Network Rail has welcomed a "big step forward" for a £2.9m project to replace a bridge on a key walking route over the Neilston railway line.

A replacement bridge deck has been lifted into position, after Network Rail engineers worked around the clock on Sunday 20 and Monday 21 August.

On-site teams used a Kirow 1200, the largest rail-mounted crane in the UK, to lift the pre-cast concrete components into place.

The overhead line equipment that powers electric trains was disconnected from the old bridge deck while new concrete beams were installed. It was then connected to the new bridge to allow trains to run from Tuesday morning.


Susan Menmuir, scheme project manager for Network Rail, said: "The existing concrete bridge deck was gradually deteriorating and nearing the end of its lifespan.

"Our work will extend the lifespan of the bridge, helping to keep the railway safe and reliable for years to come.

"I'd like to thank passengers and the community for their patience. I understand there's never a good time to carry out work that disrupts passenger trains. By working on Sunday and Monday, however, we were able to minimise disruption on Saturday, which is now the busiest day for rail travel in Scotland."

Demolition of the former bridge deck, as well as the removal of a disused bridge near Neilston station, took place a week earlier on 13-15 August.

The diverted footpath to Balgray reservoir will remain in place until November this year whilst further work is carried out to refurbish the structure.