Users of the West Highland Line – made famous by the Harry Potter films – can look forward to improved services with the formation of a new review group.
Improved performance and journey times are the aims of the West Highland Lines Review Group, Transport Minister Humza Yousaf announced yesterday.
The route runs from Helensburgh Upper to Fort William, Mallaig and Oban.
Local transport groups have said the line has been subjected to years of underinvestment, with the reliablity of trains being “appalling” and passengers left stranded on many occassions.
Mr Yousaf said: “The West Highland Line is one of our most scenic rail routes and provides a vital service to the communities and businesses that lie along it.
“Building upon the success of other groups, such as the Far North Line Review Team, we are determined to make the most of this important asset for all users, particularly our tourism industry.
“Key to the group’s success will be our commitment to building on work carried out so far and strengthening the partnerships that will help drive forward a 21st railway.”
The group builds on work carried out so far and will be led by Transport Scotland’s Director of Rail; members will include Network Rail, ScotRail, Tactrans; Hitrans, and SPT, as well as representatives from the freight industry, local councils, community groups and other operators on this route.
Its purpose will be to identify timetable improvements, consider infrastructure options and subsequently promote appropriate projects for future investment for passengers and freight.
Hege Hernaes, secretary of West Highland Community Rail Partnership, said: “The communities along the West Highland Line are keen to see it realise its full potential. More frequent services and an improved travel experience will make it easy for tourists and the local communities to opt for the train.”
Kate Forbes MSP for Lochaber said: “Unfortunately, in recent years the performance of the West Highland line has been poor, with delayed, infrequent timetables and few incentives to passengers or freight companies to get off the roads and onto rail.
“I’m delighted that the West Highland Line review group is to be established, with the necessary stakeholders to actually drive improvements along the line.”
Bridge work complete
A major bridge maintenance project on the A830 Morar River Bridge has been completed.
Essential maintenance works had been taking place since November on the bridge that carries the A830 over the Morar River, and the project, worth more than £1million, is now complete.
The works involved removing the bridge’s existing paintwork, which was in poor condition, and applying a new specialist protective coating to the steel frame, helping to prevent rust and deterioration.
Teams had been working from scaffolding suspended beneath the bridge deck throughout the project. The final phase of work involved dismantling these temporary structures that have provided safe access, with the last of the scaffolding removed this week.
Eddie Ross, Bear Scotland’s North West Representative said: “We’re pleased that teams have completed the bridge maintenance project.
“The maintenance means that Morar River Bridge will be protected against the elements, meaning it’ll function safely for years to come.
“Teams have worked to remove the complex scaffolding which had been in use, with the final section removed this week.
“We thank road users and local residents for their patience while we’ve worked to carry out this project on Morar River Bridge.”
