Balgray station authorized to open in Barrhead

The Office of Rail and Road (ORR) has authorized the new Balgray station in Barrhead, East Renfrewshire, scheduled to open to passengers on Sunday, September 27. Located on the Neilston line between Neilston and Patterton, the station is intended to improve local access to employment, education, and leisure activities, including connections to Dams to Darnley Country Park.

The authorization confirms that the infrastructure meets national standards for safety, accessibility, environmental protection, reliability, and availability. The facility includes two 125-meter platforms, a footbridge with lifts for step-free access, passenger shelters, and an 80-space car park equipped with 16 electric vehicle charging points.

Steve Fletcher, deputy director for engineering and asset management at the ORR, noted that the authorization is a significant step in preparing the station for commuters and improving rail access for the surrounding communities. The ORR worked alongside Network Rail and the project team to complete the necessary inspections and surveys.