Train line to remain closed after massive sink hole appears under tracks

A train line is set to remain closed for another week after a massive sink hole appeared under the tracks.

Network Rail engineers initially detected the one-metre deep fault between Caldercruix and Drumgelloch on Sunday.

The sinkhole has now expanded with repairs being described as “potentially complex”.

Work is being undertaken to establish the sinkhole’s depth and size, with the presence of an underground spring being looked at as a potential cause.

An indication of when the line can reopen will not be given until investigations are complete and a repair plan is put in place, Network Rail has said.

In the meantime, the Airdrie and Bathgate route is expected to remain closed until at least April 29.

Ross Moran, interim route director for Network Rail Scotland, said: “Sinkholes like this are very unusual on the railway, and our specialist geotechnical engineers are working tirelessly to identify the cause, as well as planning the repairs, so we can reopen the railway.

“We understand the inconvenience this incident will cause for passengers, and I’d like to thank those who travel on this route for their patience and understanding while work continues.”

Phil Campbell, ScotRail customer operations director, added: “We are doing everything we can to keep our customers moving while this issue is resolved, with replacement buses between Airdrie and Bathgate.

“Customers should plan their journey in advance and allow some extra time, as the bus service will take longer.”

ScotRail services between Helensburgh Central and Edinburgh Waverley will terminate at Airdrie.

Between Helensburgh and Airdrie, services will run every 30 minutes during peak times and hourly outwith peak times.

The Edinburgh to Bathgate route will also run every half an hour during peak times and every hour outwith.