A YEAR-LONG restoration project at the world-famous Glenfinnan Viaduct has been completed.
A team of specialist engineers carried out the £3.4 million extensive maintenance programme in a bid to safeguard the iconic Scottish landmark for future generations to come.
The Glenfinnan Viaduct, located in the Highlands, was made famous worldwide by its appearance in the Harry Potter films.
Network Rail, along with AmcoGiffen, carried out repairs to the concrete on the structure, taking care to replicate its iconic appearance.
New safety handrails for staff working at height were installed, along with renewing ballast retention systems, the stone material under the track that helps with stability and drainage, at the ends of the structure.
Laura Craig, scheme project manager at Network Rail, said the team of specialist engineers faced numerous challenges throughout the project but were able to carry out the important restoration work.
She said: “This project was years in planning due to the complexity of navigating such a large-scale, historic structure.
“Our highly skilled team faced numerous challenges, from preserving the viaduct's original integrity to implementing modern engineering solutions. Every step of the process required meticulous attention to detail and a deep respect for its heritage.
“It’s an honour to look after the Glenfinnan Viaduct, knowing how much it’s loved all over the world. We’re proud to see it standing strong and it’s a testament to the dedication and hard work of everyone involved.”
Engineers also worked in the River Finnan, protecting the piers from erosion caused by the fast-flowing river.
Meanwhile, specially trained rope access technicians descended from the viaduct, reaching and restoring areas that would otherwise be inaccessible.
It cost £18,904 at the time to build, which is around £2m in today’s money.
Historic Environment Scotland (HES) have designated the structure as Category A, meaning it’s of significant architectural and historical interest.
Ann MacSween, head of Planning, Consents and Advice Services at HES, said the Glenfinnan viaduct is still “standing strong” today due to the excellent care it has received over the years.
She said: "We welcome Network Rail's investment into the careful repair of this iconic structure.
“Glenfinnan is the most impressive of several mass concrete railway viaducts and bridges along the West Highland Line, which was built 1897-1901.
“These bridges were mostly designed with an exposed concrete finish, rather than being faced in stone, and are the earliest railway bridges of this style in Scotland.
“Over a century after it was first built, Glenfinnan Viaduct still stands strong today, in no small part due to Network Rail's excellent care.”
