Network Rail has launched a £1.2 million programme of improvement works at the Bunchrew level crossing on the Far North Line.

The crossing will be made safer and more robust with Network Rail replacing the current equipment before it reaches the end of its working life.

The new level crossing will operate in the same way for users at Bunchrew and will now link into the railway's signalling system.

In addition to the engineering upgrade, Network Rail will also install new anti-trespass guards and repaint the current road markings to improve safety at the crossing.

To complete the required work in the safest and most efficient way, Englishton Muir road will be closed at the crossing from 22:00hrs on Sunday evening until 09:00hrs the following Sunday morning. During the full road closure, access over the crossing will be limited to emergency vehicles. 

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Network Rail is working closely with Highland Council to highlight the situation to road users and will work to keep the duration of the closure to an absolute minimum.

Overnight works may be noisy for those living nearest the crossing, and Network Rail would like to thank those railway neighbours for their patience and understanding.

Lee Ross, Infrastructure Maintenance Delivery Manager for Network Rail, said: "The upgrade work planned at Bunchrew is essential as the existing level crossing equipment is approaching the end of its working life.

"Replacement and upgrade will ensure the crossing remains safe and operates as designed and the safest and quickest way to do what is needed is to close the road.

"While we appreciate the short-term impact of this work is inconvenient, the long-term benefit is that it helps minimise overall disruption for both passengers and road users and helps us deliver a reliable and resilient railway."