THE Forth Bridge is set to benefit from a £16million investment in signalling.

Network Rail and Transport Minister Derek Mackay announced today (Wednesday) that a contract to upgrade signalling on the Edinburgh-Fife route has been awarded to Siemens.

The work, part of the Edinburgh-Glasgow Improvement Programme, will improve reliability on the route and create additional capacity on the lines serving key commuter routes into Fife and beyond.

On the Forth Bridge, six new signals will be installed and the project will also involve a range of associated works to interlockings, power systems and telecoms along the line between Haymarket and the bridge.

Mr Mackay said, “Scotland’s railways are in the midst of a renewed golden age and these signalling upgrades will see sympathetic improvements to one of our most world-famous landmarks, which draws tourists from around the world as well as carrying daily commuters.

“The Scottish Government is currently investing £5billion in ensuring our railways and train services continue on this path of increased patronage, as this will support growth in our economy, as well as modal shift from roads use to increase our carbon efficiency.” David Dickson, Network Rail route managing director for Scotland, added, “Rail travel is more popular now that ever before and we need to continually invest in our infrastructure to meet the needs of today’s businesses and commuters.

“The investment announced today will help to ensure we can continue to improve reliability on the network and also look to increase services on our railway in the future as we strive to meet the ever-rising demand for rail travel.” Work has now started and will be completed by summer 2015.