Electric Trains Begin Service Between East Kilbride and Glasgow Following £144m Upgrade
Passengers travelling between East Kilbride and Glasgow are set to experience a quieter, cleaner, and more reliable journey as electric trains begin service this weekend. The introduction of the new electric services on Sunday 14 December marks the culmination of a £144 million Scottish Government investment to modernise the route and promote a more sustainable transport network.
The upgrade promises improved comfort and greener travel for thousands of daily commuters, students, and families. Whether travelling for work, education, or leisure, passengers will benefit from modern trains and enhanced facilities along the route, connecting East Kilbride, Glasgow, and surrounding communities.
New stations at Hairmyres and East Kilbride now offer step-free access and upgraded amenities, while improvements at Busby, Giffnock, and Clarkston make the line more accessible and user-friendly. The project has aimed not just to enhance infrastructure but to strengthen connections between local communities and Scotland’s largest city.
The completion of the electrification project was celebrated on Monday 8 December with an event at Glasgow Central. Project teams, local representatives, and stakeholders boarded an electric train for a commemorative journey to East Kilbride to mark the milestone.
Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Fiona Hyslop, said:
“This £144m Scottish Government investment in this transformational project on the East Kilbride route brings significant improvements in stations, infrastructure, and services. It will attract new and existing passengers for years to come, making rail a more appealing choice for communities across this area. I want to thank all the teams that have played a part in its delivery, as well as extending my gratitude to passengers and lineside neighbours for their patience while the work took place.”
Gerry McQuade, capital delivery director at Network Rail Scotland, added:
“The completion of our East Kilbride to Glasgow investment programme marks the latest milestone in the story of Scotland’s Railway. This has been a major transformation. New stations, better facilities, better accessibility, modern infrastructure and electric trains. But together, this project is about more than tracks and trains – it’s about communities. Making it easier for local people to choose rail, meaning fewer road miles and stronger connections between communities, towns and Scotland’s largest city. I want to thank passengers and our lineside neighbours for their patience and support throughout the project. This is your railway, delivered together, and I hope everyone involved feels proud of the role they’ve played in shaping a railway fit for the future.”
ScotRail Managing Director Joanne Maguire said:
“Today marks another important milestone for Scotland’s Railway. As we introduce electric trains on the East Kilbride line following the successful completion of this major electrification project, customers will start to see the benefits straight away. The move to class 380 trains will mean smoother, quieter, and more sustainable journeys for everyone who relies on the route - whether they’re travelling to work, heading to school or university, or visiting family and friends. With new stations at East Kilbride and Hairmyres, and improved accessibility at Busby, Giffnock, and Clarkston, the line is now better equipped to support the growing communities it serves. We’re grateful to customers for their patience throughout the works, and we’re excited to welcome them on board this upgraded and improved railway line.”
Image: Network Rail