Across August and September, major engineering work will be carried out at Kilmarnock Station.

Network Rail is investing £13.5 million to complete a series of upgrades that will improve the line’s reliability.

Engineers will be improving the track layout, allowing some trains to enter at higher speeds, reducing wear on equipment, simplifying layouts, and moving crossings for a smoother exit.

Across the project, 5.5 kilometres of new rail will be installed along with 3,200 new sleepers, and 800 reused sleepers

7,500 tonnes of ballast will be replaced, with 31 engineering trains and two rail cranes in use.

While the project is carried out, the line between Barrhead and Dumfries will be closed for 16 days from 29th August until 14th September.

This means no trains are operating between Barrhead and Dumfries or between Kilmarnock and Troon.

Replacement buses will be running, and passengers are advised to check their journeys before travelling.

“This work is about strengthening a busy part of the railway so it can perform even better in the years ahead. By upgrading the track at Kilmarnock, we’re improving how trains move through the station and supporting a more consistent service for the communities it serves. 

“Keeping the railway in good shape means continuing to make improvements that help services run as smoothly as possible. Although there will be some short term disruption, the aim is to deliver lasting benefits for the future.”

Gerry McQuade, capital delivery director at Network Rail Scotland