A key section of the West Highland Line will close for nine days from tonight as Network Rail undertakes a £15 million programme of upgrades. The work aims to improve the resilience and reliability of this iconic route, which connects Highland communities and attracts tourists to destinations including Fort William, Mallaig, and the Glenfinnan Viaduct. The line also passes Corrour Station, Britain’s highest mainline railway station.

Engineers will renew roughly 10 kilometres of track, replace more than 9,000 sleepers, and carry out vegetation management along the route. Infrastructure improvements include the replacement of a railway bridge near Corrour, strengthening five culverts to enhance drainage, and refurbishment of the Feith footbridge.

To allow the work to be completed safely and efficiently, the line will be closed between Crianlarich and Fort William from the end of service on Friday 7 November until the start of service on Monday 17 November 2025. Rannoch and Tulloch stations will serve as temporary compounds to support the project.

Ross Moran, route director at Network Rail Scotland, said: “The West Highland Line runs through some of the most remote and exposed areas of the country, where conditions can be challenging throughout the year. This work is essential to ensure the route continues to operate safely and reliably for everyone who depends on it. When we close any part of the railway, we make sure that time is used as effectively as possible. This project has been carefully planned to deliver a wide range of improvements to help strengthen the infrastructure and protect it for the future. I want to thank passengers and local communities for their patience while this work is delivered. Once complete, the line will be in a stronger position to serve the Highlands for many years to come.”

During the closure, rail replacement buses will operate between Crianlarich and Fort William. Train services will continue to run between Glasgow Queen Street and Crianlarich, and between Fort William and Mallaig. Services between Glasgow Queen Street and Oban are not affected.

Mark Ilderton, ScotRail Service Delivery Director, said: “The West Highland Line is not only a lifeline for rural communities, but also a world-renowned attraction bringing visitors from far and wide. These works are vital to protect that connection for years to come, ensuring customers can continue to enjoy safe and reliable journeys through some of Scotland’s most spectacular landscapes. While this essential work takes place, we have rail replacement transport in place to keep customers moving and clear information available to help people plan ahead and travel with confidence. We’d like to thank everyone for their patience and understanding while these important improvements are carried out.”

Image: Network Rail