Construction Begins on £18.3 Million Balgray Train Station Near Glasgow

Work has officially commenced on the new £18.3 million Balgray train station, designed to enhance transport links for Barrhead and its surrounding communities. This development, situated on the outskirts of Glasgow, aims to improve connectivity between local residents and the city, making travel for work, education, and leisure more accessible.

The Balgray station will be integrated into the line from Glasgow Central, providing two platforms that will be linked by a footbridge equipped with lifts. Additional facilities will include waiting shelters, ticket machines, and secure bicycle storage. Margaret Gibb, commercial director at Network Rail Scotland, expressed her enthusiasm about the project, stating, “Breaking ground at Balgray is a major step forward in improving transport for the Barrhead area.”

Enhancing Local Connectivity

The station is set to create a vital transit option for those traveling to and from Glasgow, as well as connecting locals to attractions such as Dams to Darnley Country Park. Gibb highlighted the project’s broader impact, saying, “It’s exciting to see work begin on a project that also supports active travel, encouraging more walking and cycling too.”

To further enhance accessibility, the station will feature an 80-space car park that includes electric vehicle charging points. New walkways will link the station platforms directly to nearby residential developments and reservoir paths. Additionally, a new bus turning circle and stop have been established on Springfield Road, facilitated by East Renfrewshire Council.

Collaboration and Future Prospects

The Balgray Station project is part of the wider Glasgow City Region City Deal and is being realized through a partnership involving Network Rail, East Renfrewshire Council, Transport Scotland, ScotRail, and Story Contracting. Preparatory work began in October 2023, with the final proposal receiving approval from the City Deal panel in September 2024.

Construction is expected to continue into 2025, with the station projected to open for passengers in Autumn 2026. Councillor Owen O’Donnell, leader of East Renfrewshire Council, expressed his satisfaction with the project, noting its potential to significantly enhance transport links within the region. “Like many of our communities, Barrhead is growing, and this new station will also provide another route from the town into Glasgow,” he stated.

The Balgray station is anticipated to bring substantial benefits not only to Barrhead but also to the broader East Renfrewshire area, contributing to sustainable transport solutions and improved connectivity for years to come.