A much-loved visitor attraction could return to the Highlands early next year.
The funicular at Cairngorm Mountain was closed in October 2018 due to safety concerns.
Structural works began in November 2020, but have been repeatedly hit by delays due to the pandemic, funding and weather.
Now, however, the train – which takes visitors to the summit of Cairn Gorm – is expected to open early next year and within the winter season.
Works are due to finish shortly but need to be followed by rigorous testing before passengers are welcomed back on board.
This timescale will depend on winter weather conditions on the mountain, but work is currently on track.
‘On schedule to be back in service’
A spokesman for Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), which owns the funicular, said: “We’re on schedule to have the funicular back in service for snowsports enthusiasts and other visitors to Cairn Gorm during the coming winter season.
“Strengthening works along the 2km (1.2 mile) viaduct are nearing completion and a new control system is being installed, part of which was delivered by helicopter to the top station in early October.
“After installation and a period of rigorous testing and safety certification, we will once again welcome visitors on board. The exact timing depends on a range of factors, not least the mountain weather.”
The quango said it had “serious concerns” over the failure of key parts of its infrastructure after less than 17 years of operation.
More than £16m has been funnelled into the Cairngorm funicular in the past four years by the Scottish Government.
‘Highlight’ for visitors
Once complete, it will reinstate a much-missed element of adventure to the mountain resort, enabling people of all ages and abilities to enjoy the views from the top.
Balfour Beatty has taken charge of the construction works, reshaping the UK’s highest railway in an “an enormously complex project.”
Susan Smith, chief executive of Cairngorm Mountain, hopes it will become a “highlight” for visitors once again when it reopens.
“We look forward to welcoming visitors for our winter season and there is no doubt the reinstated funicular railway will be a highlight for guests,” she said.
“The work undertaken by Balfour Beatty in repairing and improving the funicular railway has been impressive. Their consideration in protecting our unique mountain environment has ensured that the works have improved the site and will maintain the safety of our visitors, as well as protect the wildlife and ecosystem of the mountain.”
Treat at the top
After taking a trip on the funicular once it is fully fixed, visitors to Cairngorm Mountain will be able to visit Ptarmigan restaurant and bar.
The Ptarmigan closed with the funicular as there was no longer access to it and has since undergone a £780,000 makeover.
Sitting close to the summit of Cairn Gorm at almost 3,600ft, Ptarmigan’s restaurant is the highest in the UK.
It boasts 270-degree panoramic views, a new gin bar and an “interactive and interpretive” exhibition area.
Dave Macleod, head of property and infrastructure at HIE, said the Ptarmigan would “bring a range of benefits for visitors.”
Conversation