Haymarket railway station to have makeover to cope with extra passengers

EDINBURGH'S Haymarket train station is to undergo a multi-million-pound revamp, creating a hub for the city's train and tram network, and increasing efficiency between Scotland's two biggest cities.

The plan is part of a 1 billion improvement to rail links in central Scotland, which will cut journey times between the capital and Glasgow to just 35 minutes.

Costing 50 million-100m, the station will remain two storeys but have a new black granite facade added, as well as a copper-clad concourse.

And, in anticipation of a rise in passenger numbers, 12 more ticket gates will be added to the concourse, which will be connected to the platforms by a glass link bridge and new glass lifts.

Rail bosses believe these measures will ensure Haymarket is able to cope with an expected 50 per cent increase in demand by 2022.

A Transport Scotland spokeswoman said: "This Haymarket Station Capacity Project forms part of the Edinburgh-Glasgow Improvements Programme, which will revolutionise the rail network in central Scotland, bringing real benefits to passengers."