Train disruption in Highland after part of sea wall washes away
Pictures show the extent of the damage to an 18 meter section of the wall at Lothbeg, between Brora and Helmsdale,
Last updated 31st Oct 2023
Rail services in the North of Scotland have been disrupted after recent weather conditions damaged a wall which protects a railway line.
Pictures from Network Rail Scotland show how an 18 meter section of the wall at Lothbeg, between Brora and Helmsdale, has been completely washed way.
The operator says the line will be closed for several days, but that is dependent on the weather, tides, and sea state.
ScotRail have outlined how trains are running between Wick and Helmsdale and between Inverness to Lairg, Tain and Invergordon.
Train tickets are also being accepted on local bus routes with Stagecoach North buses between Inverness and Wick until the end of the bus service today.
"More damage is likely" - Network Rail Scotland
A statement posted on Network Rail Scotland's social media confirmed the damage was caused by "recent storms and high seas."
They said: "One 18m section has been completely washed away, exposing track foundations.
"With that section gone, more damage is likely.
"We’ve inspected the area and our specialist engineers have confirmed it’s not safe to run trains until the damage is repaired.
"We don’t have a timescale yet, but the line will remain closed for several days. That is dependent on the weather, tides, and sea state though."
Network Rail Scotland have also posted a picture comparison to show what the wall looked like earlier this year.
ScotRail outlined earlier today which services were affected and how rail tickets are being accepted on local bus routes with Stagecoach North buses between Inverness and Wick until the end of the bus service today.