Media centre

Monday 28 Feb 2022

Muir of Ord residents offered online public information sessions

Region & Route:

Scotland’s Railway: Scotland

Local people in Muir of Ord are being given a platform to share their views on the plans for a new radio communications mast at the station through online information sessions.

Network Rail has published a new project site for the Far North Line (ScotlandsRailway.com/projects) to host the sessions and is sharing more information on the work which will enhance the railway communications network in the North. 

The work at Muir of Ord station is part of a £5m project to improve the resilience and extend the coverage of the radio communications network which controls signalling across the Far North Line.

Improved communications between signallers and train cabs will enhance the performance and  safety of the network for passengers using the line.

Though focussed on the work at the station to install the 30-metre mast, the team will welcome views and questions on any aspects of the project.

Information has been published online on the Scotland’s Railway web site and the engagement events will be held via video call which will let people speak directly with the team developing the project, discuss the work and ask any questions.  

Anyone interested can book fifteen-minute slots with the team between 4pm and 7pm on Monday 7^th March with 12 appointments available initially.

For those unable to access the online sessions, the web site provides an opportunity to send online submissions and an email address – ScotlandsRailway@networkrail.co.uk – is also open for comments and questions.

Cara Healy, Network Rail’s project manager for the work at Muir of Ord, said: “The pandemic means that we cannot yet engage with communities like we would in normal times, but we are still keen to share information about the project and give people the chance to speak to us. 

“Thankfully, technology gives us the opportunity to meet with people online and hear their views and concerns. It offers us the chance to talk about the project and explain why we are doing the work.

“We appreciate local people may have some initial questions when they hear we are installing a 30-metre mast at the station, but we hope the opportunity to talk with us directly will help clarify any issues and alleviate concerns.

“We would encourage anyone who is interested to take part and I am looking forward to meeting with you online and hearing your views on the proposals.”