As well as delivering a connection for communities across the Highlands and Central Belt, the West Highland Line carries thousands of visitors to some of the most popular tourist destinations in Scotland. 

Engineers are delivering track renewals and essential maintenance to railway infrastructure between Helensburgh, Fort William and Mallaig.

The project includes renewing over four kilometres of track at locations between Helensburgh and Mallaig, such as near Arisaig, Corrour, in the Loch nan Uamh and Beasdale tunnels, at Arrochar & Tarbet station and on Gleann Mama Viaduct, enhancing reliability and decreasing the risk of delays. 

The Fassfern Bridge near Spean Bridge has been scheduled for refurbishment along with the removal of a redundant bridge near Loch Eil. 

To enable the work to take place safely and efficiently, buses have been replacing trains between Crianlarich and Fort William / Mallaig from 9 to 17 November. 

Gerry McQuade, capital delivery director at Network Rail Scotland, said: “This weekend marks the start of a significant programme of work across the West Highland Line, with our teams ready to deliver improvements at a number of locations along the route. 

“By bringing this work together over nine days, we can renew track, improve drainage and carry out essential maintenance that will help make the railway more reliable and resilient for passengers.” 

Mark Ilderton, ScotRail service delivery director, said: “We know these works will mean changes to journeys for customers travelling on the West Highland Line, and we want to thank everyone for their patience while this important investment takes place. 

“The improvements being delivered by Network Rail will help make the railway more reliable and resilient, helping to protect this vital route for the communities, businesses, and visitors who depend on it.”

Ilderton added: “We’ll be doing everything we can to keep people moving during the works with a robust rail replacement plan in place. 

“Customers should plan ahead and check their journey before travelling.”