West Highland Line to close for nine days for £13M upgrade
Work on the scenic route includes rail renewal and drainage improvements to enhance reliability.
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The West Highland Line is scheduled for a nine-day closure in November to facilitate approximately £13 million in upgrade work. Network Rail Scotland announced the investment is intended to enhance the reliability and resilience of the popular scenic route.
Scope of the upgrade work
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The programme of works includes the renewal of more than 4 kilometres of worn rail at multiple locations. These include sections near Arisaig, Corrour, within the Loch nan Uamh and Beasdale tunnels, at Arrochar & Tarbet station, and on Gleann Mama viaduct. Additionally, engineers will undertake drainage improvements and culvert renewals between Glen Douglas and Arrochar & Tarbet. Other planned activities involve refurbishing Fassfern Bridge near Spean Bridge, removing a redundant bridge near Loch Eil, and clearing vegetation between Fort William and Arisaig.
Network Rail stated that the improvements are designed to address wear and tear on the infrastructure, reduce the potential for delays caused by track conditions, and make the line more resistant to flooding and severe weather events. These measures are also intended to safeguard daily journeys for local residents and the many tourists who travel on the route annually.
Ensuring a dependable service
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Artwork by Skyhigh and Roo commissioned by South Western Railway and Network Rail Wessex.
Gerry McQuade, Network Rail Scotland capital delivery director, said the work is focused on ensuring the route continues to provide a dependable service for its users. He acknowledged that line closures are not ideal but stated that this concentrated period of work allows for a significant amount of infrastructure renewal to be completed efficiently, avoiding repeated disruption over a longer timeframe. ScotRail service delivery director Mark Ilderton welcomed the investment, highlighting the West Highland Line's importance as a lifeline for communities and an iconic railway route.
Mr Ilderton added that the investment will support the resilience and reliability of the railway, benefiting the communities, businesses, and visitors who depend on the West Highland Line for many years to come.
Questions this report answers
+When will the West Highland Line be closed for upgrades?
The West Highland Line will be closed for nine days in November to allow for essential upgrade work. The exact dates of the closure have not yet been specified.
+How much will the upgrade work cost?
Approximately £13 million will be spent on improving the reliability and resilience of the West Highland Line. This investment covers a range of infrastructure renewal projects.
+What specific work will be carried out during the closure?
The upgrade programme includes renewing over 4 kilometres of worn rail at various locations, drainage improvements, and culvert renewals between Glen Douglas and Arrochar & Tarbet. Engineers will also refurbish Fassfern Bridge and clear vegetation.
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