New £18.3m Balgray train station to open to passengers this weekend

A new £18.3m train station in East Renfrewshire is set to officially open this weekend.

Balgray station in Barrhead will welcome its first passengers ahead of schedule on September 27.

The station, which is part of the Glasgow City Region City Deal, has been built to improve rail connections between the area and Scotland’s largest city.

The new station has two platforms connected by a footbridge with lifts, as well as waiting shelters, cycle storage and ticket machines.

Balgray Station will open on September 27 Network Rail

There is an 80-space car park for passengers, with charging points for electric vehicles included. Walkways from the platforms will connect directly with Balgray reservoir paths and provide access to local housing developments.

ScotRail services will begin calling at Balgray from Sunday, giving people in and around Barrhead a new way to access Glasgow and the wider rail network.

Liam Sumpter, managing director at Network Rail Scotland, said: “Having a station on your doorstep can make a real difference to everyday life. Whether it’s commuting to work, heading to school, spending time with loved ones or exploring the local area, rail makes those journeys easier and more convenient.

“The community has been at the heart of this project in the lead up to opening day, and we hope Balgray continues to be a valued part of the area for years to come, helping people connect with the places and opportunities that matter most to them.”

Scottish secretary Douglas Alexander added: “Through the UK Government’s £7.87m investment in Balgray Station, we are empowering local communities, putting education, job opportunities, leisure and everyday services within easy reach for more people in East Renfrewshire.

“Working with local partners, the UK Government is delivering practical, hopeful change in Barrhead and across Scotland.”

Balgray station is opening ahead of schedule and within budget Network Rail

Councillor Owen O’Donnell, leader of East Renfrewshire Council, commented: “Local residents are very excited about the opening of Balgray station – the first new train station in East Renfrewshire in almost 100 years.

“This new station is going to make a huge difference for our growing community in Barrhead for generations to come – providing greater travel choices and improved access to jobs and services.

“Improving local connectivity is aligned with our long-term strategic vision for East Renfrewshire and an important pillar of our local transport strategy. Balgray station will make it easier to travel between Barrhead and other parts of East Renfrewshire, as well to Glasgow city centre, and for visitors to access Dams to Darnley Country Park.”