Buses to replace some Edinburgh trains during vital engineering works
Major engineering work to electrify the railway between Edinburgh Haymarket and Dalmeny got under today, with works scheduled to last for nine days.
No trains will run between Haymarket and Dalmeny between January 17 and January 25 as engineers carry out round-the-clock work to modernise the route.
A number of train services will be affected over the works period with buses replacing several services. The train line will reopen at the start of service on Monday, January 26.
Buses will replace trains between Edinburgh Gateway and Inverkeithing (Jan 17 to Jan 25) and rail tickets can be used on Edinburgh Trams between St Andrew Square and Edinburgh Gateway where bus connections to Inverkeithing can be made.
A limited bus service from Haymarket to Inverkeithing will also be in operation from Monday to Friday during peak commuter times and on Saturday from late morning to early evening. No trains or buses will operate at South Gyle and all customers travelling to or from South Gyle should use Edinburgh Gateway.
Train users are urged to check their journey before travelling and a route-by-route breakdown can be found on the ScotRail website.
Part of a £342m investment from the Scottish Government to electrify the Fife and Borders lines, the significant infrastructure changes include rebuilding several bridges and lowering sections of track to create space for overhead power lines. These upgrades are essential for installing the electrical equipment that will allow new battery-electric trains to run.
Mark Ilderton, ScotRail service delivery director, said: “Network Rail’s upcoming work is a vital stage in the Fife electrification project, paving the way for long-term improvements that will benefit customers for years to come.
“We’ve put alternative travel plans in place to help keep people moving, and we encourage customers to take a moment to check their options before travelling. Some journeys may take longer than usual, so planning ahead will make things easier.
“Our website and the ScotRail app have the latest information, and we’ll continue to provide clear updates and support throughout the works. We appreciate everyone’s patience as these essential upgrades are delivered.”
Catherine Hall, strategy and investment director at Network Rail Scotland said: “Over nine days, our teams will carry out complex engineering work at multiple sites to get the route ready for future electrification. Bridge reconstructions, track alterations and systems changes have all been carefully planned to make sure the line can support the next generation of trains.
“A modern railway connects people to jobs, education and essential services, and underpins local economies. Investing now ensures the network can meet future demand and makes sustainable travel a practical choice for more journeys.
“We know the route to and from Fife is one of the busiest in Scotland and there's never an ideal time to close it. We really appreciate the patience of passengers and local residents while these major improvements take place.”