UNIONS decried a “clear act of industrial vandalism” today as a piper serenaded the closure of Glasgow’s historic St Rollox railway works.

The last remaining workers applauded as the final refurbished train left the site, popularly known as the “Caley,” before marching to the gates with banners held high.

Unite official Pat Mcilvogue told the Star: “I think it’s a national disgrace that we’re seeing here today.

“This is a clear act of industrial vandalism to Scottish industrial infrastructure.

“But the campaign continues. This site is of major infrastructural importance to Scotland. There is nothing to stop the Scottish government taking on the site and re-engaging our members.”

The works, which has dominated the landscape in Springburn in the east end of Glasgow since it was built 163 years ago, was declared unviable by its German-owned operator Gemini Rail Group. It employed 200 workers and contractors until the lay-offs started in March.

RMT Scotland organiser Mick Hogg described the closure as an “absolute tragedy”, saying: “We strongly believe there is a positive future for Springburn. The battle will continue until such a time as we find an alternative.

“The Scottish government has done nothing to reverse this madness. We’re now in a position where Scotland’s trains will be going south of the border to be maintained.”

The Scottish government claims it cannot nationalise the site due to EU state aid rules, and says the responsibility for awarding maintenance contracts lies with the private owners of railway rolling stock.

On leaving the site, the workers were applauded by trade union and Labour Party activists before a rally on the adjacent housing scheme.

Glasgow North East MP Paul Sweeney told the gathering: “It was a political choice, like most things are. They say it was inevitable. It wasn’t inevitable — there’s opportunity in this site.”

A Scottish government spokesman said: “This is a disappointing day for Scotland’s rail industry and we wholly empathise with the remaining staff and their families.

“We appreciate the engagement and resolve shown by those involved in efforts to keep this depot open.

“That is why Scottish Enterprise remains committed to doing all it can to look at the potential of repurposing the site to ensure a sustainable future.

“We reaffirm our belief that the timescale set, especially as Gemini has now progressed to closure, was too short to allow for a meaningful review of options for the site.

“We will also do everything we can to support affected workers through PACE employee support.”