A "SIGNIFICANT" milestone has been reached as part of the £63.3million Barrhead to Glasgow railway electrification project.

It comes after Network Rail revealed the first electric train ran on the line to test the route.

The Class 380 completed test runs from between 15mph to 75mph along the newly electrified line overnight on Wednesday, November 7 into Thursday, November 8. 

Further test trains are set to run over the next few weeks on the route ahead of the introduction of the trains next month.

Paul Reilly, Network Rail's senior programme manager, said: “Running the test train on the Glasgow-Barrhead line is a major milestone for everyone involved in delivering this project over the last two years.

“The test train successfully demonstrated that the overhead equipment is operating as it should, ahead of ScotRail introducing Class 380 electric services for passengers on to the route in December.

“Electric trains are lighter, cleaner and quieter than their diesel equivalents and cause less wear and tear to the track.

“More reliable, greener trains are better for our customers and environment – helping Scotland’s Railway deliver our contribution to a low carbon economy.”

David Simpson, ScotRail's service delivery director, said: “This trial was a massive step towards the introduction of electric passenger trains on the recently electrified Barrhead line, and paves the way for more sustainable, eco-friendly journeys.

“The introduction of electric Class 380 trains on the Barrhead line will ensure that customers along the route benefit from a more comfortable and reliable service. We hope this will encourage more people to choose rail travel instead of using the car, particularly during our off-peak all day fares trial.”