£2m stations revamp ahead of Games

Feb 11 2013

Train stations serving the 2014 Commonwealth Games are to undergo a £2 million revamp.

A total of 20 stations across the Strathclyde rail network will be refurbished, including Glasgow Queen Street, Charing Cross and High Street.

The investment by ScotRail was announced by Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon following an agreement between the train operator and the Scottish Government. She said the stations will be given a fresh new look and services will be improved for commuters.

It is anticipated that thousands of extra passengers will flock to the city for the Games.

Ms Sturgeon said: "Almost 20 million commuters already use these three key Glasgow stations every year - this investment will deliver a £2 million transformation of these, and other, stations, boosting capacity and improving accessibility.

"The 2014 Games will be a huge event, attracting visitors from across the world, and these stations will be gateways to Glasgow as well as the Commonwealth Games.

"The appearance and service of our public transport networks is a hugely important part of that and all partners want to see that everything is done to ensure visitors and TV viewers throughout the world see an impressive image of Scotland.

"I am delighted to be able to announce this significant investment for stations serving the Games and I look forward to seeing the improvements to these stations developing in the lead-up to 2014 and delivering a lasting legacy for rail users."

ScotRail managing director Steve Montgomery said: "We recognise the importance of public transport and the part it will play in delivering a positive impression for those visiting Glasgow during the Games. We have a host of improvements planned including more seats and additional train services, as well as upgrades and enhancements at some of our stations.

"Our team will be working hard to ensure that we offer the highest standards of service to everyone who travels to the Games with ScotRail during Glasgow 2014."