Rail users across a number of central belt routes are set to benefit from the latest fleet upgrades unveiled at East Kilbride station.

On show was the latest upgraded class 156 diesel train, part of £16m refurbishment programme, It features new seats along with power sockets, new flooring, livery, accessible toilets and dedicated wheelchair spaces.

Owned by Angel Trains and leased to the ScotRail Alliance, the unit has had a full internal and external repaint plus energy efficient lighting and Wi-Fi installed.

Humza Yousaf, Minister for Transport and the Islands said:

“We are investing £5 billion in Scotland’s railways to 2019 to ensure that as many people as possible have access to a modern, efficient rail network. In recent years we have introduced 160 extra carriages with an extra 180 to follow. This delivers more than 50% extra carriages since 2007 in the ScotRail fleet.

As well as introducing new trains, we are modernising the existing fleet such as these class 156s. This will make a real difference for passengers, including myself as I use these trains regularly, delivering better on train facilities and making fleets more accessible all across Scotland. This builds on seven months continuous improvement in franchise performance.

Good, high quality refurbishment can deliver a passenger experience comparable with new rolling stock, which is a sustainable approach and it has also guaranteed jobs at the Knorr Bremse factory at Springburn.”