The council is jointly funding the £200,000-worth of essential repair works that are due to begin on 4 March, reinstating the stepped access on the west side of the station that has been closed since March last year. 

Also funding the repairs is Network Rail, whose engineers will carry out the work to replace worn stair-treads, repaint the staircases and repair the landing area, ensuring that the footbridge will be safe for use once again by the planned completion date of 29 March. 

Councillor Joe Fagan, leader of South Lanarkshire Council, said: “We know that this staircase being closed to the public has been incredibly disruptive to many local people, but obviously the safety of its users has been paramount.

“I am therefore delighted that, through our partnership-working with Network Rail, the repairs will be starting so soon and that everyone who uses the station will have the footbridge open and available to them in a matter of weeks.”

The footbridge is an important route not only for rail passengers but also for families travelling to and from the adjacent Burnside Primary School, so restoring the link will significantly improve everyday access for the local community. 

Richard Kinsella, regional asset manager at Network Rail, said: “These repairs will provide a safer, more-dependable route for everyone using the station.

“We’re working closely with South Lanarkshire Council to complete the work as efficiently as possible.”

Although the footbridge will be a construction site during the works, the main station entrance will remain open.