Network Rail and contractor QTS are to commence work on a £3.5 million project to improve the weather resilience of the railway between Croy and Dullatur.

The nine-month project will crucial work being carried out to help prevent speed restrictions having to be imposed during periods of heavy rainfall, meaning less disruption for passengers on the main Edinburgh-Glasgow line.

Engineers are starting to clear vegetation and will be upgrading drainage systems. The project will also include installing high-strength mesh, soil nails and rock bolts on embankments to help prevent wash-outs and rock falls.

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Jeremy Spence, Network Rail senior programme manager, said: "This work will help us manage the increasing periods of severe weather and the challenges they present for the railway.

"We will be keeping the community updated as our plans progress and will do all we can to limit disruption. We thank those living near the railway, and station users, for their patience while we deliver this critical improvement to Scotland’s Railway."

Andy Steel, Operations Director for QTS said: "QTS is pleased to be working alongside Network Rail to deliver this critical project which will ultimately improve the rail service on the Edinburgh – Glasgow line.

"As part of the works, we will be utilising QTS specialist rope access operatives, alongside our plant and machinery, to ensure that this project is carried out safely and efficiently.

"Our team will work hard to minimise the impact that these works may have on the neighbouring communities and the passengers and commuters who use this line."