Multi-million-pound work to build a new train station in Kintore has taken a step forward this week.
The Aberdeenshire town has been disconnected from the railway since the Beeching cuts in 1964.
But all Aberdeen to Inverness trains will call at the new station, costing £14.5 million, when it opens next May.
Reconnecting Kintore to the railway was included in plans to double-track the line between the Granite City and the Highland capital.
This week, main contractor BAM Nuttall lifted two 10 32ft tall concrete shafts were lifted into place at either side of the track.
The eight-ton structures will form part of the new footbridge and lifts providing step-free access between the two platforms.
Kintore’s new station has been funded by Transport Scotland, Aberdeenshire Council and Nestrans, to coincide with Scottish Government work to increase the number of trains between Aberdeen and Inverness.
The town’s new station will also include a 168-space car park, including spaces for electric vehicles and disabled parking, bike storage facilities and connections into the local bus network.
Graeme Stewart, Network Rail senior sponsor for the project, said: “The construction of the new station is progressing to plan and we look forward to delivering the facility – and the travel opportunities it creates – for customers.”
