Work is continuing on the first phase of the Stirling-Dunblane-Alloa railway line electrification project.

With engineers now nearing completion on the scheme, overhead power lines on the railway between Greenhill Junction, Polmont Junction and Grangemouth Junction up to Larbert Junction will go live from Tuesday, 01 May.

This first section to be electrified covers 26 single track kilometres and includes Falkirk Grahamston and Camelon stations.

Paul Reilly, Network Rail programme manager, said it is critical to ensure people are aware of the change and to encourage them to stay safe.

"The first stage in electrification of the Stirling-Dunblane-Alloa programme marks a significant achievement for the project, but also a major change to the railway environment for those living or working near the newly electrified routes," he said.


"It is critical that we make people aware of this change and encourage them to stay safe. The message we want to get across is - electrified lines are always on, so always stay off. With 25,000 volts of electricity powering the lines, this is enough to kill anyone who comes into contact with the overhead equipment.

"With the first section electrified, validation and testing works will follow over the next few months, with the remaining elements of the route set to be energised later in the year."

Once complete in 2019, the Scottish Government-funded electrification of Stirling-Dunblane-Alloa will result in;

• Many services operated by electric class 385 trains, which will offer a better experience and reduce some journey times from Stirling to Glasgow and Edinburgh

• More seats on services between Alloa, Dunblane, Bridge of Allan, Stirling and Edinburgh

• Less noise and better air quality for those who live and work near the railway

(LM/MH)