ROPE access technicians have been ascending and navigating the Glenfinnan Viaduct as part of Network Rail’s £3.4 million project to future-proof the world famous crossing.
The rail organisation explained that the rope access allows workers to reach and restore areas on the viaduct that would otherwise be inaccessible, as well as the added benefit of being efficient and having minimal environmental impact.
During the wider year-long project, engineers from Network Rail and AmcoGiffen have been assessing the condition and strength of the viaduct, which sits 100ft above the River Finnan, before completing concrete repairs. They’re also making improvements beneath the track to keep the stone ballast in place.
Alan Ross, director of engineering and asset management at Network Rail, said, “It’s not often, even in my job, that you have the chance to walk on the West Highland Line’s Glenfinnan viaduct.
“Given its importance and scale – we’re treating this refurbishment slightly differently, with rope access teams scaling the viaduct to assess and repair it. We’re doing it this way rather than using scaffolding as it’s more efficient and doesn’t spoil the view for the hundreds of thousands of people visiting this beautiful area.”
At ground level, engineers are also working in the River Finnan to protect the viaduct piers from erosion caused by the fast-flowing river. Network Rail said the protective work is even more crucial as the weather gets warmer and wetter due to climate change.
Alan added, “It’s been great to see the care and attention the team are taking on this job – we’re very proud to be custodians of this much-loved part of Scotland’s Railway and don’t take this responsibility lightly. There’s a lot more work still to be done in the coming months – we will continue to share updates of progress and you might even bump into some of our team at this year’s Glenfinnan Games!”
