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Friday 24 Oct 2025

Two weeks to go: Plan ahead for upcoming West Highland Line engineering work

Region & Route:

Scotland’s Railway: Scotland

With just two weeks to go until major engineering work begins on the West Highland Line, passengers are being reminded to plan ahead for their journeys. 

The iconic route connects visitors to destinations such as Fort William, Mallaig and the Glenfinnan viaduct, and serves as a vital link for remote Highland communities. 

Network Rail is set to carry out a £15m programme of upgrades to improve the long-term resilience and reliability of the line between Friday 7 and Monday 17 November.  

The work will involve essential repairs and renewals across key locations, including: 

• Replacement of around 10km of rail and 9,100 sleepers 

• Renewal of a railway bridge near Corrour 

• Vegetation management and drainage improvements, including five culvert renewals 
• Refurbishment of Feith footbridge 

To allow the project to be delivered safely and efficiently, the line will be closed between Crianlarich and Fort William for nine days, from the end of service on Friday 7 November until the start of service on Monday 17 November 2025. During this time, Rannoch and Tulloch stations will also be used as temporary compounds to support the work. 

Ross Moran, route director at Network Rail Scotland, said: “We’re proud to be delivering improvements that will strengthen the West Highland Line for the future. It’s one of Scotland’s most iconic and scenic routes, and this investment will ensure it remains a safe and sustainable way to travel.  

“This work is part of our commitment to maintaining a high performing railway that communities and visitors can continue to rely on, and we’re grateful to passengers and local residents for their patience and understanding while we carry out these improvements.” 

Mark Ilderton, ScotRail Service Delivery Director, said: “The West Highland Line is not only a lifeline for rural communities, but also a world-renowned attraction bringing visitors from far and wide. 

“These works are vital to protect that connection for years to come, ensuring customers can continue to enjoy safe and reliable journeys through some of Scotland’s most spectacular landscapes. 

“While this essential work takes place, we’ll have rail replacement transport in place to keep customers moving and clear information available to help people plan ahead and travel with confidence. 

“We’d like to thank everyone for their patience and understanding while these important improvements are carried out.” 

Passengers are encouraged to check with their train operator or nationalrail.co.uk before travelling and follow @NetworkRailSCOT on X for the latest updates.