Network Rail Scotland has launched a 27-week programme to strengthen the Barbush Viaduct over Allan Water, aiming to improve safety and reliability while minimising local disruption.

The £1.3 million scheme is under way to refurbish the key bridge in Dunblane, helping to ensure services remain safe and dependable for years to come.

Work began on 6 July on the viaduct, which carries the railway over the Allan Water.

The project will reinforce the structure and guard against future deterioration, reducing the need for more disruptive repairs at a later date.

-- Advertisement --

Tasks include essential steel repairs, repainting to protect against corrosion, and improvements to the viaduct's foundations.

To deliver the works safely, teams will use pontoons on the river and maintain a small work area beside the structure, with materials brought in by rail to limit local impact.

Ross Moran, route director at Network Rail Scotland, said: "This investment in Barbush Viaduct will help keep trains running safely through Dunblane for many years to come.

"These essential works will make the structure stronger and more resilient, while reducing the need for major repairs in future."

Network Rail is working with the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) to safeguard the river environment throughout the project, with strict measures to prevent any debris or materials entering the water.

On completion, the refurbished viaduct will be more durable and better protected against wear, supporting a reliable railway for passengers and freight.

Residents and stakeholders will be kept updated as the works progress.