The project to build a new train station in Barrhead has inspired hundreds of young people to consider careers in the railway and invested more than £1.6m in local businesses within the Glasgow city region.
Balgray Station will welcome its first passengers later this month, improving rail connections between Barrhead and Glasgow. It’s been delivered through the Glasgow City Region City Deal, funded by the UK and Scottish governments and East Renfrewshire Council.
Alongside the construction, the project team has worked with schools, businesses and community groups to create a range of benefits for locals.
More than 350 young people have taken part in careers and employability activities linked to the project. These included a railway industry taster day for pupils from Barrhead High School and St Luke’s High School, as well as classroom activities at St Mark’s and Hillview primary schools where children were challenged to design stations and build model bridges.
Several students and trainees have also gained hands-on experience working on the project. Among them is graduate apprentice Karan Raj, who joined the scheme through Story Contracting’s early careers programme, and engineering student Kieran Mooney, who completed more than 580 hours of on-site learning. Local resident, Brandon Wotherspoon, also secured a permanent job after completing a year-long programme through the QTS Rail Skills Academy.
Ashley McDonald, scheme project manager at Network Rail Scotland, said: “As well as building a new station, we’ve built strong connections with the local community, and that’s been one of the most rewarding parts of the project. Seeing young people take their first steps towards a career in rail has been particularly inspiring, and it’s something I’m incredibly proud to have been part of.
“Balgray Station will improve journeys for local people, but the opportunities created through the project are just as important. I hope the skills, experiences and relationships developed along the way will continue to benefit the community for many years to come.”
The project has supported the local economy, with around 10% of subcontract spending awarded to small and medium-sized businesses in the area. More than £1.6m has been spent with local companies, including Akela Construction in East Renfrewshire, Lanarkshire Welding and Alter Fencing, while a further £749,000 has been invested through supply chain partner Kelly Group.
David Fenwick, project manager at Story Contracting, added: “While Balgray Station will transform connectivity for local communities, we are equally proud of the positive impact created throughout its construction. From inspiring young people through STEM and employability initiatives to supporting local businesses, sustainability projects and community groups, our team has worked hard to ensure the benefits of the project extend far beyond the railway. The dedication shown by our people and supply chain partners has been outstanding, and together we have created a legacy that will continue to benefit the community long after the first train calls at the station.”
Community groups have also benefited from donations and volunteer support. Funding has been provided to organisations including Auchenback Resource Centre, The Foundry Community Hub and Include Me 2 Club, which supports children with learning disabilities.
Volunteers contributed more than 400 hours to local initiatives including improving outdoor learning facilities at Hillview Primary School by creating new play and planting areas. They also supported a family fun day attended by more than 200 local children.
As part of the station’s long-term legacy, two local schools will receive 44 bicycles, along with helmets, high-visibility clothing and cycling safety equipment, to encourage active and sustainable travel.
East Renfrewshire Council leader, Owen O’Donnell, said: “I’m delighted that the impact of the City Deal funded Balgray station project has extended far beyond improving public transport, leaving a lasting legacy for communities across East Renfrewshire.
“We’re committed to ensuring that our local communities benefit from large contracts. It’s been great to see Network Rail and Story Contracting sharing this ethos and delivering meaningful and impactful initiatives for our young people, businesses, community groups, local causes and schools.”
The station will officially open to passengers on Sunday 27 September.