The Evening Times revealed yesterday how the Scottish Government announced it was investing £650million in upgrading the intercity line, to allow faster trains and quicker journeys.
However, initial plans for a £1billion project to see four extra trains an hour running direct between Glasgow and the capital meant the increased frequency would have closed off access to the high level station for trains on the Anniesland to Queen Street service.
After the Evening Times revealed the threat to services, local passengers and MSP Patricia Ferguson called on the government to find a solution that saved the north Glasgow line.
Transport sources said the threat to the line was an issue in discussions and played a part in the decision, while the Transport Minister Keith Brown, recognised the need to preserve existing services.
Mr Brown said: "We have taken advantage of a number of developments to future-proof this project.
"While the original plans were the best possible way of achieving these improvements at the time, the new proposals not only secure faster times between Edinburgh and Glasgow they will increase capacity, revitalise Queen Street Station and protect local commuter services into Glasgow."
Meetings took place between railway officials and politicians where it was admitted that the local city-bound line would close at Ashfield and trains would have to be diverted, adding around 30 minutes to a trip.
Patricia Ferguson, Labour MSP for Maryhill and Springburn, said: "I am delighted that the concerns of many of my constituents, relayed to the government through petitions and letters has been recognised.
She said: "The Minister has bowed to pressure and recognised the importance of the Anniesland to Queen St via Ashfield train service.
"This is an extremely busy and popular line and the implication of the previous proposals would have been the gradual decline, and possible loss of the service."
To accommodate longer trains, a refurbishment of Queen Street will see extended platforms with the station frontage being moved forward towards George Square.
Gordon Matheson, Leader of Glasgow City Council, said: "Initial plans suggested that train services in the north of Glasgow would have been diminished by this investment.
"However, I am pleased the Transport Minister has given me a personal assurance that this will not be the case."
Further discussions will take place with Transport Scotland to ensure that Glasgow's local rail services best meet the needs of passengers.
