Network Rail is carrying out a £3.5m programme of essential work which will see the railway’s flood resilience improved between Croy and Dullatur.

The project will take nine months to complete and will see Network Rail engineers working alongside contractor, QTS. Once complete, the vital work will prevent speed restrictions from being put in place during heavy rainfall which in turn will see less disruption for passengers travelling on the main Edinburgh–Glasgow line.

Vegetation clearance is already being carried out by engineers ahead of the upgrade to drainage systems which will also see embankments fitted with high-strength mesh, soil nails and rock bolts which will help to stave off wash-outs and rock falls.

In order for the work to be completed in a safe and efficient manner and to create minimal disruption to train services, engineers will be completing some work through the night.

Whilst the vital programme of work is underway, a part of Croy Station which recently underwent accessibility improvements, car park will be used as a compound for the project alongside access to a footpath which will be required at some points during the project.

Network Rail will contact lineside neighbours with further details regarding the programme of work.

Sunday the 16th of April will see train services into Glasgow Queen Street affected and passengers travelling on this date are advised to check their travel plans using the ScotRail website.

Jeremy Spence, Network Rail senior programme manager, said “This work will help us manage the increasing periods of severe weather and the challenges they present for the railway.

“We will be keeping the community updated as our plans progress and will do all we can to limit disruption. We thank those living near the railway, and station users, for their patience while we deliver this critical improvement to Scotland’s Railway.”

Andy Steel, Operations Director for QTS said: “QTS is pleased to be working alongside Network Rail to deliver this critical project which will ultimately improve the rail service on the Edinburgh – Glasgow line.

“As part of the works, we will be utilising QTS specialist rope access operatives, alongside our plant and machinery, to ensure that this project is carried out safely and efficiently.

“Our team will work hard to minimise the impact that these works may have on the neighbouring communities and the passengers and commuters who use this line.”