Scenic rail route to close for three weeks as engineering work begins

A major £4.5m upgrade to the Kyle of Lochalsh railway line has began, bringing three weeks of intensive engineering work to one of Scotland’s most scenic routes.

Between October 19 and November 10, Network Rail engineers will work around the clock to renew worn track components between Achnashellach and Strathcarron.

The project involves replacing rails, sleepers and ballast, the stones that support the track, to improve safety and long-term reliability on the Highland route.

In addition to the track work, a number of key structures along the line, including bridges and culverts, will be inspected and repaired where necessary.

Lineside ditches and drainage systems will also be cleared in an effort to prevent flooding and minimise disruption from severe weather.

Ross Moran, route director at Network Rail Scotland, said: “The Kyle line is a much-loved part of Scotland’s rail heritage, and few routes offer such scenic views of our landscape.

“This investment will help safeguard its future, ensuring it remains a reliable, sustainable travel option for both local communities and visitors for many more generations to come.

“We recognise that any closure of the railway causes disruption and want to thank passengers and lineside neighbours for their patience and support. This short-term inconvenience will bring long-term benefits as we look forward to smoother journeys and a more dependable rail service.”

Disruption to services

To allow the work to be carried out safely, train services between Dingwall and Kyle of Lochalsh will be suspended from October 20 for the duration of the project.

An amended rail timetable will operate between Inverness and Dingwall, with services stopping at Beauly, Muir of Ord, and Conon Bridge.

Replacement bus services will be in place between Inverness and Stromeferry, with a shuttle service running between Stromeferry, Duncraig, Plockton, Duirinish, and Kyle of Lochalsh.

Passengers are being advised to check their journeys before travelling at scotrail.co.uk or nationalrail.co.uk and follow @NetworkRailSCOT on X (formerly Twitter) for live updates.