Cairngorm funicular to re-open for visitors tomorrow
Safety concerns over supporting structures for the tracks closed the Cairngorm funicular in 2018.
Last updated 25th Jan 2023
The UK's highest railway will open to the public tomorrow, after being shut for more than four years.
Safety concerns over supporting structures for the tracks closed the Cairngorm funicular in autumn 2018.
After a £25m project to get the railway working, weather conditions permitting, the 2km funicular will now run a regular service taking snowsports enthusiasts to the top of the slopes in around 5 minutes.
"Wonderful" to see mountain railway running again
The reinstatement works have involved engineeering works to strengthen the viaduct and install a new control system.
The re-opening comes after rigorous quality and safety testing, including certification and approval by the UK Department of Transport to allow operations to re-commence.
CEO of funicular operator Cairngorm Mountain (Scotland), Susan Smith, says she is "thrilled" to see the rail way running again.
She said: “The improvements across the resort have brought major changes to the visitor experience and we are so pleased to see the railway transport people to the upper slopes as well as our refurbished Ptarmigan building.
"Weather permitting and with the hope that our capacity will expand further as the season continues, 2023 promises to be a landmark year for our business, team and local community.”
The funicular is owned by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) who received £16m from the Scottish Government for the repair project.
Dave Macleod, head of property and infrastructure with HIE, said: "It’s wonderful to see the mountain railway back in action again. This will make a huge improvement to the customer experience at Cairngorm and strengthen the appeal of the wider area to attract visitors throughout the year.
"Reinstating the funicular has been uniquely challenging, not only in engineering terms, but also for the care that had to be taken to protect the environment during these works while also contending with some of the most severe and changeable weather that Scotland has to offer.
"Cairngorm plays an important role in the local economy as an environmental, educational and sporting asset and the funicular will enable people across a huge range of ages and abilities to enjoy the mountain not only in winter, but every season."