Network Rail will invest £6 million in major engineering works on the Far North Line next month, delivering a significant package of renewals and infrastructure improvements designed to boost reliability on one of the Highlands’ most strategically important rail routes.
Stretching from Inverness to Wick and Thurso, the Far North Line is a vital artery for local communities, supporting everyday travel, tourism and economic connectivity between Scotland’s most northerly settlements and the Central Belt.
The planned programme forms part of Network Rail Scotland’s ongoing commitment to improving the resilience and performance of the route. Works will be carried out at multiple locations, including between Evanton, Tain and Lairg, as well as north of Tain towards Wick and Thurso.
During the possession, engineers will:
- Renew more than 4km of track
- Carry out repairs to the railway bridge over Craigory Burn near Edderton
- Improve track drainage to reduce weather‑related disruption
- Undertake maintenance at Rogart level crossing
To allow the work to be completed safely and efficiently, no trains will operate between Dingwall and Wick from late on Sunday 7 June until early on Monday 29 June. ScotRail will implement a rail replacement plan for the duration of the closure, while passengers are advised to check Traveline for alternative public transport options.
Gerry McQuade, capital delivery director at Network Rail Scotland, said:
“We’re committed to continually improving the railway in the north of Scotland, and have a multi-year programme of investment in the Far North Line to help make journeys safer and more reliable. This year’s work includes significant upgrades on a key section of the route that will help keep services running smoothly.
“We know there’s never an ideal time to close any part of the railway, but by bringing this work together into a single planned closure, we can work more efficiently and avoid multiple shorter disruptions across the year.
“The Far North Line is a vital route for local communities and visitors alike, and I’d like to thank everyone for their patience and understanding while we deliver this important work.”
ScotRail said the investment is critical to safeguarding the long‑term future of the route, while ensuring passengers can continue to travel during the works.
Mark Ilderton, ScotRail service delivery director, said:
“We know how important the Far North Line is to the communities it serves, and while this work means some temporary disruption, it’s a vital investment in the long-term future of the route.
“We’re committed to keeping our customers moving throughout the works, with replacement buses in operation along the route. We’re grateful for our customers' patience and understanding and look forward to welcoming them back on board when the works complete.”
The investment is part of Network Rail Scotland’s wider, multi‑year programme to strengthen infrastructure resilience across rural routes, helping to reduce delays, improve safety and deliver more reliable services in challenging Highland conditions.
Image credit: Network Rail
