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Tuesday 21 Sep 2004

BRIDGE REPAIR SET TO IMPROVE PERFORMANCE ON BATHGATE LINE

Region & Route:

Scotland’s Railway: Scotland

Engineering work to repair a railway bridge at Drumshoreland on the Bathgate branch line will take place on Sunday 26 September. Engineers will restore the damaged bridge between Newbridge and Cawburn junction. This will involve removing and relaying track, moving the bridge into its original position and steel repair work. Network Rail’s Route Director, Scotland, Ron McAulay said:  “This important engineering work is part of our commitment to provide a safe and reliable railway.  This repair work will allow the current speed restriction to be lifted and trains will once more be able to run at normal speed. We are undertaking the work on a Sunday, which is naturally quieter, in order to minimise disruption.  We apologise in advance to everyone who will be affected by this work and for the inconvenience caused.” As a result, there will be no train services between Edinburgh and Bathgate until after 4pm on Sunday 26 September. A replacement bus service will run between Haymarket and Bathgate, calling at Edinburgh Park, Uphall, Livingston North and Bathgate in both directions, connecting with train services between Haymarket and Edinburgh.  Normal train services will resume with the 16:18 Edinburgh to Bathgate and16:59 Bathgate to Edinburgh services. -more- Bathgate– 2 Journeys may take longer than normal.  ScotRail regret that heavy luggage, cycles, wheelchairs and large prams cannot be carried on the replacement buses. Wheelchair users needing help with their journey should contact 0845 605 7021 in advance for information. ScotRail apologise for any inconvenience caused. Passengers are advised to check alterations to services before travelling by phoning National Rail Enquiries on 08457 48 49 50 (24hrs).