Scottish train stations set for £2 million revamp ahead of Commonwealth Games

Date: 12/2/2013

Railway stations expected to support the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow are set to receive a £2 million revamp ahead of next summer's event.

A total of 20 stations across the Strathclyde network will benefit from some form of refurbishment work, including Queen Street, High Street and Charing Cross.

The announcement was made yesterday (February 11th) by Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, and is the product of an agreement reached by ScotRail and the Scottish Government.

"Almost 20 million commuters already use these three key Glasgow stations every year - this investment will deliver a £2 million transformation of these, and other, stations, boosting capacity and improving accessibility," Ms Sturgeon explained.

"The 2014 Games will be a huge event, attracting visitors from across the world, and these stations will be gateways to Glasgow as well as the Commonwealth Games.

"I am delighted to be able to announce this significant investment for stations serving the Games and I look forward to seeing the improvements."

Ms Sturgeon added that services will be improved to cater for thousands of extra passengers while the stations will also be given an aesthetic overhaul in time for the start of the Games in July 2014.

ScotRail Managing Director Steve Montgomery highlighted the importance of providing a sufficient public transport network to support both visitors and residents in the area, as well as the need to give a positive impression of Glasgow.

With additional services and more seats planned - including specific upgrades and enhancements at a number of stations - the revamp could change the face of the Strathclyde network when it is eventually completed.

Councillor Archie Graham, executive member for the Commonwealth Games at Glasgow City Council, added that the project would help add to the legacy that the event will leave in the city.

"The funding will bring further improvement to Glasgow's transport infrastructure and an improved experience for passengers using these stations," he commented.

Posted by Sarah Bailey

Transport Research News and Vehicle Safety News