Rail passengers face massive disruption this summer as all train services in and out of Barrhead are cancelled for six weeks.

The shutdown will mean major improvements can be carried out, including a multi-million pound project to fully electrify the line between Barrhead and Glasgow.

However, local politicians have expressed concern over the impact on those who rely on public transport and are already suffering from cuts to the town’s bus services.

They have urged Network Rail and ScotRail to keep disruption to a minimum and make sure enough buses are provided to replace the cancelled trains.

Labour MSP Neil Bibby, who represents Barrhead as part of his West Scotland remit, said: “Of course engineering works have to happen from time to time and the electrification of the line is an important project.

“I am concerned, however, that this comes as a double-whammy on top of the spate of recent bus cuts for long-suffering commuters and residents.

“There is a danger of these works compounding social isolation and difficulties for people trying to get about. This is why good public transport, where it is safe, affordable and reliable, is so important.

“I urge ScotRail to minimise the disruption by ensuring they provide at least an equivalent rail-replacement bus service during these works.”

There will be no trains operating through Barrhead station between Saturday, June 24, and Thursday, August 3, with a replacement bus service in operation.

Network Rail, which is responsible for rail infrastructure, has said it will be necessary to have “all lines closed all day, every day” as engineers will be working around the clock to deliver key upgrades as part of the Barrhead Electrification Project.

Once the work has been completed, it will support passenger and freight services, with the line also being used as a key diversionary route for cross-border trains.

Passengers boarding at Barrhead have been told they will benefit from greener, more reliable electric trains, with improvements also being made to stations along the route to Glasgow.

During the line closure this summer, work will also take place at Kennishead, Priesthill & Darnley and Nitshill.

Engineers will be making the stations suitable for an electrified railway by modifying structures and platforms.

Overhead line infrastructure will also be installed and track renewal work will take place at Barrhead.

Councillor Chris Lunday, who represents Barrhead, Liboside and Uplawmoor for the SNP, said local residents face major disruption.

He added: “Many people use this line and will find it difficult to get to work in the morning due to issues with buses.

“I have written to Network Rail for more information on their plans and I hope they can arrange some alternative for those who rely on the trains to commute to work.”

A spokesperson for Network Rail said: “The electrification of the Barrhead line will mean more reliable and greener journeys for our customers and will help Scotland’s railway reduce our carbon footprint.

“The complexity of the work taking place means closing the line for a short period is the safest and most efficient way to carry out these vital improvements.

“We understand the inconvenience this will cause to passengers and are working hard alongside ScotRail to keep disruption to a minimum.”