Glenfinnan Viaduct refurbishment enters new phase

The world-famous Glenfinnan Viaduct has entered a new phase in its £3.4m refurbishment project.  Using a special rope access technique, technicians are scaling the 100ft high structure, which sits on the West Highland Line near Fort William.

This innovative method allows workers to reach previously inaccessible areas for repairs, while also minimizing environmental impact. The year-long project includes assessing the viaduct's condition, repairing concrete sections, and improving the track bed to secure the stone ballast.

"It's a rare opportunity to be up here on the viaduct," said Alan Ross, Network Rail's Director of Engineering and Asset Management.  "We chose rope access for its efficiency and to avoid spoiling the view for the many visitors to this beautiful area."

Meanwhile, ground-level teams are working in the River Finnan to protect the viaduct piers from erosion, a risk that's increasing due to climate change.

"We're proud to be caretakers of this iconic part of Scotland's railway," Ross added. "There’s a lot more work still to be done in the coming months.”