Rail services to Glasgow return as Ayr station reopens after 'devastating' hotel fire

Rail services to between Ayr and Glasgow are to return as the station partially reopens following a “devastating” fire.

Network Rail confirmed that some services will return to the station following the completion of safety works at the Ayr Station hotel.

The former hotel was deliberately set on fire on September 25, 2023, an act which saw three teens arrested and charged.

ScotRail said their direct electric services between Ayr and Glasgow will return on June 17 – the same day as South Ayrshire Council finishes its work on the privately-owned building.

A full timetable, with the return of services between Kilmarnock, Ayr, Girvan, and Stranraer, is expected to be in operation by mid-July.

Liam Sumpter, managing director, Network Rail, said: “Our thanks go to South Ayrshire Council for completing the critical safety work at the former Ayr Station Hotel.

“Our teams are working hard to have the track ready and alongside our colleagues at ScotRail we’re looking forward to welcoming passengers back to the station and on to services next week.

“We’d like to thank passengers and the Ayr community for their patience and understanding during the station closure.”

David Lister, ScotRail Safety, Sustainability & Asset Director, said the “devastating” fire had a significant impact on ScotRail services in the area.

“We know how much people rely on rail services, so we’re pleased that from June 17, we’ll be able to reintroduce electric services between Ayr and Glasgow and will work with Network Rail to complete all activities required to re-establish services south of Ayr due to the extended period of closure.

“We’re grateful to customers for their patience and understanding while we work towards the full return of services later in July.”