WORK to extend the operational lifespan of the Rannoch Viaduct in the Highlands has been successfully completed.
Network Rail undertook the £1.6 million project over a nine-day closure of the line from March 16-25.
A total of 50 longitudinal timbers which support the rail going over the 208m steel bridge were replaced after the softwood timbers became life expired, with timbers with hardwood also renewed.
Rail was replaced throughout the structure and ‘several’ sections of track between Tyndrum and Roy Bridge were renewed, as well as between Spean Bridge and Arisaig. In addition, engineers modernised the railway signalling system in and on the approaches to Fort William station and within the signal box.
Zoe Monkhouse, Network Rail’s project manager for the Rannoch viaduct project, said, “Our team has worked around-the-clock to deliver this project safely and efficiently and to get the line re-opened for passengers as planned. This investment will extend the lifespan of the structure, improving the long-term reliability of the line, and we are pleased to have completed the work on time. We would like to thank passengers for their patience during the project.”
