The anticipated opening of Inverness Airport Railway Station has been delayed.
Network Rail had intended for the station to be up and running by Christmas but has now confirmed it won’t go ahead as works are still ongoing.
It is now hoped it will be completed early into the new year but could a more specific date could not be given.
The dignitary doing the honours has also not been confirmed.
Inverness Airport Railway Station: countdown to opening
The long-awaited £42 million station on the Aberdeen-Inverness line will allow passengers to catch a train before they fly.
More than 7,000 metres of rail, 10,000 tonnes of ballast – locally from Forres – and 37,000 metres of fibre-optic signal cabling were needed for the scheme.
When open, the two-platform station – which features lifts and a footbridge – will be served by all Aberdeen-Elgin-Inverness trains.
Waiting game spanned 24-years
Hitrans partnership manager Frank Roach has been campaigning for a station since 1998.
He said it will improve travel links to the Inverness Airport Business Park and Tornagrain.
Trackwork was also installed to give West Fraser wood products company (formerly Norbord) the capability to create a rail freight terminal at Morayhill, to take some lorries off the road.
Hitrans has additionally funded an 800m walking and cycling route to the
Inverness Airport terminal.
A Network Rail spokesman said: “Work is ongoing at Inverness Airport to complete installation, testing and commissioning of elements of the station including the lifts on the bridge.
“Across the rail corridor, there are also snagging issues at various locations following the completion of substantial track and signalling work during the 10-day line closure.
“Work is progressing well and we are looking forward to the station opening early in 2023.”
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