Cairngorm funicular out for summer 2019 - and perhaps longer still

The Cairngorm funicular railway will remain out of operation throughout the summer and possibly later still, following a detailed investigation into concerns over the structure.

The investigation, by specialist engineers COWI, was commissioned by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), which owns the facility, following safety concerns raised in a general inspection last autumn.

Engineers have concluded that the structure does not present an immediate danger to the public. However, the safety margin is lower than desirable with a series of measures set to be put in place to address weaknesses before services resume.

Work is required to strengthen the piers, beams and foundations, and install new bearings with higher load and movement capacity. HIE is currently exploring the scope and cost of these works, and it is expected to take several weeks.

COWI carried out the investigation between September and December last year, including excavating around foundations and intrusive investigations of the structure.

Work on the structure of the funicular can only be carried out during summer months when the mountain is more accessible

Susan Smith, HIE’s head of business development, said:

“We have considered carefully the implications of the investigation and concluded it will take considerable time to design, procure and complete the necessary works.

“Our goal is to have the funicular up and running as soon as is safe to do so, but in the meantime, we anticipate it will remain out of service throughout the summer months and possibly beyond. We will provide further updates as things progress.”