Far North Line campaign for new Delmore passing loop between Inverness and Beauly that would dramatically improve train reliability between Caithness and the Highland capital, wins the backing of a Holyrood election hopeful

The campaign for a vital railway project that could sharply improve train reliability on the Far North Line has won the backing of a Holyrood election hopeful.

John Erskine, who intends to run as a Scottish Labour candidate in a Highland seat in next year’s Scottish Government elections, has thrown his “full support” behind calls to deliver the Delmore Loop on the Far North Line.

The passing loop, which would be built west of Inverness, has long been called for by rail passengers and campaigners, who say that the lack of any place for trains to pass each other between the city and Muir of Ord can lead to horrific knock-on travel disruption. Even disruption to a single train can lead to multiple delays for other services.

Network Rail Scotland also appears to have recognised the potential of such a passing place - even going so far as to lodge planning application forms two years ago that were related to the creation of a temporary access road that would enable construction of a loop at Delmore.

But a lack of funding for the project has left the loop in limbo, with rail campaigners and engineers seemingly in agreement that it is needed - but the money for it to proceed remaining frustratingly out of reach.

The extended pause has proven particularly galling for campaigners, as the relatively low cost of the work - estimates from a decade ago were that it might cost as little as £1m at that time - is tiny compared to some of the major road projects currently under way in the Highlands.

And now Mr Erskine has added his voice to those demanding that action finally be taken, describing the long-delayed rail upgrade as “a vital investment in Highland infrastructure that can no longer be ignored”.

Mr Erskine, who is seeking selection for either the Inverness and Nairn or the Caithness, Sutherland and Ross seat, recently met with Ian Budd, convener of the Friends of the Far North Line, to discuss the project, and has made clear his commitment to championing the loop if elected.

“As a rail enthusiast, regular user of the Far North Line, and a member of the Friends of the Far North Line, I fully understand why this loop is the top infrastructure priority for campaigners across the region,” he said.

“We cannot build a reliable and modern Highland rail service on outdated infrastructure that was never designed for today’s needs. The Delmore Loop would address one of the most serious capacity issues on the network and help unlock the potential of rail across the north.

“Yes, this project comes at a significant cost — but it is an essential investment in regional transport and economic growth. It’s time for the Highlands to get our fair share.

“The SNP government has received the largest block grant since devolution, and yet communities outside the central belt continue to be overlooked. This must change. If I’m elected, I’ll fight every day to deliver investment like the Delmore Loop and bring a new focus to rural transport.

“The Highlands can’t wait any longer — we need action, not just warm words.”

Mr Erskine added that campaigners have grown increasingly concerned about the lack of progress on the project, despite the earlier planning applications and positive engagement with Transport Scotland.

He added that Network Rail had recently confirmed that funding has still not been committed, and no timeline has been provided.

He argues that the issue is “symbolic of a wider lack of ambition for rural Scotland” and that Scottish Labour would bring forward a new plan for transport investment that recognises the needs of Highland communities.

Approached for an update on the possible Delmore Loop project, Network Rail Scotland, again stressing its “commitment” to the scheme but acknowledging that a final decision “remains under review” due to a need to find a solution that “offers value for money”.

A spokesperson for Network Rail Scotland said: "The railway is a major contributor to sustainable economic growth, and we know the difference it can make to communities and businesses.

“We were funded by Transport Scotland to develop a design for the Delmore passing loop to enhance the network's resilience and reliability. We are committed to collaborating with all partners and stakeholders on its potential future delivery, which remains under review to find a solution that offers value for money."

Do you want to respond to this article? If so, click here to submit your thoughts and they may be published in print.