ScotRail has revealed details of alternative travel arrangements for passengers affected by the improvement works due to take place on the Far North Line next month.

Network Rail will refurbish and replace important sections of the line, which will make rail services in the north of Scotland more reliable in the long term. The improvements will cost around £11.5 million.

Last year, Network Rail carried out improvements on the line, replacing rails and sleepers at Merkinch Ferry, Alness and Dingwall. The previous year, ScotRail had to suspend Far North Line trains stopping at Altnabreac station in Caithness due to problems with accessing the site to carry out work.

While next month’s work is being carried out, trains will not run north of Dingwall from Sunday, 8 June to Monday, 30 June 2025.

ScotRail has given the following information about alternative travel options during the 23-day closure:

• Replacement buses will operate between Inverness and Wick / Thurso, stopping at stations including Invergordon, Tain, Ardgay, and Lairg.
• Some train services will run between Inverness and Dingwall, calling at intermediate stations.
• Services between Inverness and Kyle of Lochalsh will run as usual.
• On the first day of the closure, Sunday 8 June, the 17.54 Inverness to Wick service will be replaced by buses.
• On the final day, Monday 30 June, the 06:18 and 08:02 Wick to Inverness services will be replaced by buses. Other ScotRail services between Inverness and Wick will run as normal.
• The replacement buses will not stop at Altnabreac or Scotscalder stations, because of limited access.

ScotRail is also advising passengers that Dalchalm level crossing will be temporarily closed. Traffic will be temporarily diverted via the A9.

The operator is advising passengers to check their journey in advance on the ScotRail website or via the ScotRail app, and allow extra time for travel.

“We know how important the Far North Line is to the communities it serves, and while this work means some temporary disruption, it’s a vital investment in the long-term future of the route.

“We’re committed to keeping our customers moving throughout the works, with replacement buses in operation and limited train services running where possible. We’re grateful for your patience and understanding.”

Mark Ilderton, ScotRail Service Delivery Director