Improved train services in Milngavie and Bearsden

The trains, which primarily run from Edinburgh to/from Helensburgh and Milngavie through Bathgate, Airdrie and the low-level platforms at Glasgow Queen Street have been upgraded. This will increase the number of six car trains able to run on the network and will improve reliability with on-train systems and improved punctuality from reduced coupler defects.

The work, completed by the ScotRail Alliance and funded by the train owners, Eversholt Rail, has seen new heated couplers being fitted on all 40 of the Class 334 three-car electric units. This will increase the speed at which train units can be linked and separated, improving turnaround times and allowing the ScotRail Alliance to match the number of carriages to passenger demand more effectively.

Humza Yousaf, Transport Minister, said: “This upgrade, part of a total investment of £475m across all of ScotRail’s fleet, is just one of actions we are taking to provide customers across Scotland with access to more modern, accessible and reliable trains.

“By making these coupler upgrades we are taking steps to ensure performance is lifted on the line from Helensburgh to Edinburgh and the number of seats is increased.

“And we have completed this work in record time, with these improvements made to all of these trains in just six weeks.”

This engineering work is part of a major expenditure package on all Class 334s to install new power sockets, lighting, heating, cycle spaces with a rollout of free on-board wi-fi across the fleet to come.