Network Rail has confirmed that electric trains will be operating on the line between East Kilbride and Glasgow from Sunday 14 December.

The trains will make railway journeys cleaner, quieter and more reliable.

After the train completed a test run last month, the electrification of the line is now entering its final phase.

Network Rail and its partners are working quickly to finish the last parts of the upgrade work ahead of the first passenger services next month.

The electrification of the line forms part of the Scottish Government’s plan to modernise the route and also supports the wider goal of decarbonising Scotland’s transport network.

Electrification reduces carbon emissions and also helps to reduce noise and air pollution, particularly benefiting communities alongside the line.

In addition, it makes rail travel more attractive and is therefore expected to result in more people switching from road to rail travel, and so further reducing emissions and improving air quality.

While electrification forms a central part of the project, it includes other elements as well.

These include a new station at Hairmyres, which cost £16m to build and opened in May this year, and a £9m station at East Kilbride.

Network Rail has also modified bridges along the route in order to accommodate the new overhead power lines. A further £7m has been spent on improving the accessibility of the route.

Last month’s successful test runs were an important step in commissioning the new infrastructure, as they allowed engineers to assess the overhead line equipment’s performance and confirm that the set-up is ready for full operation.

“This is a really exciting time for everyone at ScotRail as we prepare to introduce electric trains on the East Kilbride line for the first time.

“Electric trains will offer customers a more comfortable, reliable, and sustainable journey between East Kilbride and Glasgow, helping to cut noise and air pollution, and support Scotland’s transition to a net zero transport network.

“We can’t wait to welcome customers on board, and for them to experience the benefits of a cleaner, greener railway.”

Mark Ilderton, ScotRail Service Delivery Director