The railway between Aberdeen and Huntly has reopened on time yesterday following the successful completion of a 15-week-long project to upgrade the line.
Since May 4, engineers have been working around-the-clock to double the track between Dyce and Inverurie and upgrade signalling systems between Aberdeen and Huntly.
Over 10 miles of new rail has been laid across more than 41,000 sleepers as part of the work, which has also seen signalling upgraded and 19 bridges on the line either refurbished or replaced.
During the closure, work also began on the new Kintore station, with both platforms beginning to take shape.
What did the officials say?
Billy McKay, Network Rail senior programme manager, said:
“The Aberdeen-Inverness Improvement Project will help to transform choice for customers on the route – meaning more services and more seats for passengers.
“Our engineers have worked hard to deliver this massive investment in new tracks, signalling, bridges and platforms as quickly and professionally as possible.
“We appreciate the understanding passengers, and our line-side neighbours, have shown over the last 15 weeks while we have delivered this important investment in Scotland's Railway.”
Nissar Mohammed, project director for main contractor BAM Nuttall, said:
“We're very proud to have reached another major milestone for the improvement of rail services in the north of Scotland.
“Investment in rail is an investment in the future of the region and our team has led the way, using local suppliers and a local workforce to deliver these crucial railway enhancements.
“The completion of this blockade marks the end of an intensive period of work for my team and I'd like to thank them for the efforts they have shown over the past weeks and months. I'd also like to thank the local community for their patience and cooperation while we delivered this work.”
Derek Glasgow, ScotRail Aberdeen-Inverness project manager, said:
“This has been a highly successful project and now that it has been completed, it will play a critical role in delivering a better service for our customers, as we continue to invest in Scotland's Railway.
“We are looking forward to making enhancements to services on the route to take full advantage of the infrastructure improvements that have been delivered.”
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I felt a sense of despair when I travelled over this ravaged line post-Beeching; how good it is to see this important route being given the investment it needs. Well done NR & Scotland!
A new station called Kintore. Is that where it will serve Inverness Airport once it’s built. If so then I’d probably would rename it as Inverness Airport Parkway. And Bobroyston station which is still under construction is due to be completed by December.
Kintore is a fair way from Inverness airport I think you should check your map
Yes you are right. Wasn’t thinking properly. I would of said Dalcross as a new railway station is planned to be built and will be located near to Inverness Airport and on the outskirts of Inverness City Centre in the North of Scotland (Highlands).