ScotRail has started rolling out newly-refurbished Class 334 trains on the Helensburgh/Milngavie-Edinburgh via Airdrie and Bathgate route.
Four trains have been introduced after receiving a ‘makeover’ as part of a £4million enhancement programme.
The project will also result in a further 36 refurbished trains being phased in during the next two-and-half years.
Key elements of the overhaul - aimed at improving passenger comfort - include re-covered seats, new flooring and upgraded interior finishes.
Each of the trains has been rebranded in the new ‘ScotRail, Scotland’s Railway’ unified livery.
The overall contract was awarded to Railway Projects Limited, but much of the work is being carried out by Kilmarnock-based sub-contractor, Brodie Engineering.
Its rail depot in Ayrshire has undergone extensive refurbishment and extension works to help facilitate the ScotRail contract.
The work is expected to be completed by October 2014.
Steve Montgomery, ScotRail’s managing director, said: “The enhancements mean that our customers can travel in greater comfort. It also supports Transport Scotland’s ongoing roll out of a new, consistent brand for Scotland’s railway.”
Transport Minister Keith Brown said: "I am delighted to see that the newly-refurbished trains have begun returning to service, offering passengers a more comfortable and attractive rail journey.
"The Scottish Government is committed to encouraging as many people as possible onto public transport and the improved on-board environment on these Class 334 trains will go towards achieving that vision.”
He added: "The refurbishment programme has also, crucially, brought much-needed jobs. This builds upon the successful investment by the Scottish Government in re-opening the route to Edinburgh via Airdrie and Bathgate and shows how, despite Westminster cuts, our targeted investment is getting Scotland back on its feet."
Willie Coffey, SNP MSP for Kilmarnock and Irvine Valley, said: “The work taking place at Brodie Engineering is fantastic for the local economy. I am proud to see a local business involved in such an important project.
He added: “They are doing a fantastic job.”
Gerry Hilferty, managing director of Brodie Engineering, said: “We were delighted when the contract was awarded last year, and are pleased to have completed the first refurbishments in partnership with Railway Projects Limited.
“The work has fitted in well with our expansion strategy – and also allowed us to create 19 new jobs in the local area since the beginning of this year.”
Media enquiries:
Danny Carden, ScotRail communications: 0141 335 5087 / [email protected]
Iain Wilson, ScotRail communications: 0141 335 4565 / [email protected]
Notes to Editors
Part of the train operator’s Class 170 fleet is also being refurbished under a £6 million enhancement programme.Railway Projects Ltd:
The overall project is being managed by Railway Projects Ltd.
The successful and reputable engineering services company was established in 1993 and now serves clients throughout the rail industry on a wide range of projects including rolling stock refurbishment, overhaul, installations, modification and maintenance programmes.
It has previous experience of successfully completing maintenance and refresh on ScotRail’s Class 170s to budget and programme.
Railway Projects Ltd continues to work closely with ScotRail and is committed to playing its part in improving the customer experience and developing UK rolling stock for the 21st century.
Last year, ScotRail announced an £800,000 package of improvements to its 16-strong Class 314 fleet and a £2 million upgrade of its fleet of 22 Class 320 trains.