Network Rail has awarded alliancing contracts to Costain and Morgan Sindall to develop the detailed scope and programme of a £650M improvement scheme between Edinburgh and Glasgow.

The two firms will work with Network Rail over the next five months to develop in-depth plans for the electrification of the main Glasgow Queen Street to Edinburgh Waverley line and other major projects that form part of the scheme.

Electrification of the line is due by 2016. Construction contracts for the £250M electrification will be awarded this summer.

The improvement scheme also include rail infrastructure works at Queen Street and Waverley stations and extensions to intermediate platforms at Croy, Falkirk High, Polmont and Linlithgow.

Network Rail’s acting route managing director for Scotland David Dickson said: “This programme is a unique opportunity to modernise the main Edinburgh to Glasgow line and transform services for passengers. The alliancing approach we have announced will also allow us to work more closely with contractors and stakeholders to plan the project in the most efficient, cost effective way.”

Transport Minister Keith Brown added: “This announcement represents another hugely important milestone in the delivery of the scheme and shows that we are pressing ahead with the improvements which will give Scotland a railway fit for the future."

(Photo: Kim Traynor)

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