£11.5m track upgrade will mean three-week closure for rail line north of Dingwall
The Far North Line will be closed north of Dingwall for a three-week period this summer so that an £11.5 million track upgrading programme can be carried out.
Network Rail says the work will increase reliability of rail services for passengers by refurbishing a five-mile stretch of track between Brora and Helmsdale and replacing almost nine miles of track between Invergordon and Fearn.
To allow the upgrades to be delivered safely and efficiently, the line will be closed with no trains running north of Dingwall from Sunday, June 8, until Monday, June 30.
Ross Moran, route director at Network Rail Scotland, said: “Some components on the track are approaching 100 years old, so it’s really important this project goes ahead as we continue to build a railway fit for the future.
“There’s never an easy time to close the line but we know the majority of passengers prefer one continuous period like this, rather than overnight and weekend closures across a much longer timeframe.
“I’m grateful in advance for the understanding and patience from both passengers and those who live in the area while this work is carried out. Once complete, journeys will be much smoother and more reliable for years to come.”
ScotRail service delivery director Mark Ilderton said: “We know how important the Far North Line is to the communities it serves. While this work will mean some temporary disruption to journeys, it’s a vital investment in the future of the route.
“While the work takes place, we’ll have alternative travel arrangements to keep customers moving and get them where they need to be. This includes running as many trains as we can between Inverness and Dingwall, with rail replacement bus services also operating to minimise disruption.
“We appreciate our customers’ patience and encourage anyone planning to travel to check their journey in advance.”
Dalchalm level crossing will also be temporarily closed during the work, with traffic diverted via the A9.
Anyone intending to travel from June 8-30 on rail services between Inverness/Dingwall and Wick/Thurso is asked to check with ScotRail for further information, or to contact National Rail enquiries.
