Double Track for Annan
16 Jun 2007
Double Track for Annan
Railways in Dumfries are to benefit from a £35 million investment, starting with a £13 million project doubling and upgrading the line between Gretna Junction and Annan.
The work will also involve replacing four bridge decks, new signalling and telecommunications, and a new platform at Gretna Green. Says Ron McAulay, Director Scotland for Network Rail, ‘We are committed to growing and improving the railway in Scotland. Gretna to Annan is an increasingly busy stretch of line in the Scottish rail network both for freight and passenger trains. Doubling the track will reduce delays and make passenger and freight trains faster and more efficient.’
The line continues through Dumfries to the Ayrshire coast and via Kilmarnock to Glasgow. Increased line capacity will allow more freight and provide a new diversionary route for passenger trains. The work, which will be carried out by contractor Balfour Beatty Rail Projects, will be completed by February 2008. The upgrade will include the re-decking of several bridges along the length of the line - Stonehouse Road bridge, Bellevue Road bridge, and Stonehouse farm access bridge. Gretna Green holds a unique place in English affections. In 1753 a new Act of Parliament forbade marriage between under 21s without parental consent. The act did not apply in Scotland where spouses can be just 16. Moreover, under Scottish law, a marriage is valid if conducted in front of two witnesses. Many oppressed young couples have fled across the border to get married in Gretna Green. Improved rail links mean prospective honeymooners can speed off to the Ayrshire coast by train.