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Network Rail is set to begin a significant £15 million (or £15m) programme of engineering upgrades on the West Highland Line to improve the long-term resilience and reliability of the route. The work will commence in two weeks, running between Friday, 7 November and Monday, 17 November 2025.
The project involves essential repairs and renewals across the line between Crianlarich and Fort William, a route crucial for remote Highland communities and for connecting visitors to destinations like Fort William, Mallaig, and the Glenfinnan viaduct.
Ross Moran, route director at Network Rail Scotland, stated that the investment is key to the line's future: "We're proud to be delivering improvements that will strengthen the West Highland Line for the future. It's one of Scotland's most iconic and scenic routes, and this investment will ensure it remains a safe and sustainable way to travel."
The intensive 10-day programme will require a full line closure between Crianlarich and Fort William to allow the work to be delivered safely and efficiently.
The construction works include several key components:
• Track Renewal: Replacement of approximately 10 kilometres of rail and 9,100 sleepers.
• Structural Renewal: Complete renewal of a railway bridge located near Corrour.
• Drainage and Civils: Vegetation management and significant drainage improvements, including five culvert renewals.
• Refurbishment: Complete refurbishment of the Feith footbridge.
To support the logistics of the work, the stations at Rannoch and Tulloch will be used as temporary engineering compounds during the closure period.
Mark Ilderton, ScotRail Service Delivery Director, emphasised the importance of the project: "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."
Network Rail is reminding passengers to plan ahead for their journeys as rail replacement transport will be in place between Crianlarich and Fort William during the closure.
