Network Rail has installed a new footbridge at Glasgow Southside's Strathbungo station over the weekend of the 10th and 11th of June.
The installation saw contractor BAM Nuttall work with Network Rail as part of the Scottish Government funded Glasgow to Barrhead electrification project which aims to see the decarbonisation of Scotlands' railway passenger services.
A 500-tonne crane saw the single pan bridge lifted into place, creating access from Moray Place and Darnley Road.
The old bridge, which was replaced, was an impressive 146 years old but sadly no longer met the height clearance required for electrified railways.
The old bridge has been re-homed at volunteer-run charity, the Caledonian Railway, which is a heritage railway operating in Angus. The bridge will be used at the railways Brechin station, which is currently undergoing restoration and improvement works.
Work began on the bridge at Strathbungo back in March.
The new bridge reflects several features of the old bridge including black and white colouring on both the structure and balustrades, and ties in with the Moray Place railings. The new bridge features a new steel truss, which will see a toughened glass parapet in order to create a solid yet clear appearance. The glazing of the bridge will commence later this month.
Michelle McCaig, Network Rail's project manager, said:
“Over the last few months, the team has carried out extensive preparatory works to get us to this stage, resulting in the bridge seamlessly being lifted into place on Saturday night.”
“This marks a significant achievement in the Barrhead to Glasgow electrification project. Our focus over the next few weeks is on installing the glazing and completing the new access at either side of the footbridge.”
“I want to thank residents living close to the bridge and the wider community, who have been patient throughout delivery of the works overall and we are very appreciative of this.”
During the summer of 2021, Network Rail invited approximately 5,000 residents and businesses to vote for the bridge design they preferred making the new bridge a choice of the community as a majority selected the design to be sympathetic to the old bridge.
Very impressive work. Why not electrify most parts of the Glasgow South Western line to Kilmarnock, Dumfries, Stranraer and Annan. And to continue on electrification to East Kilbridge.