The project to build Balgray Station in Barrhead has involved more than 350 young people in careers and employability activities.
More than £1.6 million has also been spent with businesses in the Glasgow City Region during construction.
The new station will officially open to passengers on Sunday 27th September 2026. It will improve rail connections between Barrhead and Glasgow.
It is being delivered through the Glasgow City Region City Deal. The project is funded by the UK Government, Scottish Government and East Renfrewshire Council.
Pupils from Barrhead High School and St Luke’s High School took part in a railway industry taster day.
Children at St Mark’s and Hillview primary schools were also challenged to design stations and build model bridges.
Several students and trainees gained experience on the project.
Graduate apprentice Karan Raj joined through Story Contracting’s early careers programme. Engineering student Kieran Mooney completed more than 580 hours of learning on the site.
Local resident Brandon Wotherspoon 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.”
Around 10% of subcontract spending was awarded to small and medium-sized businesses in the area.
More than £1.6 million was spent with local companies. These included Akela Construction in East Renfrewshire, Lanarkshire Welding and Alter Fencing.
A further £749,000 was invested through supply chain partner Kelly Group.
David Fenwick, project manager at Story Contracting, said: “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 received donations and volunteer support.
Funding was 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 projects.
This included creating new play and planting areas at Hillview Primary School to improve its outdoor learning facilities. Volunteers also supported a family fun day attended by more than 200 children.
Two local schools will receive 44 bicycles. Helmets, high-visibility clothing and cycling safety equipment will also be provided to encourage active 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.”
Balgray Station is being delivered by Network Rail in partnership with East Renfrewshire Council, Transport Scotland, ScotRail and Story Contracting.
Photo: The revamped garden and outdoor learning area at Hillview Primary School
Photo Credit: Network Rail
Photo: Pupils from Hillview Primary School visit Balgray Station as part of an industry taster day
Photo Credit: Network Rail