NETWORK Rail is to carry out £6 million worth of engineering work on the Highlands’ far north line in June.
As one of the region’s most important transport routes, the far north line supports everyday travel for locals, is popular with visitors, and connects Scotland’s most northerly communities with the central belt via Inverness.
Upgrades will take place at several locations including between Evanton, Tain, and Lairg, and on sections north of Tain towards Wick and Thurso.
Engineers will be renewing more than 4km of track, carrying out repairs to a railway bridge over Craigory Burn near Edderton, improving drainage, and maintaining the level crossing at Rogart.
Gerry McQuade, capital delivery director at Network Rail Scotland, said, “We’re committed to continually improving the railway in the north of Scotland, and have a multi-year programme of investment in the Far North Line to help make journeys safer and more reliable. This year’s work includes significant upgrades on a key section of the route that will help keep services running smoothly.
“We know there’s never an ideal time to close any part of the railway, but by bringing this work together into a single planned closure, we can work more efficiently and avoid multiple shorter disruptions across the year.
“The far north line is a vital route for local communities and visitors alike, and I’d like to thank everyone for their patience and understanding while we deliver this important work.”
