86 Glenfinnan Railway Viaduct Improvements
GLENFINNAN RAILWAY VIADUCT IMPROVEMENTS
A £ 3.4 million restoration project led by Network Rail and AmcoGiffen is securing the future of the iconic Glenfinnan Railway Viaduct in the Highlands, with sensitive repairs, innovative techniques, and an ambitious biodiversity plan.
High above the River Finnan, the world famous Glenfinnan Viaduct— a sweeping expanse of 21 concrete arches immortalised in the Harry Potter films— has entered a new chapter. Built between 1897 and 1901 by Robert McAlpine & Sons, this Grade A listed structure is both Scotland’ s longest mass concrete railway bridge and a vital artery on the scenic West Highland Line.
In May 2024, Network Rail mobilised principal contractor AmcoGiffen to begin a £ 3.4 million repair programme designed to“ future proof” the viaduct for generations to come.
This project deploys a rope access team instead of traditional scaffolding— a deliberate choice to preserve the viaduct’ s vista and ensure uninterrupted train service.
Skilled technicians are now carefully navigating the stonework, inspecting and repairing concrete, and restoring the ballast-retention systems critical to track stability.
Amid the arches, structural work extends to the river piers, where engineers are combating erosion from the fast flowing River Finnan.
From using matching stonework to installing unobtrusive handrails, the goal is to respect the structure’ s elegance while ensuring it meets modern engineering standards. The work is being completed within a tight, 12 month window— without a single day of rail closure— minimising disruption to the thousands of daily commuters and seasonal steam train passengers who pass overhead.
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