Electrification of a historic Glasgow railway works is key to saving 180 jobs which are under-threat, according to trade union bosses.

Proposals on how to save the historic St Rollox railway works are being considered after a meeting with bosses this week.

The site, currently owned by Gemini Rail services, is under threat after proposals to close the plant emerged.

Pat McIlvogue, Unite regional industrial officer, said investing in electric railway lines into the works could bring in significant business.

He added: "There is a huge potential there and the key to the whole plan is electrification.

"This could open up it up for work on as much as two-thirds of ScotRail's rolling stock.

"This blows the current business case out of the water."

Glasgow North East MP Paul Sweeney, one of those at the talks, reiterated his support for the site and its future.

The Labour representative believes that, along with electrification, the development of a 1,000 worker train factory in Fife offers opportunities for sub-contracting work at St Rollox.

However, he stressed that short-term solutions were being sought immediately as talks on how to develop the site going forward continue.

Mr Sweeney said: "This is the biggest plant of its kind in Scotland is of key strategic importance to the country.

"We are now looking at options, including electrifying the line in to the plant to avoid closure. We need an open book approach to this.

"There is the possibility of subcontracting work from Longannet in Fife could offer work for St Rollox.

"This is about getting some oxygen into the site while we find new work. It is important that we keep this kernel of skills in Springburn and look at growing in the future."

Gemini will now enter a consultation period.

During this, they will consider the proposals to shut the plant.

Managing director Nick Fitzwater said: "We were pleased to be able to meet with Mr Sweeney, and discuss with him the situation at Springburn and our proposal, and to listen to his views.

“We wish to underline that Gemini Rail Services is committed to engaging with all key stakeholders. The company has also met with Scottish Enterprise and Transport Scotland."

However, Mr Sweeney asked for transparency from Gemini in their discussions on the future of the plant.

He called for the company to open their account books to Scottish Enterprise.

The Labour MP added: "There needs to be thorough forensic analysis as it feels as if Gemini have already admitted defeat."

When asked, Gemini did not confirm whether they would share their accounts with Scottish Enterprise, adding they would "provide all assistance possible to help staff understand options".