Fast tram-train link proposed for Glasgow Airport

A new fast tram-train link from central Glasgow to Glasgow Airport could be operational by 2025.

The scheme to build a tram-train link is one of two options being put forward for a new connection between Glasgow city centre, Paisley and Glasgow Airport as the flagship infrastructure project of the £1.13bn Glasgow and Clyde Valley City Deal.

The tram-train carriages would run on the train line between Glasgow Central and Paisley Gilmour Street before moving on to new tram rails between Paisley and the airport, with a journey time from Glasgow city centre to the airport of under 17 minutes.

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The other option being considered is a light-rail personal rapid transit system, where passengers would travel by standard train to Paisley before changing onto a new light-rail system to the airport.

The estimated cost of a tram-train link is £144.3m. If the proposal is approved, construction could start in 2021 and it could be operational by 2025. The personal rapid transit option would cost £102m.

Studies suggest that the tram-train would offer better value for money, due to its greater appeal for users.

The strategic business case for the tram-train and personal rapid transit schemes has been developed by Renfrewshire Council and Glasgow City Council.

It will be put before councillors in both local authorities early next month before going to the Glasgow and Clyde Valley cabinet for approval.

If approved, further work would be done to develop the detail around both options before a final choice is made next year.

Councillor Frank McAveety, leader of Glasgow City Council, said Glasgow Airport played a “crucial role” in the continued growth of the region.

“We’ve long argued that a new rail link between the airport and the city centre is essential for the thousands of tourists and business travellers who fly into and out of Glasgow every day,” he said.

“The airport already supports thousands of jobs but this new rail link, which is the single biggest element of our City Deal, will be the catalyst that takes us to a new level, vastly improving the customer experience and generating even more jobs and inward investment.”

The airport access project within the City Deal programme is being put forward jointly by Renfrewshire Council and Glasgow City Council, with Renfrewshire acting as the lead authority.

Business cases Glasgow and Clyde Valley City Deal projects go through three stages of approval: strategic, outline and full, with each stage unlocking funding to allow the project to proceed to the next stage.