New rail station plans approved in Glasgow

A new railway station is set to be built in Barrhead, Glasgow following the approval of £18.3 million in funding from the Glasgow City Region City Deal.

The Balgray station will be located on the Glasgow- Neilston line near Balgray reservoir. The station will be sited between Neilston and Patterton railway stations, providing a much-needed public transport link for the local community and nearby housing developments.

The station will feature two platforms connected by a footbridge with lifts, as well as waiting shelters, cycle storage, and ticket machines. A car park with 80 spaces, including ten electric vehicle charging points, will also be provided. Additionally, a direct path from the station to Dams to Darnley Country Park will be created to improve accessibility for visitors.

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. It'll also make Dams to Darnley Country Park more accessible for visitors."

Gerry McQuade, Capital Delivery Director, Network Rail, said: "A new railway station in this area of Barrhead will be transformative for people who don't currently use the train, and will also provide a cleaner, greener way to visit the green space and countryside in East Renfrewshire. We will work hard with our partners to deliver this new station for our customers and the wider community."

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."