Network Rail has announced a major £6 million investment project to upgrade the Far North Line, a critical infrastructure artery connecting the Highlands and Scotland's northernmost communities to the Central Belt.

The comprehensive works package is part of a multi-year investment strategy aimed at bolstering the reliability and safety of the route. The engineering programme, scheduled to begin in June, will see teams deployed across several key locations, specifically targeting the sections between Evanton, Tain, and Lairg, as well as stretches extending north toward Wick and Thurso.

The intensive three-week schedule includes:

• Track Renewal: Replacing and renewing more than 4 km of track to ensure a smoother and more resilient rail surface.

• Structural Repairs: Essential maintenance and repairs to the railway bridge spanning Craigory Burn near Edderton.

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• Infrastructure Maintenance: Significant drainage improvements to protect the line from weather-related disruption and maintenance of the level crossing at Rogart.

To facilitate these works safely, the line will be closed between Dingwall and Wick from the evening of Sunday, 7 June, until the morning of Monday, 29 June. By consolidating these tasks into a single blockade, engineers can work more efficiently and prevent the need for multiple smaller disruptions throughout the year.

Gerry McQuade, capital delivery director at Network Rail Scotland, commented: "This year's work includes significant upgrades on a key section of the route that will help keep services running smoothly. We know there's never an ideal time to close any part of the railway, but by bringing this work together into a single planned closure, we can work more efficiently and avoid multiple shorter disruptions across the year."

Mark Ilderton, ScotRail service delivery director, added: "We know how important the Far North Line is to the communities it serves, and while this work means some temporary disruption, it's a vital investment in the long-term future of the route."

While the primary focus remains on the structural and track enhancements, ScotRail has confirmed that a rail replacement plan will be in effect for the duration of the closure. Passengers are advised to check Traveline for alternative journey options during this period.