A GLASGOW rail yard which has been facing the threat of closure could be given a stay of execution thanks to spending by Network Rail bosses.

Fears remain over the proposed shutting of the St Rollox railway works in Springburn, currently operated by Gemini Rail Services.

But suggestions that the site could receive capital spending, brought forward by Network Rail to pay for electrification work, have brought new hope for the 180 under-threat workers.

After a meeting of trade union officials, staff representatives and politicians on Monday, Glasgow North East MP Paul Sweeney claimed there had been dialogue with rail bosses about bringing in funding in the short term.

It has been speculated that electrification could open the site up to two-thirds of work available in Scotland.

However, any such plans would need to be initiated by bosses at Gemini or by those in government.

Ahead of a Westminster debate on the proposed closure next Monday, Mr Sweeney asked Gemini to allow their accounts to be audited to identify ways to aid the business.

The MP said: “Monday was just a meeting with officials about strategy but our view is the site is viable.

“We are meeting regarding the electrification of the site, with Network Rail open to bringing forward capital spending, bringing in business and generate more rolling stock through the site.

He said: “I am calling again for Gemini to allow their accounts to be independently audited so we can get an idea of the company’s finances.

“Too many companies in Glasgow have been bought over from outside the city and allowed to wither away.”

Mr Sweeney has said he will push Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, Greg Clark MP, for his support on this during Monday's debate.

In response, Network Rail have said they have no plans at present to electrify the site, but these could change if approached.

A Network Rail spokesperson added: “We do not currently have plans to electrify the site, but would work with industry partners to offer a cost effective solution if requested.”

Gemini Rail Services have reiterated their commitment to exploring "all viable ideas" but would not commit to an audit of their accounts.

Nick Fitzwater, Gemini's managing director, added: “We are committed to this process and are of course willing to discuss ideas further with Network Rail. Each of these meetings have come ahead of the detailed consultations with our employees and their representatives, which are due to begin later this month.

“We have given clear details of the severe and unsustainable losses the site has made to date and is projected to make in 2019, against a backdrop of an undeniably changing market that is affecting the wider rail service industry.

“Scottish Enterprise is one of those organisations which has been informed of the losses and market landscape, and we are committed to engaging in more detailed discussions with them.”