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Wednesday 3 Sep 2025

West Highland Line to benefit from £15m upgrade

Region & Route:

Scotland’s Railway: Scotland

Network Rail is set to deliver a major programme of engineering work on the West Highland Line from October with nearly £15m being invested to improve the resilience and reliability of the route. 

Often ranked among the world’s most scenic railway journeys, the West Highland Line plays a key role in supporting tourism and local economies. It connects visitors to destinations like Fort William, Mallaig and the iconic Glenfinnan viaduct, while also serving as a lifeline for remote Highland communities. 

The project will involve essential repairs and upgrades across key locations, including track renewals, improving drainage, and refurbishing critical structures. The work aims to enhance the long-term safety, reliability and performance of the railway, particularly in areas exposed to challenging weather. 

Key elements of the project include: 

• Targeted track renewals, replacing around 10km of rail and 9,100 sleepers. 

• Renewal of a railway bridge near Corrour, and vegetation management. 

• Renewal of five culverts, improving drainage and ensuring structural stability. 

• Renewal of Feith footbridge. 

To allow the upgrades to be delivered safely and efficiently, the line will be closed for nine days between Crianlarich and Fort William from the evening of Friday 7 November until the morning of Monday 17 November 2025. 

Ross Moran, route director at Network Rail Scotland, said: “This is a significant investment in the future of the West Highland Line, helping to ensure it remains safe, reliable and resilient for years to come. The route is vital for the communities it serves and for the many visitors who travel to experience one of the most scenic rail journeys in the world.  

“We appreciate there’ll be disruption as a result of this work and thank passengers and communities in advance for their patience. These upgrades are essential to keeping services running smoothly in a remote and challenging environment." 

Mark Ilderton, ScotRail service delivery director, said: “The West Highland Line is a vital connection for the communities it serves as well as an important gateway for Scotland’s tourism industry, which is why these essential works are so important. 

“While the work takes place, our priority will be on keeping people moving with rail replacement transport in place. We’re grateful to customers for their understanding and patience while Network Rail carries out these improvements.” 

During the closure, Network Rail will also use Rannoch and Tulloch stations as temporary compounds to support the work.  

Passengers are advised to plan ahead for journeys during the engineering work from 7-17 November and check with their train operator for alternative travel options.