A lengthy period of rail disruption has come to an end for Rutherglen commuters after the train line between Rutherglen and the Scottish Exhibition Centre reopened.
The line was back up and running this morning, following extensive engineering works to repair tunnels, bridges and tracks, costing £32 million.
Jenny Gilruth, Transport Minister, told Lanarkshire Live: “Passengers will undoubtedly welcome the news that this particular programme of work and its associated closures have come to an end.
“I would also like to thank all of the staff at Network Rail and ScotRail who have facilitated these improvements, delivering them on time and within budget.
“It is vital that we deliver reliable infrastructure and do so in a manner that minimises the impact of disruption to passengers and freight.
“Any project of this scale brings with it a number of challenges but at the same time also delivers significant improvements to Scotland’s Railway for passengers, including a reduction in the need for future disruption arising from any future works.”
Jeremy Spence, programme manager, Network Rail, added: “I am pleased that this major programme of work to the Argyle line has been completed both on time and within budget.
“It’s a credit to the Network Rail project team, our contractors and supply chain partners that every element was delivered safely and on time.
“The outcome is a comprehensive programme of improvements and enhancements that futureproof Scotland’s Railway for passengers, as work on this scale will not be required for many years to come.
“I would like to thank all the passengers whose travel plans have been affected for their patience and understanding over the past eight weeks.”
David Simpson, ScotRail service delivery director, said: “This was an ambitious programme of work and it’s great to see that it’s been completed on time, within budget, and with alternative transport arrangements working well for customers.
“The work has helped future proof the line and customers can look forward to a better journey experience.
The Argyle line project includes improvements to Anderston station, with the closure of the station extended by four weeks until Monday, June 6.
And did you know Lanarkshire Live is on Facebook? Why not head to our page and give us a like and share.
*Don't miss the latest headlines from around Lanarkshire. Sign up to our newsletters here .
