Media centre

Monday 13 Dec 2004

CHRISTMAS COMES EARLY FOR CRIANLARICH COMMUNITY

Region & Route:

Scotland’s Railway: Scotland

Network Rail is set to gift Crianlarich Viaduct a new coat of paint following a £6 million major investment on the West Highland Line.  The fresh look will enhance the overall appearance of the viaduct, which is situated in the heart of the Perthshire village.   The West Highland Line investment, which involved major engineering work covering over 40 miles, did not include additional work such as painting structures.  However, by adopting efficient working practices, Network Rail is able to fund the painting of the viaduct.   Ron McAulay, Route Director, Scotland said:  “This has been a major engineering project which was completed on time and within budget.  Our remit was to carry out vital structural repairs to allow for the continued safe use of the line.  However, we were keen to paint the bridge if possible, in order to improve its appearance as a gesture to the community.”   Crianlarich Viaduct underwent extensive refurbishment during the essential engineering work on the West Highland line last month, which also included the construction of a new bridge at Ardlui and major restoration of Gairlochead and Auchtertyre Viaducts.    The work also saw improvements to 600 metres of track and involved over 1,000 tonnes of materials and more than 260 employees.