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Thursday 24 Jul 2025

£4.5m upgrade announced for Kyle of Lochalsh railway

Region & Route:

Scotland’s Railway: Scotland

A major £4.5m refurbishment project is planned for the Kyle of Lochalsh railway in the Highlands this Autumn. 

The Kyle line stretches more than 50 miles from Inverness to the banks of Loch Alsh and is one of the most scenic railway journeys in the country. It serves as a vital transport link for remote Highland communities but is also a key route for tourists exploring the region. 

The investment is part of Network Rail’s commitment to ensuring the long-term reliability and safety of Scotland’s Railway, with work scheduled to take place over a three-week period from 19 October to 10 November 2025. 

Around 4.5 miles of track will be upgraded between Achnashellach and Strathcarron. Worn rails, sleepers and ballast (the stone which supports the track) will be replaced to keep services running safely and reliably. 

To allow engineers to complete the work safely, no trains will operate between Dingwall and Kyle of Lochalsh during the three weeks, with details of rail replacement services to be shared in advance to help passengers plan their journeys. 

Ross Moran, Route Director at Network Rail Scotland said: “The Kyle line is a much-loved part of Scotland’s rail heritage, and few routes offer such scenic views of our landscape. This investment will help safeguard its future, ensuring it remains a reliable, sustainable travel option for both local communities and visitors for many more generations to come. 

“We recognise that any closure of the railway causes disruption and want to thank passengers and lineside neighbours for their patience and support. This short-term inconvenience will bring long-term benefits as we look forward to smoother journeys and a more dependable rail service.” 

Mark Ilderton, ScotRail Service Delivery Director, said: “When Network Rail delivers this essential improvement work, ScotRail will be focused on keeping people moving and getting our customers where they want to go. 

“While there will be some changes to journeys, we’ll be working hard to provide clear information and reliable alternative transport, so customers can continue to travel with confidence. 

“We know how important the Kyle line is to the communities it serves, and we’re grateful to customers for their patience and understanding when these vital improvements take place.” 

The project includes inspections of key structures along the line, ensuring that bridges and culverts remain in good condition. Lineside ditches and drainage will also be cleared to help prevent flooding and reduce weather related delays. 

Further details about rail replacement services will be provided by ScotRail closer to the time to help passengers planning to travel between Kyle of Lochalsh and Dingwall from 19 October to 10 November.