Network RailA coastal train has been closed “until further notice” despite engineers putting 350 tonnes of rock armour in place to fix the track’s sea defences.
The stretch of the Far North Line between Brora and Helmsdale has been closed since Monday afternoon after “significant damage” was reported on the track’s sea defences at Lothbeg.
Network Rail say engineers have been working throughout the week to repair the damage with more issues found upon inspection.
No services have run through the stretch of line since Monday, affecting passengers on journeys from Inverness to Wick.
Mini buses, taxis and coaches including drop offs for passengers facing the disruption have all been put in place.
ScotRail said in a fresh update on X: “Due to a safety inspection of the track between Brora and Helmsdale the line is currently closed until further notice.”
Services on the Far North Line will terminate at Lairg and Invergordon with all journeys affected on Friday.
Network Rail said on Thursday they hoped to reopen the line on Friday after putting 350 tonnes of rock armour in place.
On X, they posted: “We’ll reopen the Far North Line tomorrow morning, following repairs to the railway’s damaged sea defences at Lothbeg, between Brora and Helmsdale.
“All 350 tonnes of rock armour is in place and we’re in the final stages of repairs to the embankment.
“Our track engineers take over at 6pm tonight, repairing the track itself and installing monitoring kit to keep an eye on things.
“Thanks for your patience, we know everyone will be pleased to see trains return tomorrow. We’ll update you again first thing.”
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