Far North Line To Shut For Three Weeks As £6m Highland Upgrade Begins

A three-week closure of part of the Far North Line will begin this weekend as Network Rail starts a £6m package of engineering work on the Highland route.

The work forms part of a wider, multi-year investment programme aimed at improving journeys on one of Scotland’s most remote and important railway corridors.

Network Rail said upgrades will take place at several points between Evanton, Tain and Lairg, as well as on sections of the route north of Tain towards Wick and Thurso.

The programme will include the renewal of more than 4km of track, repairs to a railway bridge near Edderton, drainage improvements, and maintenance at Rogart level crossing.

To enable the work to be completed safely and efficiently, no trains will run between Dingwall and Wick from late on Sunday 7 June until early on Monday 29 June.

ScotRail will put a rail replacement plan in place during the closure, while passengers will also have access to other public transport options. Travellers are being urged to check their journeys before setting off.

Gerry McQuade, capital delivery director at Network Rail Scotland, said:

“We know the Far North Line is a lifeline for some of Scotland’s most remote communities and that’s exactly why we need to keep investing in it. This £6m project will help ensure the railway remains safe, reliable and fit for the future. We know closing the line for three weeks is an inconvenience, and we don’t take that lightly. But doing this work in one block means fewer disruptions later and a better railway overall for years to come. We’re grateful for people’s patience and encourage anyone travelling to check their journeys in advance.”

Mark Ilderton, ScotRail Service delivery director, said:

“We know how important the Far North Line is to the communities it serves, and while these works will mean some temporary disruption, they are a vital investment in the long-term future of the route. We’ll support customers looking to travel during the works with rail replacement transport in place along the route, and we’re grateful for their patience and understanding while this important upgrade is delivered.”

Image: Network Rail