Slow progress in the Highlands

Projects to improve the Highland Main Line to Inverness and the route from Aberdeen to Inverness are making slow progress, according to the Office of Rail and Road in its Network Rail Monitor Period 8-12 2015-16.

Affordability and deliverability risks are emerging for projects at earlier stages of development and delivery, the ORR said. It explained that increasing cost estimates are also beginning to put pressure on NR’s borrowing cap for CP5.

It added that systemic issues around project planning and delivery continue to present challenges for Network Rail - these include complying with relevant electrical safety legislation and technical specifications. However, ORR said that NR is addressing these issues.