ahead and check their journey before travelling.
Gerry McQuade, capital delivery director at Network Rail Scotland, said the work due to be carried out at Kilmarnock is an important part of keeping Scotland’s railways reliable.
He said: “Keeping the railway running reliably means continually identifying where improvements are needed and investing in the infrastructure that passengers depend on every day.
“The work at Kilmarnock is an important part of that. Over the next 16 days, our engineers will replace and renew key sections of track through the station, helping to keep this vital route running reliably for years to come.
“We know the closure will mean some changes to journeys and we'd like to thank passengers and local communities for their patience while the work is carried out. Anyone planning to travel should check before they travel and allow extra time for their journey."
Mark Ilderton, ScotRail service delivery director, added that while the work will mean some temporary disruption, it is a “vital investment” in the long-term future of the route.
He said: “Our focus on helping customers travel with confidence throughout the works, with clear information available in advance and a robust rail replacement transport plan in place along the route.
“The upgrades at Kilmarnock will help improve the reliability of services between Glasgow, Ayrshire, Dumfries and Galloway, and deliver smoother journeys for customers.
“We’re grateful for our customers’ patience and understanding while Network Rail delivers this important upgrade.”
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