A delay to the reopening of Anderston station in Scotland has been blamed on engineering works being impacted by supply chain issues.
The station was scheduled to reopen yesterday but this has been pushed back to next Monday.
Over the last 12 weeks, Network Rail engineers have been working around-the-clock to carry out extensive refurbishment works to the station, including the concourse and platform areas.
However, a shortage of electronic components due to world-wide supply chain problems has delayed key components required for the new light fittings at the station. The delay means engineers now require a further week to complete, test and commission the new lighting.
Network Rail programme manager Tommy McPake emphasised the difficulties posed by the supply chain problems.
“Given the challenges of supply chain issues facing many industries at the moment, unfortunately the railway is not immune to this,” he said. “The knock-on effect of delayed materials means that we are not in a position to re-open until the new lighting has been tested and that we are satisfied it is fully compliant with our rigorous safety standards.
“We fully appreciate the inconvenience to passengers caused by the station remaining closed for a further week – we sincerely apologise for this and thank passengers for their continued patience.”
The construction supply chain has been hit by a number of challenges in recent times. These include rising energy costs, which in turn caused a materials crisis. This saw costs rise consistently, whether it was timber, concrete or metals.
The pandemic’s impact was unavoidable, causing governments to increase taxes, while work forces were diminished by the virus.
Brexit has also had an effect, causing a shortage of HGV drivers that then precipitated the fuel crisis, leading to a shortage of workers on the ground.
Going forward, experts have suggested that collaboration will be key for the supply chain to survive.
Work at Anderston station is part of a £32M investment in repairing and renewing tunnels, bridges and tracks on the Argyle line, designed to improve punctuality, reliability and the passenger experience for years to come.
When the station reopens on 13 June, work will continue at the station until the project’s overall completion in the late autumn.
Once finished, the refurbishment includes a new lift for better customer access, a remodelled booking office and modern finishes on the stairs, floors and ceilings. There will also be improvements outside the station, with a new-look glazed entrance and enhanced external lighting.
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