Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT) said the Glasgow subway will reopen nine days later than planned on Wednesday, August 10 following a major modernisation programme.

SPT said essential renewal works had been carried out in the “ramps and turnouts section” of the subway tunnels where trains enter and exit the system and station improvements have been completed at Buchanan Street and Govan.

The subway was closed July 2 for the work to be carried out and SPT had planned for it to reopen on August 1.

But on July 21, contractor Colas Rail advised SPT that it required extra time to complete the works.

SPT chief executive Gordon MacLennan said: “I apologise sincerely to all passengers for the delay in return to service.

“The subway is a vital part of the Glasgow transport network and many passengers rely on it daily to get around.

“We are very grateful for their patience and support while the works have been on-going.

“Following the return of the system, our staff have worked round the clock to ensure it is back up and running for our passengers with services resuming tomorrow morning, Wednesday 10 August.

“There has been a mammoth effort by our team for the return to service including an exhaustive testing and clean-up operation of our entire system to ensure we provide passengers with a safe and reliable service.

“Passenger safety is paramount and we’re now satisfied the renewal works pass our stringent requirements.”