A railway line hailed as one of the most scenic in the world is to close for 9 days as part of a £15m project. Works to the West Highland Line will directly impact 9 stations with works aiming to prove the resilience and reliability of the route.
The West Highland Line leaves Glasgow behind and delves deep into the mountainous west coast of Scotland. The stunning line which runs from Glasgow north to Crianlarich features the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct seen in the Harry Potter films. With 33 stations along the line, it connects visitors to destinations like Fort William, Mallaig and the iconic Glenfinnan viaduct, while also serving as a lifeline for rural Highland communities.
Network Rail will start a major programme of engineering work on the line from October. The incredible £15m project will require the line to be shut for nine days while work is carried out.
Network Rail has warned of some disruption to services, and the line between Crianlarich and Fort William is to be closed for nine days from November 7 to November 17. As well as Crianlarich and Fort William, services through Upper Tyndrum, Bride of Orchy, Rannoch, Tulloch, Roy Bridge, and Spean Bridge will be most affected.
During the closure, Network Rail will use Rannoch and Tulloch stations as temporary compounds to support the work.
The project involves replacing a total of six miles (10km) of rail and 9,100 sleepers.
Ross Moran, route director at Network Rail Scotland, said the “significant investment” would help keep the line safe, reliable and resilient for years.
He said: “The route is vital for the communities it serves and for the many visitors who travel to experience one of the most scenic rail journeys in the world.
“These upgrades are essential to keeping services running smoothly in a remote and challenging environment.”
Passengers are advised to plan ahead for journeys during the engineering works and check with their train operator for alternative travel options.
Mark Ilderton, ScotRail service delivery director, said there will be a rail replacement service for the stations which are affected with the closure.
He said: “The West Highland Line is a vital connection for the communities it serves as well as an important gateway for Scotland’s tourism industry, which is why these essential works are so important.
“While the work takes place, our priority will be on keeping people moving with rail replacement transport in place. We’re grateful to customers for their understanding and patience while Network Rail carries out these improvements.”