PART of a train line in the Highlands is set to close for three weeks to allow £11.5 million worth of upgrades to be carried out.
The Far North Line, which dates to the 19th century, is the UK’s northernmost railway and is seen as a vital transport link for communities across the Highlands.
A five-mile stretch between Brora and Helmsdale, and nearly nine miles of track between Invergordon and Fearn, will be closed from Sunday to allow repair work to be undertaken.
Network Rail, which is carrying out the work, said that with some track components approaching 100 years old, it is essential that some upgrades are made to maintain the lines' safety and performance for the future.
Ross Moran, route director at Network Rail Scotland, said he is grateful to passengers for their patience and understanding while the line is closed.
He said: “The Far North Line plays a crucial role in connecting remote communities, as well as welcoming visitors to one of Scotland’s most scenic regions.
“While closing the line is never ideal, this concentrated period of work allows us to deliver the vital upgrades efficiently and avoid prolonged disruption over a longer timeframe.
“I’m grateful to passengers for their patience and understanding, and we look forward to reopening the line with improvements that will benefit everyone who travels on it.”
To allow engineers to carry out the work safely and efficiently, the line will be closed between Sunday, June 8, and Monday, June 30, with changes to train services during this period.
Mark Ilderton, ScotRail service delivery director, said there will be a rail replacement plan in operation, with buses and limited train services running where possible.
He said: “We understand that this work will mean some temporary disruption to journeys, however, it’s a vital investment in the long-term future of the route.
“To keep customers moving throughout the works, we’ll have a rail replacement plan in operation, with buses and a limited train service running where possible.
“We thank our customers for their patience, and look forward to welcoming them back on the line when the works complete.”
