Harry works his magic as rail passengers double

IT is affectionately known as the ‘Harry Potter line’ for its towering performance in the movies of the famous boy wizard.

Now Glenfinnan Viaduct has its most popular cinematic role to thank after the number of passengers carried over its tracks doubled in a decade.

Statistics published by the Office of Rail Regulation indicate an increase in the popularity of the Fort William to Mallaig train, which runs over the bridge that famously features in the series.

The Hogwarts Express travels over the viaduct as it takes pupils to school in the film adaptation of JK Rowling’s novels. With more than 1,000 visitors flocking to Glenfinnan Station in 2017-18, ScotRail has announced it will build a new footpath to cope with the volume of people.

Meanwhile, a walkway that crosses the hillside between the station and the viaduct will be upgraded to provide easier access to new viewing areas, allowing tourists to capture the stunning scenery.

The project will be a working partnership between ScotRail, the West Highland Community Rail Partnership, Glenfinnan Station Museum, Glenfinnan Estate, Network Rail and Transport Scotland.

It is hoped that improving the facilities will help to increase the proportion of visitors arriving by public transport.

ScotRail project manager Anouska Chisolm said: ‘The new footpath and viewing areas at the Glenfinnan Viaduct will be fantastic for tourism in the area and we hope it will encourage more visitors to travel here by rail instead of car.’

Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch MSP Kate Forbes said: ‘It’s fantastic to see more people choosing to go on the Harry Potter line and experience the fantastic scenery at the Glenfinnan Viaduct, as well as the breathtaking views from Fort William to Mallaig generally.

‘Ultimately I would like to see more people using public transport instead of driving as it reduces congestion and it’s good for the environment. That means that public transport needs to be reliable, comfortable and regular.

‘I would like to see ScotRail invest more significantly on this line and capitalise on the clear growth in tourism.’